Greater Port Macquarie Focus i119

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

October 2015 // issue 119

Feature Story Lisa Evans

editor's note.

WHAT’S ON

GLASSHOUSE Wednesday 7 October, 7.30pm

editor.

The London Haydn Quartet has reinvigorated the composer’s incomparable music to bring it to new audiences around the world.

With their inspiring interpretations of familiar classics, they play Haydn’s masterpieces as they were meant to be played: full of colour and texture, soaring virtuosity and thrills.

jay beaumont.

Welcome to the October issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

T

here is so much going on in Greater Port Macquarie right now, it’s hard to know where to start.

First off, a huge congratulations to Mark Stone and the whole team at the Billabong Zoo, who are delighted to announce the much anticipated arrival of their two cheetah brothers, Warrior and Vongani. Anyone who has visited the park recently will notice the huge amount of improvements and new attractions that have been added. If it’s been a while since you have visited, then I highly doubt you’ll be disappointed.

FOODIES REJOICE! This month hosts the 10th Annual Oysters in the Vines. The festival will take place at the Cassegrain Wines vineyard from 9am until 4pm on Sunday 25th October and will once again combine with the Artist Markets for a mega artist market and oyster extravaganza.

There isn’t a better way I can think to spend a Sunday, than meandering around sipping on a wine or a local beer, enjoying a dozen (or two) local oysters and being impressed by the amazing talented artists we have in our local area.

Next up is the Tastings on Hastings - the biggest food and wine event of the year.

Tastings is again set to take over the beautiful Town Green of Port Macquarie, transforming

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.

LONDON HAYDN QUARTET

it into a food lovers’ paradise. This year the festival will run over three days, from the 6th - 8th of November.

Themed “Fire, Water, Harvest”, Tastings on Hastings will ignite all the senses with a smorgasbord of events, including a night time festival, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and much more.

We have a full guide to Tastings on Hastings starting on page 26.

FOTSUN FOCUS is again proud to be one of the major sponsors of Festival of the Sun. With a huge line up of bands, including Illy, Jebediah, Thundamentals and British India to name a few, tickets won’t last long. Grab them while you can at www.fotsun.com FINAL SAY “Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else.” - Margaret Mead.

Friday 23 October, 7.30pm Saturday 24 October, 2pm & 7.30pm

THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND Prepare for an evening of laughter, spectacular put-downs and familiar friends as Miami’s four favourite Golden Girls – Dorothy, Sophia, Rose and Blanche – reunite in puppet-form for this lovingly hilarious live tribute show.

Friday 23 October, 7pm Saturday 24 October, 1pm & 7pm

CIRCUS OZ - BUT

WAIT... THERE’S MORE

Performed within a spectacular set, the touring circus troupe arrive, with acrobatic showstoppers, and unicycle jaw-droppers, they delight and entertain. This is LIVE and authentic!

“... this is that rarest of beasts: a performance that everybody can enjoy” Brisbane Times, September 2014

Jay Beaumont - Editor Jay Beaumont – Editor jay@focusmag.com.au

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan

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

Thursday 29 October, 8pm

jeff@focusmag.com.au

1927 WITH SPECIAL GUEST WENDY MATTHEWS 1927 will be playing all their hit songs plus a few new tracks off their new album Generation-i.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT/WRITER: Chrissy Jones JP

Wendy and the White Horse Band will be performing all her classic hits plus songs from their new album, The Welcome Fire.

chrissy@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jasmin Johansson jasmin@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

SALES & ADMIN SUPPORT: Sarah Gale sarah@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR/JOURNALIST: Jo Atkins jo@focusmag.com.au

TRAVEL EDITOR: Susie Boswell sunconsulting@ozemail.com.au

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

PUBLIC WALKWAY 2-9pm Directional Signage

Temporary Fencing Closed at 2pm

Food Food

d

Small Marquee

Stage

Band Marquee

12mx24m Marquee

ancing Dwith hastings Stars

Temporary Structures

pathway 2-9pm Alternative

Small Marquee

3 phase from Sundowner

(or use power if available on town green)

Sun downer

Trees

02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

2-9pm Alternative pathway

greater port macquarie focus.

3

interview.

L O C A L A R T I S T L I S A E VA N S I S PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T U S I N G N AT U R A L LY S O U R C E D S K U L L S A N D W O O D E N S U R F B O A R D S A S H E R C A N VA S .

S H E S H A R E S H E R L O V E O F C R E AT I N G A N D T H E STOR I E S B E H I N D H E R A RT WOR K S W I T H FO C US…

T

he last time we caught up with you, we chatted to you about your stunning surfboard paintings.

You’ve gone in a different direction, moving on to skulls … tell us about this …

I still paint on surfboards as well, so I guess I’m incorporating skulls and surfboards into a Surf and Turf! I have always painted on skulls, but when I started painting on surfboards people were just blown away, so I’ve stuck with that and then just painted skulls on the side just as a little thing to keep me moving.

How do you source the materials you paint on?

I try to only paint on skulls that have come from animals that died naturally, so sourcing them can be difficult. One time I put an advert in a Coonabarabran newspaper asking farmers for any skulls laying around their property, as I was willing to buy them. I got great feedback from out there; my brother is a Bowen Therapist, and he went out there and collected the skulls for me from the farmers. People give me skulls to paint as their own custom piece.

Also, I have a lot of friends I’ve met through a website called "Get Your Art Recognised'.

There’s a guy over in Western Australia who’s out in the scrub all the time, and he gets me ones with big horns. From time to time I come into possession of some on of a kind skulls, at the moment I have a Wild Brumby skull whcih was found in the Northern Territory, a very old Water Buffalo skull also found in the Northern Territory and a Dolphin skull found on one of our local beaches.

What’s the story behind your business

4

greater port macquarie focus.

name, One Wave Design? quite sad talking to somebody who has lost a One Wave Design came to me in a dream. child. And then the stories just started flowing; I couldn’t stop.

The dream was my niece and I started painting I painted a surfboard in three days … The on shirts, and on the T-shirts the words "One snake was the main design on the surfboard, Wave Design" were written, so I woke up the and in the design it turned out to be a drum, next morning and just thought, "There’s the but the snake had eggs all around it business ‘One Wave Design’". A lot now, she didn’t tell me what sort of my work does come from of snake or anything like that dream time; if I wake up at before I’d finished the surf3am and I’ve had a dream k or A lot of my w board - it felt as though with a design, I need om fr e does com e he was there guiding me. ak to get up then, draw w I If dream time. d ha e I’v When she saw the d it, write it down, and an up at 3am gn , I si de a surfboard, she couldn’t ith w even start painting. m a drea en , draw th up t ge believe what had to It can wake me up, it ed ne and appeared through my gets that strong. it, write it down, g. even start paintin design! When she'd What do the designs arrived home, the snake in your dreams usually was coiled up in a bowl and present as? had eggs all around it - well, I A design out of the blue; I had painted the eggs.

She sent me see something in my head, and I the photos of the snake coiled up, just have to quickly go and draw that design, like it had appeared in my painting.

I asked or it can even come through as different her what a drum meant to her, as that had also colours - putting different colours together appeared in the design, and she said that she will just explode into a pattern. I don’t really do traditional totems or animals; I have in the past, had been wanting to learn the bongo drums for years and never did. She said that she had but most of my stories come through patterns. signed up to a bongo drum class just the day Give us some insight into the significance before. She was so blown away by it, and we your designs hold ... just cried, because he was there with me while I was asked by a woman who had seen I painted it. my work, and she approached me to paint a I also had a guy from Byron Bay contact me surfboard for her son, who had passed away. I through the internet who had seen my work, needed to know a little bit about his life to be and he asked me If I could paint him a skull. able to paint a story for her, so she came over I had one beautiful skull that was a really old and we had a chat about her son. He was a soul and I chose that for him, not knowing him Marine Biologist working in the Northern Terrifrom a bar of soap. tory and he also had a pet snake that he loved, Once painting the skull, I was getting this so after she left I was a bit blown away - it was

E VA N S

overwhelming feeling that it was called "fertility" and after it was finished, I texted him to say it was ready, and I asked him if by any chance he was trying to have a baby. He said, "Yes, we are". I said to him that if he was, he needed to hang the skull up; if he wasn't trying to have a baby, not to hang it up, but have it down on the ground … That was only three months ago, so I’m waiting to hear back if they’ve had any success …

Where can we find your designs; do you attend the local markets at all?

I don’t have time to do the markets. When I paint something, it sells straight away, so I can never get a body of work with enough stock to go out. It’d be really me sitting down for six months and not showing anyone my work; that would be the only way I’d have enough stock to sell my works at the markets. When I receive a new skull, I put it up on my Facebook page raw, so that’s how my designs can be found.

Can you see yourself moving in any other directions with your art?

I’m sticking with the Surf and Turf for now; that’s what makes me happiest. I love painting surfboards, as they are on wood - they’re not rideable, unless someone provides me with a board and then I paint a design and then a layer of fibreglass is placed over the top. When painting on something natural that comes from the earth, like wood and bone, the stories just flow…

Thanks Lisa.

If you have your own skull you would like painted with one of Lisa's designs, you can contact her through her Facebook page www.facebook.com/Onewavedesign.com. au or phone 0435 731 873.

inside this

Issue 119 - October 2015

10.

circus oz.

With a new cast, new acts, but with the same skill, athleticism and humour Circus Oz is renowned for ... they’re back with their new show, But Wait … there’s More!

matt moran.

Celebrity chef Matt Moran, of flagship hatted restaurant ARIA, will be cooking up a storm using some of the best produce our region has to offer as part of Tastings on Hastings 2015, from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 November.

66.

28.

rosemary doorey.

Rosemary’s journey has evolved from wanting to shed excess body weight to being crowned the National Amateur Body Builders’ Association Southern Hemisphere Champion (physique category).

6. Light the Night 70. Port Macquarie parkrun 82. Niomi Sands

usual suspects.

the

15. what’s on for October 31. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 32. eat featuring local restaurants 47. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 60. tourism with Janette Hyde 73. starguide with Terri 88. travel with Susie Boswell 97. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 114. 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

www.focusmag.com.au/eat

greater port macquarie focus.

5

focusinterview.

Greg French, Campaign Co-ordinator, Light the Night Port Macquarie; Ian Castle, 21st Century Music, Port Macquarie; Chris McMillan, General Manager NSW/ACT, Leukaemia Foundation; and Sue Jackson, Port Macquarie resident are part of an enterprising and industrious team who have been working hard to stage a special event in Port Macquarie. Light the Night will be held on October 9, and the event aims to raise awareness of and provide support for those suffering from blood cancers such as Leukaemia …

S

hare a little bit of “Light the Night’s” background ...

Light the Night was first held in Port Macquarie in 2011.

Unfortunately, the very first event was cancelled due to high winds and very heavy rain. Despite the weather, a small group of people, I'm told, turned up on the night and decided that they should still walk anyway.

So, they lit their lanterns and pushed on.

Light the Night was revisited in 2014, when a local Port Macquarie resident, Sue Jackson, met with the Leukaemia Foundation’s local Blood Cancer Support Coordinator Chris Hobson at a Leukaemia support group. Chris had discussed the possibility of establishing a local walk with Sue, and a committee was quickly formed. We are proud to be returning to Port Macquarie again in 2015.

Port Macquarie's "Light the Night" is a free event. It is an opportunity for all people in our community to come together in hope and reflect on the impact that blood cancer has on our families, friends and the community.

I (Greg) first heard about Light the Night last year. Sue had invited me to speak on behalf of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service about the prevalence of cancer in our community and the ongoing need for blood. Over the next few months, Sue and I kept in regular contact and in January of this year I received a call from her to tell me that her son's cancer had been diagnosed as terminal and if I could help.

“It’s always an uplifting and visually stunning event that brings families and friends together to light beautiful lanterns. This year, it promises to be even more spectacular, with Australia uniting on one night to help create a brighter future for people with blood cancer,” said Christine

6

greater port macquarie focus.

McMillan, General Manager of the Leukaemia will embrace the spirit of "Light the Night" by Foundation in NSW/ACT. purchasing a lantern and walking together in the What are the aims of the event? hope for a future free of blood cancer.

Our aim this year is to light 500 lanterns Explain how “Light the Night” works ... together in hope for a future free from blood Light the Night walks take place across cancer. Lighting 500 lanterns will raise $10,000 Australia on Friday, October 9. In Port Macquarie, for the Leukaemia Foundation. Last year, the event opens to the public from 5:30pm. We Light the Night in Port Macquarie raised encourage people to come on down after over $6,000 for the Leukaemia work and enjoy a night under the Foundation, a terrific result of stars by bringing a blanket and which the community should perhaps a picnic hamper. The n be proud.

Lions Club in Tacking Point Blood cancers ca , ne Money raised through will be cooking a BBQ, develop in anyo when Light the Night and it will be possible at any age, and ve a contributes towards for families to purchase they do it can ha on the ct devastating impa ight is funding important food throughout the eN family. Light th research into developing evening. it as ily fam as much about better treatments and Families will have ith w g in liv is about people also helping to support the opportunity to ” . blood cancer families in need of spend some time together assistance during treatment. listening to live music. The Our ultimate goal is too stage programme commences eventually light up 1,000 lanterns on at 6pm. "Light the Night" walk Westport Oval, which would be an amazing will begin at 7pm. The highlight of the spectacle. evening will be the walk around Westport Blood Cancer is a bigger problem than Oval, which will conclude at 8pm. many people realise. More than 60,000 people What special guests/entertainment do you are living with Leukaemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma have lined up? or a related blood disorder. This year it is Entertainment is being provided by four very anticipated that another 12,000 people will be talented musicians from Ian Castle's "21st diagnosed - that’s equivalent to 34 people every Century Music". All four artists are local school day. Blood cancers can develop in anyone, at any students who are currently working on EP age, and when they do it can have a devastating releases later in the year. impact on the family.

Blake O'Connor is a student at Port Light the Night is as much about family as Macquarie High School. He is a well-known it is about people living with blood cancer. singer songwriter who recently featured as a We have created the event to be a family soloist at the Sydney School’s Spectacular. Emily friendly evening. Whilst the event is free for the Holley and Molly Irwin are two talented singer community to attend, we do hope that people songwriters currently studying at MacKillop

“

Senior College. Both girls are planning to perform some of their new material on the night. Oscar Ford is an exciting musician from our local area.

Oscar attends Regional College and will also be performing a mix of his favourite pieces.

We also have a guest speaker. Timothy Heydon is a local bone marrow donor from the Mid North Coast who will be sharing his very special story and addressing some of the myths in our community about donating bone marrow that can often prevent people from getting involved in this way.

What is the meaning behind the various coloured lanterns that will be available on the night?

As night falls, Port Macquarie will gather for a moving ceremony where you can light a special lantern: Gold, to remember a loved one; White, for your own blood cancer journey, or; Blue, to show you care.

What is the date/time and venue for Port Macquarie’s Light the Night this year?

5:30pm - 8pm, Friday 9th October, Westport Park, Port Macquarie.

Who would you like to thank for supporting the event?

Coates Hire (for providing all of the lighting); The Lions Club in Tacking Point (for providing the staging and BBQ); Penny Tanner for her wonderful support; and Sue Jackson for having the vision and energy to bring the event to Port Macquarie.

Where can people find out more info?

People can find out more information or register online to secure their lanterns at http:// my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/portmacquarie or alternatively, you can call the Leukaemia Foundation on 1800 500 088 (FREE).

Thanks everyone. Interview by Jo Atkins.

greater port macquarie focus.

7

focusinterview.

Cheetahs BILLABONG ZOO

Billabong Zoo is delighted to announce the much anticipated arrival of their two cheetah brothers, Warrior and Vongani. Chrissy Jones chatted with excited zoo owner Mark Stone about the new additions.

Y

ou officially opened the all new cheetah exhibit during the September school holidays; how have Warrior and Vongani taken to their new home?

They are loving it. When we first put them in there, they checked out every inch. We were in there with them first up, and they explored every corner of the enclosure. They play soccer with Christy, my head keeper; she has formed a real tight bond with them. They are really loving their new home here at Billabong Zoo. Why did you choose cheetahs?

A few reasons. First and foremost, we wanted to promote the plight of the Cheetahs here in Port Macquarie, similar to what we have done with the snow leopards. There is only an estimated 10 thousand left in the wild and there are only a few small organisations doing wonderful things in South Africa, but it’s all on a shoe string budget.

Secondly, in NSW you aren’t allowed to work with big cats once they reach a certain size, but in Queensland and the ACT you can. In my opinion, Cheetahs are the most suited big cat to work in close contact with, as they have a different disposition to most other big cats. They have the advantage of their speed; they are the fastest land mammal on the planet, so if they are threatened they run. A lion for example, can’t run as fast, so he needs to be able to stand his ground and fight to protect himself; whereas, the cheetah would run. That is believed to be one of the reasons why a cheetah is a much more placid animal to work with.

Cheetahs are well known for their long-legged, slender bodies with a beautiful golden tan coat that is covered in around 20,000 black spots count them if you don’t believe it! They have short, sparse fur and black tear marks that run from the corner of their eyes, down the sides of the nose to their mouth, which protects the eyes from the harsh sun and accentuates the facial expressions.

Built for speed, these animals have a small streamlined head, long light limbs, powerful hind legs, flexible shoulders and spine, long muscular tail, semi-retractable claws, enlarged liver and heart, wide nostrils and increased lung capacity, which combine to make them the fastest sprinter 8

greater port macquarie focus.

on Earth. Capable of as opposed to us just being a e At points in tim reaching speeds of 100 stranger in their world - and up t ge they would , km/hour or more, us you just need to be patient. om fr and move away stay the cheetah can Both the boys are st ju ld and we wou ey Th cover nine metres in totally different. Vongani e. er w e where w r half fo us ft a single stride and is a ladies man, quite le ve ha might en all of a th d almost four strides per charismatic - he loves an , ur ho an ld come second. Warrior and Christy - and Warrior is just sudden one wou .” us Vongani are certainly no a cutie, a big sook. back and sit with exception!

Leaving South Africa with You brought Warrior the cheetahs must have been and Vongani out from South very exciting, as well as nerve Africa. Tell us about the process? wracking …

When we first decided that we wanted To prepare the cheetahs to come home to include cheetahs at the zoo, we looked was again a process. They travel in specially at all our options. I handed the ball to my constructed travel boxes, and they have to be head keeper, Christy, who researched the internet conditioned to be comfortable to walk in and out in search of different refuges in South Africa that of their boxes and be happy once in the boxes for work with cheetahs. She found Cheetah Outreach, the door to be closed. They handled this extremely who have exported them before to other countries well; I guess because they are used to being taken including New Zealand and also to Australia, for walks even off site from Cheetah Outreach which was a great advantage. If we imported our Centre. It must have been such a surprise for animals and could work in with them, people Mr Average in South Africa to be out for his would be more inclined to learn about these afternoon stroll by the lake, and all of a sudden to beautiful creatures. We then made contact with come across half a dozen people taking a couple Cheetah Outreach, approximately 2½ years ago. of Cheetahs for a walk.

Then the massive importation project began.

The day before departure and the day of If you start looking at importing animals from departure was the most stressful for us, checking overseas, the Government Authorities have many, and double checking everything was in place. many hoops to jump through and boxes to tick.

Our transport plan, the vet checks as the boys We had to be so careful. We had to demonstrate were boxed, our permits were with us for both our professionalism in our operations, what we export and import, transportation on arrival in planned to do with them, and how we planned to Australia, etc. etc. And it’s not every day cheetahs manage them. are exported out of South Africa, so the South Christy and I went to South Africa to Cheetah Africans kept a very keen eye on every step we Outreach and spent a week with the boys, getting made. to know their personalities, their likes and dislikes Most people would not even think about what’s and for them to get used to us. Every day from involved in flying something that size; some open to close we would go into their enclosure, planes they wouldn’t fit, some planes don’t have go up to them, touch them, feed them, and pat temperature controlled cargo holds, some don’t them, getting them used to us. We would sit with carry live animals and of course, we wanted to them; they would lay down beside us. At certain make sure we were on the same plane and flight. points in time they would get up and move away As I said, they travelled extremely well, which from us, and we would just stay where we were is wonderful, as it is always our major concern. and wait for them to return to us; this would go It came down to preparation; it’s like anything: if on for hours at a time. They might have left us for you prepare well, which we did, then the outcome half an hour, and then all of a sudden one would should be good. The professionalism right from come back and sit with us again. At that point the start to finish was amazing. we knew that they were taking us on board; they From Sydney the cheetahs cleared customs, were coming to us, they wanted to be with us, and then it was down to Mogo Zoo on the South

“

Coast to quarantine them in Australia for 30 days.

Mogo Zoo and their team were fantastic. I would like to thank Sally Paidy and the team for taking such good care of our new boys. Christy spent the first week with Warrior and Vongani at Mogo Zoo, my wife Danena and I spent the second week, the Mogo team spent the third week with them, and then Christy spent the fourth and final week with them until I returned to bring them home - just so they always had a familiar face with them.

Now they are here at Billabong Zoo, are they difficult to care for?

I have always said anything that is pleasurable is not difficult, but in relation or by comparison to some of the other big cats species, I think not so - which is probably due to their placid nature.

We have very strict guidelines that we work to, so as to ensure ours and their safety; this also makes a big difference The brothers have travelled all the way from Cheetah Outreach in Cape Town, South Africa and come with an important message.

What’s that? The cheetah is the fastest land mammal, capable of reaching speeds of 100 km per hour, but they are losing the greatest race of all - their race for survival. Since the turn of the previous century, population numbers have dramatically declined from 100,000 animals down to as few as 10,000 today. They are currently listed as critically endangered. Warrior and Vongani are here to raise awareness and support for the conservation efforts being undertaken by Cheetah Outreach. Billabong Zoo applauds the work of Cheetah Outreach and encourages everyone to get behind them and raise awareness or donate to ensure this vital work continues. Check out their website for more info: www.cheetah.co.za I would like to thank all the people and the business houses that have gotten behind us and this huge project. I can’t thank everyone individually, but I would like to acknowledge the tireless work of David Doherty, who kept pushing this project forward, and last but by no means least a very heartfelt thank you to my wonderful family and our very, very dedicated staff, whose support is endless - thank you.

Thanks Mark, and welcome Warrior and Vongani.

Top - left: Palmetto 10-Piece Outdoor Dining, Sabina Outdoor Modular Lounge, Sabina 9-Piece Outdoor Dining Top - left: Palmetto 10-Piece Outdoor Dining, Sabina Outdoor Modular Lounge, Sabina 9-Piece Outdoor Dining Middle - left: 4-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting, Capella 9-Piece Outdoor Dining, Cuban Outdoor TopCapella - left: Palmetto 10-Piece Outdoor Dining, Sabina Outdoor Modular Lounge, Sabina 9-Piece3-Piece Outdoor Dining Suite Middle - left: Capella 4-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting, Capella 9-Piece Outdoor Dining, Cuban 3-Piece Outdoor Suite Middle Capella 4-Piece Lounge, Outdoor Barcelona Lounge Setting, Capella 9-Piece Outdoor Dining, CubanOutdoor 3-Piece Outdoor Bottom - left: Maui- left: 3-Seater Outdoor 7-Piece Outdoor Dining, Noosa 7-Piece Dining Suite Top - left: Palmetto 10-Piece Outdoor Outdoor Lounge, Dining, Sabina Outdoor Bottom - left: Maui 3-Seater Barcelona 7-PieceModular OutdoorLounge, Dining,Sabina Noosa9-Piece 7-PieceOutdoor OutdoorDining Dining Bottom - left: Maui 3-Seater Outdoor Lounge, Barcelona 7-Piece Outdoor Dining, Noosa 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Middle - left: Capella 4-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting, Capella 9-Piece Outdoor Dining, Cuban 3-Piece Outdoor Suite Top - left: Palmetto 10-Piece Outdoor Outdoor Dining, Sabina Outdoor Bottom - left: Maui 3-Seater Barcelona 7-PieceModular OutdoorLounge, Dining,Sabina Noosa9-Piece 7-PieceOutdoor OutdoorDining Dining Top - left: Palmetto 10-Piece Outdoor Lounge, Dining, Sabina Outdoor Modular Lounge, Sabina 9-Piece Outdoor Dining Middle - left: Capella 4-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting,HARVEY Capella 9-Piece Outdoor Dining, Cuban 3-Piece Outdoor Suite NORMAN FURNITURE Middle - left: Capella 4-Piece Outdoor Lounge Setting,HARVEY Capella 9-Piece Outdoor Dining, Cuban 3-Piece Outdoor Suite NORMAN FURNITURE HARVEY NORMAN FURNITURE Bottom - left: Maui 3-Seater Outdoor Lounge, Barcelona 7-Piece Outdoor Dining, Noosa 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Port Home Zone Bottom - left: Maui 3-Seater Outdoor Lounge, Barcelona 7-Piece Outdoor Dining, Noosa 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Port Home Zone Port Home Zone

160-174 Hastings River Drive HARVEY NORMAN FURNITURE 160-174 Hastings River Drive 160-174 Hastings River Drive Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Port Home ZoneNSW Macquarie NSW 2444 Port Port Macquarie 2444 HARVEY NORMAN FURNITURE (02) 6580 0000 (02) 6580 0000RiverFURNITURE 160-174 Hastings Drive HARVEY NORMAN (02) 6580 0000 Ends 31/10/15 Accessories shown are notare included.

Port Home Zone Ends 31/10/15 Accessories shown not included.

(02) 6580 0099 6580 0099 Ends 31/10/15 Accessories shown are not included.

Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Home Zone (02) (02) 6580 0099 a Deal with the team local at your local Harvey Norman.”

“Do a Deal“Do with the team at your Harvey Norman.”

160-174 Hastings “Do a Deal with the team at your local Harvey Norman.” (02) 6580Hastings 0000 River 160-174 River Drive Drive Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Ends 31/10/15 Accessories shown are not included.

(02) 6580 0099NSW 2444 Port Macquarie “Do a Deal with the team at your local Harvey Norman.” (02) 6580 0000 (02) 6580 0000 Ends 31/10/15 Accessories shown are not included.

(02) 6580 0099 Ends 31/10/15 Accessories shown are not included.

“Do a Deal with the team at your local Harvey Norman.” (02) 6580 0099

READY TO

READY READYTO TO ASSEMBLE ASSEMBLE ASSEMBLE Products onthis thispage page Products on Products on assembly this page may require may require assembly

may require assembly READY TO ASSEMBLE Products on TA1711828 this page TA1711828 may require TA1711828 READYassembly TO READY TO ASSEMBLE ASSEMBLE Products on this page Products on assembly this page may require TA1711828 may require assembly

focusinterview.

circus WITH A NEW CAST, NEW ACTS, BUT WITH THE SAME SKILL, ATHLETICISM AND HUMOUR CIRCUS OZ IS RENOWNED FOR ... THEY’RE BACK WITH THEIR NEW SHOW, “BUT WAIT … THERE’S MORE!”

THIS AMAZING SPECTACLE WILL BRING THE GLASSHOUSE’S STAGE TO LIFE ON OCTOBER 23 AND 24. MUSICAL DIRECTOR ANIA REYNOLDS TELLS US SHE CAN’T WAIT TO COME BACK TO PORT MACQUARIE … _______________________________________ i Ania. What’s changed since Circus Oz’s last visit to Port Macquarie?

We have a new cast who’ll be bringing the show to the Glasshouse; the lighting designer and I are the only two originals from the last show. So, with that, we have a brand new show and a brand new set of acts.

I think of particular interest is we have a flying trapeze act this time that wasn’t in the show last time. It’s a lot of fun, and I think one of the great things about it is it’s just as much fun to dive off the trapeze and splat on the crash mats, as it is to actually land the tricks. There’s a good mix of both in there!

There’s also a really beautiful unicycle 10 greater port macquarie focus.

the

We write all adagio routine - two music for the performers who perform iginal show - it’s an or a series of balances as ’s at th d an e, scor you normally would on generally get put e and composed by m solid ground, but in this , on some sort of er the drumm instance they’re actually ” y. dr instrument - even if Ben Hen doing them while one they’ve never played of them rides the unicycle it before. We have an around the stage. You don’t approach of “the more, see that quite so often in the the merrier”! It’s often about world; it’s quite unique. having fun with honks, squeaks One of our signature effects is live music; and squawks, as well as learning music so we have a live band, and a lot of the formally - often used for “marking”, where acrobats join in on various instruments at you highlight the element of tricks. certain points during the show. There are a We have a vocalist in the show - Candy lot of big group musical numbers. who comes from a Rap background, so we What does your role as Musical Director have a couple of numbers that are quite vocal involve? heavy. Then, it’s just a matter of putting this The role of Musical Director encompasses all together, rehearsing, then getting out many things, which makes it a lot of fun. there on stage, leaping around and having We write all the music for the show - it’s an fun! original score, and that’s composed by me Sounds like you guys must have a ball and the drummer, Ben Hendry. We’re the when you tour together! core band, but there are a couple of people Touring Australia is my favourite part, in the show who double as acrobats and because it’s such a lovely, carefree lifestyle. musicians - they’re multi-skilled performers.

You’re on the road, going to all of these The other element of music in Circus different towns, and there’s just this really Oz is when people join the company, they

“

nice sense of being welcomed when you visit them all. You’re bringing something really enjoyable to each community, so when you go down the street and tell people you’re from the circus, that always starts a conversation.

I think the other thing that’s really nice when you’re on the road is because we’re all travelling as a group, there’s a lot of opportunity to come up with other ideas, explore things, write some music - there’s a little bit of downtime, so it’s nice to develop more material which might get worked into the show … You develop a creative language with your cast mates, so it’s a great lifestyle.

How much are you looking forward to revisiting Port? The word is you had a great time last time …

Absolutely! Last time we went from Newcastle to Port Macquarie, and when we got to Port we had a couple of days off.

Everyone hit the beach! There were a few surfers in the group, and those of us, like me, who were L-Plate surfers had the really

focusinterview.

Circus Oz

circus big, chunky boards (laugh). We stayed at the Observatory, which has the beautiful café at the bottom, and the beach was just across the road. It was paradise! Wake up, have a great coffee, go and spend the day in the waves … Life couldn’t get any better!

I must say, the staff and the crew at the Glasshouse were really wonderful; they made us feel so welcome. One of the guys was really active in the local music scene, and he put us on to all the best local gigs to go to - we saw a Jazz show, and some really nice afternoon music out in the beer garden, so it felt as if we’d been welcomed to this lovely community where we could hear great music, have some amazing cocktails and good food.

It was just peachy!

The Glasshouse is such a wonderful, contemporary venue, and the crowds were really appreciative. I’m so glad we get to come back.

How extensive is your tour this time around?

This time we’ve been doing regional Victoria and regional NSW, so it is one of

those tours where we get to place - so when we’re e We stayed at th travel from town to town in one place for a hich O bservatory, w on a bus. When we go to while we find time to café has the beautiful the other parts of Australia, rehearse. d at the bottom , an ss there may be flights And when ro ac beach was just ! se di ra to cover the larger everything’s going pa as the ro ad . It w t ea gr a distances - like Perth to really well, there’s ve ha , Wake up end the Darwin. It’s like we’re on also an opportunity to coffee, go and sp …” es av w e a tour bus this time! develop tricks, so we th in y da We’ve been all around can get them into the Victoria, and we’re in Wagga next venue. When we’re Wagga at the moment. Port running a show, we meet two Macquarie will be our last stop - I hours before the show opens, and think there are 15 towns altogether, so Port that’s our time to go over any notes from Macquarie’s like this nice little reward at the the previous performance; we might have end! to adapt things for the size and shape of How much rehearsing do you have to do the venue, and we warm up musically and each week? acrobatically too.

With acts like the flying trapeze, it’s one What’s your favourite part of the show? of those circus skills where regular training is I think probably at the moment, the second required to keep up people’s fitness, and also half of the show opens with a big brass to maintain the act at a safe level. Generally marching band piece of music - with a twist. there’s time on tour where we might be in It includes a vocal part, but it’s not vocal in one place for a while, and then there are split the normal sense of singing … (Laughs). I weeks where we might be in more than one won’t tell you more than that; you’ll have to

“

come to the show to see what it is! It’s very kid-friendly, but it’s one of those acts where you have to try really hard to stop yourself from laughing. It’s a real challenge to do this!

Final say …

It’s a show that appeals to all ages. So many of the tricks are spectacular and may not be things that people have seen before, in terms of unique presentation. It’s a very fun show - people will have a good laugh and a good time and again, we’re just so stoked to be coming back to Port Macquarie!

Thanks Ania. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photos courtesy of Rob Blackburn.

the plug!

See Circus Oz on Friday 23 October, 7pm.

Saturday 24 October, 1pm and 7pm.

Tickets: $57 general; $47 member; $40 under 21. call the Box Office 6581 8888. or Visit: www.glasshouse.org.au

greater port macquarie focus.

11

focus_local recipe

CRISPY SKINNED SALTWATER

Barramundi

Image of the month.

About: A recent storm that was brief, but it packed some punch. Hailed for a solid 5 mins on Town Beach as the front came through. Saw the front coming on the BOM radar, so bolted down to Townies for a pic. Caught this on its way out to sea.

Photo by: Ocean Drive Images. Camera: Canon 6D , with a 16 - 35mm f4L. 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

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

WH

AT ’ S I N

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) Barramundi 4 x 160 g Barramundi portions, skin on 24 curry leaves 20 g green peppercorns 1 bunch pak choy, separated and blanched Coconut Sauce 400 ml coconut cream 50 g tamarind pulp 100 ml lime juice 200 ml water 30 ml fish sauce Mix all the ingredients together well and place into a jug Fried Rice (this recipe makes a lot more, but it's great for snacks!)

RHUBARB

A native of Siberia and the Himalayas, rhubarb was first cultivated for medicinal purposes in China as far back as 2700BC. In 18th Century Europe, rhubarb was rediscovered and eaten in pies and tarts. Most of us have childhood memories of sweet rhubarb crumble or stewed rhubarb, and this perennial vegetable is once again popular on modern restaurant menus.

High in vitamin C and calcium, the cooked stems are succulent and juicy - perfect for stewing and using in desserts, cakes and puddings. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which is poisonous in large amounts, so don’t eat them, or feed them to your chooks!

Grown in our region by a number of farmers, you can find local Comboyne-grown rhubarb on the shelf at Ken Little's in Munster Street.

You can also find it in Ricardoes award-winning Strawberry and Rhubarb Conserve, available at their farm-gate shop.

WHERE

12

Find out more about The Other Chef at www.theotherchef.com.au

greater port macquarie focus.

Make the day before 2 and half cups sushi rice 3¾ cups water 10 g white sesame seeds 10 g black sesame seeds 4 shallots, sliced into thin rounds 200 ml rice vinegar 100 ml mirin

Chef Lindsey Schwab

Fusion 7 124 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Phone (02) 65841171 Web fusion7.com.au

Fingerlime Salad 100 g bean sprouts ½ bunch coriander picked 2 fingerlimes, pearls taken out 1 long red chilli, finely sliced 1 shallot, finely sliced Toss all together in a bowl.

METHOD Combine the rice and water in a rice cooker and cook. Once it has finished cooking, turn off the cooker and leave the rice for 10 mins to finish steaming. Put rice into a bowl and add the remaining ingredients, mixing well with a wooden spoon 'til all the liquid has been absorbed. Put rice in a deep baking dish lined with clingwrap and lay another piece of clingwrap over the top. Press down on the rice to compact it. It should be about 2 cm thick. Put in the fridge to set overnight. The next day, cut into portions; you get about 14 portions from this.

smoking, that means it's ready to go).

For Serving Turn oven on to 200 °C.

Place the fried rice and pak choy on the bottom of a bowl.

Season the fish with salt, skin and flesh, and put six curry leaves on the flesh side of the fish. Get a pan hot on the stove with a little vegetable oil in it (when the pan starts

Put the fish on top and spoon the coconut sauce around, evenly sharing out the peppercorns. Divide the salad between the four plates and put on top of the fish. Eat!

Put the fish in skin side down and leave 'til it starts colouring. If the fish curls up, give it a gentle squish down with a spatula.

Flip the fish, then carefully pour out any excess oil. Pour in the coconut sauce 'til it comes just below the skin on the fish. Add the peppercorns and put in the oven. It should be ready in 5 minutes.

While the fish is cooking, if you have a deepfryer, fry the rice portions at 180 °C 'til golden brown. If not, you can fry them up in a pan with some oil 'til golden brown.

FIN OP AL P O LE RT A S UN IN IT Y G

SHOP 14 LAKE INNES VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE FANTASTIC LOCATION FACING THE NEW CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

Located in one of Port Macquarie’s highest growth areas and available for immediate occupancy.

This really is your final chance to position your business on the door step of Charles Sturt University and surrounding existing and planned prime residential estates.

Shop 14 Lake Innes Village Shopping Centre, 81.8 square metres inclusive of: • Dedicated ducted air conditioning unit • Three phase power and dedicated EDB • Connection to 5000 litre grease trap • Ten pair IDF • Cold water point • Pedestrian access directly from the University to Shop 14’s door • Incentives offered during start up phase • Convenient access with free onsite parking • Surrounded by local school, kindergarten and rapidly expanding residential market • Lovely open air, community style environment

Lake Innes Village Shopping Centre is a modern neighbourhood centre anchored by Coles Supermarket, a Medical and Dental clinic, Douglass Hanly Moir Pathology and a mix of national and local retailers including ANZ Bank, Charles Sturt University Co-op Bookshop and Pharmacy Select. With local food offerings and services including Ruins Cafe, Charlies Takeaway, Happy Inn Chinese Takeaway, Lake Innes Bakery, Grumpy’s Tender Meat and Fresh Chicken, Port Macquarie Physio and Nvey Hair Studio.

CONTACT BRETT VARCOE M. 0439 375 000 E. brett.varcoe@ap.jll.com greater port macquarie focus.

13

focusinterview.

IT WAS IN 2012 THAT FIVE BOYS FROM THE SMALL NSW COUNTRY TOWN OF MENANGLE PACKED THEIR BAGS AND FLEW TO NEW YORK CITY TO RECORD THEIR DEBUT ALBUM. THEY HAD 14 SONGS AND ONLY $20 PER DAY TO SPEND ON FOOD, BUT GRAMMY WINNING PRODUCER, DAVID KAHNE (LANA DEL REY, THE STROKES) HAD HEARD THEIR MUSIC AND SENT A PERSONAL INVITATION. THAT WAS THREE YEARS, A PLATINUM ALBUM AND NUMEROUS SOLD-OUT TOURS AGO, AND NOW THE RUBENS ARE BACK WITH THEIR SOPHOMORE RECORD, HOOPS …

T

he last time we caught up was in the lead up to FOTSUN back in 2013. I can only imagine the last two years have been filled with memorable moments - can you name a few of them?

The last two years pretty much has been … we finished touring the album in late 2013, so since then it’s just been writing and recording Hoops, which has been a whole lot of fun. We did a lot of writing in a house south of Sydney for five months and came up with a whole bunch of material, and then ended up going up to Byron Bay for pre-production, which was beautiful, and then recorded in New York. So, we’ve done a lot of travelling and been to a lot of sweet places, and then now of course we get to start touring and see a lot of great places again! We’re so lucky!

You’ve now dropped your new album, Hoops, which has already made it to #2 on the ARIA chart; you guys must be chuffed!

It’s a crazy thing; you spend so long recording and sitting in a studio doing all this stuff, and then you kind of forget why you’re doing it ... and when you get a stat back saying that is charted second, that’s amazing! That’s why we’re doing it.

What was the experience like going into the studio for the second time?

It was good. We worked with the same producer as last time - David Kahne - so this time around we weren’t in for a lot of surprises.

14

greater port macquarie focus.

Last time we’d never been in a studio before, and all of a sudden we were working with this big name producer who’d worked with so many cool people and so many of our heroes; it was a bit scary at first, but this time around we didn’t have to be scared. We’re good friends with David, and we can just get along and work hard on the music and have fun.

I think this time we weren’t as green; we were able to speak up a lot more. Before if we didn’t like the sound of something or maybe a song was going down a road we didn’t like, this time we were able to speak up and have a discussion about that and steer it more in our direction, which meant that we were a lot happier with our end product. We knew how studio time works and how exactly we could pull the sounds that we wanted; it was exciting for us, because we knew what album we wanted to make and we knew were capable of doing it - it was a very fun experience.

I read the song Switchblade off Hoops has a bit of a comical story behind it …

Sam wrote that one; he wrote it when he was really drunk! hH decided to sit down at the laptop, write a song and have a couple of beers, - I think it ended up being a lot of beers - and in the morning we had a listen to it, and said, “Oh s*@t, we have a song here!”

The album Hoops incorporates a lot of different music styles; what inspired the decision to bring those different influences forward?

We listen to a lot of different music between

us. We listen to a lot of Hip Hop and then obviously Blues, and Rock and stuff. When you’re listening to that kind of music, it kind of creeps in with what you write, and we’re not afraid to branch out across an album and have a new song that’s quite RnB, and then another song that’s quite straight up Rock ‘n’ Roll. If that’s the songs we’re writing, then that’s us and what we’re playing.

We don’t think any articular song isn’t “Rubens” enough ... When we wrote Hoops, it’s sounds quite RnB, but we still like it. There’s no fear of being eclectic on an album.

You’re stopping by in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Can we expect a mixture of both new and old? And what are you looking forward to most about getting back on the road?

At the moment, we’ve been building steps in working out how things are going to flow, and it’s looking like it will be half and half at the moment, which is fun - going back to the old stuff is more fun than we thought it would be, because we haven’t played it in a while, and it feels fresh again.

It’s a pay off for us to be finally playing this new stuff live; you spend so much time indoors making it - live, it feels good.

Being brothers, you must disagree at times.

How do you calm the fire when problems arise - especially while on the road?

We’re pretty good - we see eye to eye on pretty much everything, whether it’s creatively or

business wise - like going to certain places and things like that. When we were cutting down songs, we had about 35 songs for the album and that had to be cut down to 11; we had differences of opinions, and everyone was OK with listening about why their song should be on the album or why this song shouldn’t be on the album. It can get heated, but everyone respects each other well enough to listen to each other’s decisions. It’s part of being a band; otherwise, it’s going to be a s@#t time.

What happens to those songs that don’t quite make the cut for the album?

We have some that we just didn’t do well enough with and they’ll probably just go in the scrap heap and will never see the light of day, but then there’s a bunch that we feel really strongly about - whether they’ll be reworked on a third album or whether they’ll end up on some sort of deluxe version as they are. There’s a lot of material there that we feel strongly about and really hope they’ll see the light of day someday.

the plug!

Don’t miss the Rubens at Port Macquarie Panthers on the Hoops national tour.

Thursday 29 October 2015 at Panthers Auditorium Doors 7:30pm | Show: 8pm $35 Pre-sale | $40 Door

A R O U N D T H E R E G I O N / / OA CU TG OU BS ET R 2 20 01 41 5

Stone and Wood beer degustation dinner

13

Five classic beers from Stone and Wood perfectly balanced with five dishes. When Fri November 13th, 2015 - 7pm.

Cost $85 per person. Bookings Justin Cave 6589 2888. email justin_cave@rydges.com

16

Six Degrees OF DEGUSTATION Six Chefs, Six Courses, Six Wines ... One Night Only!

MID NORTH SOCIAL PRESENTS THE

15

31

HOCUS POCus HALLOWEEN

Dine this halloween with the Sanderson sisters (performed by local drag trio “dragesque”). Silent auction on the night plus a devilishly divine performance by Wauchope & Port Macquarie Performing Arts $75 per person (Hero members $70). Includes a three course dinner and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival.

Where Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges. When Sat 31st October 2015. Time 6:30pm for a 7pm start. Contact Rachelle Dufty. Phone 6589 5100 www.ourhero.org.au/halloween

COMEDY CLUB

in conjunction with the release of The Social Deck. Featuring Gary Eck, Cam Knight and hosted by Dave Williams.

30

Where Rydges Port Macquarie. When Friday October 16th at 7pm.

Tickets $129pp. Contact Kate Wood Foye (02) 6589 2888 or email kate_woodfoye@rydges.com

When Wed 30th Sept and Thurs 1st Oct. Time 7:45pm.

Where Latin Loafer. Tickets $32 comedyclubtix.midnorthsocial.com.au

GARDEN Village op shop Garden Village Op Shop is open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9am ‘til 12:30pm. Also, the 2nd Saturday of the month, this month being 10th October.

Please place on your calendar the Garden Village Craft Sale to be held 25th and 26th November in the Craft Room from 8am - 2pm.

2

LAST Stand CHISEL BARNES SHOW When Friday 2nd October. Where Laurieton United Services Club.

Doors Open: 8:15pm. Tickets Adults $15 U/18 $12.

greater port macquarie focus.

15

focusmotoring.

S M U G ’S R E VI E W

“The Smug”

THIS MONTH THE SMUG TEST DRIVES THE BRAND NEW 2015 JAGUAR XE 2.0 L 177 KW TURBOCHARGED PETROL (AUTO)

I

COURTESY OF JOHN PATRICK PRESTIGE CARS ON HASTINGS RIVER DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE.

f you read no further than this first paragraph, then "incredible" and "a must test drive" are the take-home messages from me to you on the brand new 2015 Jaguar XE 2.0 L 177 kW Turbocharged Petrol (Auto).

With a sharp, sleek, prestige body shape and an elegant yet sporty interior, the 2015 Jaguar XE is one very special vehicle and putting it simply, she’s a beauty!

Having just rolled off the production line and onto the showroom floor, there’s plenty to like about the focus on ensuring the Jaguar XE has all the bells and whistles one would want in a modern day vehicle.

The new XE includes the use of the very impressive Aluminum Intensive Architecture, which is used to describe the aerospace industry derived light and sturdy structural framework. Not only does this new material provide an overall lighter bodyweight, it is structurally incredibly strong.

Safety is a key consideration for all Jaguar models and in the case of the 2015 XE, particular attention has been paid to this - and it’s pretty impressive.

For example, a unique feature I haven’t come across in a predominantly road vehicle to date is Jaguar’s All Surface Progress Control (ASPC) which is a low speed cruise control which operates at speeds between 3.6 km/h and 30 km/h. What the hay is this for, you ask? Well, it’s an all-weather and low traction control system that allows the

16

greater port macquarie focus.

driver to concentrate on steering rather volume control is very capable of punching than speed control and steering at the same out your best of Phil Collins compilation like time. Typical uses could include assistance on a boss.

Other inclusions or features in the range of slippery surfaces, hill descents or steep inclines - maybe for that steep hilly driveway in the options include keyless entry, park assistance wet? including parallel and bay parking, 360 With six airbags, dynamic stability degree park distance control, air quality control, engine drag torque sensor and one of the largest colour control, torque vectoring by options range of anything I’ve braking, lane departure seen. warning, blind Taking this beauty out y ke a spot monitoring, onto the open road is is ty Safe autonomous simply a dream. The consideration odels emergency braking handling is incredibly for all Jaguar m of the se and adaptive cruise well balanced and and in the ca ar 2015 XE, particul paid control - you may responsive, and the en attention has be run out of breath turbocharged 177 kW pretty to this - and it’s trying to mention all is really exciting. The impressive .” the safety features, acceleration both off but you’ll be breathing the mark and in transit is easy whenever the impressive and for a 2.0 L, it situation requires their use. punches well above its weight.

Apart from a stunning interior There’s plenty of interior room both design and the comfortable and roomy in the front and back and for a sedan; seating both in the front and back, one it’s really quite comfortable, with a decent very impressive feature is the InControl Touch helping of prestige throughout. command system. The crystal clear 8” touchWell priced and in the lower end of the screen displays the SatNav in superb quality, executive vehicle range, the Jaguar XE is huge and it also allows tablet-like swipe and stretch value for money and quite achievable for the gestures that is pretty cool indeed. young executive, semi-retired or for those If you enjoy bringing your own tunes to looking for a classy "weekend car" for those the ride, the Bluetooth connectable Meridian weekend escapes out of town.

380 W in-built sound system with 11 speakers Again, this is an incredible, must test drive including impressive equalisation and dynamic offering from Jaguar.

“

SNAPSHOT ENGINE & GEARS 96kW 177 kW 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol. S Speed Auto.

BODY Sedan, 5 seats.

FUEL 5 Star ANCAP Safety Rating.

RANGE 2.0 L (132 kW) Deisel, 2.0 L (144 kW) Petrol & 3.0 L (250 kW) Petrol also available.

FAST FACTS The most advanced, efficient and refined sports saloon car that Jaguar has ever produced.

The XE has the lightest body in its class, with sports-car equivalent body stiffness.

Models use aerospace industry derived Aluminium Intensive Architecture.

50/50 weight distribution across vehicle.

Start button, turn dial gear selection.

Head Up Display (HUD) – projects key info onto windscreen.

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

Climb

above Cancer

computer capers Computer Capers was developed after identifying the need to provide a unique environment for social engagement for kids who thrive on the fun of technology, particularly Minecraft. Our innovative programme inspires young people in their creative technical pursuits, within the safety of our private computer server. Rob Walker, the facilitator of the group, chats to FOCUS ...

Is the programme aimed at all levels of Minecrafters?

Absolutely. All Minecraft builders are welcome, from Year 2 to Year 8. We have special crafting tournaments like “The Build Off”, where we judge creativity and award prizes. Other days we play mini games such as Hungergames, Paintball and Pixelmon. There is something for everyone.

What do the participants need to bring?

Bring a smile, your water bottle and packed

lunch (full day).

What are the costs involved?

Minecraft Mania is $20 for a half day session, between 9am and midday or 12:30pm and 3:30pm. $35 for a full day.

What are the educational benefits of playing Minecraft?

We see many benefits, including problem solving and gaining an understanding of how things work. We find our kids experimenting and working together, developing skills in creative thinking, math, geology, geometry, together with goal setting and strategic thinking. Teamwork is essential, and you can never go wrong with children expressing their creativity through grand design.

How can our readers enrol their children?

Online at www.computercapers.com.au or phone/sms Rob on 0421 998 466 or email rob@computercapers.com.au

ONCOLOGIST DR BAERIN HOUGHTON’S FUNDRAISING INITIATIVE HAS BEEN AN ASTOUNDING SUCCESS, WITH THE RECENT GALA DINNER AT BLUEWATER BAR AND GRILL ON AUGUST 22ND RAISING $9,700.

T

he night was attended by roughly 118 people, who enjoyed raffles, auctions, lucky door prizes, a nice dinner, entertainment and a great speech from

Baerin.

Baerin climbed the Grand Teton mountain in the USA in September, as a way to highlight the incredible challenges those with cancer face in fighting the disease.

His promise was to shave his head prior to departure if the total funds raised for Climb Above Cancer reached $30,000 - which they did!

You can see Baerin’s new hairstyle in the photo.

All in all, the total funds raised to date equal: $33,321.50.

These funds will go to the Hastings Cancer Trust, to ensure everyone’s generous donations are used directly to support the people of our

region. The Hastings Cancer Trust is a local NFP organisation aiming to provide funds for local cancer services to provide state-of-theart treatment for people battling cancer in the Hastings Macleay region of NSW, focusing on supplementary funding or funding unmet needs beyond the scope of ongoing Government funding for cancer services.

Baerin and his team would like to thank everyone who made donations or provided assistance to the cause in any way, with special mention to Laing & Simmonds, John Oxley Motors and Percival Property.

To find out more about the Climb Above Cancer or to donate, please visit: give.everydayhero.com/au/climb-above-cancer facebook.com/climbabovecancer Photo courtesy of Lynn Lelean.

RULE THE ROAD

RULE THE ROAD RULE THE ROAD

NEW JAGUAR XE THE SPORTS SALOON REDEFINED

NEW JAGUAR XE NEW JAGUAR XE THE SPORTS SALOON REDEFINED THE SPORTS SALOON REDEFINED

JAGUAR SERVICE PLANS AVAILABLE JAGUAR SERVICE PLANS AVAILABLE GUARANTEED FUTURE VALUE GUARANTEED FUTURE VALUE ATTRACTIVE FINANCE SOLUTIONS

ATTRACTIVE FINANCE SOLUTIONS

Go to Jaguar.com.au for more details.

Go to Jaguar.com.au for more details.

New Jaguar XEmost is here.

Our mostefficient advanced, efficient and New Jaguar XE is here.

Our advanced, and saloon ever.the Born from of the F-TYPE, refined sportsrefined saloonsports ever. Born from DNA of the the DNA F-TYPE, its sporting is clear. the taut, aerodynamic its sporting intent is clear.intent Beneath the Beneath taut, aerodynamic XE has Aluminium Intensive Architecture and cuttingdesign XE hasdesign Aluminium Intensive Architecture and cuttingedge technologies edge technologies at its heart. at its heart.

XE FROM ONLY XE FROM ONLY * $65,990 * $65,990 DRIVEAWAY DRIVEAWAY

From just $65,990 driveaway, the new XE is ready to rule.

From just $65,990 driveaway, the new XE is ready to rule.

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE

* Recommended driveaway for Jaguar XE 20t. Prestige petrol *Recommended driveaway for Jaguar XE 20t. Prestige petrol automatic. Metallic paint at $1,300 extra. Premium metallic paint at $2,600 extra. At participating dealers while stocks last.

John Patrick Prestige Cars

169 Hastings River *Recommended driveaway Jaguar XE 20t.

Prestige petrolpaint automatic.

Metallic paint at $1,300 extra. Premium metallic paint at $2,600 extra. At participating dealers while stocksDrive, last. automatic. Metallic paint atfor $1,300 extra.

Premium metallic at $2,600 extra. At participating dealers while stocks last.

Port Macquarie, NSW 2444

Phone: (02) 6584 1800 Web: www.jppc.com.au

greater port macquarie focus.

17

ALPINE focusinterview.

OFF THE BACK OF THEIR TOUR OF THE STATES, ALPINE WILL BE HITTING OUR SUNNY SHORES FOR FESTIVAL OF THE SUN, BRINGING WITH THEM THEIR ECLECTIC POP MUSIC AND STORY BOOK ADVENTURE ON-STAGE VIBE ….

Y

ou guys are on the bill for “FOTSUN” this year. What are you looking forward to the most?

Coming from Melbourne, at the moment it’s freezing and grey and a bit sad, so we are looking forward to having the sunshine and the warmth - something we’re not used to in Melbourne.

And I think just being in a festival environment always has a real sense of escapism - being in an outside performance space, you can really see the people in the crowd, so you get to share the experience with everyone, and that’s something that we love. If the crowd’s having a good time, we vibe off the crowd.

What experience can we expect from your show on the stage, and what sort of vibe will you be pumping out?

It’s a very energetic live show. In our band there are six members, and it’s very much like an adventure story book watching an Alpine show. Everyone has got their own thing happening, and it can look quite chaotic - I think that’s what makes it quite special.

Phoebe and I are the two female lead co-vocalists and performers; we’re bringing that girl power back. I think we perform in a way that’s quite raw; we don’t try to perform like we’re really good dancers, we know that we’re not, we just wanna move to the music and just have that sense of freedom that comes with however you want to express yourself. We definitely want to get people to kind of feel like they’re involved with it as well …

It’s been three years since you released your debut album, A is for Alpine. How 18 greater port macquarie focus.

There are moments pass where I can just over e on ph the micro d an d ow cr to the ing the fans are sing st ju ’s at along, and th ” amazing.

“

has your sound progressed, and how has that been reflected on your new album, Yuck?

When we did A is for Alpine, we had just sorta emerged as a band, and we were still trying to formulate what our sound was. A lot of people compared us to Phoenix and Lykke Li ...

There was definitely, I guess, a sense of innocence to the music, and then three years later I think we’ve really as a band understood what our influences are. We’ve become a lot more confident; there’s definitely a lot more sass and elements of ‘90s R&B mixed in with a little bit of Hip Hop. There’s a assertiveness in the way Phoebe and I have explored new territories.

A is for Alpine was about trying to understand the world around us and understand ourselves individually, and I think when we came to writing Yuck, those three years were a long time. I think Pheebs and I had grown up a little bit more and realised more things and also realised that life still does stay difficult and great and exciting ... And I guess commenting on that and realisations and the realities of things when you come into your own bit more, you’re kind of owning it and not being afraid of it.

Speaking of your new album, the title, Yuck - what is this in reference to?

So, the title came from the first song we started writing, Foolish; it’s a lyric in that song.

It’s a reaction to a relationship that ended -

you know you kind of relapse sometimes and it’s hard to completely walk away from a good thing, even though you know it’s past its used by date. So the word “Yuck”, just really ended up summing up the album. It’s kind of playful as well; I think yuck is quite a funny word. When you say “yuck”, you know you’ve had a really raw reaction to something, and you don’t ever want it to happen again, whether it’s like a smell or an experience, or something that you’ve seen. So it just seemed to be this word that really kind of summed up the attitude of the album, and it still brought it back to our genre of Pop Music.

The last few years touring must’ve brought along some memorable experiences. What has been the highlight?

We got to headline Metro in the Forum for the Sydney and Melbourne theatre shows, which has always been a dream of ours. It’s so amazing to think where we started, to this recent tour and the huge turnout that we had, and people were singing along to the songs.

There are moments where I can just pass the microphone over to the crowd and the fans are singing along, and that’s just amazing. You really start to recognise longevity and fans and supporters of our music … And then in terms of shows that we’ve done, touring with Empire of the Sun across America was incredible. We got to perform on Jimmy Kimmel, which was again amazing - I felt like it was over in two seconds, because I was just so high on adren-

aline. The fact that we get to tour anyway is incredible; a lot of bands don’t even get to the stage that we’ve got to, so every time we get to go anywhere or go to an airport to play a show is pretty much a highlight.

The future for Alpine is looking bright.

What’s on the horizon?

We are about to head off to the States again, and we’re doing a really big tour with a band called Joywave. We have festivals like Falls Festival coming up as well, and we want to get straight back into the studio as soon as we come back; we are really keen to get our third album in the works. I think it’s just as many shows as we can get thrown at us; we are ready to do that and keep creating and writing. You never know what’s around the corner - we are just stoked to be able to do it.

Lastly, where can our readers follow your journey and purchase your music?

We are across pretty much most of the Social Media platforms, and it’s @alpineband so, instagram, twitter, and Facebook. The music you can get on iTunes or you can purchase at JB Hi-Fi. You can watch our music videos on YouTube.

Interview with Lou James.

the plug!

Catch ALPINE at FOTSUN. 11th - 12th December.

For full lineup and tickets, head to www.fotsun.com For enquiries email info@fotsun.com

PRESENTED BY TRIPLE J, THE MUSIC, SOUTHERN CROSS TEN, FOCUS & SAND EVENTS

11-12 DEC PORT MACQUARIE

SUNDOWNER BREAKWALL TOURIST PARK

JEBED I A H

ON SA LE

NOW! THUNDAMENTA L S

BR I T I S H I N D I A E S G N G AVES W S E I I K A R EEPM ARTY HOUS P A L A DELT S • SLRTHEASTAPL • TIRED LIOEN

ULU R A ES • P OLISH C LUB THE L • SK E R B T L S A EG S • Y W G A G AX • ZI S• JER TH E MY EO • W X O U O L D W L O O L CK • N WL E TWI AL S• E• NH DU C H L A A N Y T AU • THE A.D RO ST S• MOU .

YB K W NTA .O. ISH OO B INS TS

M • N O R AS C E E H E T / D R A L EG E L L I G E R E N T

S B / B A D A VAND BOOTL • THE OR LE AG U ES

AJ ES S• ECC

TICKETS NOW ON SALE AT WWW.FOTSUN.COM KIDS UNDER 10 FREE

ALL TICKETS INCLUDE 2 NIGHTS FREE CAMPING.

HAR

T U M U X • M I E • I VA N O O Z E F T H E N I M A LE P LE J UNEARTHED ACT A

TR

IP

ENT BYO EV 8+

FOR 1

ARTS, CONFERENCE AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

greater port macquarie focus.

19

40 Years

HOLE FUN FOR THE W

FAMILY!

5 1 0 2 T C O 8 1 7 1 RK

McHATTAN PA SATURDAY @ M P 8:30AM -1:00

GE ALLEN.A RIDE CH D A OM U O .C R TS N m VE k KE 5 7 HB AC IO N > SW ITC RE G IS TR AT

BY BILLY CART DER ETS FARMERS MARK ION QUILT EXHIBIT - 3PM AT LANGFORD

... 10AM

NGFORD SUNDAY @ LA PM 8:00AM - 3:00

OPTER ESCUE HELICALLENGE R C A P T S E W IKE TEAMS CH MOUNTAIN B - $500 CASH! ONEY ITCHBACKEVENTS.COM.AU PRIZE MIO N > SW RE G IS TR AT

DE FAMILY BIKE RI ION QUILT EXHIBIT URS LANGFORD TO LES & MOTORCYC VINTAGE CARS

MODEL BOATS MENT LIVE ENTERTAIN ION N WOOL FASH AUSTRALIA DE AWARDS PARA @ LANGFORD LONG LUNCHNTIAL - CALL 02 6778 0395 SE

BOOKINGS ES

RIDE HORSE TR-AWILALCHAMOUNTAINFESTIVAL.ORG BOOKINGS

ET STALLS QUALITY MARK INES RAFT BEER & W C , D O FO L A LOC G WALL ROCK CLIMBIN TIVITIES FREE KIDS AC

www.walchamountainfestival.org OR CALL US ON 02 6774 2460

20

greater port macquarie focus.

anything goes Players Theatre Port Macquarie is proud to present Cole Porter’s musical Anything Goes. Performances include an extra matinee on each Saturday at 2pm and the regular Sunday matinee at 2pm and Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm from October 2 - 18.

Anything Goes is an uplifting musical adventure staged on a luxury cruise liner with plenty of laughs, twists and turns on the high seas. Reno Sweeney, the famous Manhattan cabaret singer, is performing on the cruise liner has a thing for Billy Crocker. Reno doesn’t get her kicks from champagne, mere alcohol doesn’t thrill her at all, but she gets a kick out of Billy - but he has found the love of his life, Hope Harcourt, in Manhattan. Billy is trying very hard to be a stuffed shirt stockbroker for Wall St Tycoon Elisha Whitney, a Yale man, who is off to London on the same luxury cruise liner to the Henley regatta. Billy drops his boss’ passport off to him on the cruise liner, and bumps into … Hope.

Hope is onboard with her mother and fiancé, Lord Evelyn Oakleigh, to get married at sea and honeymoon in London. Billy is torn between going back to Wall St to sell all the boss’ shares in “Amalgamated Petroleum” or following the love of his life onto the cruise liner, for which he has no ticket or passport. Will Billy get caught? Will Hope marry Lord Evelyn? What will happen to Reno?

Will they even make it to London? Enjoy the laughs, music and the fabulous dancing. Tap your toes and hum along to well known classic songs I Get a Kick Out of You, It’s De-Lovely, You’d Be So Easy to Love and Anything Goes.

Anything Goes Musical opens October 2 and runs until October 18 at Players Theatre Port Macquarie, with performances on Friday and Saturday evening at 8pm, Saturday and Sunday matinee at 2pm. Book now at playerstheatre.org.au or at the Glasshouse Box Office in Port Macquarie.

Mango season is here Well, the mango season has started. Hooray, I hear you say!

Yes, it is an exciting time of year, with the mangoes coming from the Northern Territory. This year the conditions have been ideal, and they have a very good crop. Peaches, plums and nectarines will start to appear, so it won’t be long and the full range will be in stock. You will still be able to buy Aussie navel oranges for a short time, but they will soon be finished towards the end of October. They have been so tasty this year.

Over to the vegetables. Local beans from Red Hill will be ready to pick very shortly. Once again we will have plenty of beaut fancy lettuce from Beechwood, together with Lebanese cucumbers from Coffs Harbour, they should make those summer salads so yummy. Good quality local baby Bok Choy and Choy Sum will be readily available for your Asian salads. Goodbye winter, come on summer! Ken. P.S. Check out the Aussie asparagus and try this little addition to your next meal.

Lightly steam fresh asparagus spears until tender. Heat a little butter in a small pan, stir in some toasted and roughly chopped hazelnuts and finely grated lemon rind. Sauté and spoon over the asparagus and serve at once. Very nice!

focusinterview.

THE WALCHA MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL IS ON AGAIN! WHAT A GREAT OCCASION TO CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS OR TO BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY ALONG TO AND ENJOY A WONDERFUL EVENT FILLED WEEKEND IN BEAUTIFUL WALCHA. THERE IS MUCH TO DO AND SEE AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL, WITH A FEW NEW ADDITIONS TO THE PROGRAMME.

H

eld alongside the Walcha Westpac Rescue Helicopter Mountain Bike Challenge, the festival has enjoyed a revitalised excitement since moving last year to the grounds of the iconic historic mansion, Langford, for the Sunday festivities, 1 km south of Walcha on Thunderbolts Way. The Festival runs over two days, 17 -18

October 2015.

On Saturday a Road Ride Challenge and Billy Cart Derby are run in conjunction with the monthly Walcha Farmers' Market and Trash n’ Treasure Market.

The 75 km Road Ride Challenge, also raising funds for Westpac Rescue Helicopter, is a great ride, taking cyclists through Walcha’s

picturesque surrounding villages of Kentucky, Wollun and Walcha Road. Some hills prove to be challenging, but it’s nothing a low gear can’t sort out!

The Billy Cart Derby begins at 10:30am and sees competitors hurtle down the impressive South Street hill, just near the Walcha Farmers' Market, where great coffee, beautiful food and produce await. The Quilt Exhibition runs over both days - Saturday 10 - 3pm and on Sunday for the duration of the festival at Langford’s newly restored woolshed, 1 km south of town on Thunderbolts Way. On Sunday, the festival is at Langford, alongside the Walcha Westpac Rescue Helicopter Mountain Bike Challenge (enter as a solo rider or as a relay team - online registration essential). A family bike ride is also available which would suit all ages and level of rider (own bike required, and you can enter on the day).

Start the day with an egg and bacon roll and a good caffeine hit of espresso before you set off on your ride; these will be available from 7am on Sunday. Sunday also brings quality food and market stalls, FREE kids' activities such as face painting, a jumping castle, bush croquet, and an egg throwing competition; there will also be a rock climbing wall to challenge the older ones, as well as the SES conducting an abseiling demonstration. Great musical entertainment by “The Bronzed Aussies” will set the atmospheric scene throughout the day, as well as the ever popular drawcard of the Australian Wool Fashion Awards Parade. You can expect to see a fantastic display of beautifully

restored unique classic cars and motorcycles, as well as remote control model boats and ships cruising on the Langford Lake, which was also enjoyed by everyone last year. Guided tours of Langford homestead will again be conducted hourly (book on the day, or pre-bookings are available).

This year's Long Lunch @ Langford will be a three course meal, held in the homestead's conservatorium dining room ($55pp, bookings essential - 6778 0395; the menu is available for viewing at www.walchamountainfestival.org) as well as craft beer and boutique wines available for purchase from the Whyworry Wines and New England Brewing stand.

Departing at 9am, another addition to this year's event is a three hour Horse Trail Ride, which will take in the pretty countryside of Langford and surrounding properties. Participants require their own horse, and advance bookings are essential with the organiser, Ian Mackey, 6777 6592.

So come on up the mountain for the Walcha Mountain Festival and make a weekend of it; enjoy the natural beauty of New England High Country and all it has to offer.

The Walcha Mountain Festival is a two-day festival, held over the weekend of 17 - 18 October. On Saturday all the action is around McHattan Park from 8:30am - 1pm, near the Visitor Information Centre. On Sunday soak up the atmosphere in the magnificent grounds of historic Langford homestead, 8am - 3pm. For more information, visit www.walchamountainfestival.org or call (02) 6774 2460.

Opening weekend - tickets on sale now! www.bigbanana.com greater port macquarie focus. 21

focusinterview.

David Wallace. Stockman and horse 1997; recycled materials including wire, fabric, plastic, buttons. National Gallery of Australia, Canberra.

Richard Byrnes. Digestion haiku 1993; bronze. National Gallery of Australia, Canberra.

Unknown artist. Geometric design 1920 - 35; pearl, ochre. National Gallery of Australia, Canberra.

The Glasshouse Regional Gallery hosts many exhibitions – the stunning, the unusual, the quirky, and the thought-provoking.

But the Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift is truly in a class of its own, as it could probably claim all of these adjectives - and more! The Travelling Exhibitions Team at the National Gallery of Australia tell us why this exhibition is so special …

P

lease tell us a bit about the National Gallery of Australia and its touring exhibitions …

The National Gallery contributes to the cultural enrichment of all Australians by providing access to the national collection in a wide variety of ways.

We want to inspire people and enhance people’s experience of, and access to, the visual arts. One of the ways we do this is through our touring exhibitions.

For more than 25 years, the Gallery has toured our exhibitions to audiences in remote, regional and metropolitan areas throughout Australia and internationally. The Travelling Exhibitions team at the NGA co-ordinates the touring of these exhibitions. Our role is varied and involves all parts of the exhibition touring process, from administrative details and organisation to the installation of the exhibition.

Some of these exhibitions have been on display at the National Gallery in Canberra, while other exhibitions are curated and designed from the collection specifically to travel across Australia.

We want to show the NGA’s collection, which belongs to all Australians, to as many different communities around Australia as we can. At the moment we have six different exhibitions touring Australia, including Lightmoves: contemporary Australian Video art; Bodywork: Australian jewellery from 1970-2012 and William Kentridge – Drawn From Africa.

What can you tell us about Jim and Elaine Wolfensohn and their connection to the exhibition that takes their name?

In addition to our larger exhibitions, an integral part of the Travelling Exhibitions programme is the Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift.

In 1988 Jim Wolfensohn, an Australian-born lawyer, banker, and the President of the World Bank for 10 years, and Elaine Wolfensohn, Jim’s wife, an educator and arts patron, generously donated funds to the National Gallery of

22

greater port macquarie focus.

Australia to purchase museum-quality artworks for the enjoyment of people throughout Australia.

Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn are both strong advocates for the arts. Jim Wolfensohn's passion for art stems from early experiences of handling beautiful objects, and he recognises that the impulse to touch is part of experiencing the full measure of an object. Remembering the delights of handling works of art when he was a boy, Jim Wolfensohn‘s wish for people to experience and handle art has materialised in the form of three suitcases and the 1888 Melbourne Cup that travel all over Australia as the Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift.

Two suitcases - one yellow and one red - will travel to Port Macquarie for the exhibition.

Please explain how the contents of both these suitcases are grouped/organised ...

Beginning as a pair of suitcases, the red case entitled Myths and rituals is filled with works that draw upon beliefs and symbols from countries around the world - India, China, Africa and Australia. These exotic and curious works range from a ceremonial teapot to an Ankus (elephant goad) and are created out of a range of media, including bronze, wood and pearl shell.

Works featured in the yellow case, Form, space, design, present a mixture of concepts that show great humour and originality: Neil Roberts’ small bronze sculpture The space inside my fist captures just that - the invisible space between the fingers and palm when made into a fist - which remains as mere air or “a memory” when the hand is unfurled; Ian Howard’s darkly comedic The arms of the people highlight’s the artist’s concerns about war; other curious items include Mary Oliver’s music sticks and David Wallace’s bush toys of stockmen on horses from Santa Teresa near Alice Springs. Richard Byrnes bronze Digestion Haiku draws together the familiar forms of a tap, teeth, and fish bones, among others.

What was the process behind selecting the objects that travel in each suitcase?

The works in the Red and Yellow cases were chosen from the National Gallery of Australia’s collection. We sourced works appropriate to the theme of each of these suitcases which would interest and excite people and have the potential to generate discussion. It was also important that the works were strong and resilient and safe enough to be handled by a wide range of people, with different abilities, as well as being able to last through the years.

The two suitcases generated such widespread support from schools and community groups across Australia that, in 2003, the Wolfensohn Foundation generously provided an additional donation for the development of a third Blue suitcase kit. This suitcase, entitled Technology, showcases the works of six contemporary Australian artists and designers, who focus on function, innovative design and construction.

The works in this suitcase were commissioned specifically to travel with the Blue case.

Technology includes Lionel Bawden’s lateral pencil constructions to create a multifaceted brain; Matthew Harding’s exquisitely carved, heart-shaped pill box; Cinnamon Lee’s playful palm light, Karl Millard’s animated metallic pepper grinder; Gilbert Riedelbauch’s elliptic bowl made using rapid prototyped composite nylon and Emily O’Brien’s anodised aluminium Hair Chairs. By employing a wealth of skills and ideas, the artists have created irresistible works of art that compel people to explore the objects, and share the experience with one another.

The Red and Yellow suitcases always travel together. The Blue case and the 1888 Melbourne Cup both tour independently.The 1888 Melbourne Cup trophy or “Centennial Cup” features three magnificent horses and was made to celebrate 100 years of British settlement in Australia.

This exhibition differs from most, in that it’s much more accessible to the public.

How do you feel this exhibition is able to inspire/move people from all walks of life, regardless of age and ability?

The cases travel all around Australia and are used by a range of groups, including young children through to high school students, people in libraries and galleries, nursing homes, hospices and community centres, people with dementia and people with disabilities. The Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift has been enjoyed by literally hundreds of thousands of children and adults throughout Australia.

Through this programme we are given a unique and exciting opportunity to handle original and contemporary works of art, as well as works from other cultures and times. People enjoy the way the objects spark story-telling, memories and discussion, allowing each person to experience the works in a powerful and intimate way.

The Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift is a project that is at the heart of the Gallery’s Travelling Exhibitions programme. The Gallery is delighted to continue to provide such a distinctive art experience to the Australian community and is grateful for the generosity of Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

View the Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery: Sept 11 to Oct 14. Set days/times are allocated for the artworks to be handled; please check with the Glasshouse for more info.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Elaine and Jim Wolfensohn Gift, please visit www.nga.gov.au/exhibitions/TravEx. cfm or if you would like to host the cases, please contact Camilla Greville in Travelling Exhibitions at the National Gallery of Australia on (02) 6240 6614.

greater port macquarie focus.

23

focusinterview.

Crafted For comfort This season it’s all about texture and mixing your materials, and the new range from Ziera is right on trend. A strong feature for the fashion conscious is the popularity of prints for the season. Ziera have created graphic patterns that should prove a versatile take on black and white, bringing texture into otherwise monochrome palettes.

The ever popular leopard print is another key trend for Spring/Summer 2015/16.

Ziera “Dana” is a wide fit sandal on trend patterned print with gold accents and modest heel (pictured above).

Also try the “Kenda”, available in black and white or black, leopard and tan.

Ziera shoes are designed with your wellbeing and comfort in mind. Fit, underfoot comfort, balance and stability and quality are crafted into every Ziera shoe.

Another major focus for Ziera is the wide range of orthotic friendly shoes, with styles to suit any lifestyle. From women’s casual shoes to dress shoes, walking shoes to corporate

classics; Ziera orthotic-friendly shoes have extra depth and a removable inlay to accommodate your custom orthotic.

Ziera shoes feature adjustable straps, elastic gores or lacing systems that add to a personalised fit, and the underfoot comfort system is unparalleled, with cushioning and arch support that cocoons your whole foot resulting in shoes so luxuriously comfortable, you can wear them all day, every day. Slipresistant soles are designed to keep you stable and secure, allowing the body to have positive body alignment.

At Ziera, comfort is measured and never compromised.

The Ziera range is priced from $200 - $240.

Available in store at Colonial Cobbler today!

San Cisco’s storm came in much like a front approaching the port in their home town of Fremantle; swift and eerily beautiful, the momentum

gained by the foursome of Jordi, Scarlett, Nick and Josh grew to take in multiple world tours, ARIA nominations (six, to be exact), prestigious record deals, Hottest 100 Top 10s, Lollapalooza,

T

Pukkelpop and a sold out North American tour.

hey unwittingly defined hipster What were the lyrical inspirations behind culture with their Awkward the new album? video and then immediately We associate with a fair few weirdos, so there subverted it as they covered is no shortage of inspiration for lyrical content.

Daft Punk’s global hit Get Jordi does a pretty good job of disguising who Lucky; both of which sit the songs are about. on millions of YouTube views. Then, We are delighted to have after a solid year of touring and you guys headlining at festivals, San Cisco enlisted the Memory Lane Festival. help of producer and longWhat are you looking e We associat w fe term collaborator Steven forward to most, and ir with a fa no is e er th Schram to deliver what we what can we expect weirdos , so n io at ir sp in of had all been waiting for, from your onstage ge shorta t. Jordi en nt co l ca ri a sophomore album. Prior vibe? ly for od job to visiting The Compound We’ll be playing does a pretty go the of disguising who (the studio-home of all of the San Cisco ” song s are about. fellow Fremantle friend classic hits, and we may and musician John Butler) even have a couple other Josh and Jordi crafted the surprises up our skirts for bare bones of the album at Rada you.

Studio’s with friend and musician Matt You’ve had an impressively Gio. Schram then encouraged them to tread extensive touring schedule both boldly where they had not yet gone in sonic locally and overseas; what have been terms, enabling them to move forward into a some of the biggest highlights for you? sound distinctly their own ...

Would it be your Mexico City trip?

For those who don’t know, where did this Yeah, Mexico was pretty loose. They sure love crazy journey first begin for you? to party an extraordinary amount.

We all met in high school. At that time What’s on the horizon? everyone was playing in different bands, but Maybe start working on another record. I they just weren’t good enough, so we made a dunno, probably just lazing by the water with a super group and called ourselves SAN CISCO. coldie at Fremantle pools - the WA way!

After three EPs and two studio albums, Thanks guys. it’s safe to say you’ve established success in the music industry. How has your sound the plug! progressed or changed up until releasing your second album, Gracetown, earlier this PLUG: Catch San Cisco at Memory Lane, year?

Sunday 18th October, 12pm - 7pm.

I think that like a fine cheese, we have matured into a stinky, crumbly, top shelf dairy Tickets online @Oztix product.

“

24

greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

stonefield M E M O R Y

L A N E

AFTER TWO YEARS OF RELENTLESS TOURING, BOTH LOCALLY AND ACROSS THE POND, MELBOURNE ROCKERS STONEFIELD ARE BACK WITH AN EXCITING GLIMPSE OF WHAT IS TO COME IN 2015.

ell us about what one can our own home made the process a lot more only imagine as being chilled … We had heaps of time to experiment an incredibly musical with different things and just really enjoy the upbringing and family; is experience. this the case?

We are delighted to have you on the We grew up listening to bill for our Memory Lane Festival. What a lot of music; our parents don’t actually play can we expect from your presence and instruments, so it wasn’t until we started getting performance? instruments as Christmas presents that it all We’re stoked to be playing! We’ve been road begun. We all spent most of our time after testing some new tunes off the album, so school practicing separately in our we’ll be chucking a few of those in room and then as soon as we the set. I think the addition of had a song down, we’d all the new songs makes the jam together. Thankfully set a bit more dynamic en be ve e’ W Mum and Dad have and fun. writing for a so we e, tim good taste in music, so Who do you aspire ng lo ly al re ing some of the first songs to work alongside in ended up reco rd did We we were jamming were the future? about 25 song s. it in our Hendrix and Zeppelin I think working the maj ority of from m house, with Kra ing. ” classics. alongside someone like uc Spiderbait prod When writing music, Jimmy Page would be what drives and amazing. He’s such an inspires you? incredible musician; we’re It is mostly inspired by life huge fans of everything he’s experiences and how we’re feeling done. Also, I reckon he’d have at that moment in time. I think the main some pretty awesome stories to tell. drive is that we all really enjoy doing it What’s on the horizon for Stonefield? … It becomes kind of addictive. It’s such We’re currently putting the finishing touches an amazing feeling when you finally get that on our second album and hope to have that chorus or part to a song you’ve been working released by early next year ... We’re also hoping on. to get a release overseas and start touring more Your self titled debut album is set to be outside of Australia. released before the end of the year. What Thanks girls! was the process behind this album, and how would you describe the production experience? the plug!

The process for this album has been so much Catch Stonefield at Memory Lane, fun. We’ve been writing for a really long time, Sunday 18th October, 12pm - 7pm. so we ended up recording about 25 songs. We did the majority of it in our house, with Kram Tickets online @Oztix from Spiderbait producing. I think doing it in

“

greater port macquarie focus.

25

F E AT U R I N G C E L E B R I T Y C H E F

FRIDAY-SUNDAY 6-8 NOVEMBER 2015 Tastings on Hastings returns to Port Macquarie’s Town Centre with three actionpacked days of culinary celebrations.

Themed ‘Fire, Water, Harvest’, Tastings on Hastings 2015 will ignite all the senses with a smorgasbord of offerings including a night time festival, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and the popular main event.

For a full schedule of events visit

www.tastingsonhastings.com.au

or find us on facebook.com/TastingsonHastings

#TOH2015

O U R

S P O N S O R S

COASTfront REALTY

26 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus.

11

T A S T I N G S

O N

H A S T I N G S

F E A T U R E

F R E D A N D RO S E M A RY S I D L E R

SAVOUR THE FLAVOUR AT TASTINGS ON HASTINGS 2015.

FROM FRIDAY 6 TO SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER, PORT MACQUARIE WILL TRANSFORM INTO A FOOD-LOVERS’ PARADISE DURING THE 13TH ANNUAL TASTINGS ON HASTINGS FESTIVAL, PROUDLY PRESENTED BY PORT MACQUARIE-HASTINGS COUNCIL.

H

ungry crowds will flock to the Town Green to tempt their tastebuds and sample exciting new flavours, soak up the live entertainment and enjoy the food-fuelled good vibes.

Attracting more than 100 exhibitors and 17,000 people from right across the North Coast and beyond, Tastings on Hastings has evolved into three action-packed days of culinary celebrations and is one of the region’s premier events.

Themed “Fire, Water, Harvest”, Tastings on Hastings 2015 will ignite all the senses with a smorgasbord of events, including a night time festival, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and the popular main event.

Exciting flavours from the regional food bowl Tastings on Hastings showcases the very best food, wine and beer the region has to offer, and last year featured more than 110 exhibitors including farmers, artisans, food producers, wine growers, brewers, restaurants and cafés.

Exhibitors come from the “100 Food Mile” region spanning from Port Stephens in the south, Armidale in the west, and Woolgoolga in the north.

Matt Moran will cook up a storm Celebrity chef Matt Moran will head to Port Macquarie for the weekend and is set to ignite the region’s passion for fresh local produce.

Matt Moran is a passionate foodie, successful restaurateur and a firm believer in reducing unnecessary waste and creating more sustainable food practices, making him the

perfect match for Tastings on Hastings 2015.

Tickets to the Matt Moran dinners at The Stunned Mullet sold out in just four minutes, but visitors can still grab tickets to hear Matt’s top tips and tricks for the kitchen in a cooking demonstration on the Saturday.

Night time festival - Friday 6 November The weekend’s festivities will begin with a unique Fire Water Festival on the Town Green, which will see the foreshore alight with fire twirlers, lanterns, braziers and torches.

The Fire Water Festival will be a cultural fusion of local art, musical and street performers, night markets and an exciting array of food stalls.

This free event is open to the public from 4:30pm to 9:30pm.

Cooking demos, workshops and masterclasses - Saturday 7 November A tasty line-up of workshops and masterclasses will be held from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 7 November.

Matt Moran’s Love Food Hate Waste Cooking Demonstration will highlight how easy it is to reduce household food waste with recipe creations that utilise everyday leftover foods.

The session will kick off with the announcement of the BioCup ArtSeries Competition Winner. The winning artwork, inspired by the natural abundance of the Hastings region, will be printed on more than one million coffee cups and distributed around Australia and New Zealand.

A donation of $5 from every ticket to the Matt Moran Cooking Demonstration will be provided to food rescue organisation REAP by OzHarvest.

People interested in unlocking the nutritional

th Attracting more

“

an

with the opportunity to value of food d 100 exhi bitors an t sample new products, gh can learn about om ri 17,000 people fr t as chat with producers, the secret Co across the North gs on in st share tasting plates, Ta microbial world , nd yo be and olved into shop for local produce of sauerkraut, Hastings has ev cked days of and enjoy the kimchi, three action-pa ations and is entertainment on the kombucha with culinary celebr ’s premier one of the regi on Town Green. Entry is Sammi Zajko events . ” just $5. from Fermenting Grab a quality coffee Australia. Sammi is and get your day started with a daring fermentation a meander around the Makers’ revivalist, nutritional Market, where you’ll find an array of local researcher, foodie and wild weed art and craft. forager.

Fill your bag with crisp fresh vegetables, fruits Cheese lovers will learn how to make Paneer, and primary produce in the Farmers’ Markets Ricotta and Haloumi easily at home and sample and sample a selection of gourmet jams, honey, a variety of homemade cheeses from artisan bush foods and spices. You can stock up on cheese maker and author Lyndall Dykes. Lyndall local free range eggs, smoked salmon, oysters, has been making cheese for more than 30 years pork and beef. and is a passionate advocate of wholesome and In the Restaurant Precinct you can take your sustainable homemade produce. tastebuds on a trip around the world with The afternoon sessions begin with a Wine Thai, Spanish, German, Moroccan and Indian Masterclass, with a panel of experts from Wine influences, or sample something a little different Selectors who will explore some hidden gems like a sheep milk yoghurt or buffalo pie. Why from NSW’s less well known vineyard regions not finish it off with a fruity soft serve, local such as the nearby New England. Attendees will fudge or handmade chocolate! have an opportunity to taste surprising varieties Sit back with a thirst-quenching beverage such as Fiano, Arneis, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo. from the Beer and Wine Precinct and enjoy a Those who enjoy a good brew can learn more great lineup of live entertainment at the Main about boutique beers with Australia’s leading Stage, including the soulful sounds of popular beer writer, broadcaster and educator Matt North Coast singer Lisa Hunt.

Kirkgaard, and sample some exciting new styles.

Keep up to date with all the event news: Tickets range from $10 to $25 and can be For all the event action, head to purchased via glasshouse.org.au tastingsonhastings.com.au, sign up for Popular Main Event - Sunday 8 November the newsletter and follow us on Facebook: The ever-popular main event from 9am to tastingsonhastings 4pm on Sunday 8 November will provide visitors greater port macquarie focus.

27

T A S T I N G S

O N

H A S T I N G S

F E A T U R E

CELEBRITY CHEF MATT MORAN, OF FLAGSHIP HATTED RESTAURANT ARIA, WILL BE COOKING UP A STORM USING SOME OF THE BEST PRODUCE OUR REGION HAS TO OFFER AS PART OF TASTINGS ON HASTINGS 2015, FROM FRIDAY 6 TO SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER.

M AT T M O R A N A S O Z H A RV E S T ’ S 2 0 1 5 T H I N K . E AT. S AV E A M B A S S A D O R .

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F O Z H A RV E S T

Wherever I go I local always look for e it us to y tr d produce an ly ib ss I po in the best way y an be ’t can. There won me to co I n he w ge an ch will be I ; ie ar Port Macqu e great m so d fin to looking with .” ok ingredients to co

“

Y

ou’re a boy from the country who has carved out a career as a celebrity chef and established a host of internationally renowned restaurants. Where did you grow up, and how does your childhood influence you today?

I grew up on a dairy farm in Badgerys Creek, and then I lived in the outer west of Sydney and did my schooling. I left there when I was 15 and started my apprenticeship as a chef in Sydney's North Shore area. I bought my first restaurant when I was 22. At the moment now, I am buying my ninth. Growing up in the country influenced me more than I thought at the time; I have a real love for produce and farming, and I actually still own a big farm. I get excited by produce; I love cooking and food and everything about it.

What led you to pursue a career as a chef?

I just literally fell in love with it as soon as I started cooking. I love every aspect of what I do. Obviously it has changed over the years and I don't spend the same amount of hours in the kitchen any more, but I am overseeing all of my kitchens, and I have a real passion for it.

When and where did you open your first restaurant?

I launched my first restaurant - The Paddington Inn Bistro - in 1991, when I was 22 years old.

How many restaurants and businesses do you have in your stable now?

I am currently working on Barangaroo, which will be my ninth restaurant.

Being one of the most recognisable faces

28

greater port macquarie focus.

in the food industry, how do you balance your hectic schedule and still find time to experiment in the kitchen?

Having good people around me, good time management, and having good chefs who have been with me for years. I feel that you are only as good as the staff around you.

What is your favourite dish to cook? And is that also your favourite dish to eat?

It depends on the season, but for spring there is nothing better than some quality BBQ lamb chops. There are so many different foods that I enjoy and it’s hard to pick a favourite, as it varies often. When different ingredients are in season, it's always when they are at their best and when I enjoy them most.

In your TV show, Paddock to Plate, you uncover the stories behind the food to get people thinking about how and where their food is grown, who’s growing it, and how sustainable it is. How important is it for you to use locally sourced, seasonal and fresh produce?

It's really important, and I think everyone nowadays wants to know where food comes from and who is growing it and producing it. I have always had a strong love of food and local produce, and I feel as though we should look after our farmers a lot more than we actually do.

Using great produce is not a fad - it is a reality and lifestyle; there is no question whatsoever.

You’re a big supporter of food rescue organisations OzHarvest and REAP. How do you limit the amount of food wasted in your restaurants, and what’s your best tip to help

people reduce food waste at home?

Any offcuts we use for staff dinners and such; it doesn't mean that it's not fresh - the quality is there.

We have very little waste in any of our restaurants; I just think it's very important, because there are people out there starving. I have a duty to the community not to waste food.

At home, recycling, compost and using your garden are the main things. Try to do secondary things with food also; if you cook a piece of fish and you have some left over, then use it to make fish cakes. Think about the different ways you can actually use a product.

What advice would you give anyone considering a career in the food industry?

Do it because you love it and you are passionate about it, not because you want to become famous.

You’ll be working with the team at Port Macquarie’s own hatted restaurant, The Stunned Mullet, to present two unique fine dining experiences showcasing some of the best produce from the Hastings. What local ingredients are you most looking forward to working with?

Wherever I go I always look for local produce and try to use it in the best way I possibly can.

There won't be any change when I come to Port Macquarie. I will be looking to find some great ingredients to cook with. I am really looking

forward to working with the guys from The Stunned Mullet, who have earned a name for themselves, and even I could learn something from them.

You’re also hosting a cooking demonstration at the Glasshouse.

Have you got any dishes in mind for the demo, or will you wait to be inspired by the local produce you discover when you arrive?

I will have a look around and go on what we can find and what is in season. I can't wait to come to the event - it's going to be a lot of fun, and I look forward to seeing Tastings on Hastings get bigger and bigger each year.

Thanks Matt. We look forward to welcoming you to Tastings on Hastings 2015.

the plug!

See Matt Moran at the following dates and venues.

The Stunned Mullet Celebrity Chef Dinner with Matt Moran Friday 6th November, Saturday 7th November.

Cooking demonstration with Matt Moran Saturday 7th November, at the Glasshouse. www.tastingsonhastings.com.au

T A S T I N G S

O N

H A S T I N G S

F E A T U R E

event schedule

REDISCOVER LONG POINT VINEYARD

F R I D AY 6 - S U N D AY 8 N O V E M B E R

long point vineyard & gallery.

To celebrate the annual Tastings on the Hastings, we are inviting everyone to “REDISCOVER Long Point Vineyard” and the many exciting changes and renovations that have taken place and are ready for you to enjoy.

Black duck brewery.

FRIDAY 6 NOVEMBER FIRE WATER FESTIVAL 4:30pm - 9:30pm, Port Macquarie Town Green Tastings on Hastings opens with a unique night market that will see the foreshore alight with fire twirlers and lanterns. Immerse yourself in a cultural fusion of local art, musical performances and delicious food.

CELEBRITY CHEF DINNER WITH MATT MORAN The Stunned Mullet Matt Moran, from highly acclaimed Sydney restaurant ARIA, joins the talented team at The Stunned Mullet to delight diners with a collaborative menu that showcases some of the region’s best produce.

SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER WORKSHOPS AND MASTERCLASSES 9am to 4pm, Glasshouse

Here at the brewery we are excited to be involved in the Tastings on Hastings for another year. To be able to showcase our beers amongst all the great local produce from the area is what being a small, local producer is all about. Come and see us at our stall; there will be at least four beers for you to enjoy on the day, and we will have the popular mixed packs to take home with you.

The beauty of being able to taste beers direct from the brewer is that you know it’s fresh and you know it’s authentic. Transparency is important, so you know you are getting what you are paying for.

Each year we attend local events like the Tastings on Hastings; more and more people tell us they have enjoyed our beers at local venues. We embrace the opportunity to work with these local venues and take great satisfaction in seeing local craft beer lists grow and more people being given the opportunity to try local beers. Come and see us at Tastings on Hastings and see what it is all about. We are sure you will be pleasantly surprised.

We have a stunning new timber deck overlooking beautifully kept grounds adorned with our outdoor sculptures: The Wanderers and Wind Song. The unique picnic furniture and BBQ facilities allow for a great way to host your family BBQ accompanied by a Cellar Door tasting. Families will also enjoy the Tree House and vast grounds, making for a great game of hide and seek!

Long Point Gallery has had a make-over and is now showcasing Gwen Roberts’ stunning exhibition, titled On Paper.

Come and enjoy the sight of the Bud Burst, which has begun in the vineyard and makes for a beautiful setting for spring.

Come and feast your eyes (and taste buds) on our stunning products at the Tastings on Hastings!

We are thrilled to announce we will be showcasing the following Long Point Vineyard boutique wines and liqueurs: • LPVs Alcoholic Ginger Beer - the ultimate summer refresher.

• The famous Agent Orange - adds the perfect zesty twist to any glass.

• 2014 Cabernet Tempranillo - sets the tone for a night of sophistication with its perfectly blended berry, plum and vanilla notes.

• Fronti Verdelho - steals the show for spring with its aromatic variety, full body and dry finish.

• Love Food Hate Waste Cooking Demonstration with Matt Moran • Fermenting Workshop • Cheese Making Workshop • Wine Masterclass • Beer Masterclass CELEBRITY CHEF DINNER WITH MATT MORAN The Stunned Mullet A second opportunity to join Matt Moran and the talented team at The Stunned Mullet to dine on a menu that showcases some of the region’s best produce.

SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER TASTINGS ON HASTINGS MAIN EVENT 9am to 4pm, Port Macquarie Town Green The popular main event features more than 110 local farmers and producers, wineries, boutique breweries, chefs, restaurants and cafes. Come and chat with exhibitors, tempt your tastebuds and enjoy the entertainment across several distinct precincts: • The Farmers’ Markets • The Restaurant Precinct • The Main Stage • The Wine and Beer Precinct • The Makers’ Markets For a full schedule of events, visit www.tastingsonhastings.com.au or find us on facebook.com/TastingsonHastings #TOH2015 greater port macquarie focus.

29

focuseditorial.

oysters Vines IN THE

FESTIVAL

CASSEGRAIN WINES CELEBRATES THEIR 10TH ANNUAL OYSTERS IN THE VINES FESTIVAL. THIS YEAR THEY WILL CELEBRATE THE POPULAR FESTIVAL WITH A NEW DATE AND A CULINARY LINE-UP GUARANTEED TO PLEASE THE MOST ENTHUSIASTIC OYSTER AFICIONADO.

T

he festival will take place at the Cassegrain Wines vineyard from 9am until 4pm on Sunday 25th October and will once again combine with the Artist Markets for a mega artist market and oyster

extravaganza.

Set among vineyards, blooming roses and stunning manicured gardens, this event celebrates the flavour sensation of locally sourced Rock Oysters, which are served up alongside a range of delicious Cassegrain wines and boutique beers.

Oyster lovers can indulge as they taste their way through a range of oysters supplied by local supplier Armstrong Oysters, as well as other regional Rock Oyster suppliers. For those who prefer their oysters dressed, a variety of exotic toppings will be available, including the traditional Kilpatrick and Mornay.

There will also be plenty of other locally based food stalls there on the day to complement the oysters.

Throughout the day, oyster experts will be demonstrating how to shuck an oyster and provide a bit of background on our local oyster industry.

This event will mark a special milestone for the Oysters in the Vines festival, as it celebrates its tenth anniversary.

Managing Director of Cassegrain Wines, John Cassegrain, said that the Oysters in the Vines festival was originally developed to showcase the local oyster industry in the Hastings region and highlight the various differences between where oysters are sourced. Ten festivals later, and the event continues to attract record crowds.

“The oyster industry is important to the Hastings region and when we first started, the trend of buying local and knowing where your produce comes from had only just started,” said

30

greater port macquarie focus.

Cassegrain.

“Thankfully, it’s now a major movement around the country, along with local markets highlighting local produce and all locally produced wares.”

All of the oysters served at the festival are sourced from farms within our local region, from Camden Haven through to the Nambucca. The Rock Oyster is indigenous to virtually the whole East Coast of New South Wales and is becoming renowned as a rare World Best Oyster.

“Our region is right in the middle of the Rock Oyster’s natural growing area,” says Cassegrain.

“Not only is our climate perfect for the oyster, but we are also blessed with clean waterways.

“We are at a particularly exciting point, as the gastronomic world is really only just beginning to appreciate the Rock Oyster, as an increasing amount of the oysters are being exported overseas as demand for this local delicacy grows.”

Oyster and Wine Match Masterclasses Learn to pair your oysters with the perfect wine or sparkling combination at our Oyster and Wine Match Masterclasses. Each oyster will be prepared in a different style and paired alongside a range of Cassegrain wines that have been specially selected to match each dressing.

The Masterclasses will take place at 11am and 2pm and will cost $20 per person to attend.

Artist Market in the Vines Once again the Oysters in the Vine festival will combine with the ever-popular Artist Market.

This is the largest Artist Market for the year and a perfect opportunity to start getting organised for Christmas. This market promises to be abundant, with an eclectic mix of wares created by regional artists and artisans, including market favourites; Arthouse Industries, Yvonne Keily, Colleen Wright and Maureen Hales.

Popular market food stalls and local producers will also be there to serve up some delicious

treats to complement the oysters, including: Bellingen Smokehouse, MJ’s Streetfood, The Veggie Kitchen, and Hops and Tails craft beer.

Entertainment for all the family to enjoy There will be something for all of the family, with kids’ entertainment and live music. The kids will be kept busy with an all-day “play pass”, which includes full day access to the jumping castle, face painting and much more.

Festival goers will be kept entertained by the great line up on the stage, including Lennox Lust, Musicali and Matt and Liz Brooker.

Event Details Entry to the Oysters in the Vines event is just $5, and the Sunrise Rotary Club will be onsite to direct car parking. All festival guests can enjoy a 10% discount on any bottle of Cassegrain Wine purchased on the day at the Cellar Door or throughout the festival.

Guests are encouraged to bring picnic rugs and chairs and are also recommended to arrive early if they want to secure a shady spot that’s close to all of the festival action.

As there is food, wine and other beverages

provided as part of the festival, guests are asked to not BYO food and alcohol.

the plug!

Celebrate 10 years of Oysters with a special Cassegrain wine offer.

To commemorate the 10th anniversary of Oysters in the Vines, the team at Cassegrain are offering their customers a special deal on cellar door wine purchases in the lead up to the Oysters in the Vines festival.

Buy a case of any Cassegrain Wine in the month of October, and you will receive: • 2 x FREE entry passes into the Oysters in the Vines event • A complimentary tray of half dozen Rock Oysters at the Oysters in the Vines festival.

focuseditorial.

WHAT A WONDERFUL MONTH OF MARKETS AND FESTIVITIES AHEAD!

The markets in october.

louperri.

from The Stunned Mullet

I COME FROM A LAND DOWN UNDER… IT WASN’T THAT LONG AGO THAT THIS BIG ISLAND IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC THAT WE CALL HOME WAS PRETTY MUCH A BLIP ON THE WORLD RADAR - A REMOTE COLONIAL OUTPOST KNOWN FOR CONVICTS, SNAKES AND SPIDERS AND NOT FOR STELLAR PERFORMANCES OF ANY PARTICULAR GENRE ON THE WORLD STAGE.

A

part from Crocodile Dundee Somehow something similar is happening that is, Australia’s cultural on our shores these days. Australia is an ambassador of the ‘80s? He outpost no more. Geographical isolation didn’t really help matters doesn’t impact on digital connectivity. Our much with regards to the actors are infiltrating Hollywood, our food has dangerous animal and more than made the culinary world sit up and inhospitable territory type stereotypes. Clearly take notice - umm, hello - Heston Blumenthal things had to change! moved the Fat Duck to Melbourne for six Then, in the early 1990s, something started months! to happen. Australia woke up. She rubbed her That was not a random occurrence. Worldeyes and shook off the dust and reached for renowned chefs are now flocking to our the key to unlock the convict shackles. shores not just once, but repeatedly A brave new world was to emerge! actually any excuse for a visit.

In almost every arena of Australia has evolved into achievement, Australia a desirable location, a Our actors are started to shine. The old place to be! When you infiltrating institutions of Europe and think about it - why food Hollywood, our the movers and shakers wouldn’t you come ade the has more than m up in the USA started here these days? sit culinary world to turn their heads Fantastic climate, – Um m and take notice al towards the southern amazing scenery, umenth hello Heston Bl hemisphere for the first friendly locals ... uck moved the Fat D x si time since colonisation.

And then there is r to Mel bourne fo It didn’t happen world-class food months?!” overnight, but the ball and wine, awesome was rolling - Australian produce - an eclectic film, literature, art, music, melting pot of cultures. technological innovation, fashion and Remove the long haul flight to culinary prowess slowly started to make its get here from virtually anywhere else, mark on the international stage. and it would pretty much be heaven on In the late 1990s, the phenomenon of earth.

“Cool Britannia” occurred - when all things Sure there are flaws - let’s not get political, UK became cool. Madonna moved there, but at the end of the day if you look back Oasis and The Spice Girls reigned supreme. a couple of decades it’s easy to see how far The uber celebrity chefs made their stamp we’ve come and how a real cultural identity is on the culinary world - Marco Pierre White, starting to emerge. Embracing our proximity Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver. to Asia, our melting pot of cultures, our A place that had never really been cool unique environment and history all helps. before (apart from punk?) - a national dish of And all we have to do is kick back and wait fish and chips with mushy peas, a staid royal for the next top international restaurant to family and a depressingly dreary climate ... pack up its things and set up on our shores …

Saturday 10th October, 8am - 1pm The Foreshore Markets is one the region’s favourite markets for stocking up on local produce, giftwares, clothing and artisan products. Set on the riverbank of the Hastings River, it is certainly a great way to spend your Saturday morning.

Drop in for a freshly brewed coffee, grab some oven fresh woodfired breads, sample one of the best locally made Haloumi cheeses, or just take the time to wander and talk to the stallholders; there really is something for everyone.

The Artist Market in the Vines joins with Cassegrain Wines for Oysters in the Vines, Sunday 25th October, 9am - 4pm Join us for another beautiful market day set in the gardens of Cassegrain Winery, as we join with Cassegrain Winery in their annual celebration of Oysters in The Vines.

A wonderful excuse to sample some of the best oysters from the region, local wines and craft brews. What better way to spend a Sunday!

This month we welcome to the stage - Lennox Lust, The Brookers and Musicali. Bring along a blanket, meet up with your friends, and sit back and enjoy.

The Artist Market is recognised throughout the region for its quality stalls, beautiful setting, dedicated and passionate stallholders and our ever changing music line up.

It is an absolute pleasure to be part of this market, and we welcome you all to come and experience what is set to be another wonderful day.

See you on Sunday 25th October, 9am 4pm!

“

greater port macquarie focus.

31

500g 1824 scotch fillet topped with hickory smoked bbq ribs from the bar restaurant & cafÉ

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

32

greater port macquarie focus.

meg & me espresso

Raspberry tart with lemon curd, raspberry sorbet and edible flowers.

Enjoy the Experience!

Meg & Me Espresso is a vibing hole in the wall style espresso bar which focuses solely on excellent coffee, while also offering an exclusive selection of gourmet tea products.

Ant prides himself on consistent quality and has worked tirelessly to create a welcoming, friendly environment in which to enjoy your daily coffee ritual.

Machine: Port’s only 3 Group Synesso.

Blend: Meg & Me runs an exclusive blend of Holy Goat Coffee.

Also Available: Almond and Organic Coconut Milks; Lactose Free; Bonsoy; Brewed Chai; Tea Forte; RawC Coconut Water; Bliss Balls.

zebu bar+grill The delicious month long celebration of food is here with Tastings on Hastings on Zebu’s doorstep.

Fresh produce and fine food is literally bursting from the grill kitchen. Delicious spring dishes have been designed by Executive Adam Tait and his team ready to sample and savour, all happily partnered with a fine bottle of wine and a cracking view.

Diary Date: Six Degrees of Degustation Dinner at Rydges - Friday 16 October 7pm. Six Chefs, Six Courses, Six Wines - One Night Only!

Tickets are strictly limited! Available at Rydges reception for $129 each. Don’t miss out on this once a year celebration of locally grown talent and produce.

Executive Chef Adam Tait.

Owner Ant Mathias.

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie 6589 2822 www.zebu.com.au

Shop 12 / 6-14 Clarence St (Port Pacific building) 0402 344 301

7 days, from 6:30am - late. Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

Monday - Friday from 6:30am. and Saturday - Sunday from 7am.

Octopus carpaccio

aqua the westport club

the bar restaurant and cafÉ

Embark on a unique dining experience at The Westport Club’s Chef’s Table this October to raise much needed funds for a Breast Cancer Nurse in the PMQ area.

Here at The Bar Restaurant and Café at Flynns Beach, Mitchall and the team would like to welcome you to come in and enjoy yourself with friends and family. Breakfast and lunch coming soon!

Gather your business co-workers, clients or friends and embark on a seven course culinary journey of flavours, textures, techniques, wine pairing and above all enjoyment at The Westport Club.

Enjoy fresh daily seafood specials, quality steak, specialty cocktails and house made desserts.

Seven course food and matching wines at the PINK Chef’s Table are $2,000 for a table of 10, with all funds raised going to our McGrath Foundation Gofundraise Tally, with the goal to establish a Breast Care Nurse for the Port Macquarie area.

Bookings essential and require 48 hours’ notice. The PINK Chef’s Table menu is available on our website or from Reception on 6583 1499.

25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie 6583 1499 thewestportclub.com.au 7 days. Lunch 11:30am 2:30pm. Dinner 5pm - 8:30pm.

• GET IN EARLY! Book your corporate/private Christmas function today.

Chefs de Cuisine Chris & Luke

• 10% DISCOUNT FOR ALL FOCUS READERS! Just mention this ad and enjoy.

• November Event: Kath and Kim tribute Drag Queen Dinner. Phone The Bar for more info!

Chef’s The Westport Club's

TABLE SPRING Sensations

Head Chef Mitchall and his family

Check us out on Facebook to stay up to date with what’s happening here at The Bar Restaurant and Café.

4 Flynn Street, Port Macquarie 6583 5477 www.thebarrestaurantandcafe.com.au 5pm Monday to Saturday. Reservations recommended.

greater port macquarie focus. 33

Milly Hill Lamb Rack: Marinated lamb, chickpea puree, spiced potato, peas, tomato kasundi & yoghurt dressing

off the hook

restaurant synergy

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

Where food and service work in harmony.

We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, snacks, salads, and of course, fish and chips.

Synergy Restaurant & Bar, located at the Mercure Centro Hotel in the heart of town.

We have added a larger selection of fish to our menu, including our favourite, the Flathead fillets.

For an intimate dining experience, offering modern Australian cuisine at its best.

The friendly staff.

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green.

6584 1146

Intimate private dining rooms available on request, for bookings of 10 or more guests. Also consider our unique rooftop banquet room, with amazing ocean views, for that spectacular event.

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

7 days, from 11am - late.

EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

7 days, 6:30am - 10am for breakfast; 5pm - late for dinner. Bookings essential.

salty's bar and grill

Bago Tavern

Spring has sprung, and that means holidays, summer sun and good times enjoying the outdoors.

Here at Salty’s we offer the perfect surrounds for your work function or birthday party. Come in and talk to us about how we can make your next function just how you imagined it. Don’t leave your Christmas party until the last minute; book today to make sure you get the day/night that works for everyone.

Licensed Family friendly Indoor / outdoor dining

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841 Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm.

Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

34

greater port macquarie focus.

right: Executive Chef Jay Snelgar left: Sous Chef Shivaneel Nath.

The team at Salty’s.

Welcome to The Bago Tavern Choose from one of our $12 lunch special any day of the week.

Enjoy your meal, or even a cool drink in our outdoor beer garden whilst the little ones play on the fully enclosed children’s playground.

Book now for Christmas parties - variety of menu options, with platters being our most preferred.

Live music every Saturday night.

Ask about our courtesy bus pick up on Saturday nights (pick up/drop off for Port groups of 15 +).

235 High Street Wauchope 65864722 We are open seven days a week, 11:30 for lunch and from 5:30pm for dinner.

Head Chef Grant Smart

focusinterview.

Slow cooked crispy skin pork belly.

the point Restaurant & Café Book Now for “The race that stops the nation”.

Melbourne Cup 2015 Luncheon, Tuesday, November 3rd. Three courses $49.50 (bookings required; space limited). Fully licensed with beer and wine specials starting from only $5. Live streaming of the race on two screens.

Fashion in the Fields Competition, games and giveaways all day!

Dinner and a Movie - Back to the Future Day @ The Point!

Celebrate 30 years since the original film was made with a special screening

Owners Gabriel & Boyne.

George HU

of Back to the Future with matching dinner and drinks menu.

Wednesday 21 October 2015 - 6pm arrival; movie starts at 6:30pm.

Bookings required.

Y E S Y U M R E STAU R A N T O F F E R S D I N E R S A N AU T H E N T I C E X P E R I E NC E W I T H A VA ST A R R AY O F T R A D I T I O NA L C H I N E S E D I S H E S A N D Y U M C H A . OW N E R G E O RG E H U T E L L S U S A B OU T H I S BAC KG ROU N D I N T H E I N DU ST RY A N D T H E Q UA L I T Y O F T H E Y E S Y U M M E N U.

168 Settlement Point Rd, Port Macquarie 6584 2020 www.thepointportmacquarie.com Breakfast and lunch 7 Days, weekdays from 9am-3pm, Weekends from 8am3pm. Dinner Wed - Sat from 5:30pm. Bookings recommended.

W

hat are some of the faYum Cha menu? vourites on the menu Yum Cha is a popular concept in China and at Yes Yum restaurant? includes a wide variety of small dishes as a way Innovative dishes and to try many different foods in a social dining house specialties such as setting. Some recommendations would be the our special Peking roast duck, roast pork, and scallop gow gee, chicken and sticky rice, pork BBQ pork, which are also very popular dim sim, BBQ pork bun, chive and prawn in China. Traditional dishes such spring rolls, and steamed custard as spicy chicken and peanuts, buns. rich lamb tenderloin with Why is Yes Yum a great black pepper and the Yum Cha is a t place for lunch? seafood combination popular concep With a convenient es ud with XO sauce are also in China and incl location in the CBD, Yes of ty a wide varie a way favourites. as Yum offers great value es sh di l smal Our refined Entree rent for money with our $10 to try many diffe and Yum Cha are foods in a social Lunch Specials menu. absolutely irresistible! dining setting.”

Lunch Specials are offered All dishes are made from Wed - Sun from 11:30am quality fresh ingredients - 2:30pm. From only $10 you without additives or MSG. can choose from a large array of The Lunch Specials starting at delicacies, including Mongolian beef only $10 are a popular choice, being noodles, honey prawns, or duck meat with great value for money with generous porrice noodles in samba sauce. Whether on a tions and many dishes to choose from. short break from work or having a long lunch What experience do you bring to the team with friends, Yes Yum gives you a truly unique at Yes Yum? and tasty experience.

As a chef for a number of years, I now have Do you cater for functions and parties? the role of passing on my knowledge to our Yes Yum is a fully licensed restaurant and younger chefs in the kitchen. We keep up with can cater for your next party, business or the latest techniques and flavours by learning private banquet. The menu has something for from high level Chinese restaurants in the city everyone, and our traditional decor will set the and bringing back some of these concepts to theme for your event. Bookings are essential. our menu at Yes Yum, applying modern cookPhone Yes Yum on 6583 7171 or visit ing techniques into authentic Chinese cuisine. www.yesyumfood.com What would you recommend from the

“

mi casa cafÉ & restaurant Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and Spanish vibe at Mi Casa Spanish Café, Restaurant and Tapas Bar. With great views overlooking the Town Green, the wide menu range boasts an array of tapas, seafood dishes and traditional Spanish favourites.

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a table outside with friends for social dining and drinks. Choose from a wide selection of tapas dishes including Croquetas, Carne De Res Marinada, Chorizo con Gambas and many more!

Premium selection wine menu is available, try the popular Carlos Serres Rioja Viura, or share a jug of our famous Sangria (pictured above).

• Group functions and parties • Bookings preferred • Fully Licensed (No BYO)

3/2 Horton Street (Located on Town Green), Port Macquarie.

6584 4559 Lunch / Tapas: Wed - Sat from 11:30am - 2pm. Dinner: Tues - Sun from 6pm.

Owners Brendan & Jennis Field.

greater port macquarie focus.

35

36

greater port macquarie focus.

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.

Michael Schubert EXECUTIVE CHEF - SAILS RESORT

C

hef Michael Schubert honed his creative cooking Another is being able to back up consistently long days during skills at Port Macquarie TAFE many years ago and peak periods. went on to forge a successful career in both Port But these challenges are offset by the buzz and anticipation Macquarie and the Hunter Valley. before a busy service and the positive banter between staff after a He jumped at the chance to get back to Port good service.

Macquarie to join the Spinnakers Restaurant team at Sails Resort “My proudest moments revolve around developing and five years ago and was thrilled to take on the role teaching young staff and watching them improve as chefs. of Head Chef, leading a team of eight in the Outside of work I have a newborn boy, Jackson, to keep busy kitchen when Sails became part of me busy.” the Rydges Group.

Spinnakers have recently launched a new ted Other than an ability to create We’re really exci menu and are open for breakfast and dinner to be on bo ard as delicious dishes, Michael said a seven days and lunch on the deck on the stings on successful chef needs passion weekends. “We have some exciting plans, a sponsor of Ta ill be hinting for the trade, dedication and Hastings , and w for the and it’s safe to say you won’t recognise e at what is to com e’ ll organisation. The varied tasks the space or the menu in the next 12 .W resort restaurant with involve menu planning, food months.” sh be making a spla prepping, cooking, cleaning, The event calendar at Sails will expand y. quirk something a little ay rostering, negotiating deals and after the first stage of renovations of the nd Su on Come and see us out team management. pool and rooms, ready for Christmas parties find 8 November to ” “You come across so many and summertime celebrations. “This means d! ne an what we have pl unique people and personalities. our kitchen team will be busier than ever I’m looking forward to cooking with that’s all part of the job, and we’re keen to get renowned Indigenous Chef Clayton stuck into the silly season.”

Donovan for our upcoming Hastings Coop 99th Sails recently hosted the Brewers Lunch, Maddhatters Birthday Celebration. He’s an inspirational chef, and I’m Tea Party and Seafood Degustation, and the team is looking keen to see what he comes up with for the evening.” forward to the upcoming Melbourne Cup event and Tastings on In a job that is built around routine and structure, it Hastings. is important to stay fresh and creative. “My favourite dish to cook “We’re really excited to be on board as a sponsor of Tastings is always changing. I don’t keep any of my previous menus, so I on Hastings, and will be hinting at what is to come for the resort don’t repeat myself.” restaurant. We’ll be making a splash with something a little One of the challenges faced by all chefs is to produce a quirky. Come and see us on Sunday 8 November to find out what consistent product for an unknown amount of people every day. we have planned!”

“

my day 10:00am Quick coffee and check emails.

10:15am Assist morning staff, finish up breakfast and prepare day functions.

11:00am Start prepping night service, continue all day.

12:00pm Catch up with General Manager to go over previous day.

2:00pm Clean up after day functions - meetings, seminars, luncheons.

3:00pm Meetings with suppliers or other department heads.

5:00pm Prepare and serve staff meals.

5:30pm Final set up for night service.

6.00pm Evening service begins - helter skelter!

9:00pm Service ends; time to clean up.

10:00pm Place orders and head home.

greater port macquarie focus.

37

focusinterview.

AFTERNOON

An

Melbourne Cup Luncheon Come and join us at the Port Macquarie Golf Club for a fabulous Melbourne Cup Luncheon on Tuesday 3rd November.

through to large corporate functions, banquets

Enjoy a two course luncheon including prawns, chicken, ham and house made salads with a selection of cheese and marinated fruit. Complimentary bubbles on arrival.

ified team will make every effort to ensure

Entertainment includes Fashions on the Field, sweeps and lucky door prizes - and don't forget the big Melbourne Cup race on the big screens!

Bookings are essential; tickets are $30pp and available at reception - book your tickets now!

Need a venue for your next party or function? The Port Macquarie Golf Club is an ideal place to have your celebration. With a large function room catering from a small gathering

38

greater port macquarie focus.

and Christmas parties. Providing everything you need to make organising easy, our qualyour function is planned and catered to your

INTERVIEW WITH WORLD RENOWNED AUSTRALIAN VIOLINIST, IAN COOPER.

complete satisfaction.

Why not have a game of social golf before your party? Everyone will enjoy a friendly round on our award winning 18 hole golf course. Games can be booked in at the Pro Shop.

Aspire Restaurant is located within the PortMacquarie Golf Club and has an extensive range of menu packages to choose from to suit every taste and budget.

Great Golf, Great Food, Great Fun!

H

i Ian. I spoke to you over a year ago, when you visited both the Glasshouse and the Manning Entertainment Centre. What’s been keeping you busy since then?

I’ve just been on tour with the guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, where I joined him on stage at the Sydney Opera House, Melbourne and Brisbane Concert Halls. We have just released an album together called Just Passing Through, available in the iTunes store. I’m very excited about it, and it’s some of my best violin playing!

Prior to that in July I gave 12 concerts in remote towns for the Queensland Music Festival with the brilliant pianist Ambre Hammond. We flew to each town in a light plane, and our selections ranged from Classical, Gypsy and Irish music.

You’re visiting us again in October, presenting An Afternoon at the Proms - A Musical Spectacular! Introduce us to your fellow performers; who’ll be lighting up the stage with you on this visit?

I’m so excited to be sharing the stage with 40 performers: three magnificent sopranos; a Principal Tenor from Opera Australia; the amazing Hawkesbury Nepean Valley Pipe Band, who are the current Australian Pipe Band champions; the Performance Arts Western Sydney Dancers, who will dance Classical Ballet to Ravel’s Bolero and Strauss’s Blue Danube Waltz - all accompanied by the Blue Danube Orchestra.

Fill us in on the repertoire for the show.

How varied are the pieces of music that will be presented?

The show will take us on a musical journey all across Europe - music from Italy, France, Spain, popular Arias, music from the famous Hungarian Gypsy orchestras and The Waltz King - Johann Strauss. We will include musical theatre: I Dreamed a Dream from the worldwide smash hit Les Misérables; Amigos Para Siempre (Friends for Life) from the Barcelona Olympics; Time to Say Goodbye - (Con te Partirò) made famous by Andrea

Bocelli and Sarah Brightman; Scotland the Brave and Amazing Grace with the pipers; perhaps a little something from Fiddler on the Roof; Strauss’ famous Radetzky March and of course, we invite the audience to sing along to an absolute Proms favourite - Land of Hope and Glory.

What’s your favourite part of the programme?

I love it when the pipers and drummers march in from the back of the auditorium. I’ve no need to announce their arrival, and it’s a complete surprise - heads turn! It’s a little piece of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. I’ll be playing some numbers on violin with the pipers, which introduces a Scottish flavour to the show, and when the pipers and orchestra combine and all play together, that’s such a magnificent sound.

This show has won the ACE (Australian Club Entertainment) Award for “Best Production Show” in Australia. Why do you think this production has been so successful, and why would you encourage audiences to come and see it in person?

The music and songs we’ll be presenting have really stood the test of time, and much of it has been popular for centuries. I feel very privileged not only to be able to bring music like this to Port Macquarie and Taree, but being able to do it with some of the best talent Australia has to offer makes it extra special for me. The whole cast and I look forward to coming to The Glasshouse on Saturday afternoon 10th October, and Manning Entertainment Centre on Sunday 11th October.

Thanks Ian. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See An Afternoon at the Proms - A Musical Spectacular at the Glasshouse on 10th October at 2pm.

Tickets: $65 adult; $60 concession; $55 group 10+/child under 18 Visit glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office on 6581 8888.

Chef’s The Westport Club's

TABLE

pink

greater port macquarie focus.

39

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

TANYA NEWMAN AU S T R A L I A’ S B I G G E S T S T E E LWO R K S , AT P O R T K E M B L A , IS ON THE VERGE OF GOING UNDER TO CHEAP CHINA I M P O R T S . B U T, S U S I E F I N D S , FOR THIS YEAR’S LEADING PORT M ACQUA R I E BUS I N E S SWOM A N, THE STEEL BUSINESS HAS NEVER BEEN STRONGER.

A

steel factory is a dusty noisy stark environment dominated by hulking lumps of metal stored on huge racks, displayed as bulky products like 4m-wide cattle grids, moved about by heavy duty forklift and mangled into shape by fierce forbiddingly-strong, potentially death-dealing folding machines. I imagine the towering corrugated iron sheds, in the dead of night when work’s idle, as a set for The Hunger Games or, situated in isolated forest on the harsh industrial-area edge of Wauchope town, the location of an episode of The Walking Dead or similar grey-toned dystopian fantasy. So when boss lady Tanya Newman shows up in a fluoro-pink safety shirt with a blaze of shocking mulberry-red hair, long silver-glitter fingernails and an armoury of matching silver bangles, necklaces and rings the contrast’s as if a rainbow-hued Peter Allen’s invaded the monotone of the Vatican.

But it’s precisely an appropriate counterpoint: the colour Newman injects into the traditional factory scene speaks to the new energy that arrived here at Bennett’s Steel when she and her sister Shiree, both in their 40s, took over as executive directors from their parents, Peta Simmons and Gordon Bennett, when the pair retired last year. The couple started the business a quarter of a century ago and although their daughters plan to continue its winning traditions, inevitably new blood means innovations.

In fact, Excellence in Innovation was just one of the remarkable seven distinctions the sisters picked up at last month’s annual Chamber of

40

greater port macquarie focus.

Commerce Awards. Newman, alongside Shiree, took to the stage with most of their team of 10 - she in a high-octane orange evening gown and accepted her own award for the year’s most distinguished Woman in Business with typical ebullience. Moments later the sibling directors led the group back again as they took out the night’s equal top honour Excellence in Small Business (for fewer than 20 staff. A parallel award’s given to a Large Business).

The flamboyance extends to Newman’s office in a converted shipping container, splashed with bright-tinted document folders and fresh flowers.

It’s from here, often in pink or red work boots, she runs her side of things: around HR, staff training, IT and marketing, as well as operating (in dust mask and goggles to guard against welding flash) a computer-controlled cutting machine “that does all our funky cut-outs”. It’s 11 years since she joined the business; her sister came on board last year with an impressive background in management, sales and finance from a corporate career with a leading multinational, then in rural and residential real estate, and having run her own manufacturing and export enterprise.

Newman’s affection for bright colour comes from her hairdressing background. She did a postschool apprenticeship and worked in the industry in Brisbane and Sydney. Her outgoing personality probably stems partly from growing up when Gordon had the Long Flat pub, as well as from her own experience in hospitality: after marrying Rob in 2001, she returned from the city to take on Timbertown’s Maul & Wedge restaurant.

Three years on, chance saw her make the leap to

She’s our 2015 Woman in ad Business , joint he all Sm st of our 2015 Be cepted Business , and ac ss ne si bu r five othe ions .” ct in st di ry catego

“

the heavyweight world of steel. She’d had some significant surgery and found herself convalescing at the same time as her Mum needed to replace a departed staffer at the factory. As they say, the rest is history.

Australia’s steel industry’s in crisis. Ironically, we ship the raw material, iron ore, to China, which turns it into steel in a low-wages, government subsidised, undervalued currency environment and sells to us at comparatively cheap rates. There are questions about the quality, and safety, of the imported product, but meanwhile our own steel industry, facing higher wages, taxes and costs has been decimated. In its local manifestation, though, with road works and housing construction activity, conditions here seem in stimulus, but the challenge nevertheless is always to renew.

Unlike many others, Newman says, Bennett’s provides everything from beams for housing and other construction (some weigh 67kg per metre) to supplies for the individual “building a carport, repairing a trailer or who wants just this much [indicating a centimetre or so] to fix his toy train”.

The shopfront features thousands of bolts, nuts, flanges, elbows and saddle clamps and specialty products such as Bennett’s invention, Easy Burn flat-pack fireplaces for campers. On the approach road and around the site there are massive automatic stock feeders and a range of grids. Adjacent to the front office the retail shed’s stacked high with slings of steel: “Up the top you’ve got really heavy angle,” Newman explains, giving me a snap overview of the business. There are off-cut racks and samples of all descriptions, suitable for everyone from the professional tradie to the

hobbyist building a chook run or aviary. Newman demonstrates a formidable folding machine “for making brackets, shapes you can’t buy off the shelf, unusual guttering, mudguards ...” Beyond, there’s the fabrication shed where tradesmen do the machining, rolling and so on, pushing out the serious stuff: “we do a lot of steel to make and repair earthmoving buckets” - and holding yards, and her own area where she’s been cutting contract work for the council: place-art installations for Cowarra Dam, Town Green and Laurieton.

She’s done similar work for Wauchope Chamber around planter boxes on the town’s main street. Other, “big”, work includes shaker grids for trucks on highway road works and leviathan perforated trommels for recycling contractors.

The range of product is immense. The business has an enviable record of community involvement covering a wide ambit of sectors and interests, and prides itself on its ethics. And camaraderie: “The team do some great things together”, Newman says of their social gatherings. She’s on a board or in a leadership or networking group or otherwise involved in youth-jobs welfare, metals and engineering training, and mentoring. And passionate about the “pretty cool” internal staff development and training she’s overseeing in conjunction with TAFE, and that a 17-year-old, female, apprentice from Newman [coincidence!]

College is joining the firm.

The business has a couple of twin-cabs used also to take to trade shows, painted to promote their Easy Burn fireplace and Easy Join no-weld couplers. One ute’s bright blue, the other’s fire-engine red. Guess which one Newman drives.

greater port macquarie focus.

41

Christmas Gift Fair “Deck the hall with loads of goodies!”

That’s the catchcry of stallholders attending this year’s Christmas Gift Fair at Port Macquarie Panthers on the 31st October and 1st November 2015.

With over 45 quality stalls filling the auditorium this year, the event promises to be as successful as the previous. Customers from last year have been contacting stallholders and the committee organisers to ensure that the event is happening for 2015!

Some new stallholders, not seen in Port Macquarie before, are attending the event. They are travelling from Sydney, Grafton and the Central Coast to take part, as they have heard of our fair good news travels fast! The quality of stalls has been maintained, with the addition of a brooch stall, mosaic dishes and skincare gifts.

Old favourites are returning too - Ruth’s cakes and puddings and the gingerbread stall!

All proceeds from the Gift Fair are to assist with the expenses of Endeavour Clubhouse, a recently operational facility on Hastings River Drive, catering for those with a mental illness to re-enter the workforce.

Call Ruth on 6582 4884 for more information!

42 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

thirsty merc SHIFTING GEARS

THIRSTY MERC ARE BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER WITH THEIR INFECTIOUS NEW SINGLE, THE GOOD LIFE, THE FIRST FROM THEIR UPCOMING ALBUM, SHIFTING GEARS. THE GOOD LIFE IS QUINTESSENTIAL THIRSTY MERC - “IT’S FUN, IT’S GOT A SOUTHERN KINDA GROOVE, AND IT’S GOT THOSE GUITAR FIGURES GRONKING AWAY.

I

t harks back a bit to the days of In about where someone’s place is and the Summertime, so in that way, where they find home and also more it’s classic Thirsty Merc,” says lead complex and deeper feelings of singer and co-founder, Rai family love. That’s what I Thistlethwayte. The Good find that the album is Life heralds the first new about. music from Thirsty We have a great It’s a very Australian Merc in over five years Australian and follows the band mix on the al bum in many ways, and going a recording, funding airwaves. u overseas gives yo e and releasing indeWhere do iv unique perspect pendently. you think the ve ha on where you Following songwritindustry is ” . come from ing sessions in Sydney, heading?

Melbourne, and Los AnI have been living geles, the band were ready between both Sydney to get back into the studio and and California. I know there to help realise their vision, they utilised are a lot of artists - for example, crowdfunding platform PledgeMusic, Lisa Mitchell, who has been living to help get the record recorded and and working in London, so you get a mixed - and the response has been overlot of great Australian artists who are whelming. The band reached its goal working overseas, and that shows what within 48 hours of the campaign and are I have always consistently felt ... Which currently sitting at 183% of its goal. is that Australia has always had a huge FOCUS sat down with vocalist, songpool of talent ... writer and co-founder, Rai ThistlethwayLiving in California, did this influence te, to find out more. the new album?

What should we expect from your Yeah, in a way. Some of the lyrics have been written about isolation, travel, the new album? logistical difficulties of having to travel A little bit more acoustic guitars and around all of the time, as well as the a little bit more storytelling. It has an stresses that come with that. honest narrative element to it.

It’s a very Australian album in many From early feedback, it speaks lyrically

“

ways, and going overseas gives you a unique perspective on where you have come from. In a way, it was a return to being able to dive back into life here in Australia.

Do you have any idols?

Yeah, absolutely. There have been a lot of musical inspirations; I'd say a lot of inspiration has came from British Blues bands that broke out in the early ‘70s - Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin to name a couple. There are also a lot of Australian bands that are really inspiring and fun to hang out with.

What are Thirsty Merc's plans for 2016?

There's going to be a lot of touring coming up, and that is our focus at the moment; there is a huge to-do list!

We did a little bit of recording on the latest album which might be the start of a new album - so wait and see!

Thanks Rai.

the plug!

Catch Thirsty Merc with special guest AQWA at Port Macquarie Panthers Date: Thursday 15th October. Door 7:30pm | Show 8pm Presale $35 | Door $40 www.thirstymerc.com

greater port macquarie focus. 43

The best of contemporary and vintage river cruises. Our large catamaran cruiser has three decks and plenty of space to move around.

Choose from one of our popular river cruises: BBQ cruise, Eco History Cruise, Family Fun Twilight Cruise (including free T H E A N N U A L P O R boom net rides).

Our beautiful authentic Chinese Junk has river trips every day on the Hastings River.

Be lulled on one of our two hour trips – either a tasty fish & chip lunch cruise or a yummy morning tea.

Sunset cruises also available, and some dolphin spotting on all cruises!

Cafe Open 9am-4pm

T

BEST BOATS, BEST CRUISES, BEST PRICES. Phone: 6583 3058 or 0409 744 270 Web: www.cruiseterminal.com.au Address: River end Clarence St, Port Macquarie

THE

Cruise

TERMINAL.

M A C Q U A R I E

P A R T I E S

A N D

E V E N T S

F E A T U R E

Cruise Terminal The best of contemporary and vintage river cruises. Our large catamaran cruiser has three decks and plenty of space to move around.

Choose from one of our popular river cruises: BBQ cruise, Eco History Cruise, Family Fun Twilight Cruise (including free boom net rides).

Our beautiful authentic Chinese Junk has river trips every day on the Hastings River.

Be lulled on one of our two hour trips – either a tasty fish & chip lunch cruise or a yummy morning tea.

Sunset cruises also available, and some dolphin spotting on all cruises!

greater port macquarie focus 55

BEST BOATS, BEST CRUISES, BEST PRICES. THE CRUISE TERMINAL OFFERS THE MOST POPULAR RIVER Phone: 6583 3058 or 0409 744 270 CRUISES, DAY TOURS, FUNCTIONS AND LOTS MORE!Web: www.cruiseterminal.com.au Address: River end Clarence St, Port Macquarie

Owners Rebecca and Michael have set a busy calendar for the coming warmer months and invite you onboard to experience one or two of the events planned.

Chrissy Jones chatted with Rebecca to find out more about what the beautiful River Princess and the iconic Chinese Junk bring to cruises on the Hastings River…

You have many events and new cruises planned, kicking off with the launch of your Summer Sunday BBQ Lunch cruise.

What’s that about?

Our famous BBQ lunch has been filling up fast each Wednesday, so we thought it needed an extra day. We feel Sunday is the best day for working families, couples and holiday makers who are here for a weekend. We offer on board service and are hoping the Sunday BBQ with live music, boom net rides and great food will be a hit with the locals and visitors to Port Macquarie alike.

44

greater port macquarie focus.

What does The Cruise Terminal offer punters on Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday 3rd November?

Melbourne Cup is a big day across Australia; I think everyone likes to have a I hear you are little bet on the Cup. We Our famous preparing for a very thought Port Macquarie BBQ lunch has special cruise on would love to do st been filling up fa so Christmas Day… something different on , each Wednesday ed Melbourne Cup Day, ed Christmas Day on the we thought it ne so we are offering a water is really a great an extra day. ” Cup Cruise with Sweep way to have lunch.

Stakes, prizes for ladies We are offering a full best dressed and men's seafood buffet of prawns, best tie, plus a lucky door oysters, crab, smoked salmon, prize. It will be a three hour cruise chicken, ham and salad, so if you’re with lunch and a complimentary drink thinking of something different to on arrival. It will be the best day, and we do on Christmas Day and don't want the recommend you get a group of friends hassle of cooking, come on board with us together and book a table. and relax while we do all the work and serve

“

greater port macquarie focus 55

you a scrumptious Christmas Lunch in a great atmosphere.

Your vessels can be hired for private functions, including weddings. How can you help the bride and groom celebrate their special day?

Weddings can be such a stressful time. We want to offer our bride and groom a stress free day. The River Princess holds up to 110 people standing and 80 seated. We cater for all budgets, and for an even more intimate occasion we offer the Chinese Junk, which holds 30 people. The River Princess has a licensed bar on board, which is a hit on all the functions.

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

P A R T I E S

A N D

Quaylime

E V E N T S

F E A T U R E

BAR+ R E S TA U R A N T

WITH THREE SEPARATE FUNCTION AREAS, A FRESH, NEW MENU AND PLENTY OF FUN EVENTS PLANNED, QUAYLIME IS THE PACE TO BE ...

H

i Gavin; what’s new with and bubbles on arrival. Melbourne cup is Quaylime? always such a fun event.

We have started a brand The restaurant is really the perfect place new spring menu and shall for a function of any kind. What makes it be running our $15 lunches, different from the other local venues? seven days a week.

We are very versatile with our restaurant, We have also updated our wine list to because we have three different areas to hold include some local Bago wines which are functions. We have our very sexy loft bar, proving to be very popular with the locals, with gorgeous deck outside with stunning as well as our visiting tourists views over the marina. We have We have a new takeaway the downstairs restaurant section that does wood which can hold sit down fired pizzas - but with functions, and we also es os M o We have Afr us, you can choose have our ground floor to ck ba coming s hi your own toppings. back deck, which can ith w nt the restaura ill w e Undoubtedly the seat over 30 people w ; ow sh g amazin menu se ur tastiest pizzas in as well. We have co e re th a have d Afro an t, Port! en had everything ev is th r fo t Quaylime With only two from weddings to never fails to ge ng and months until christenings, 21sts jumping , laughi nly not December, now up to 70ths from all dancing - ce rtai iss out on , m something to is the time to start walks of life enjoying that’s for sure . ” thinking about our restaurant. organising your With spring now well Christmas and work and truly upon us, what parties; what can Quaylime does your menu offer for the offer? normal dining periods?

Quaylime has already starting taking Quaylime has just created a brand new bookings for Christmas parties. We are spring menu. We are using local produce and certainly going to be looking at a full and seafood; we always use fresh ingredients. fun Christmas here at Quaylime. It’s the perfect Is there anything else you would like to place to celebrate your Christmas event - our add? staff are already getting into the Christmas We have Afro Moses coming back to spirit, that’s for sure. the restaurant with his amazing show; The Melbourne Cup is the next event we will have a three course menu for this on the calendar; does Quaylime have event, and Afro never fails to get Quaylime something planned this year? jumping, laughing and dancing - certainly not Our Melbourne cup is going to be such a something to miss out on, that’s for sure. fun event, with prizes to give away. Canapes Thanks Gavin.

“

greater port macquarie focus.

45

46

greater port macquarie focus.

s o c i a l s c e n e with Kate Wood-Foye from Rydges Port Macquarie and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Below. Time for High Tea at Sails.

Below. Vanessa Wilson and Amber Mann with Mum Janette Gorton at High Tea.

Above. Jane Hillsdon, Sandra Magann, Michelle Newman and Jill Follington at the Dragonfly launch.

Above. Fine millinery and jewellery @ the Annual Mad Hatters Event @Sails Resort l.

I

Below. Linvana Hanlan, Kath Bowler and Suzie Barnaby at the Dragonfly launch.

I C U R R E N T LY H AV E A N U N H E A LT H Y O B S E S S I O N W I T H I N S TAG R A M – I ’ M S O R RY FAC E B O O K - I A M S E E I N G S O M E O N E E L S E , A N D I T C O U L D B E S E R I O U S ...

am addicted to the art, the simplicity, the imagery, the colours, the vibrance and the holiday destination eye candy.

Seriously wishing I never started it, as I find myself checking the device at all random hours of the day and night, scrolling over the amazing images of the Maldives, a beach in Maui or a hilltop in Peru … Wanderlust and gorgeous food filters are infiltrating my brain, making it seriously difficult to focus on the immensely busy event season on the horizon!

Uninstall immediately! Horrible and unnecessary torture when annual leave is months away!

Boogie fever once again strikes the Hastings, with the ten brave souls lining up for first dance lessons at the recent launch of fundraiser Stars of the Hastings Dance for Cancer. Chairperson Louise Beaumont of FOCUS and Sarah Rodgers of the Cancer Council announced this year’s courageous competitors, which include the gorgeous Brenda Fernandez of East Coast Laser Clinic, wine maker Alex Cassegrain, Business Chamber Executive Lisa Macpherson, Councillor Adam Roberts, Mount Seaview Spring Water’s Anthony Abi Saab, Prime TV journalist Samantha Crowe, Camden Haven local and former Miss Australia Karen Pini, Mal Neale of Fuel 4 Business and Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing. It’s a unique look of fear, excitement and how the HELL did I get roped into this - in the eyes of the prospective dancers, who have had no official dance training and will be performing for over

300 guests on the Rydges dance floor in just two petrifyingly short months. Believe me, it goes all too quickly - Jane Hillsdon has already called in the big guns to give her the winning edge, with a dance session adjudicated by Todd McKenny providing tips and tricks, Ash Benson of Jimbo’s has donned the pink tutu in the barbershop, and word on the street is Alex Cassegrain is dusting off the tap shoes on top of the wine tanks.

Congrats to all who have agreed to be a part of this superbly entertaining event - see you all under the spotlight to raise a ridiculous amount of cash for cancer research. It’s all TuTu fabulous … sorry, couldn’t resist! Tickets on sale October 1 and will sell quicker than a spray tan pre cup day.

Just in case Jane wasn’t busy enough with dance practice, she and business partner Kylie Jones of Dragonfly Marketing celebrated the launch of a new era for their dynamic marketing firm with a soirée for clients and friends at their gorgeous new vintage residence at Hayward House on a rainy spring evening. Fifty guests enjoyed bubbles, popcorn and sushi, including Necia Waghorn, Suzie Barnaby, Caron Dyball, Peter Besseling, Emma and Chris Walker, Tim Baker, Michelle Newman, Neil Brown, Marc Stortenbeker and a special resident guest who was there quite literally in “spirit”. This guest had left an important item behind in the last century - a rather stately top hat and was clearly popping in to the party to check what all the fuss was about. He obviously approved and will keep the

girls company as they forge an exciting future in the stunning historic home.

Heart shaped scones, pink meringue toadstools, red velvet cupcakes with rainbow rose icing, croquet, boules, pop up shops, teapot cocktails and stilettos! These fun and fabulous finds were all at the Mad Hatters Tea Party at Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges ... Thank you to the 130 gorgeous ladies and a few brave and lucky gents who joined the bevvy of beauties at the resort for an Alice in Wonderland inspired High Tea on Saturday afternoon over the marina. Divine fashion, jewellery and millinery was curated by major sponsor and collaborator, Carole Beros of Le Dãin Designs, featuring stunning hats and fascinators from some of the top milliners and designers in the country, such as local designer Carol Watson of The Hat Room.

Catwalk makeup artistry by Michelle Jack and the team at Vanity Room Skin Body Beauty; Hair Design was by Danielle Herdegen at DHair. Every madhatter-esque detail was styled by Rachelle Dufty and the team at Sails, Jill O’Brien of Wedding Perfection and Jeremy Bates of Creative Vibe, who worked collaboratively to ensure the fantastical trip down the rabbit hole was made complete with whimsical eye candy for all.

Thanks to Karen Flood and the team for the tasty treats and to the fabulous Quintet “Dinner with Milton”, who kept the stylish crowd entertained. Thanks also to Miedecke Motor Group for the gorgeous Mercedes welcoming

guests on arrival, and to Steve of Fab Photos for capturing all the glamour of the event. All too FABULOUS! Guests included Amber Mann, Vanessa Wilson and their gorgeous mum Janette Gorton, Jacqui Eller, Jenna Burgess, Ricky Pomeroy and little son Logan, who almost stole the best dressed show! Emily Pitt, Louise Beaumont (Best Hat/Fascinator) and Susan Heydon (Best Dressed Lady), Cherie Desmares, Susan Tillman and Erica Nelson were also a part of the day, raising funds for the Bravehearts charity. Ridiculous fun sure to be repeated next year!

So in the spirit of spring and the inevitable arrival of warmer weather, I have recently and ever so slightly ramped up the fitness situation.

I’ve always enjoyed a bit of a run, but have signed up for a 6am torture session with my sister, Sarah, and a local trainer, who likes us to do ungodly things like burpees and stair climbs, squats ad walking lunges, all before the sun is even considering the effort to rise. To say I am struggling with making it in one piece to the session is an understatement, and getting through those beloved burpees is a special challenge in itself. After four weeks I thought I was really getting under control, feeling pretty good about it all, until said trainer advised me that I’d been training the entire session with my bike pants inside out … a fab look and always a great way to start the day! ‘til next month, Kate.

greater port macquarie focus.

47

focusinterview.

LAUNCHING STUNNING NEW ALBUM

THE LAST TIME JODI MARTIN VISITED THE EAST COAST, HER TOUR WAS A SELL OUT! JODI'S VERY EXCITED TO REVISIT THE AREA, AS SHE HAS SOME NEW STORIES AND SOME NEW SONGS TO UNVEIL ...

Fri 9 October, 8pm

Crescent Head Public School Communal Hall

Sat 10 October, 8pm Glasshouse Theatre, Port Macquarie

Sun 11 October, 4pm

Pacific Palms Recreation Club

Thurs 15 October, 7pm dinner for 8pm show Bent on Food, Wingham

(Akoostik Festival Pre-show)

Sat 24 October, 8pm Bangalow Bowling Club

Fri 30 October, 8pm

No 5 Church Street, Bellingen

Sat 31 October, 8pm

Pelican Playhouse, Grafton

NEW ALBUM OUT NOW! download your free track at

www.jodimartin.com

48

greater port macquarie focus.

elcome back ... What have you been up to since we last caught up?

Touring with the single Saltwater in My Hair has been taking me on some amazing adventures, playing shows from Port Fairy Folk Festival in Victoria to Cairns to Darwin and a regional South Australian tour. I was lucky enough to spend four weeks on tropical Groote Eylandt as well, running songwriting workshops in remote communities and playing a couple of shows there too.

I am loving these regional tours, and my dream is to cover the whole country.

I want to play more than just the capital cities with the Saltwater album! I was based in Canada for several years playing music over there, and when I returned to Australia, I stopped touring for a while so I could move back to my hometown to be close to my family through a very difficult time. So being on the road again and reconnecting with my people and my place means a lot to me.

You’re back this October for another tour along the East Coast. Your last tour was sold out ... How does it feel to come back to somewhere after having such a great first encounter with the area?

It is very special to be back, for many reasons - particularly because the Mid to North Coast of NSW is like a second home to me, as it is where I came of age as an artist at 19 and found my voice. On my January tour here, the people were amazing and made me feel so welcome to be back on every level. It’s important to me to honour that.

What made you decided to come back so soon?

What I am loving the most about being

Although I’m e not releasing th y ad re al single yet, I have d in an o de made the vi le’s response to peop them ve gi to t an w I votes, by w ie ev pr k ea sn the at o de vi e screening th !” ur to is th on s the show

“

back on the road is connecting with people - from friends who have known me for the longest time to new ones. I turn my raw life experiences into songs, and it’s amazing to share these with people who have gone through similar things in life, and get to hear their stories as well. It’s a really special thing, and I don’t want to leave it too long before I see everyone again.

I am also coming back on a promise! It was really fun to have audiences voting on songs during the last tour… At every show, people voted for which song they wanted to be the next single and music video to be released. The clear winner was Diesel, with 11 out of 12 shows winning the Diesel vote! Although I’m not releasing the single yet, I have already made the video and in response to people’s votes, I want to give them the sneak preview by screening the video at the shows on this tour!

What can our readers expect for this show?

A subtle change is that there is more music and less talking this time around.

Of course, stories are an important part of a Jodi Martin show, and I will always make sure that the strongest and funniest stories get told. Actually, one of these stories is about a near-death experience which was one of my most embarrassing moments ever - and it actually happened on my last tour here, near Coffs Harbour.

I love telling this humbling true story to have a good laugh - and it’s also a great philisophical lesson for life!

I am really excited about unveiling some brand new songs on this tour as well.

These are songs that have been born on the road as I’ve been touring the first single Saltwater in My Hair around the country.

In the last few years leading up to this album I’ve faced some big losses, and as the tour has gone on, I have realised that there is more to say than I initially thought. More songs have been flowing out to become the soundtrack of this chapter of my life.

What are your plans after your tour is complete?

After the next couple months of touring, including the Great Ocean Road tour in November/December 2015, I plan to take some time out with family, hit the beach, reflect some more and do some more writing which will come from these coming dates.

The new Saltwater album was birthed after a very tough couple of years, where I faced a great deal of loss - most painfully being the loss of my brother. Initially I thought I had finished the Saltwater album, and said everything I wanted to say.

But the more I’ve gone on, the more I’ve realised how much this record has affected me. As I’ve talked with people about their own experiences, I now know there is more to say before I close this chapter.

I’m currently back in the studio with Shane Nicholson recording one of these new songs and knowing there’s more I need to say about the Saltwater story, I can say that the record will be re-released some time next year, with the second chapter. And for anyone who has bought it in its current incarnation, they will be able to access free downloads of whatever shape this takes.

Thanks Jodi.

greater port macquarie focus.

49

SETTLEMENT CITY

NEWSAGENCY • Paul Marshall • For those who have been into Settlement City recently, you would have noticed the beautiful new location and fit out for the newsagency. Paul and his team have a great range of magazines, gifts for all occasions and an abundance of cards and wrap, and don’t forget the Australia Post office service available right in store. Pop in and say hi to the team today. We catch up with Paul to find out all about the new store.

Hi Paul. Your newsagency has a new home and a new look; how has everyone settled in?

It's been a hectic but rewarding experience.

Without our staff, none of this could have been achieved. But our main thanks goes to our many loyal customers, who have been supportive and patient with such a large relocation, along with many operational changes.

with extended trading hours over seven days -

What has the reaction been from your customers? Very supportive and encouraging; they seem happy with a more one shop fits all feel.

cards, including hand made.

How does this new shop make it easier for your customers? It's a modern up to current standards shop that offers both newsagency and Australia Post services and products, but

something that's been missing in our local area.

You have a really beautiful gift range now available; can you tell us about this? We have added an extensive giftware range that covers everyday gifts, and then we add seasonal lines to enhance the offer with a large range of greeting What other products and services do you offer the customers? As a traditional newsagency, we specialise in all NSW Lottery products, newspapers, magazines, greeting cards and stationery lines.

Thanks Paul.

ARTIST TALKS UNTIL 15 NOVEMBER FREE ENTRY

LAURIE NILSEN Thursday 22 October, 5.30pm

GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU

Come along and meet string theory artist Laurie Nilsen.

Nilsen has work in the permanent collections of the National Museum of Australia, the Museum of Victoria, the National Gallery of Australia and the Queensland Museum.

Exhibition organised and toured by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.

DALE HARDING Thursday 5 November, 5.30pm Discover more as Dale Harding talks about his artwork featured in string theory as well as his broader arts practice.

Harding is currently completing a Doctorate in Visual Art at Griffith University and his work has featured in group and solo exhibition across Australia.

Bookings essential: glasshouse.org.au 02 6581 8888

Frances Djulibing, Yukuwa (Feather string yam vine), 2013, banyan tree bark, cockatoo feathers, beeswax, Museum of Contemporary Art, purchased 2013, image courtesy and © the artist, photograph: Alex Davies

Nikki Littlecott, Mia, 2010, recycled clothing, knitting, cotton, image courtesy the Noongar Doll Makers and CAN WA, © the Noongar Doll Makers, photograph: Bo Wong

“Beautiful and gut-wrenching” The Age Wednesday 11 November, 7.30pm & Thursday 12 November, 7.30pm An original and breathtaking theatrical experience: Kinship (featuring two works Brolga and ID), by award-winning choreographer Stephen Page.

to book: glasshouse.org.au 02 6581 8888

02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Founding Sponsors

Government Sponsors A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

THE ROSS FAMILY

greater port macquarie focus.

51

hastings

The 2015 fundraiser for the Cancer Council, hosted by FOCUS, sees nine local identities taking up the challenge to learn a routine and perform it on the gala evening on 27th November at Rydges.

DANCE FOR CANCER

Alex cassegrain

JANE HILLSDON

CR Adam roberts

KAREN PINI

Cr Adam Roberts

Jane Hillsdon

Malcolm Neale

Councillor, Port MacquarieHastings Council

Dragonfly Marketing

Fuel 4 Business

Previous Dance Experience … A closet watcher of So you Think you

Previous Dance Experience …

can Dance for several years ... other than that - zero.

Previous Dance Experience ... None, apart from our wedding dance.

Some would say “clearly none”, but I like to think I actually

Dance Style Chosen: Bollywood.

Dance Style Chosen: Cuban Salsa.

Dance Partner/School: Vanessa Gill from Wauchope Port Macquarie

Dance Partner/School: Galina, Salsa Footprints.

Performing Arts.

What I am looking forward to most about this

What I am looking forward to most about this experience … Four

experience ... Only having one left foot instead of two.

weeks in, and I’m already having a blast. Learning to dance has been on

Why I support the fight against cancer ... My uncle lost his battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the age of 41. I was only 14 at the time, and I can remember how hard it was for our family to lose him at such a young age. I am now 41, the same age he was when he died, and I think about how much of my life I still have to live. If I can help raise awareness and much needed funds for further research, and help save the lives of others that would certainly be a wonderful outcome.

shred on the dance floor. I take any available opportunity to “shake it off”, whether it be a wedding, function or nightclub. My style is quite similar to Elaine’s from Seinfeld.

(Google “Elaine’s Dance”).

Dance Style Chosen: Swing.

Dance Partner/School: Helen Ross from Let’s Dance Rock n Roll www.letsdancernr.com.au

my bucket list for a very long while, and I love the challenge of learning new things, so this project ticks all the boxes. My dance style requires a lot of energy and coordination, so I really look forward to being able to put it

Upcoming Fundraiser: Bring a couple of friends to enjoy

all together for the night. Vanessa is a great teacher, and I must say I look

a relaxing evening around the smoking hot coals, listening

forward to our weekly dance lessons all week!

to some soulful sounds, tasting some of the best cuts of smoked low and slow cooked meats. The amazing barbecue is served on a platter with sides and is accompanied by a range of crafty Black Duck ales, all within a unique and boutique setting. If you’ve never tried American style low n slow barbecue before, this one’s definitely for you. Tickets are limited to 80 people, and your $70 pp gets you dinner, music and your first two ales or wines.

Why I support the fight against cancer … By raising funds for the fight against cancer, I hope to contribute to research that helps prevent, cure and eventually eradicate cancer. It’s a cruel and indiscriminate disease that affects far too many people. I hope we can eliminate it all together one day, either with preventative methods or medical cures. Every dollar we raise to help the research teams to find the necessary answers, we become closer to being able to achieve this. It would be wonderful if our children could live in a cancer free world.

is. I’ve already been challenged by the prospect of being a total failure on the dance floor on the big night but like anything, if you do the work and preparations in the lead-

Brenda Fernandez East Coast Laser and Cosmetic Clinic Previous Dance Experience: Ballet from age 4 - 14.

up, anything’s possible - even winning. I’m also looking

Dance Style Chosen: Waltz Ballroom.

forward to the personal challenge I have set for myself in

Dance Partner/School: Greg Smith from Danceway Ballroom Studios.

losing 10 kg in 10 weeks during the journey.

What I am looking forward to most about this experience ... Actually being able to dance and having lots of fun!

Why I support the fight against cancer … I support many causes and initiatives, and supporting the fight against cancer is a really important thing to do. Many of us know someone who’s been affected by cancer in some way, and I’m keen to do whatever I can in support of finding a remedy. I’d encourage everyone to donate generously to any one of the 10 Hastings Stars in this fun but important challenge.

52 greater port macquarie focus.

Mount Seaview Natural Spring Water Previous Dance Experience ... Previously trained in Lachlan’s Room (Macquarie Hotel) and Downunder.

Dance Style Chosen: Musical Theatre

What I am looking forward to most about this experience … The journey. I enjoy every day for what it

Anthony Abi-Saab

Why I support the fight against cancer ... With cancer affecting so many of our lives, it is important that we find a cure and improve the treatments available. I have had a personal experience with cancer affecting my health, along with losing a cousin and friend and knowing too many people who have had to fight for their survival - and some who lost that fight. I really want to contribute towards the fight against cancer. and help find a cure.

Dance Partner/School: Katie / Wauchope & Port Macquarie Performing Arts.

What I am looking forward to most about this experience ... I am looking forward to the challenges of learning to dance and also to the enjoyment of the Dance for Cancer evening, when everyone gets a chance to put it all out there.

Why I support the fight against cancer ... There are so many of us who have been either directly or indirectly affected by cancer and because through these types of fundraising events we can raise everyone’s awareness of those among us who have suffered from cancer. These types of events not only provide financial support for cancer research, but provide moral support to those among us who have had this terrible disease.

samantha crowe

Malcom Neale

Brenda fernandez

Lisa McPherson Anthony Abi-Saab

Samantha Crowe PRIME7 News

Previous Dance Experience … Absolutely none whatsoever.

Dance Style Chosen: Cabaret.

Dance Partner/School: Michael O’Mullane - La Vive Classique Academy of Dance.

What I am looking forward to most about this experience … Giving something back to organisations that do so much for people in need.

Why I support the fight against cancer …

When my son was born, his father was diagnosed with Leukaemia. We spent the first year of his life living in a Leukaemia foundation unit. I know firsthand how much difference this money makes. We had somewhere to live because of fundraisers like this.

Karen Pini

Karen Pini In Style Modelling & Deportment Studio Previous Dance Experience … Very Little; some Ceroc dancing, but no formal training - just group dance nights.

Dance Style Chosen: Something with steps!

Lisa McPherson

Alex Cassegrain

Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce & Hastings Business Enterprise Network

Cassegrain Wines

Previous Dance Experience: As a child I did a little

Dance Style Chosen: Jazz.

ballet, jazz and even square dancing. That was about 20 years ago ... but who is counting ...

Dance Style Chosen: Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Dance Partner/School: Let’s Dance Rock ’n’ Roll.

What I am looking forward to most about this experience ... Starting this journey, I respectfully named myself the “Reluctant Rock’n’Roller”, as I discovered the many personal fears that go along with doing something new (and in public!) As I continue on, I am constantly surprised at the new things I am learning about myself and enjoying sharing the experience with friends old and new.

I hope I can make a solid contribution to the Cancer Council cause, both through fundraising and raising

Dance Partner/School: Jo - Movement Studios.

awareness. As someone shared with me: I have the

What I am looking forward to most about this experience … To have fun and to involve as many friends and work colleagues as possible to support the Cancer Council.

choice whether I participate. People with cancer don’t

Why I support the fight against cancer… Many of my friends have been touched by cancer, even as recently as this past week, so research is important - and with that comes funding.

It is a rare thing to find a person who has not been

I hope that my small contribution in raising funds for the Cancer Council will help …. and that my dancing will be entertaining, or at least make you smile, but hopefully not laugh!

who has been touched directly or indirectly by some type

have that liberty.

Why I support the fight against cancer ... touched by cancer. It seems these days everyone has a family member or friend, or at least someone they know of this terrible disease. I hope, with continued awareness and research, together we can make a difference.

Previous Dance Experience: None - I wish I had.

Dance Partner/School: Breanna @ La Vive Classique.

What I am looking forward to most about this experience...

This is a very new experience for me, but it’s one that I am very excited about. I feel that putting someone outside of their comfort zone is a good way to realise one’s potential and brings out a new side to their character which may not have been found.

Why I support the fight against cancer ...

Like many people, we all know someone, whether it be close family and/or friends who either have or has been affected by a form of cancer. I feel that the best thing that I can do towards the fight against cancer is to raise awareness in any way possible. Dancing with the Stars gives me and the people who are supporting me the opportunity to do just that, in more ways then one. During this event I hope to raise as much money as possible, but also to help raise awareness. I feel that even when this event is over that we should continue to do whatever we can to continue bringing cancer to the forefront of everyone’s mind, so we can continue the fight against this horrible disease.

the plug!

Friday 27th November 2015, Rydges Port Macquarie.

Tickets are on sale now from 123 TIX www.123tix.com.au/events/stars-of-hastingsdance-for-cancer $70 per person, including light supper, drink on arrival and an amazing showcase of local talent!

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/HCDFC

greater port macquarie focus. 53

hastings DANCE FOR CANCER

UPCOMING EVENTS STAR: ADAM ROBERTS

Event: Beer & BBQ Spectacular Date: 31st October 2015 Location: Black Duck Brewery Cost: $70 pp (max 80 tix only available) Theme: American Style Low n Slow Barbecue How to book: Black Duck Brewery (Acacia Ave, PMQ) or contact Adam Roberts on 0410 658 532

STAR: KAREN PINI

Event: Model for a Day for girls & young ladies aged 12 + Date: October 2015 Location: TBA – Laurieton / Kendall / North Haven Theme: One Day Make up and Modelling Workshop Catwalk Parade Finale How to book: karen.pini@bigpond.com and a registration form and further info will be sent.

STAR: JANE HILLSDON Event: Jane Hillsdon’s Fabulous Fundraising Fiesta Date: 7pm, Saturday 17 October Location: Latin Loafer Cost: $95 per person Ticket price includes a Mojito on arrival, tapas & fabulous live Latino music How to book: Book tickets on line www.livetix.com. au/event/jane-hillsdonsfabulous-fundraising-fiesta

STAR: ALEX CASSEGRAIN

Date: October 30 Location: Cassegrain Winery Theme:Cocktail Details: The fundraiser will be held at Cassegrain Wines on the evening of the 30th, a Cocktail event with silent auctions, music and food and drinks available.

STAR: MAL NEALE

Event: The “Ultimate Goal Setting Workshop” Cancer Fundraiser Date: 29 October 2015 – 12:30pm to 2:00pm Location: Spinnakers Restaurant, Sails Resort Port Macquarie – By Rydges Cost: $47 Includes Goal Setting Workshop & working style Lunch How to book: fuel4business.com.au/events

STAR: BRENDA FERNANDEZ

STAR: LISA MCPHERSON

Event: #GuiltFreeCuppa Date: Commencing in October Location: At participating cafes in the Hastings region Cost: 50c extra for your guilt-free cuppa which will go towards the Cancer Council How to get your cuppa: #GuiltFreeCuppa or reluctantrocknroller. wordpress.com for details.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

Event: French Movie Night Location: Players Theatre Date: 20th October 6pm Theme: French Movie “Les ins et les autres” 1981 by Claude Lelouch Cost: $20 per person. Lucky door prizes. In-store $1700 Raffle Tickets $5 at East Coast Laser, Colonial Arcade.

THE MAIN EVENT

SEE ALL 9 LOCAL CELEBRITIES DANCE LIVE AT OUR GALA SHOWCASE Featuring Rock n Roll, Salsa, Waltz, Musical Theatre, Jazz and Cabaret Performances.

FRIDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2015 • RYDGES PORT MACQUARIE

WILL WHOOWNED R AR’S BE CIS YE TH BEST ER? DANC

Tickets are on sale now from 123 TIX www.123tix.com.au/events/stars-of-hastings-dance-for-cancer

$70 PER PERSON

Includes light supper, drink on arrival and an amazing showcase of local talent!

Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/HCDFC EMCEE MICHAEL CROSSLAND

ALSO SUPPORTED BY:

54 54

greater port macquarie focus. greater port macquarie focus.

Community Projects worldwide Community Projects Worldwide was created 15 years ago by Murray & Pru McMillan after a career in hospitality which included stints working in African safari lodges, Papua New Guinea wilderness lodges and also resorts and lodges in far North Qld. Their Port Macquarie store, which is run by Murrays’ sister-in-law, Sharon, was opened over seven years ago now, and you will find them on the Town Green next to the pub at the end of Horton St.

in principle, we do not rely on volunteers and fundraising. We operate under the Fair Trade philosophy, where we conduct all our business ethically, which essentially means that we pay the asking price for all our goods up front, and we ensure that represents a fair working wage for that particular part of the world, and that everyone is working under the best conditions possible."

Many of the groups also make wonderful contributions to the areas they live, which includes After working with so many Indigenous education, training, water hygiene and health. communities and seeing first hand how they Getting the quality pieces from a village to Port could often take some locally occurring product Macquarie can be challenging at times, given that like stone, grass or even tree nuts and turn it the vast majority of pieces come from very rural into a beautiful item ... but then struggle to sell and remote places in Africa, South America as it, sparked the idea for Community Projects well as South East Asia; however, Pru says thatt Worldwide. “they wouldn’t swap what they do for anything.

They wanted to create a sustainable long term To walk into a community that we support, opportunity for these groups and communities to where we are providing a substantial livelihood showcase their amazing talents and highlight the to sometimes hundreds of people and be greeted positive advantages of Fair Trade. with overwhelming happiness and smiles is very Murray explains that: "Whilst we are like Oxfam humbling and rewarding".

greater port macquarie focus.

55

focusinterview.

GOING FOR SAM HARRIS • DYLAN MARCHINGO • DECLAN HARDING • HUNTER LEISHMAN • EBONY HARDING

going for gold

Sam Harris, Dylan Marchingo, Declan Harding, Hunter Leishman, and Ebony Harding are travelling to take part in the Coates Hire Coolangatta Gold event this month, with the four young men

planning to complete the various legs of this arduous surf life saving endurance event, and young Ebony providing water safety support during the swim leg. The

team will be competing against others up to three years older than them in their short course event, but they have been training hard and believe their preparation will stand them in good stead …

focus 56 greater port macquarie focus.

ell us a bit about yourself ... How old are you, and where do you go to school?

Sam Harris: I’m 16 and I’m currently in Year 10 at Hastings Secondary College - Port Macquarie Campus.

I do swim training five days per week at the local pool and have represented both my school and Port Macquarie Swimming Club at various state and national level swimming carnivals.

I have a part-time job and I’m saving for a trip to the USA in January 2016.

In November 2015 I am competing in the Pacific School Games in Adelaide. This will be my first international swimming event, so I’m pretty excited about that.

Dylan Marchingo: I’m 16 years old and go to St Joseph's Regional College in Port Macquarie.

Declan Harding: I’m 16 years of age, and I attend Year 10 at MacKillop College, Port Macquarie.

Ebony Harding: I’m 14 years old and attend MacKillop College, Port Macquarie.

Hunter Leishman: I’m 16 and go to school at MacKillop College, in Year 10.

How and when did you first become involved with surf lifesaving?

Sam: I have never actually got into surf life saving, but I have been a member of Port Macquarie Swimming Club for the past seven years. The other boys were pretty keen to do the Coolangatta Gold, but they needed a distance swimmer, so they asked me if I wanted to join their team.

Dylan: I have been involved in surf life saving for almost six years, starting when my family and I moved here from Victoria.

Declan: I first became involved in surf life saving at a young age, as my parents felt it was a great way of getting involved in physical

out I am aiming to go y tr to as hard as I can of t on fr e to get towards th hope to st ju d an ck pa e th e beach th to make it back n for in a good positio Without . on ild bu to n D ecla w, I’m llo fo a black line to t end up n’ do I ng really hopi ” in New Zealand!

“

exercise, whilst also having loads of fun.

I haven’t competed in the competitive side of it for two years, as I wanted to take a break from the fierce training.

I then decided early this year to take on the opportunity of the Coolangatta Gold in a team with a few mates, as I feel that in the next couple of years I might become overwhelmed with school work and may not find time to compete in such an event.

Ebony: I first became involved in surf life saving when I was around five years old. Having older siblings really influenced me to join surf life saving, because they already had.

I also lived really close to the beach, so we were down there a lot, and my parents wanted me to be competent in the surf.

Hunter: I started doing Nippers in Tasmania in Cliffton Beach Surf Life Saving Club. On arriving in Port Macquarie, I joined Tacking Point Surf Club; I now compete with Byron Bay, as they have a very good Ski Programme.

You’ll be competing in the short course under 19s section of the Coates Hire Coolangatta Gold Endurance Surf Life Saving event on October 10 and 11. What particular leg/s will you be involved with in this race?

Sam: I will be doing the 2.5 km swim, which will involve a swim over a rectangular course off Burleigh Beach. Thankfully there will only be a short distance to run on the sand as I transition with Declan.

Dylan: I will be doing the 7.1 km run leg.

Declan: Throughout the race I’ll be competing in two of the legs: the 2 km run, as well as the 6 km board paddle.

Ebony: I’m paddling in the 2.5 km swim as

Water Safety for our swimmer, Sam Harris.

Hunter: I’m doing the 14.6 km ski leg.

How much/what type of training have you done to prepare for this event?

Sam: I train in the pool eight - nine times a week and also do two dry land strength training sessions. I aim for 50 km of swimming each week.

Since joining this Coolangatta Gold team I have been doing an ocean swim each Sunday around the headland at Rainbow Beach Bonny Hills.

Dylan: I train up to 12 times a week, going from beach runs in the morning to weights training and ocean board paddle training.

Declan: I do a fair amount of training in preparation for this event. For the past year, Hunter, Dylan and I have been training in a gym set up in the downstairs garage in my house very Monday (upper body strength), Wednesday (core and abs work) and Friday (upper body strength).

I have also been running a set out course of 2.6 km around my neighbourhood that varies in hills and flat areas to help with capturing the environment of the Coolangatta 2 km leg.

I also do set board trainings every Monday afternoon, Tuesday for school contract sport, where I do sharp sprints and focus on speed, and then on Friday afternoons I do a time trial, where I paddle around Pelican Island in the Hastings River, which is roughly 6 km in length.

Ebony: I have been doing a paddling session every Monday and Thursday at the river in the afternoon, as well as a beach session on Tuesday afternoons.

On Monday and Friday mornings I do a gym

session with Hunter Leishman, Dylan Marchingo and Declan Harding.

Hunter: We are all doing strength training together at 5.45am, three mornings a week, but I also do three ski sessions, three pool, one run, and two board sessions.

What are your expectations of race day what do you hope to achieve?

Sam: This will be my first surf competition, so it will be a brand new experience for me.

Swimming in the ocean with a pack of people is very different from pool competition.

I am aiming to go out as hard as I can to try to get towards the front of the pack and just hope to make it back to the beach in a good position for Declan to build on.

Without a black line to follow, I’m really hoping I don’t end up in New Zealand!

Dylan: I just hope we go well, and it becomes a really good, fun day for us.

Declan: It’s hard to say, really, as I have never competed in this race before and I am hoping to enter with an open mind … But then again, I also feel as though we have a good chance of going well and coming out from the race happy with our results.

Ebony: My hope for the race day is that the four boys do as best as they can and everything goes to plan.

Everyone in the team has trained really hard and pushed themselves to the limit over the last few months, and I just hope it all pays off on the 10th and 11th October. Even though the race is very competitive, I also think it will be lots of fun and the whole team will have a really good time.

Hunter: We all hope to be competitive.

We are giving away three years on some elite athletes, but we all know that we have trained hard and our fitness levels are up there - so I guess only time will tell.

Thanks everyone. All the best for the event - go for gold!

Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus.

57

and WELLBEING

•EAT IT TO•

Beat It

•PINK RIBBON•

Motorbike Ride

FOR THE EIGHTH YEAR IN A ROW, THE PINK RIBBON MOTORBIKE RIDE WILL PROVIDE A FUN-FILLED, COLOURFUL SPECTACLE, AS RIDERS GATHER TO RIDE ALONG THE OXLEY HIGHWAY ON NOVEMBER 14. SUZANNE NAYLOR AND MARY LAING TELL US THE EVENT AIMS TO RAISE BOTH FUNDS FOR AND AWARENESS OF BREAST CANCER - A TIMELY REMINDER THAT OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH …

P

lease remind us about the Pink Ribbon Motorbike Ride and its history locally. How many years has the event been held so far, and how has it evolved since then?

The Mid North Coast Pink Ribbon Motorbike Ride is an annual event to raise much needed funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). The Pink Ribbon Ride started in 2008, which is the same year I (Suzanne) was diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

Now in its eighth year, the ride has grown in popularity and outrageous outfits.

Our aim is to raise awareness and much needed funds to support the NBCF, while doing something us riders love doing - riding the Oxley HWY. What date/s will the ride be taking place this year, and what will be the start and finish points?

The Pink Ribbon Motorbike Ride will be on Saturday 14th November and will start from McDonald’s at the service centre on the Oxley HWY and finish at the Long Flat Hotel with a BBQ lunch, raffle draw and prizes for best dressed rider and best dressed bike.

Our first prize in the raffle is a voucher to win a Harley Davidson for a day, generously donated by Port City Harley Davidson and North Coast VTwin.

What are you hoping to achieve this year?

58

greater port macquarie focus.

In previous years we have raised over $3,500. To raise this amount or more will be a great achievement and support to the cause. Donations can be made via this link: http://pinkribbonbreakfast.gofundraise. com.au/page/SuzanneNaylor Ride patches, shirts, raffle tickets and NBCF merchandise will also be available on the day.

How many participants are you expecting to be involved in 2015?

Each year it gets bigger, so this year we would expect 160 - 200 motorbikes, with up to 300 people.

Who would you like to acknowledge for their support?

Long Flat Hotel, Port City Harley Davidson, North Coast VTwin Motorcycles, Port Macquarie Motorcycles, Rocks Motorcycles, Professionals Real Estate Laurieton, Ros Harmony Balance Centre, Suzanne at Laugh Love and Heal and Caramels@Cathie.

How can people take part in the ride or find out more info?

For information on the ride, check out our Facebook page, Pink Ribbon Ride Mid North Coast. To be part of this fun event, go to McDonald’s at the service centre on the Oxley HWY on Saturday 14th November by 10am, or for more information contact Suzanne on 0421 659 028.

Thanks ladies. Interview by Jo Atkins.

CANCER COUNCIL NSW IS ENCOURAGING PARENTS TO CREATE HEALTHY LUNCH BOXES FOR THEIR PRIMARY-SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN THAT ARE PACKED FULL OF FRUIT AND VEGETABLES. OUR EAT IT TO BEAT IT PROGRAMME RECOMMENDS EATING FIVE SERVES OF VEGETABLES AND TWO SERVES OF FRUIT EVERY DAY TO HELP REDUCE YOUR RISK OF CANCER.

W

orryingly on the Mid North Coast, just 12.8 percent of adults eat enough vegetables, while 53.7 percent eat enough fruit.

These low numbers mean there is plenty of room for improvement. We know that what parents eat impacts an entire family’s food choices.

To help turn this around, the Cancer Council NSW Eat It To Beat It programme provides free workshops and sessions for parents, to help them understand the importance of eating the right amount of fruit and vegetables.

Eat It To Beat It gives parents simple recipes full of fruit and veg, ideas on what to pack in school lunch boxes, nutritional news and clever tips on how to entice fussy eaters. The programme is based on the latest scientific evidence around healthy eating and the benefits of fruit and vegetables.

School children eat more than 2,500 lunches in their 13 years in the playground. We see that as 2,500 opportunities for them to eat fruit and vegies. Eat It To Beat It helps parents navigate the often confusing world of lunch box snacks.

Follow this six-step method to make school lunches easy, healthy and eaten every day!

• Include a serve of fruit (chop into small piece or try stewed fruits (like apple and pear) for an easy snack) • Include a serve of vegies (cut up vegie sticks (carrot, celery, cucumber) and don’t forget legumes like baked beans count as vegies too!)

• Include a serve of wholegrains (bread, rice or pasta leftovers)

• Include a serve of reduced-fat dairy (cheese, yoghurt, milk popper) • Include a serve of protein (egg, chicken, tuna).

• Include a bottle of water instead of fruit juice Top Healthy Lunch Box Tips: • Look out for fruit and veg in season • Avoid packaged foods • Bake vegie/fruit muffins e.g. carrot, zucchini, banana as a treat • Make lunch the night before to save time • Include your children and get them to choose from healthy choices foods they would like in the lunch box • Visit our website: eatittobeatit.com.au and join our Facebook page: facebook.com/eatittobeatit for inspiration, recipes and lunch box ideas Local schools can book a Cancer Council NSW Eat It To Beat It Healthy Lunch Box presentation for their Kindergarten Orientation Programme.

Parents that attend receive a showbag of goodies, including our fun and interactive lunch box kit to use with their children. To book a session, please contact Juanita Nantes on 6639 1306 or visit our website for more information eatittobeatit.com.au

the plug!

FOCUS is proud to present the 2015 Stars of the Hastings Dance for Cancer Friday 27th November, which is a fundraiser for Cancer Council. Check out pages 52-54.

& WELLBEING

Dr. B COS Ling: Massage @ Port Macquarie massagE At Port Macquarie are you in pain?

Chronic pain in the joints and muscles can make life miserable. Sufferers of long standing injury also know the difficulties in treating their pain with common medications that often lead to unwanted side effects like nausea and constipation.

There is strong evidence to show that acupuncture treatment is an excellent stand alone or complementary treatment option.

Clinical research suggests acupuncture treatment deactivates the areas of the brain associated with pain. Also, by strategic needle placement, we stimulate the body’s healing response to the affected area. With this action, the body’s own pain killers (encephalin, opioids) are released and bingo! Pain relief is achieved.

The stigma that acupuncture is painful and something to be feared is incorrect. If you have a tattoo or have given blood, you have endured much more discomfort!

With a course of treatment, depending on duration and severity of condition, you can live a happy, pain free life! For research articles on acupuncture’s effect on chronic pain, please visit my website: www.christophernesbitt.com.au.

HeLing Ling Ying Ying (Ling) returned from herperson”. visit to China.

He (Ling)recently is very much a “people The highly respected and hugely popular proprietor of Utilising proven abilities, honed from years of training and “Massage at Port Macquarie” took the well-earned (and practice, the very popular principal of Massage at Port overdue) break to visit family and to review her techniques in Macquarie is totally committed to providing the finest remedial Chinese massage. Delighted to be back home in “Port”, she or relaxation massage available anywhere, with honest “word is already busy, happily reuniting with local clients and friends. of mouth” her investment for the future.

As a masseur, Ling is highly qualified in Australia as well as As masseur, is highly qualified in Australia as unique, well as as in aher native Ling China.

Her skills are therefore quite inshe hersuccessfully native China.

Her skills are therefore quite unique, as combines today’s recognised contemporary she successfully combines today’s recognised contemporary techniques with time-honoured Chinese modalities, to techniques with time-honoured modalities to provide provide real assistance to thoseChinese with physical discomfort, genuine assistance to those with physical discomfort, sport, sport, health or occupational mobility issues, insomnia or health or occupational mobility issues, insomnia or simply simply common fatigue. In fact, Ling’s loyal long-term clients common fatigue.testimony In fact, Ling’s loyal long-term clients an are an ongoing to her outstanding level ofare care. ongoing testimony to her outstanding level of care.

Approved Approved treatments are recognised by most major health treatments recognised by most major healthinfunds, with funds, withare HICAPS providing instant rebates the majority HICAPS providing instant rebates. of cases.

Fully by the Australian Association of Massage Lingaccredited is fully accredited by the Australian Association of Therapists, Ling practices her air-conditioned home clinic Massage Therapists and from practices from her air-conditioned clinic in theBeach/Shelly LighthouseBeach Beach/Shelly Beachparking area, where inhome the Lighthouse area, where is just parking is just a few paces from the door.

Warm, considerate a few paces from the door. Warm, considerate and surprisingly and surprisingly strong, she cares for her clients - male, strong, she cares for her clients - male, female, young and notfemale, young and not-so-young, with compassion, respect so-young, with compassion, respect and always with traditional and always with traditional Chinese courtesy and values.

Chinese courtesy and values.

NEW Elastic Suture Lift Do you go to the mirror and pull up the skin in front of your ears? This is the procedure for you.

boost immune Elastic Sutureyour Lift is a minimal invasive system face lift procedure that is extremely effective and affordable. A suture lift relocates Cold and flu season is nearly here. the cheek pads back up to their original position, lifts sagging History shows effective acupuncture and herbal eyebrows or hanging jowls and tightens the jaw line with a strategies helped the ancient Chinese avoid the dreaded suture threaded into deep tissue and anchored to a ligament. cold and flu symptoms that often come with change of The aim is not to create a new you, but to reposition your season. facial anatomy back to where it once was, which in turn will Acupuncture treatment creates stronger immune function reveal a much younger, more youthful looking appearance. by balancing yin and yang and strengthening wei energy. In The procedure takes approximately hours and using keyhole other words, your immune system is1.5 boosted bolsters your surgery. lymphocytes and natural killer cells that fight bacteria and Call Beachside Medi Spa to arrange for your FREE viruses. consultation.

Beachside Spa offersability a range Recent research supportsMedi acupuncture’s to of stimulate the comprehensive services, all under the one roof.

Cosmetic body’s resistance to infection. Regular preventative treatments Medicine including non surgical faceand lift,flu anti-wrinkle result in being less affected by cold viruses naturally, injectables laser including Rather IPL/ without theand sidedermal effectsfillers, of cold andtherapy flu medications.

Limelight, laser hair reduction and clinical strength peels, than reaching for tablets, book an appointment to boost your and beauty services including massage, immunity and see you throughmicrodermabrasion, this winter. waxing and mani/pedicures.

Check out www.christophernesbitt.com.au to see more Phone us today 6583 3588! information onon how acupuncture can help you.

greater port macquarie focus. 59

TUMM • Tried tummy • Or are firmnes • Have If you a Tuck Su Tummy residual tummy natural Can Lip Liposuc underly amount elasticit Can I ha Tummy strategy College close to For a co 1300 67 bobby@

focustourism.

& WELLBEING

Port Macquarie Tourism Association

Tou ris m

janette hyde.

Spring has arrived and given us a taste of some wonderful weather, just in time for the school holidays. Lots of things happening, as can be seen by the list of things to do at the end of this column.

Congratulations to the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park as the winner in the Tourism Attractions at the 2015 Holiday Coast Credit Union Business Awards.

Billabong Breaking News - The Cheetah Exhibition is now open. These wonderful animals, Vongani and Warrior, have come from South Africa and are just beautiful. Old favourites, Shrek the Crocodile and the Snow Leopards are still attracting crowds.

A trip to the Billabong these holidays is a must do - the kids will just love it.

Instagram Influencer visits the region Recently Lauren Bath, Australia's first professional Instagrammer, conducted a workshop, which was attended by 40 tourism industry operators, showing the benefits of the Instagram platform and how to use it to raise the profile of their business and also the Greater Port Macquarie region.

Everyone was encouraged to use the hashtags #iloveportmacquarie and #loveportmacquarie whenever they post about the region.

Don’t miss Oysters in the Vines Festival at Cassegrain Winery. It has a new date (25 October) and will once again combine with the Artist Market for a mega artist market and oyster extravaganza.

Did you know that Wauchope and Kew are now RV Friendly Towns? Kendall Showground and Wauchope Showground now have the facilities to support Caravans and R.V.s and join the list of nearly 50 other locations across NSW that have taken advantage of this growing tourism industry.

Wauchope Skate Park has just been opened. Why not take the kids to Wauchope and the Skate Park and support the local Wauchope community!

Save the Date - The Tastings on Hastings Festival returns to Port Macquarie for three action packed days of culinary celebrations that will tempt your taste buds, Friday 6 November to Sunday 8 November.

www.wildsideadventurerace.com.au Wildwood Music Festival Cassegrain Winery, 4 Oct from 11am Celebrating 10 years from his groundbreaking 2005 release, Autumn Flow, Lior brings his magic to Wildwood to bring in spring and Daylight Saving with style. www.wildwoodmusic.com.au Ekam Yoga Festival 11 Oct, The Glasshouse Enjoy a day of yoga, music events and a sustainable health and living expo at this new annual regional yoga festival. www.ekamyogafestival.org.au Jazz in the Vineyards 11 Oct from 11am, Bago Winery The very popular local Jazz group, Jordan Jive, will be the entertainment for the day. www.bago.com.au/events 6 Degrees of Degustation Six Chefs Six Wines - 16 Oct, 7pm, Rydges Looking for a night of indulgence with food and wine - this is for you. www.rydges.com/accommodation/portmacquarie-nsw/port-macquarie Ironman 70.3 Port Macquarie - 18 Oct Great to welcome back this event, with lots of entries once again. IRONMAN 70.3 Port Macquarie remains one of the Asia-Pacific region's leading, and most enduring, triathlon events. www.ironmanportmacquarie.com Oysters in the Vines Sunday 25 Oct, Cassegrain Winery Come and help celebrate the oyster and savour the flavour of this succulent delicacy.

Demonstrations of live shucking skills, served up with delicious accompanying wines. www.cassegrainwines.com.au

ACTIVITIES HAPPENING IN OCTOBER

Rock and Roll Halloween Dance 31 Oct, 7pm, Wauchope RSL Club Music from the Rock and Roll Era combined with Halloween should be a great night. www.wauchopersl.com.au

Wildside Adventure Race 3 - 4 Oct, Wauchope The Wildside Adventure Race has grown out of the need to get more “big” adventure races on the Australian calendar.

Jazz Cruise 1st Nov from 2pm, River Princess A trip on the beautiful Hastings River with Jazz featuring Geoff Kearns and Chris Trottman. www.portventure.com.au

60 greater port macquarie focus.

Oral Hygiene tips for children Oral hygiene is about more than just having a good smile. Children who have good oral hygiene will generally be healthier and happier than children who have dental issues.

Though many parents believe that oral care for children is of little importance due to children having baby teeth that they will lose, the truth is that there are many reasons why dental care should be a top priority for children.

Important Habits Though a young child’s primary teeth will be replaced by permanent adult teeth, parents still need to begin teaching children about proper dental hygiene at a young age. A child who learns to care for his or her teeth early in life

will be more likely to practice good hygiene habits later in life, which will result in fewer dental problems.

Preventing Disease In addition to preventing tooth decay, proper dental care will also help to protect a child from becoming ill. Dental caries and other oral health problems can expose a child’s body to a range of germs from the environment. Though the body has defenses for swallowed or inhaled germs, germs that enter the mouth can go directly into the blood stream via sores in the mouth. By practicing good oral hygiene, a child will have a healthier mouth that can help prevent germs from entering into the body.

greater port macquarie focus.

61

greater port macquarie focus.

63

focusinterview.

42nd Street SUCCESS IS ONE WORD THAT CAN BE USED TO DESCRIBE THE CAREER OF MATT WARD, HAVING

PERFORMED ROLES IN MANY INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED MUSICALS, HOSTING AUSTRALIA’S FIRST CABARET TALK SHOW, THE GREENROOM PROJECT, AND RENOWNED AS A VOCAL COACH JUST TO NAME A FEW ACHIEVEMENTS. MATT WILL BE VISITING PORT MACQUARIE, PERFORMING THE LEAD ROLE OF JULIAN MARSH IN THE CLASSIC BROADWAY MUSICAL COMEDY, 42ND STREET, AT THE GLASSHOUSE…

T

ake us back to when you first particularly proud of is the creation of The Greenroom discovered your talent …

Project - a programme I created to discover, mentor It's was playing a frog in my and showcase some of Australia's emerging artists. primary school’s end of year Give us a little insight into the show…

Christmas concert that really helped The Greenroom Project came about three years discover my untapped talent! ago. I just returned from Los Angeles and discovered My mum said I was the best frog she'd ever seen! there was a lack of performance opportunities and You’ve worked hard to get where you are; professional development on the Gold Coast what studies did you undertake? for emerging artists. To get exposure to Growing up on the Gold Coast, I the industry heavy weights, these g was fortunate enough to have an artists had to leave the Gold Coast in I also had sing y da y amazing mentor, Robert Young, er and head south to Sydney or lessons ev that to d who was the artistic director of ue Melbourne. So, The Greenroom in nt co d an ying the Gold Coast Arts Centre. was created - a platform ultimately stud LA I did many of his shows (just to discover, mentor and in New York and ce of under the guid an cal like this production) and learnt showcase Australia's rising vo some incredible on the job. I was actively cabaret and musical theatre Seth co aches, such as to involved in summer school stars right in their backyard. h Rigg s- vocal co ac ” productions as well. It was You’ll be joining the talented n!

Michael Jack so these experiences that I believe team from Wauchope & Port put me in good stead to get into the Macquarie Performing Arts to star Conservatorium of Music, and then a in the leading role of Julian Marsh in year later I was accepted into NIDA - the National the classic Broadway Musical, 42nd Street.

Institute of Dramatic Arts.

Tell us about your character and what the I also had singing lessons every day and musical entails … continued that to ultimately studying in New York I am super excited to be working with such an and LA under the guidance of some incredible vocal incredibly talented bunch of young performers, who coaches, such as Seth Riggs - vocal coach to Michael are all REAL triple threats - singers, actors and dancers Jackson!

- an essential skill for this industry. A credit to Stacey What have been some memorable moments in and her team at Port Macquarie Performing Arts for your career so far? giving these performers such a unique opportunity to I've had many memorable moments, but one I am do such a professional show right here in their home

“

64 greater port macquarie focus.

town.

My character is a famed dictatorial Great White Way (Broadway) director, Julian Marsh, who has set out to mount Broadway’s next big hit musical, Pretty Lady, in the height of the Depression. Along the way he discovers a new star in chorus girl Peggy Sawyer.

Full of singing and tap dancing, 42nd Street is one for the whole family!

What is your favorite musical and why?

Les Misérables will always hold a very dear place in my heart. It was the very first musical I was in at only 14 years old.

What would you say to young aspiring young actors?

Never give up on your dreams. Work hard. Never stop learning.

Show a good work ethic, respect your peers and be nice to your parents! They are your biggest supporters and will always be there for you when you need it the most.

Thanks Matt.

the plug!

Be sure to see 42nd Street at the Glasshouse 4 December 2015 - 12pm 5 December 2015 - 2pm 5 December 2015 - 7pm For ticketing information visit www.glasshouse.org.au or call call 6581 8888.

& WELLBEING

Promoting road safety & maintaining independence Walk well, WORK WELL! Walk Well, Work Well! October is Foot Health Month!

Foot Health Month is hosted by the Australasian Podiatry Council, Australia’s peak body for podiatry, each October.

Having been a dedicated podiatrist to the Manning Valley region for nine years, Mid Coast Podiatry is proud to be involved in this year’s campaign.

It’s not uncommon to hear that we’ve become far too sedentary. Of course, not everyone falls into this category. Doctors and nurses, tradespeople, factory workers, hospitality and retail staff, sports and recreation employees, and farmers (just to name a few!) are on their feet all day, every day. They often experience pain and problems with their feet.

Walk Well, Work Well is all about getting in touch with employees in occupations such as these. Podiatrists offer profession skills and treatment services to help prevent and manage foot health problems.

We all know that driving is an important activity for most adults and that being able to drive helps to maintain personal freedom, quality of life and independence. We also know that driving is a complex task and a high risk activity, where the consequences of driving unsafely can be catastrophic for the driver, their passengers and other road users. DARS was established by Nick Neville, a local Occupational Therapist who has completed post graduate training in driver assessment. Nick is also a licensed Driving Instructor.

DARS specialises in assisting clients who have suffered from any loss of ability as result of ageing, illness or injury. The service works with clients between the ages of 16 to 100+ years old and their families.

DARS has assisted clients who have age related conditions, brain injury, Dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorders, spinal cord injury, vision deficits, neurological injury (strokes, MS, Parkinson’s Disease), amputees and clients with mental health conditions.

Foot Health Month events are being held by podiatrists across the country throughout October.

Our goal is to provide each client with an independent, objective opinion on their fitness to drive and to provide advice on how to maintain their licence.

If you are having trouble with your feet or legs, please call us on 6551 4815 to see how we can help or check out our website: www.midcoastpodiatry.com.au for more information.

Clients or immediate family members can arrange a referral to DARS, or a referral can be organised by their Doctor. Please contact DARS for more information.

Dr. Bobby Kumar COSMETIC SURGEON A “Mummy Makeover” - what’s that?

Typically a “mummy makeover” involves combining breast and abdominal restorative surgery addressing the inherent changes in a woman’s body shape due to pregnancy and breast feeding.

Women often express a desire to ‘get their body back’ after having children, referring to breasts that have been left deflated and droopy, and tummies that have excess skin and tissue with split underlying abdominal muscles resulting in an uncomfortable bulge.

Breast and Abdominal Surgery: Breast Surgery; this may include Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift and/or Breast Reduction to address the shape, position and volume of the breasts.

Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty), with or without Liposuction/Liposculpture, to address the residual excess skin and tissue around the tummy that does not respond to diet or exercise, and tightening of the underlying abdominal muscles.

Dr. Bobby Kumar is a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, with comprehensive surgical training and over 10 years experience in Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Bobby Kumar only operates in fully accredited private hospitals.

For a consultation with Dr. Bobby Kumar, give Wendy a call on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009 or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au

greater port macquarie focus.

65

focusinterview.

rosemary

ROSEMARY’S JOURNEY HAS EVOLVED FROM WANTING TO SHED EXCESS BODY WEIGHT TO BEING CROWNED THE NATIONAL AMATEUR BODY BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE CHAMPION (PHYSIQUE CATEGORY). ROSEMARY’S DREAM IS NOW TO SHARE HER PASSION FOR BODYBUILDING AND COMPETITION PREPARATION WITH OTHERS, AND WITH THE STAMINA, DETERMINATION, AND SHEER DEDICATION TO HER GOALS SHE’S DISPLAYED SO FAR, SHE APPEARS TO BE ON A WINNING STREAK!

H

i Rosemary. Where are you from - born and bred local girl, or did you relocate to port Macquarie?

I grew up in Springwood in the Blue Mountains, went to Springwood Public School and Springwood High. Then my life changed dramatically, and I relocated to Port Macquarie 10 years ago.

What (or who) kick started your interest in body building?

At the age of 33 my weight was a little out of control, so I finally decided it was time to do something about it.

My brother had always kept himself in shape with weight training and cardio, so I asked him to take me to the gym and help me lose some weight. He had an old school approach to weight training, so it was straight to the dumbell rack, and that’s where it all began. My passion for lifting weights was instant, and I never turned back. I set myself a goal to lose 15 kg and put on as much muscle as possible within 12 months, and I did it right on time.

Once I had my body fat down to a reasonable level, I realised that maybe I could actually create something more, and that’s when I started to get serious about body building.

I stepped on stage for the first time approximately 18 months after I first started training and must say it wasn't the best experience of my life, but it was a huge lesson for me on how I was going to go about becoming a bodybuilder.

Explain the processes involved - physical and mental - that have given you the physique you have today. What changes

66

greater port macquarie focus.

have you had to make to your diet, exercise that I would never have discovered without regime, and thought processes over the bodybuilding. For any woman considering past few years? competing, there are various levels and I train and keep to a strict diet all year round, categories they can compete in … But whatever but when it’s time to start getting ready for they choose, if they can step on stage knowing a show, it’s taken to a whole new level. I will they are the best they can be, it is extremely spend 20 weeks doing “contest prep”, as we empowering and unbelievably rewarding. like to call it. This consists for me of totally You’ve achieved some phenomenal success clean, very strict eating of six to seven meals a at competition level. What have been some day at 2.5 hour intervals. I also start my regular of your achievements/titles, and what cardio, which I will change as needed accomplishment are you most proud through the diet, so I might be of? doing cardio twice or even I have competed in eight three times a day. shows in total: amongst My weight training is my results were the As a female competing in a seven days a week and NABBA Wild Bull Classic, inated very male dom quite often twice a day. which was held in Port d sport, I have foun at So, I'm at the gym Macquarie, 1st place; th th an inner streng two or three times the NABBA Australian ve I would never ha t a day, seven days a Championships, 2nd ou ith discovered w week. I do all my own place; and IFBB NSW and ...” g in bodybuild contest prep: training, the IFBB Australia, 2nd diet, cardio, and by far the place. hardest part is the mental My proudest achievement challenge. When you do it all by far was winning the NABBA yourself, you are constantly critiquing your Southern Hemisphere 1st place Ms own physique - which is quite a challenge, Australia title - that was about eight years to say the least. ago now.

Body building is probably still seen by many I then took a break from competition and to be a very male dominated field. Why continued to train and eat to maintain my would you encourage other women to give physique. Towards the end of last year I decided it a go? it was time to stop talking about the past and Body building to me is about creating the return to competition. My plan was to compete ultimate physique. It’s about pushing myself in the NABBA NSW Classic, which would qualify physically and mentally beyond what I believe I me for the Southern Hemisphere. am capable of.

Once I started my contest prep, I realised my As a female competing in a very male passion for body building was stronger than dominated sport, I have found an inner strength ever, and I was totally driven to fulfil my dream

“

of not only competing in, but winning the Southern Hemisphere again.

Twenty weeks later, I was in the best condition I have ever been in - under 5% body fat - and I won the NSW Classic. Three weeks later, my dream came true, and I placed 1st again at the Southern Hemisphere.

I am now completely dedicated to making body building part of my life, and I decided to study to become a personal trainer.

What are your current plans for training, future competitions, and study?

I am currently back in the gym training very hard and trying to gain a little more size, which is always the goal of a body builder.

I'm also furthering my education to become a personal trainer and aiming to compete again in the first half of next year.

What’s the ultimate dream for you - where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?

My ultimate dream is to be training other people for competition: body building, physique, bikini, figure and fitness for both men and women and getting them into the best shapes of their lives, so they can fulfil their dreams. I’d also like to be training those people who don't want to get on stage, but want be the best they can be for their own personal reasons.

In five years’ time I would ultimately be running my own business, specialising in contest prep and personal training.

Thanks Rosemary.

Interview by Jo Atkins. Photos courtesy of Wright Click Photography.

& WELLBEING

Computer Vision Syndrome IS MODERN TECHNOLOGY RUINING OUR EYESIGHT?

O

ver the years, our eyes have had to adjust to different changes in technology – the

most significant change that has occurred on the demand of our

double vision, dry and red eyes,

• Limit Children’s Use – less than

headaches, neck or back pain, and

an hour for children under five

eye irritations. If symptoms are

years, and less than two hours for

not treated, they can have a real

children between five and 18 years,

effect on your wellbeing and work

excluding school work use.

performance.

• Adjust Settings – the optimal

Working adults aren’t the only

eyes has been the introduction of

ones that are vulnerable to this

the computer and mobile devices

syndrome. Children are more

such as tablets and smart phones.

susceptible to this strain because

In the 1980’s, only ten per cent of

their eyes are not fully developed

the working population in Australia

until they are 15 years of age.

used computers at work and even

Children with high screen usage are

fewer at home. Today, a staggering

more likely to develop long term

97 per cent of Australians use

vision problems such as blurred

computers at work on a daily basis,

distance vision (Myopia).

and more than 75 per cent use a

How can you relieve Computer

computer or device personally.

Vision Syndrome?

Staring at a computer monitor

Making a few simple changes

position for your computer monitor is slightly below eye level and about 60 centimetres from the face.

Adjust the brightness, contrast and font size until you find the best settings for your vision.

Most importantly, have regular eye examinations with an optometrist every two years to check your eye health and let your optometrist know if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. You may need

for hours on end places a real strain

can help prevent and improve

on your eyes. Computer Vision

computer visions symptoms.

Syndrome (CVS) is a result of long

• Reduce Glare – change lighting to

use that contain anti-reflection or

periods of time on a screen at a

reduce glare on the screen.

blue light blocking tints that will

close distance, and encompasses a

• Have Breaks – look away from the

increase contrast and filter out

whole range of eye strain and pain.

screen every 20 minutes and gaze

glare. And book eye examinations

out the window or as far as you can

for your children too.

It is estimated that somewhere

spectacles specifically for computer

If you have any concerns about

between 50 to 90 per cent of

for about 20 second to rest your

people who work at a computer

eyes. Blink often to keep the eyes

your vision, feel free to ask our

screen have symptoms of eye

moist, and if eyes are getting overly

optometrists or staff at Eyecare Plus

trouble such as: blurred vision,

dry, use eye drops.

because your vision is our focus.

At Eyecare Plus, you get a checkup, plus a whole lot more.

Eyecare Plus optometrists will check your vision + check for glaucoma + cataracts + diabetic changes + macular degeneration. They can also arrange retinal imaging, visual fields and further testing for specific conditions. And they’ll conduct a lifestyle assessment and recommend the best options for all your visual needs.

Plus, they’ll take the time to answer all your questions and show you their extensive range of frames and lenses.

Experienced, not expensive.

Port Macquarie 1/29 Horton St Ph: 6584 3948 95 William St Ph: 6583 7333 Wauchope 6 Bransdon St

Ph: 6585 2393

greater port macquarie focus.

67

& WELLBEING

National Water week National Water Week 18th - 24th October Port Macquarie-Hastings Council supports National Water Week this year with the theme being Water for future generations. The week is about inspiring individuals, communities and organisations to work together to build community awareness and understanding around water issues. It is also an opportunity to think about how we can make simple everyday changes to the way we use water, to ensure there is enough to meet the needs of our future generations. In support of this important initiative, Council has local events planned, which include the Osmosis Photography competition awards and calendar launch at the Regional Gallery Port Macquarie, at 10am on Sunday 18 October.

The Osmosis Calendar links community, art and the environment and features a collection of images of the Hastings region from the perspective of local photographers. The Osmosis calendar is available for $2 from Council offices and libraries and all proceeds from the calendar will go to fund WaterAid projects in developing countries.

68

greater port macquarie focus.

Cowarra Dam 10th Anniversary It has been 10 years since Cowarra Dam was officially opened. This will be celebrated with the opening of the refurbished public art installation on 20 October at 10:30am at the Cowarra Dam Picnic Area. The artworks feature the Birpai totems, designed by students studying Aboriginal Cultural Arts at North Coast TAFE, Wauchope Campus. A bush tucker morning tea will be held in recognition of the artists and project partners: the Bunyah and Birpai Local Aboriginal Land Councils along with the Forestry Corporation who donated the hardwood timber sourced from sustainably managed North Coast State Forests.

Learn more about the Hastings Water Supply Scheme on a free tour of the Water Trail Thursday 22th October 9am to 1pm. The tour provides residents with an overview of the “Catchment to Tap” philosophy of Council’s water management processes.

RSVP or for further information on Water Week activities contact Kim Freeman on Mobile: 0423 828 671 or email: kim.freeman@pmhc.nsw.gov.au

& WELLBEING

DEFEAT DIZZINESS Brainstorm Rehabilitation seeks to “Defeat Dizziness”.

The vestibular system includes the parts of the inner ear and brain that process the sensory information involved with controlling balance and eye movements.

Illness, injury, and even aging can damage the fragile vestibular organs, and with them, the ability to balance.

In addition to affecting balance, vestibular disorders often produce disabling symptoms that include vertigo, dizziness, hearing and vision problems, and difficulty concentrating.

These life-altering symptoms can deeply inhibit a person’s ability to perform basic day-to-day tasks, and are compounded by their invisibility to others, making it difficult to understand that a person with vestibular dysfunction is profoundly struggling to remain oriented and functional.

Brainstorm Rehabilitation is a neurological rehabilitation centre with experience assisting brain based problems and balance disturbances. The approach at Brainstorm Rehabilitation is ASSESS, EDUCATE and THERAPY, for the client and care giver(s). Director and principal rehabilitation clinician Darren Gray declares, “The appropriate VESTIBULAR REHABILITATION can make a significant difference to some peoples function. However, it’s disappointing

that some clients in the community are still receiving ‘cookie cutter’ treatments.”

Since 2008, neurological chiropractor Darren Gray has re-trained within the neuroscience field. He is a speaker, researcher, clinician, and the director of Brainstorm Rehabilitation.

Brainstorm Rehabilitation is a clinical rehabilitation centre catering for Functional Neurological Rehabilitation. The centre provides specialised programmes of neurological treatments to assist brain-based dysfunction. The team supports children as well as adults, for or with balance disorders. For more information, visit www.brainstormrehab.com.au.

“Balance is the essence of movement and movement is the essence of life,” says Darren Gray. “If your brain is not obtaining appropriate information from your environment and self - health is compromised.”

greater port macquarie focus.

69

& WELLBEING

PORT MACQUARIE LAUNCH • OCTOBER 31ST

It’s been a long time in the planning, but Port Macquarie is about to join over 130 other locations in Australia by hosting its very own parkrun event.

Here to tell us just what parkrun is all about are Dale Murray, parkrun Territory Director for North NSW, and local parkrun Event Directors Kevin Chilvers and Keith Robinson …

D

ale Murray - parkrun Territory Director for North NSW ...

Hi Dale. Whereabouts are you based, and what's your role with parkrun Australia?

I live in Armidale, and I’m the Event Director of Armidale parkrun. In August 2015 parkrun Australia appointed me to an additional role, that of Territory Director for North NSW, responsible for managing the interface between parkrun Australia management and the Event Directors of six parkruns - Armidale, Tamworth, Yamba, Grafton, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Both positions are voluntary.

What is parkrun, and how does it work? parkrun is a free weekly 5 km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at multiple locations across Australia, and in an additional ten countries worldwide. parkrun is not a race against other runners, but a 5 km timed run/jog/walk open to everyone.

All parkrun events are run entirely by volunteers. Prior to their first event, parkrunners register online for free and receive a printed barcode. As they cross the finish line, they are handed a finish token with their finishing position number. The barcode and finish token are then scanned in order to give each parkrunner their time.

Throw some numbers at me ... how many parkruns are there now in the world, in Australia, and in your area?

Currently there are 134 parkrun events in all state and territories across Australia, and over 695 events in ten countries worldwide. In North NSW, there are presently three events (Armidale, Tamworth and Yamba), with Grafton parkrun launching on 17th October and Port Macquarie parkrun on 31st October. Coffs Harbrour parkrun is still in the planning stage, with a possible launch before the end of the year.

The closest parkrun south of Port Macquarie is located at Taree. The number of parkruns here in Australia and worldwide continue to increase each week.

70 greater port macquarie focus.

What do you see as being the benefits of Kevin Chilvers and Keith Robinson - Port parkrun?

Macquarie parkrun Event Directors ...

As a free community event, parkrun enables Why did you decide Port Macquarie needed people from all backgrounds and of all abilities a parkrun event? and ages to participate, both as volunteers and Kevin: I did my first parkrun a few years ago at as runners, irrespective of gender, socio-economic Kawana Waters while holidaying with my family. status, ethnicity, disability, or mental health staWhile looking up potential fun runs in the area, tus. By participating in parkrun, people's particI stumbled across parkrun. Not knowing quite ipation in sport is increased, which helps them what to expect, I registered online and arrived achieve a healthy lifestyle and sense of wellbeing. at the start line. I was blown away by what a Social cohesion in the community also increases fantastic experience it was. I went on to do many as a result of parkrun. other parkruns at other locations around parkrun will launch in Port Australia, sometimes while on busiMacquarie on October ness trips, and have thoroughly 31st. What message enjoyed the experience. do you have for the I began wondering why Currently there Greater Port Macquathere was no parkrun in are 134 parkrun e rie community ahead Port Macquarie (in fact, events in all stat ross ac es ri ito of the launch? rr and te there were no parkruns er 69 5 The Port Macquarie Australia , and ov tries between Newcastle and un parkrun organising events in ten co the Gold Coast at that ” e. id worldw committee, led by Keith time), and as it turned out, and Kevin, have done a I wasn't the only one wonfantastic job in organising dering that. There were several and setting up a parkrun other people interested in bringing event for Port Macquarie, includparkrun to Port Macquarie, and we ing securing local financial support which set up an Event Team. Together this enthusiaswill enable it to be a free event for everyone. tic team set about working on Port Macquarie I would encourage the Greater Port Macquarie parkrun - a free, timed, 5 km event, open to anycommunity to get involved and embrace their one in the community who wants to participate. parkrun event. They will not be disappointed. In Describe the Port Macquarie parkrun course. my three years of participation in parkrun, both Keith: Port Macquarie parkrun will be a two as a runner (90 occasions) and volunteer (60 lap course starting from the Town Green, and occasions) at 27 different events in NSW, Qld and heading along the Breakwall to Town Beach. The ACT, I have witnessed multiple times the transorganising committee reviewed numerous course formation of people's lives for the better and the options and chose this particular course as it joy and excitement on the faces as they cross the shows off our picturesque foreshore area. finish line each week. Some of them would never Launch date is October 31st. What time does have dreamed of running 5 km. Not only are they the event kick off, and where does everyone running 5 km now, they are getting quicker at meet up? doing it.

Keith: Most parkruns in NSW start at 8am; There is not one winner at parkrun; the first however, to avoid pedestrian congestion, our person who crosses the finish line is known as event will commence weekly at 7am Saturday that - the first finisher. Likewise, the final person mornings. The meeting point is on the Town is not last - they are the final finisher. Everyone is Green in front of Rydges Hotel. a winner at parkrun.

After launch date, Port Macquarie parkrun

“

will be held every Saturday morning, with a few exceptions: the two weekends each year that Ironman is held in Port Macquarie; and Christmas Day and ANZAC Day, should they fall on a Saturday.

Who has come on board as supporters of parkrun locally?

Kevin: We have four local supporters: Rydges Hotel, The Good Guys, the Athlete’s Foot, and Coastal Sports and Fitness. Our main local supporter is Rydges Hotel and Zebu Bar & Grill. Zebu is also the venue to get together for a post run coffee and breakfast.

Tony Green and The Good Guys have provided us with a SLR camera for our event photos. After each parkrun, the photos are shared on our Facebook page.

Athlete’s Foot is providing a $50 monthly voucher for a volunteers’ draw, to reward our volunteers.

Coastal Sports and Fitness have supplied us with some sports marking disks..

We'd like also like to thank Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and the Department of Primary Industries - Lands - for their assistance.

Explain the registration process that’s needed for people who want to take part in parkrun, either as runners or volunteers ...

Kevin: Register at www.parkrun.com.au and choose Port Macquarie as your home parkrun, then simply print out your barcode and bring it to the event. That’s the important part - don’t forget your barcode. If each parkrunner volunteers once every eight weeks, everybody will get a chance to run. Roles include run director, marshal, photographer, token scanners, timer etc. We'll need between 10 - 12 volunteers per week.

More info?

Keith: For more information and to contact our event team, check out our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/portmacquarieparkrun For general information about parkrun, go to www.parkrun.com.au Thanks everyone. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photo left: Dale Murray.

Photo right: Keith Robinson & Kevin Chilvers.

greater port macquarie focus. 71

focusinterview.

HASTINGS

Autism

HASTINGS AUTISM HAS EVOLVED RAPIDLY SINCE IT WAS ESTABLISHED. PRESIDENT

KAREN HUF GIVES US AN UPDATE ON THE EXCITING NEW PLANS THE ORGANISATION HAS IN THE PIPELINE, WHICH INCLUDE A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION THIS MONTH!

H

astings Autism is a not for profit organisation that began over 20 years ago (originally known as CASPERS). How has the group evolved over this time, and what services does it offer these days?

Since the organisation began all those years ago, Hastings Autism has evolved from a small gathering of parents to a large, registered charity that’s fully self-supported without government funding. We’ve recently updated our look and simplified our name to Hastings Autism from the rather long “Hastings Autism & Aspergers Resource Group” or “HAARG”.

We established an op shop in Lake Cathie five years ago to provide an ongoing support service to local families. Hastings Autism now offers a wide range of services, including: • An up-to-date monthly newsletter with the latest information on local Autism related events.

• A fantastic annual Family Retreat with heaps of activities.

• Exciting Family Fun Days, where parents can share ideas in a safe environment.

• A comprehensive Autism section in the Port Macquarie Hastings Council Library with a wide range of books, games and teaching aids.

• A regularly updated website at: www. hastingsautism.org.au and Facebook page which have great information and links to many services.

• Special events such as Autism Awareness Day and workshops for families, carers and professionals.

• And a successful, free Adults with Aspergers support group that’s facilitated by a clinical psychologist.

Roughly how many families (or individuals) does Hastings Autism currently support?

Over the past five years we have grown from a small group of about 30, to a membership of nearly 500. Our members include people on the Autism Spectrum, family members, professionals and teachers.

We anticipate that this number will grow

72

greater port macquarie focus.

as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects at least 1 in every 100 children, which is more people than Cerebral Palsy, Diabetes, deafness, blindness and Leukaemia put together.

You mentioned the group has an op shop at Lake Cathie. Where is this located exactly, and what kinds of items does it stock?

The op shop is located in the Lake Cathie Lakeside Village, Anyone can right opposite the lake contact Hastings our entrance near the bridge.

Autism through . w w The shop has a great variety website at w Some committee .org .au of jewellery, clothing, hastingsautism members recently . ge pa or our Facebook books, toys, bric-a-brac and attended the 4th g tin as H Membership to kitchenware, and we pride y pl biennial Asia Pacific m si by ee Autism is fr ourselves on maintaining a Autism Conference, our su bscribing on high standard of quality in the with over 50 speakers .” te websi all our items. from around the world.

Explain how the op shop was Presentations included brought into existence and how it the latest research in Autism has evolved since … and diagnosis, intervention We opened our op shop five years ago this and therapy strategies, and a wide October, through a Community Builders grant. range of seminars on schooling, higher We’re very excited to be celebrating our 5th education and work options. Hastings Autism birthday on Thursday 22nd October, with a has purchased a DVD of every session at the small party and celebratory cake in our recently conference, and we encourage interested expanded and renovated premises. We’ll also professionals and carers to contact Hastings be having lots of extra specials and sales in the Autism for an appointment to view this ground shop during October. breaking information.

The aim of the op shop has been to provide There are plans for a new Autism Centre to a regular source of income for our Hastings be established behind the shop. How are Autism support services. We’re constantly these plans coming along amazed by the generosity and support we’ve what stage are they up to? received from the local community with both The Hastings Autism Resource Centre donations and sales. We’re indebted to all our looks fantastic and can soon be used as our wonderful volunteers, who have made the first permanent administration centre and a shop a viable fundraiser and a great place to meeting place for adults. shop for bargains while supporting a truly local The next stage is to modify the premises service. with child-safe fencing, an outdoor covered Where do funds raised by the shop play area and suitable indoor flooring. This actually go? will make the Resource Centre a completely All funds raised by the op shop go directly child safe environment where parents can get to providing support services and resources together, chat and relax. We’ve applied for to local individuals and families affected by funding for these structural changes through Autism. Hastings Autism has also given a the Community Building Partnerships grant. number of donations to local schools to provide What is needed to ensure this new centre resources for their students that need support. is able to get off the ground?

“

Ideally we’d love to have more volunteers for the Centre - for administration, public relations and marketing, event management, IT and people to help run our activities. If anyone has a few hours a month to spare, then we would love to speak to you. The op shop currently has 26 volunteers and needs more occasionally when our staff go on holidays or retire (again).

What services will this new centre be able to provide for those members of the community with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (and their families)?

We’re excited about the potential huge range of services our new Hastings Autism Resource Centre will provide. This includes a Lego Club, supported Playgroup, Active after School programme, Homework Help, evening Dad’s support group, Advocacy support, a “Drop in Zone” for youth - just to name a few. We’ll also be encouraging other support networks, Neighbourhood Centres and the wider community to utilise the centre.

How can people access Hastings Autism’s services or find out more info?

Anyone can contact Hastings Autism through our website at www.hastingsautism.org.au or our Facebook page. Membership to Hasting Autism is free by simply subscribing on our website. Once a member, you’re kept up-todate with all our activities and coming events through our regular newsletter.

Soon you will be able to call into the Centre and discuss Autism with our friendly volunteers!

Thanks Karen.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

OCTOBER 2015

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You may have been feeling left out or abandoned lately. Don’t despair; you were just being given a perfect time out time, to regather your energy and personal power.

Work opportunities will soon take you on a new journey. Enjoy! Ruby is very effective for personal power.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 If life still isn’t satisfying you, perhaps your focus is a little too material. Try connecting with the essence of your childhood joy, and allow new adventure into your life. Your intellect will soon be satisfied, as study is a likely influence soon. Citrine brings an abundance of creative energy.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Don’t lose sight of your dreams; they give you opportunity to reconnect with that feeling of life’s purpose and joy. Use your restless energy to benefit you. Set some fresh goals and acknowledge how clever you are at manifesting. An inner contentment will soon fill your being. Citrine is great for change and empowerment.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Opportunity to enjoy your heart-felt connections will satisfy a yearning in your being. Don’t be afraid of commitment; instead, nurture the love you feel and enjoy its rewards. Mirror yourself in your partner or friends and learn knew things about yourself. Ruby releases us from fear.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Expect the unexpected! Your leadership qualities and communication will be given opportunity to sparkle. You have an innate sense of justice and fairness and like to strive for win-win situations, so trust in your ability and allow yourself to be heard confidently.

Turquoise helps us to communicate with high esteem.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Relationships may feel like hard work at present, as they are presenting challenges to your old belief systems. Practice patience with yourself and others and try debating your beliefs. Although it’s not easy, it can be very rewarding. Self-awareness will simplify things. Clear Quartz aids in personal development.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23

Undigested emotions are surfacing at present, to give you another opportunity to release the effects they have on you.

This is why you may be feeling suspended.

Work metaphysically with your body to free these negative components from your life.

Look for insecurity and become the divine answer. Rose Quartz stimulates self-love.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23

Your wisdom attracts other people’s problems to you. You are a natural born counsellor, and others sense this. Hear your wise words that catch your attention when you are helping someone through a tough time. This is how you too are being guided.

Turquoise helps us to communicate efficiently.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Although change can be a challenge, it is also a very rewarding part of life. Set some fresh goals and try giving yourself permission to succeed. If fear overwhelms you at the time of getting ready to step forward, try visualising yourself walking the walk. Apophyllite helps to visualise clearly.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Time for change is fast approaching, and you will find yourself extremely restless and feeling frustrated if you have no newfound direction. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to proceed without fear. Fake it until you make it, because success will breed further triumphs. Aquamarine washes away self-doubt.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Relationships are providing you with perfect opportunity to see how nurturing, loving and compassionate you can be. If you are feeling unappreciated, try looking inward at the gifts and talents you chose to incarnate with and thank yourself for these attributes.

Rose Quartz will fill your heart with love.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Congratulations: you are about to receive a beautiful reward. Your faith is one of your strongest gifts, and even though you have been through rough times, you were still able to be true to yourself and remained yourself. You may now be showing others how to do the same. Turquoise enables us to receive our rewards effortlessly.

greater port macquarie focus.

73

T H E

74

greater port macquarie focus.

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

SKILLSLINK TRAINING RECENT GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS AT BOTH STATE AND NATIONAL LEVELS HAVE EMPHASISED THAT AUSTRALIANS ARE EXPECTED TO WORK LONGER AND TO KEEP LEARNING NEW SKILLS. THIS MAY FEEL SCARY AT FIRST, BUT IT CAN ACTUALLY CREATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR INCOME GENERATION, AND EXCITING ACTIVITIES THAT ADD VARIETY TO LIFE.

O

n the Mid North Coast we are in a growth area for jobs in aged and child care, disability support, mental health and other human services. That’s why SkillsLink Training has been supporting the Mid North Coast Human Services Alliance to bring more organisations in our region into partnering in these new fields of development.

Governments have also started to provide extra support for people to reskill and consider new career paths, and for businesses to gear up with new workers through training and employment support programmes. SkillsLink Training is excited to be able to offer a range of programmes with concessions available to eligible students, and to work with employers where they want to upskill new staff.

Let’s start with Traineeships.

We have Traineeships available in a range of industries, including Hospitality, Business Administration, Early Childhood Education and Care, Bookkeeping, Project Management, Community Services, Aged Care and Disabilities.

So why become a trainee? Well, as a trainee, you learn “on-the-job” with the support of an experienced and qualified trainer from SkillsLink.

Traineeships are really aimed at those learners who learn through doing or experiencing. And you are paid to learn from day one - what better way to learn!

And there are benefits for the employer as well. First of all, there are incentives of up to $4,000 depending on the qualification.

Secondly, the Trainee is being trained specifically to meet the needs of your business. Importantly, you gain increased productivity, worker

motivation and staff retention.

There is even opportunity for prospective trainees to be given some prevocational training so that they are starting with some basic skills already achieved. eships We have Traine e As the prospective ng available in a ra Operation, employer, have a g in ud cl of industries , in Coaching and chat with the staff ness Hospitality, Busi rly Mentoring, Digital at SkillsLink about Ea Administration, ion an d Literacy, Financial what those skills at Childhood Educ t ec oj Literacy, Medical might be, and we Pr g, in Care , Bookkeep ity un m Transcription, will customise the m Co Management, re and Workplace training just for you!

Services , Aged Ca Supervisor, Driving ” Traineeships can be s. tie Disabili Instructor, Leisure full-time or part-time and Recreation and depending on the needs many more. of the business and the Again, depending on your circumstances of the trainee. circumstances, these could be fee To find out more about Traineeships, contact Patrick Foley at SkillsLink Training. free, a discounted fee or full price.

Prefer to learn first with work experience And what about staff training? included?

We know that businesses don’t always want We have positions available in our Certificate accredited training, although as a Registered III in Aged Care, Certificate III in Business Training Organisation we can certainly provide Administration (Medical) and Certificate III that. SkillsLink Training will deliver the training in Disabilities. Concessions apply to each of that you know your workforce needs. It might these qualifications so, depending on your be a two-hour session, a half or full day, or circumstances, these could be fee free, a more. It could include some pre-course work, discounted fee or full price. Contact SkillsLink to some online interaction and/or a fully face-tofind out more. face workshop. The training will be customised Not interested in a full qualification, but want to meet your requirements. It’s what suits your to learn some specific skills? business and your staff that counts, and we will SkillsLink can cater for specific skill sets that work with you to make sure that happens. Just may include two or three units such as Food let us know what you want.

Safety Supervision, Housekeeping, Customer Why support your local Community College?

Service, Food Handling, Espresso Machine Established in 1984, your multi award

“

winning Community College has grown with the community. As the college is a not for profit community owned and governed organisation, supporting the College is an investment in your community. Operating in Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Wauchope and Nambucca, your investment is guaranteed to stay local.

We provide a range of support services to meet individual needs of students. Where necessary, course delivery incorporates specific workplace communication, literacy and numeracy skills. WH&S issues and workplace requirements are incorporated into all training.

Our mission is to enhance, enliven and enrich our community by providing quality education, training and associated services.

Our vocational courses reflect the needs of local individuals, community groups, businesses and local industry, and individual learners’ needs can be assessed and supported with specialised staff if required. Trainers are also skilled in adjusting training delivery and assessment to cater for disabilities or individual learning needs.

With your support for this work, we are better able to assist disadvantaged and disabled people through experiential and engaging teaching and learning opportunities, to achieve enhanced, enriched and enterprising lives in our community.

Port Macquarie Community College RTO 90315

OPPORTUNITY

Traineeships are now available in the following industries with employer incentives: • Hospitality • Business Administration • Early Childhood Education and Care • Bookkeeping • •Project Management • Community Services • Aged Care and Disabilities • FEE FREE SCHOLARSHIPS AND CONCESSIONS ALSO AVAILABLE ON A WIDE RANGE OF COURSES This training is subsidised by the NSW Government

skillslinktraining.com.au

Your community, your college, your future

ph: 6583 7288

77 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie

admin@skillslinktraining.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 75

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

FIND YOUR CAREER PATH A GREAT COURSE COMBINED WITH AN AMAZING PORT MACQUARIE LOCATION MADE THE OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY AT CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY (CSU) TOO GOOD TO MISS FOR PARAMEDIC STUDENT MARISSA LESO.

O

riginally from Wollongong, Marissa was attracted to CSU by the chance to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while studying towards her Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic).

Already, Marissa has completed a community placement with an Aboriginal medical centre, learning more about the Indigenous culture while practising vital signs.

CSU courses include many opportunities for workplace learning, as well as the chance to learn from people with real industry experience, offering a real insight into students’ future careers right from the start of their course.

“By far, the lecturers have been a highlight,” Marissa said.

Studying at CSU in Port Macquarie also gave Marissa the chance to volunteer at the Ironman 2015, where she wore her CSU Paramedic uniform with pride.

Fellow CSU student Josh White was already

76 greater port macquarie focus.

living in Port Macquarie when he decided to enrol in the Bachelor of Clinical Practice (Paramedic).

The ability to study at a university campus in his hometown was one of the drawcards for Josh, as well as the friendly atmosphere at CSU and its reputation in the community.

But while he was from Port Macquarie already, Josh said one of the highlights of his study experience was the chance to expand his networks.

“CSU is a great place to meet new people while still getting an education,” he said.

As well as making new friends, Josh has started developing his professional network through a workplace learning placement in Boolaroo, near Newcastle.

Paramedics is just one of the growing suite of courses offered at CSU in Port Macquarie.

Students can also choose from Bachelor degrees in Accounting, Advertising, Business Studies, Criminal Justice, Gerontology and Healthy Ageing, Graphic Design, K-12 Education, Medical Radiation Science, Outdoor

Marissa Leso

Studying at CSU in Port Macquarie also the gave Marissalu nteer vo to ce chan an at the Ironm e 2015, where sh wore her CSUniform Paramedic u with pride. ”

Josh White

“

Recreation and Ecotourism, Public Relations, Psychology or Social Work, providing diverse career opportunities for students without having to leave the Mid North Coast.

In 2016, CSU will open the first stage of its new permanent campus in Port Macquarie, further boosting the opportunities for students to experience the best of uni life on their doorstep.

The new campus will include practical learning facilities and social spaces, as well as offering students all the support and academic services needed to succeed. Scholarships are

Michael Ashworth

also available specifically for students at Port Macquarie Campus.

Justice Studies student Michael Ashworth urged anyone thinking about studying at CSU in Port Macquarie to follow their dream. “Do it. It will be the best experience that you can think of,” he said.

Find out more: Phone 1800 334 733 or visit www.csu.edu.au/port-info

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

Columba St.ANGLICAN SCHOOL “Australia is on the cusp of a new but very different industrial revolution.

Technology is going to dramatically reshape our workforce in coming years, and the nation’s ability to rapidly adapt to technological change, and even more importantly, innovate, will be paramount for job creation and our future economic success.” Australia’s Future Workforce Report, June 2015.

Great schools know that they can no longer afford to be “marks factories” that have the single focus of achieving high marks, often leaving the student “burnt” and dispirited by the educational experience.

Since its foundation, St Columba Anglican School has offered its students access to a world of opportunities, and has never been a “one size fits all” school.

SCAS students not only graduate with excellent academic results and multiple pathways to further education, they leave our school with a keen understanding of who they are and what they can achieve, as well as a range of skills that prepare them for future success.

Our students are offered a full spiritual, cultural, academic, sporting and community life as a part of their SCAS experience.

Our use of digital educational tools, positive competition, flexible learning options and differentiated teaching styles produces students who are not only academically successful, but also self aware, socially responsible and eager for the challenges of the future.

Recognising that the future can be an uncertain place, our educational model merges direct

instruction with the development of resilience, flexibility, teamwork skills and social awareness.

We value and support the widest range of educational experiences and disciplines - excellent preparation for the ever evolving workforce.

The measure of our success is not only to be found in the marks achieved or the competitions won. It can be seen in the quality and confidence of our graduates, the university places offered, the demand for our gap-years students from some of the best schools in the world and the post school success stories that flow back to us from our graduates.

We offer a real “World of Opportunities”.

If you’re a student looking to further develop your talents, skills or knowledge, we offer a diverse range of opportunities to help you successfully enter the next phase of your journey as a lifelong learner.

Limited vacancies exist in Senior Secondary School in 2016. For more information regarding enrolment at SCAS, please visit our website www.scas.nsw.edu.au and click on the enrolment tab.

Terry Muldoon Principal, St Columba Anglican School.

Look at what can be achieved when students are given a World of Opportunities

PROVEN RECORD OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN HSC, EXTERNAL EXAMINATIONS AND UNIVERSITY CHALLENGES.

NUMEROUS PERFORMING ARTS ACCOLADES, INCLUDING FIRST PLACE IN THE RECENT SYDNEY EISTEDDFOD DANCE OF CHAMPIONS.

REGIONAL, STATE AND NATIONAL REPRESENTATION IN SPORTS INCLUDING FOOTBALL, TENNIS, RUGBY, BASKETBALL, NETBALL, ATHLETICS AND TRIATHLON.

OPPORTUNITIES TO ENHANCE CLASSROOM LEARNING WITH CULTURAL IMMERSION EXPERIENCES TO LOCATIONS SUCH AS VIETNAM, ITALY AND JAPAN.

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDING LUMINOSITY, INTERACT CLUB AND STUDENT LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE ACROSS ALL YEAR GROUPS.

greater port macquarie focus.

77

78

greater port macquarie focus.

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE MID COAST CONNECT Why employers should get involved in Workplace Learning ...

Workplace Learning programmes are an important part of the NSW secondary school curriculum. They enable young people to spend a period of time - usually a week - in the workplace gaining practical experience and building skills.

For some students, workplace learning is their very first experience of the workplace, while for others they have already undertaken hours of paid work in part-time jobs.

There are many benefits for employers who host students in the workplace: • Participate in the education, career development and vocational training of young people in your own community • Talk to young people about your industry, its career paths and future directions • Promote the attitudes and skills you want in your workforce • Identify young people with potential for your industry

• Strengthen your links with the community and raise your business profile • Increase supervisory, training and mentoring skills of your own team.

“For young people, workplace learning is a vital link between school and the world of business and industry.” explains Jenny Fraser, Executive Officer of Mid Coast Connect, a locally-based non-profit organisation that assists young people with their transition from school into further education, training and employment. “Employers play an important role in creating opportunities for students to have first-hand experience in an industry of their choice, and to assist in helping youth to make informed career choices.”

Work placement is a compulsory requirement of the following HSC courses: automotive, business services, construction, electrotechnology, entertainment industry, financial services, hospitality, human services, information and digital technology, metal and engineering, primary industries, retail services, tourism and events.

What’s it like to study midwifery at the University of Newcastle in Port Macquarie?

By Jennifer Oppedisano, UON midwifery student I knew I wanted to be a midwife, without a doubt, after being present at the birth of my three nephews and helping their mums through labour. I enrolled in university back in 1995, but had to put my studies on hold for a time to have my own children.

Finally, I’m back chasing my dreams. UON in Port Macquarie was my university of choice, not just because it’s close to home, but also because their health degrees are so highly regarded by health professionals locally and internationally. The campus experience here is unique and personal; students are a close-knit family thanks to small class sizes and fantastic teachers. We aren’t just anonymous numbers on seats!

When I first started studying midwifery, the thought of taking someone’s blood pressure was nerve wracking - let alone delivering their

baby! But over the past three years of study, I’ve gained lots of clinical placement experience that’s truly enhanced my learning, skills and confidence.

After graduation, I’d love to work as a midwife in Port Macquarie. But after that, who knows? This degree can take me around the world!

Top achiever! Jennifer was recently announced as a Highly Commended nominee for the prestigious International Undergraduate Awards, putting her in the top 10% of her field. The awards celebrate and support the world’s brightest and most innovative undergraduate students. Award winners will be announced at a global summit in November.

greater port macquarie focus. 79

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

Y

our business was one of three in the state selected as finalists, with Bale Defence Industry from Port Macquarie being nominated as the winner. How does this feel? Fantastic! Congratulations to Bale Defence Industries - good to see a local winner.

The commitment to training has been an ongoing exercise of Mackie Electric & Refrigeration Pty Ltd (Mackie’s) going back to the ‘60s, when Ray Mackie (Dad) started putting effort into training staff.

After being in Sydney for 2014 NSW Training awards, where our adult apprentice Mark Hardy received the apprentice of the year award, we decided to nominate for the 2015 Training awards. Mark got busy preparing a proposal this year following on from last year’s experience.

How many people do you employ?

Mackie’s currently employ approx. 40 staff with eight employees in the Alan Johnston Commercial Refrigeration division in Port Macquarie and 32 In the Mackie’s Taree operation, with 25 service and install vehicles on the road.

COMMITTED TO THE INDUSTRY

80

greater port macquarie focus.

Mackie’s have purchased the 28 year old business Alan Johnston Commercial Refrigeration business.

Tell us about this acquisition and

G U I D E

how it sits with Mackie’s? A family business, Mackie’s was established by the late Ray and Joan Mackie and was always interested in expanding into the Hastings region to better service national clients. With an impromptu meeting with Alan Johnston, a discussion arose about the similarities in our businesses and how we could complement the two businesses, with Mackie’s having a bigger electrical team and Johnston’s having an emphasis on commercial catering sales and service, coolroom construction. July this year was the combination of the businesses, and we thank all the clients for supporting us and look forward to providing a diverse range of services from either of our local showrooms.

The Port team is led by Michael Johnston, who has worked with brother Alan for approx. 25 years and Brad Schneider, also a dual trade technician, having been with Mackie’s since leaving school and moving to Port three years ago.

The combined team are a major service provider to many local clubs/pubs, hospitals and the food industry, including meat processing and restaurants, national clients Woolworths and Global Foods, Kordia Telecommunications in the Mid North Coast.

Who owns Mackie’s? Having owned

and managed Mackie’s since 1987 and turning 60 this year, it was time to let the younger generation into the business to run the daily operations, with Glenys Fowler Administration Manager and Mark Hardy Technical Manager as shareholders in the business.

What is your point of difference?

Mackie’s can provide a comprehensive range of commercial refrigeration, air-conditioning, automatic doors (commercial), electrical service and installation (solar grid and battery systems), hot water solar and heat pump options, switchboard upgrades and service work, as well as commercial catering equipment including fridge/ freezers service and sales and coolroom/freezer installs.

Mark Dreyer runs our alternate energy sales and install division, with solar storage systems using batteries to allow you to disconnect from the grid or hybrid system allowing option of batteries or pole supply.

I encourage readers to come and have look at the Taree and Port Showrooms that have been undergoing changes to stock an improved range of commercial fridges and freezers.

Thank you Paul and congratulations on the achievement!

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

5 ESSENTIAL TIPS TO HELP YOU PREPARE FOR UNIVERSITY

M

CRICOS Provider 00109J

any people look back on their university years with great affection, often hailing the time as the best experience of their lives. However, the student life presents a major lifestyle change, and there will be many things that you’ll need to do in order to prepare yourself. Although soon-to-be university students often think of student life as a wildly enjoyable ride, it also comes with its major responsibilities.

1 - Get in Touch on Social Media Enrolling in university often means you’re likely to be surrounded by people you’ve never met before. To help meet new people who will be going to the same university as you, consider getting in touch with other students on your university’s homepage or social media groups.

2 - Organise Your Finances There might be plenty of support available for students on course fees and accommodation,

but for some students this will also be the first time in your life when you have to start being financially responsible. You might consider opening a separate bank account to organise funding for your studies where necessary.

3 - Stay One Step Ahead with Job Hunting Even if you have a generous amount of savings at your disposal, you’ll likely still want to have a part-time job so that you don’t end up leaving university with a debt on your shoulders. Stay one step ahead in your financial matters by starting your job search long in advance. Among the most popular part-time jobs for students are retail, bar work, tutoring or online freelancing. However, the best opportunities are those that complement your studies.

4 - Know What You Need to Bring Determine carefully what you actually need to bring. If you’re staying in typical student digs, you may need to bring some self-catering equipment with you, since the kitchenettes

are usually minimally supplied. You will also need to bring plenty of linen, suitable clothing, toiletries and a few home comforts to help you feel more at home. You might be looking at sharing accommodation with other students in which you will need to do your research.

You will also want a suitable laptop which you can use for both work and entertainment.

5 - Budget Carefully There are many important factors you’ll need to take into account when budgeting.

Common upfront costs include course materials, transport, and any tuition fees that may apply. If you’re going to be living

in student accommodation, your utility and Internet bills may be included in your rent, but if you plan to rent private accommodation, you’ll to need to familiarise yourself with all of these outgoings.

Final Words It takes time, effort and a certain degree of stress to prepare for university, and you’ll want to make sure you think of everything before making this life-changing step. No matter where you are heading, university will prepare you for higher education and broaden your future career opportunities.

Apply now to study Primary Teaching in 2016 Make a difference to our future generations.

You can study a Bachelor of Primary Teaching (Honours) with the University of Newcastle (UON) right here in Port Macquarie. UON has a world-class reputation and you will learn from some of the brightest minds in the industry.

A Bachelor of Primary Teaching (Honours) through UON gives you a face-to-face learning experience. You will graduate with a high quality honours degree that will set you apart from the rest. Applications are now open for 2016.

Learn more newcastle.edu.au/start2016 greater port macquarie focus.

81

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E T HC EA R AE NE NR US A GL U PI OD RE T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

Interview with the Gallery Curator at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery.

H NIOMI SANDS

82

greater port macquarie focus.

i Niomi. How long have you lived in the Hastings area, and what originally brought you here?

I have lived in Port Macquarie for just over seven years. I moved to the area to take up the position as Gallery Curator at the Regional Gallery, at the time the Glasshouse was under construction.

What’s your education background?

I graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours (Class One) in 2000 and completed a Masters of Museum Studies at The University of Sydney in 2007. In 2013 I completed a Graduate Diploma of Arts and Cultural Management through the University of South Australia, and I am currently enrolled in the Doctor of Visual Arts programme at Griffith University, QLD. Please give us a brief overview of your career to date, leading up to your current position as Gallery Curator of the Glasshouse Regional Gallery ...

Prior to working at the Glasshouse, I was employed at the Museum of Contemporary Art as the Assistant Registrar. As part of this role I worked on a number of large-scale exhibitions, including international touring, solo and group exhibitions of prominent Australian contemporary artists.

Prior to both of these appointments I worked

in regional galleries in the Hunter Region for a number of years, including Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery as a Gallery Assistant, the University of Newcastle as the Assistant Curator of the University Art Collection, Newcastle Region Gallery as a Public and Education Programmes Assistant and Gallery Attendant. During this time I was also a founding director of Field Contemporary Art Space, an artist-run gallery that operated in Newcastle for over five years.

How long have you been at the Glasshouse?

I have been at the Glasshouse since opening in 2009.

What’s involved with your current role what’s a “normal” day at the Glasshouse look like?

The Glasshouse is a dynamic work environment; each day I can be working on current exhibitions to projects two years away. As the Gallery Curator, the core aspect of my role is to develop and present an inspiring programme of diverse exhibitions and creative/cultural events. My day can involve anything from programme administration, to being up a ladder installing artworks, unloading of exhibition crates, to the development of exhibition publications and programmes.

You’ve recently returned from a trip overseas, as you were appointed by the Australia Council for the Arts as Team Leader of the Australian Pavilion of the Venice Biennale.

Tell us more about this ... What is the Venice

Fiona Hall, Wrong Way Time, 2015 Installation

T H E

d As a curator an , st ti ar practicing selected for be to eam the Exhi bition T on ti si po Leader was an amazing e once-in-a-lifetim opportunity. ”

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

“

Biennale, and what was involved with your role as Team Leader?

As a curator and practicing artist, to be selected for the Exhibition Team Leader position was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The team leader role was essentially a front of house position.

My core duties are to manage the day-to-day operations of the pavilion and to work with the attendant team to ensure the safety of the artworks and to provide customer service to visitors.

The position provided me with valuable practical experience in the day-to-day management

of high profile contemporary exhibitions, as well as provide an insight into the role that large international exhibitions play within the wider arts sector. During the placement I gained a deeper understanding of the engagement of diverse audiences with contemporary Australian Art and how to foster this engagement.

Wrong Way Time by Fiona Hall is an amazing exhibition and the perfect exhibition to open the new pavilion. Fiona created a wunderkammer-like installation that combines a series of different elements that interact and bounce off each other to discuss the core exhibition

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

themes of global finance, world politics and the state of the environment. The exhibition inspires your curiosity and increases your awareness of these issues and promotes thought on the core themes.

The visitors mostly loved the exhibition, with many commenting on their way out that in their opinion it was the best pavilion. We had a lot of Australian visitors who were not usual gallery patrons come along to the exhibition because they had seen TV/ media coverage on the exhibition and/or pavilion, and they were all very impressed.

Also, a lot of the other pavilion staff were recommending Australian Pavilion to their visitors as a “must see”.

What did you take away from your experience in Venice - what was the most rewarding aspect of the trip for you?

It was amazing to be a part of the team representing Australia in Venice, and it is especially amazing to be working in the Fiona Hall exhibition, as I have admired her work for a number of years and at my last job I was also working on a Fiona Hall exhibition; however, I moved to Port Macquarie before it opened, and I did not get to see on display.

I was also excited to see the new pavilion. It is so different to the last one. The building makes the most of the canal front and sits beautifully within the surrounding landscape. The building is very functional and suits the display of contemporary art well, as it can be quite flexible. I can imagine artists will be able to transform the space in amazing ways.

What’s next on your agenda - do you have

any exciting plans for the Glasshouse Regional Gallery?

This week our Gallery Install Team has just installed String Theory: Focus on Contemporary Art, a sublime touring exhibition from Museum of Contemporary Art, that explores contemporary Indigenous fibre works on all three levels of the Gallery. My next focus will be the fine tuning of our summer programme, which brings together a number of exhibitions centred around the theme of water.

Our 2016 Gallery programme is shaping up to be an exciting celebration of a diverse array of visual arts exhibitions and events. An exciting edition to the 2016 programme is our newly established artist in residency programme. Some of the highlights include the popular Northern Exposure: Showcasing Mid North Coast Artists exhibition, A cabinet of curiosities, a wonderful solo exhibition of new drawings by Jennifer Keeler-Milne, and the spectacular Group Exchange: Tamworth Textile Triennial touring exhibition.

Would you encourage anyone with a passion for art to consider a career in the field, and if so - why?

If you’re passionate about art and have a creative streak, working within the arts and cultural sector can be very rewarding. It can take a while to get established, but with hard work, education, volunteering and experience it can be possible. There’s nothing more satisfying than unpacking artworks; I still get excited when experiencing a new exhibition in the Gallery!

Thanks Niomi. Interview by Jo Atkins.

greater port macquarie focus. 83

focusinterview.

BRIAN Grant EQUINE DENTIST AND FARRIER

There are so many career options available these days, with some fields experiencing an influx of new starters, and others perhaps not attracting quite so many new recruits. Brian Grant, a local Equine Dentist and Farrier, believes there is a need for qualified and experienced people within the equine industry. He shares some insights from his 35 plus years of working with horses …

H

i Brian. You’re both an equine dentist and a farrier. Why did you decide to choose these occupations as a career?

When I started working with horses at around the age of five or six, I seemed to have the ability to be able to get horses to do most anything I asked of them.

I predominately worked, or at an early age helped, around trotting and galloping stables.

I was fortunate to have great mentors around at that time, JW (Jim) Bennett, CR (Bob) Elliot, Kevin Robinson, Brian and Dick Hancock, Jayne Davis and Noel Alexander, amongst only a few names to mention.

At all stables you need a good Farrier, Equine Dentist and even a Chiropractor. It was a natural progression to become a Farrier and to stay within the industry. Equine Dentistry came about by necessity - good dentists are hard to find, and I had made friends with local Vets and the staff at the Sydney University, Camden, who were able to point me in the right career path.

What education and training did you have to complete to become qualified?

I left school at the finish of the School Certificate with the old term “straight As” and had nothing else on my mind but to be around horses. Bob said to me you need a trade, which was backed up by my father.

There was a travelling Master Farrier from Harold Park and Menangle who would come to the stables, and I was asked if I wanted to learn the trade - and now I am passing on my knowledge to others.

In my mid-twenties I moved to Wagga Wagga to train Pacers (Trotters) and enrolled at the Charles Sturt University (CSU) and completed a Bachelor of Science Degree Equine (3 years full-time, B.App Sci Equine Wagga).

84

greater port macquarie focus.

I enrolled in Vet Science in Melbourne during my second year at CSU I was a TAFE y and deferred until I teacher for man mouth” and Faceed finished my degree, ne a is years, and there ople book, newspapers, but reluctantly I pe for experienced letterbox drops ht moved back to ug ta .I in our industry and Local Search d te la the South Coast re e most of the hors horse have helped, with NSW. I went from t courses, and mos nce all comments beVet Science and va ad people want to ing kind, resulting completed my of the their knowledge in further business.

Master of Educaindustry. ” What are some of tion Degree at UWS the most common Nepean (M.Ed UWS teeth and hoof probNepean). lems you see in our local Whereabouts are you area, and how can people help based, and what geographical arprevent these from occurring? eas do you cover with your services?

Your horse should be checked at least I live at Kundabung, NSW, 20 km from every six to 12 months for sharp enamel points Kempsey and 25 km from Port Macquaand cheek lacerations. rie.

Signs of dental problems: eating slowly, I will travel for the Dentistry anywhere if I slobbering, head-tilting, quidding (leaving can cover fuel and running costs. behind wads of grass or hay), drinking excess I have worked as far as Sydney and up to water, passing long fibres in manure, and Grafton in the last 12 months. During my weight loss. career I have travelled to Melbourne and Obvious dental problems show signs such Queensland for large stables. as fussing with the bit, head-tossing, bit-chewWhat’s the most rewarding part, and ing, refusing to take a lead or collect, bucking, conversely, the most difficult part, of your or subtle performance changes. Dental probjob? lems can also attribute to, cause or intensify I have many stories I can tell, but the most lameness and back soreness, as the horse recent was a new client who was in tears moves in an unnatural manner in an effort to whilst I was floating one of her horse’s teeth. relieve dental pain. Ineffective chewing can I stopped thinking I may be causing harm to potentially cause a horse to colic or choke. the horse - quite the contrary, I was being too Abscesses in the feet are very common in kind, and she was expecting me to be unkind the wet. Long nails and cracks let the water in; to the horse! This had come from her previous preventative trimming can help alleviate the experiences with other tradesmen. problem. Trimming should be looked at every The most difficult part is being accepted six to eight weeks to keep the feet in good to the Mid North Coast. Business was slow in condition. the early stages after moving to Kundabung What have been some of the biggest at the end of January 2014. Slowly, “word of changes you’ve experienced in both

“

Equine Dentistry and Farrier work since you first started out in the industry?

Without going into specifics, we are more aware of the responsibility to be kind to our animals. I do not sedate my clients’ horses, and if I have a problem, I refer on to the Vet. Equilox (hoof putty) for rebuilding damaged hooves and glue on shoes were among the biggest changes in the last 10 - 15 years.

What particular areas of tooth and hoof care do you specialise in/have a particular interest in (if any)?

I take every job as being different. No two jobs are the same, and I take great pride in correcting a horse with sharp teeth and being able to watch the horse progress from being in poor health to putting on weight and getting back to a general heathy condition.

Would you encourage anyone today to take up either Equine Dentistry or Farrier work as a career, and if so - why?

I was a TAFE teacher for many years, and there is a need for experienced people in our industry. I taught most of the horse related courses, and most horse people want to advance their knowledge of the industry. From my own experience there is a lot of travel from job to job, and the only people who will be successful are those that are totally dedicated to the industry.

If people are interested in contacting you, where can they do so?

I am always available to help. I am working on a web page at the moment.

Happy to take on new clients.

Email: brian.grant07@gmail.com Mobile: 0418 416 433.

Thanks Brian.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

T H E

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

AWARD WINNING COLLEGE Newman Senior Technical College has been recognised for its successful approach to Vocational Education and Training, with a teacher and student both named as Finalists in the 2015 NSW Training

Awards at an awards gala in Sydney on Wednesday 9 September 2015.

K

aren Warneken was named as a Finalist in the VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year category. Frank Smith was named as a Finalist in the VET in Schools Student of the Year category.

Ms Warneken and Mr Smith had earlier been announced as Winners for the North Coast region in their relevant categories at the regional event in Byron Bay on Friday 12 June.

The NSW Training Awards celebrated its 60th year in 2015, with a ceremony at the Dockside Pavilion in Darling Harbour, hosted by Minister for Regional Development, Skills and Small Business, the Hon John Barilaro MP.

Accolades for Newman College: Tom Moriarty, Frank Smith, Karen Warneken and Stephen Pares.

Newman College Principal Stephen Pares said the awards were testament to the College’s commitment to providing an HSC like no other through a unique blend of school-based study and workplace learning.

Human Services - Aged Care teacher Karen Warneken was recognised for establishing an industry standard training facility at the school and building strong links with the local aged care industry to meet the needs of the community.

“Ms Warneken currently oversees 13 aged care trainees and 40 students who undertake weekly workplacements across several facilities, and has supported many students as they embark on careers in this important and

growing sector,” Mr Pares said.

“Her hands-on approach and 16 years of industry experience is of tremendous value to the students, who learn not only the skills they need to be job-ready, but also the empathy and compassion required to succeed in this field.”

Mr Pares said student Frank Smith had demonstrated tremendous commitment to his on-the-job and school-based learning during his Financial Services studies.

“As School Captain, Frank is a terrific ambassador for the College and a mentor for his peers. He actively seeks out personal development opportunities such as attending the Luminosity Youth Summit, taking part in the recent Camp Gallipoli event, and volunteering for projects that assist the underprivileged,” Mr Pares said.

“After achieving success in both the Electrotechnology and Construction fields,

Frank found a natural fit within the finance, insurance and accounting sector during work placements with two local businesses. He intends to take up an offer of full-time employment while studying a Bachelor of Business and Finance at University next year.”

Newman Senior Technical College has received unprecedented interest for placements for 2016, as the school continues to grow from strength to strength each year. The college has an increasing variety of study pathways available and exciting new relationships with local industry partners, opening up a world of opportunities for students.

Anyone who wasn’t able to attend the Newman Senior Technical College Open Night or who hasn’t yet secured an interview is encouraged to call the school on (02) 6580 3800 as soon as possible.

greater port macquarie focus.

85

focusinterview.

DENNIS MARKS BUNDALEER CARE SERVICES

H

After 32 years as CEO of Bundaleer Care Services, Dennis Marks has decided to call it quits.

Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of chatting with Dennis about his time at the helm of the local aged care facility.

ow does it feel to be retiring after such a long career with Bundaleer?

I gave the Board notice three months ago. At that time I was very reluctant and apprehensive of what I was going to do, not really knowing if I had made the right decision. Should I stay on and keep working for another couple of years?

But, over the three-month period, I have spoken to others who have retired, and they have said that this is just the way it is. So, I have changed my mind and am now looking forward to calling it quits.

It’s been such a big part of your life. What was your first position with Bundaleer?

Originally I was employed as Administrative Officer for a 25 bed nursing home. The facility was only three years old when I started, had only 25 residents and about 30 staff. I had similar responsibilities as I have now, but naturally it was a lot smaller. So I did payroll, I was in charge of residents, clerical duties, assistant maintenance man - a lot of good fun.

I have some good memories from the small facility in Johnston Street, Wauchope. It was the end result of a lot of community involvement.

The Lions Club were involved with a door knock fundraising appeal; a lot of business houses, local people, even farmers used to donate cattle

86 greater port macquarie focus.

to the local sale and give the proceeds of the nursing home to now caring for 139 residential cattle to Bundaleer. This helped build the first 25 care residents over the two sites, the nursing bed facility. home and the hostel in Cameron Street. We The initial idea of Bundaleer came from a also take care of people in their own homes, fellow by the name of Clifford Morris, who and we have independent living units was the Lions Club President of surrounding the Cameron Street that time. Clifford had a son, site. In total we now care for John Morris, whom a lot in excess of 250 people. of local people would When I look around, Originally I was remember; he had I am proud of what’s employed as Downes Syndrome. here - for the Officer in Adm istrative Clifford was worried contributions I ing for a 25 bed nurs was about what would have made to help y home. The facilit d happen to John Bundaleer grow to s ol only three year ly when he and his wife what it is today. I on d ha when I started, t ou passed away - who ab think it is important d an 25 residents would look after his to understand 30 staff. ” son? So that is where what Bundaleer is all the idea came from; about. It’s about the he said Wauchope really residents, the elderly of our needed a place where elderly community and what we can people and people with disabilities do to care for them and to journey could be cared for. A steering committee with them for the remaining days of their was appointed; it took about four years of lives. We have a very loyal, hard working working, and they obtained Government staff, and I think that they do an excellent job in approval and built the 25 beds. achieving that goal.

The facility has grown since it first opened Thirty-two years is a long time to spend in back in 1980. How has it evolved into what any vocation; what are some of the reasons it is today? you remained at Bundaleer?

I have seen Bundaleer grow from the 25 bed Probably because I have lived for my job. I do

“

what I can to support the carers, my staff. My job hasn’t been physically demanding on me; it’s been more mental. Every day I have looked forward to coming to work, for the things that you face; every day is different. Thirty two years … Every day has been enjoyable.

As CEO, I have worked closely with the community elected Board of Directors; they set the direction, and then I go about implementing that direction. I take great pleasure in sharing the achievements of this organisation.

Bundaleer has always been at the forefront of the accreditation process. We provide quality care, have never been questioned; we have a good reputation with the Government and with the community that we represent.

Bundaleer, a not-for-profit organisation, is now one of the largest employers in the town and also contributes quite substantially to the economic status of Wauchope. In the beginning, we were an organisation that relied heavily on public support through donations and working volunteers and support from the Bundaleer Fundraising Committee. In the early days, there was the Bundaleer Picnic Race Club.

Over the years our non-profit status hasn’t changed and we are a public benevolent institution, but now because of the size of the organisation, we should be able to stand on our own two feet as far as viability and

T H E

sustainability is concerned. Even so, we still rely heavily on our volunteers and community contact. We still have involvement from the Lions, Rotary, Masons and our own fundraising committee, the Bundaleer Fundraisers.

We have 50 to 60 people who volunteer, some only an hour a week. These people get involved, and when they come in they bring the community in to our residents. Our residents get the contact, and they have a relationship with the community via these people. When you see the elderly people, you see that this contact brightens up their day. I have found this to be very satisfying.

Any interesting stories or people you have come across over the years?

A N N U A L

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

retirement or aged care industry?

The aged care industry is a challenge; it is a heavy work place. By that, I mean it can be physically and mentally demanding. We operate 24 hours, seven days a week, we never close, never have a day off, there is always somebody here as we care for people. Our people in administration are always looking for what we can do for our front line care staff, including the cleaners and cooks, to support them. We are one big happy family. We are like a big boarding house; we have our residents that we care for, catering for their daily living requirements.

Aged care isn’t for everybody. It’s for somebody who likes mixing with elderly people, has good communication skills, someone who can talk to everybody; it’s not a Monday to Friday job, There have been a not 9 to 5 - you have The aged care lot. But confidentiality to be very committed. industry is a doesn’t allow me to But, it can be very a challenge; it is By e. give you too many rewarding. In my case, heavy work plac be n that , I mean it ca details. Over the I have gotten a lot of mentally physically and years I have come satisfaction out of it. demanding . ” across some fantastic What now? Any future people. Staff have put plans? Travel maybe … on skits for our residents; I really have no plans. It the late Peter Morrotsy wrote is difficult, because I am by and directed some of them. We myself; I lost my wife three and a have had some really fun times, some half years ago. People tell me that I will great stories from the residents have been always find heaps to do, but I have given told; I have some fantastic memories from myself until Christmas to do a few things and the 32 years that I will hold with me. think about what I would like to do. Travel, yes Advice for someone wanting a career in the I would like to, but I haven’t really travelled. I

“

have a caravan, but haven’t used that for three and a half years years ... I’m not sure. Join some service clubs where I can put back in, whereas now whilst I have been working I haven’t had the time to do this. I may do some further study, maybe I will find a part-time job, go back into the work force. I don’t really know. Going from working full-time, you have to think, can I just turn off like that! I am young enough that I can still work; I have knowledge and skills to offer. I am going to explore every opportunity.

Thank you, Dennis, and best wishes for the future.

The Board of Bundaleer attributes the benefits that Bundaleer Gardens gives to Wauchope community and the wider Hastings community to Dennis Marks.

Bundaleer Gardens is Dennis Marks’ legacy to Wauchope. He has been a talented and committed manager of the growth of Bundaleer, and he leaves the organisation in a strong position financially with good growth prospects for the future. He also leaves Bundaleer with committed and talented staff in place at all levels, so that the high level of care that the residents have come to expect from Bundaleer will continue long into the future. Bundaleer is a community owned facility and with the continuing support of the local community, Bundaleer will be able to continue and develop the legacy that Dennis is leaving behind.

We hope that Dennis will enjoy a break and then - who knows? We wish Dennis a very happy, challenging and fulfilling future.

greater port macquarie focus.

87

with Susie Boswell.

I

focus _Travel

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N :

M E R C U R E S Y D N E Y I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R P O R T

’ve found the secret to a smooth departure, to arriving at the airport unruffled and so, effectively, extending my holiday at the front end by relaxing from the very beginning ... instead of settling into a break with a sigh of relief only after the forward trip’s over, air travel hassles behind me, and I’ve checked in at my destination.

Not only have I avoided travel trauma - airport agony? departure drama? – but I’ve actually experienced the fun side of travel, the thrills of air transport, even well before setting out for the terminal.

I’m admiring the aerial ballet, the smooth take-offs and swooping landings of an endless sequence of jets, enervated by the industrious hubbub of ground transport dashing, zigzagging about to help make the journeying happen, and thrilled in anticipation by the twinkling red, green and golden lights across the massive expanse of Sydney International Airport, stretching across the multiple runways to its control tower, and on to Botany Bay. Yes, I’m plane-spotting and the scene’s calling to me, beckoning me with that incomparable frisson that leisure travel ignites in us all.

Not only this scene, from my window on the top floor of the Mercure Sydney International Airport hotel: but also of cars and coaches - their headlights creating glittering ribbons - bustling like busy, purposeful ants below, streaming along the roadways to and from the complex. By day, the same aircraft movements are punctuated by a view of the glorious fairways and putting greens of Kogarah Golf Course and the lazy Cooks River, a relaxing vista peopled by tiny watchable figures strolling about their sporting pursuits, holing out, laughing, back-slapping.

Yes indeed, I’d checked in to the Mercure overnight ahead of my flight out to Singapore.

So what? Well: so that I know I’ll be on time for a comfortable check-in, unimpeded by unexpected traffic jams. So I’ll have a peaceful night’s sleep beforehand, untroubled by a last-minute flurry of worry: did I turn off the iron, did I lock the windows, did I turn on the alarm? I checked them all in comfortable time before setting out this evening. (By the way, I’ve only come from Darling

88 greater port macquarie focus.

Point, less than 15km away).

But I’m not stressed, that’s the point. No one’s coming to the front door unannounced when my mind’s on getting away on my trip. I’m not fretful, wondering if my taxi will actually turn up in time. If there’s anything last-minute to be concerned about, I’ve plenty of time to deal with it. Did I pack the adaptor? My jewellery? My passport/itinerary? Yes, they’re all there and I’m not struggling with baggage and locks and credit cards and tipping cabbies or porters while trying frantically to juggle my bags to find out.

I don’t need to worry about cooking dinner/ breakfast or cleaning up: the Mercure’s restaurant and notably helpful and friendly staff are at my command. No bed-making either.

I’ve stayed at the Mecure many times. It’s notably a home away from home for bushies who love that it’s so easy to reach, they can leave their car in the guest car park here in safety and at a good rate and hop the hotel’s shuttle across to the airport - relaxed, knowing it will get them there on time. And reliably bring them back without a long airport delay on the return.

Ditto when visiting town for a Sydney show or event (CATS opens at the incomparable Capitol Theatre for just a four-week season from the 30th of this month!) If you’re driving to the city from the country remember that few hotels closer to the CBD have any economical, or quickly accessible, parking.

The rates are terrific and it’s all under the guiding hand and genial welcome of GM Richard Holt, one of the smartest hospitality chiefs around – whose influence shows in his customer-savvy coterie of staff. See www.mercuresydneyairport. com.au for offerings such as the Ultimate Traveller Package: $199 for overnight accommodation with upgraded superior room, an airport shuttle for two and a $40 voucher towards dinner or lunch plus other available benefits. The hotel’s been recently refurbished: there’s a great bar, crisp linens and furnishings, Foxtel, Wifi, espresso coffee, choccies on the pillow - the works. And it’s double-glazed, deep-carpeted and whisper-quiet with thick drapes.

For me, it’s truly the way to ensure a “bon voyage”.

greater port macquarie focus.

89

focusinterview.

MUSEUM MUSTER VOLUNTEER CURATOR DEBBIE SOMMERS FILLS US IN ON SOME CHANGES HAPPENING AT OUR LOCAL MUSEUM - CHANGES THAT WILL BE LAUNCHED ON OCTOBER 11 AT A SPECIAL COMMUNITY EVENT. AND, EVERYONE’S INVITED TO ATTEND!

H

i Debbie. The museum is officially changing its name from Port Macquarie Historical Museum to Port Macquarie Museum, with this change to be accompanied by new branding, a new logo and a new website. What is the rationale behind this decision?

Hi Jo. Yes, we are changing our name slightly to better reflect who we are, what we do and what we offer our visitors. A Cultural Tourism Plan for our museum completed in May 2014 made a number of recommendations aimed at improving our visibility and viability into the future. As the plan states: Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible. The Plan, funded by a NSW Government through the Office of Environment and Heritage, identifies four guiding principles, five key goals and 70 recommendations. We are gradually working our way through them as resources and opportunities present.

One of the recommendations was to reconsider our name and how we brand ourselves. After due consideration, we settled on the name Port Macquarie Museum, as we are quite simply, the museum revealing Port Macquarie’s stories. Our new branding and logo clearly identifies our name, role and purpose. Now the challenge is to ensure our new name is recognised and used consistently!

Our legal entity remains as the Port Macquarie Historical Society Inc. A special event - the Museum Muster - is planned for October 11, which will be the launch platform for the changes to the museum. What activities are planned for

90

greater port macquarie focus.

The Museum Muster is a free to family fun day e and m na r launch ou s to branding change ie ar the Port Macqu y da e community. Th y, tr en ee fr e will includ e ag us sa ee and a fr sizzle ...”

“

the day?

The Museum Muster is a free family fun day to launch our name and branding changes to the Port Macquarie community.

The day will include free entry, a free sausage sizzle and morning tea, activities and entertainment. Our new logo and website have been funded with the support of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Community Grants programme, and we are pleased that our Mayor Peter Besseling will officially launch these at 10am to kick the day off.

Whilst our museum is not a part of Council, they have, over our 58 year history, provided much needed support for many of our projects.

Apart from introducing the new name to the public, what are the other aims of the event? Why has the event been called a “muster”?

A very important part of our role as a community organisation is to engage with our local community, and open days like the Museum Muster are about opening our doors to the community we serve and are a part of.

We have called the day a “muster”, because as a penal settlement Port Macquarie held many musters to count the convict population, and we are inviting the community to come along, celebrate with us and be counted as our supporters. Our sausage sizzle and morning tea will be much better than convict rations!

Most importantly, our large and significant collections have been “mustered” through the generosity and support of our local community.

Our volunteers always enjoy the opportunity to show how we our using our collections to

narrate and illustrate local stories to the community and general public.

The Muster will be held at the museum, so what time should people turn up?

Doors open at 9:30am, with the official logo and website launch at 10am. Food and entertainment will be on offer through until 2pm. People can drop in at any time throughout the day and are welcome to stay all day if they wish.

The museum was recently awarded Gold at the 2015 North Coast Tourism Awards in the Cultural Tourism category - for the second year in a row. Congratulations! To what do you believe the museum owes its success and the acknowledgement from the greater tourism community?

Thank you. It has certainly been exciting to win Gold two years running, and the awards are very welcome recognition by our tourism peers. I believe we owe our successes to the hard work, commitment and professionalism of all our volunteers. Despite being a community organisation, we understand the responsibilities entrusted to us as a community keeping place and work to ensure our collections and heritage assets are well looked after, our business processes are continually improved and that our museum and the stories we tell are visitor focused. In particular, our meet and greet volunteers and tour guides provide great customer service to the thousands of people who visit us each year.

What are some other plans in the pipeline

for the museum ... anything we should keep an eye out for?

We always have a number of plans and new projects in the pipeline and will be announcing a new project soon regarding our photograph collection. The project follows on from a Photograph Collection Management Plan we commissioned last year. It is innovative and will bring our photograph collection into the digital world. It will also ensure the collection is well documented, preserved and accessible into the future.

Who would you like to acknowledge or thank for their part in ensuring the museum is a thriving tourism destination?

Our volunteers play the greatest role in our success, and we could not exist without them.

Our Cultural Tourism Plan aims to build on our strengths and encourages us to build new relationships with the community, education and tourism groups. We are now an active participant in local tourism networks and support local tourism initiatives and events. The wider tourism industry has been very welcoming and supportive of our renewed tourism focus.

Where can people find out more info about both the museum and the Muster?

For more information about our museum and the Muster, people can go to our current website http://www.pmhm.org.au/, phone us on 6583 1108 or drop in to the museum at 22 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie.

Final say ...

Thanks Jo. We are looking forward to the Muster and guarantee a warm welcome to everyone.

Thanks Debbie.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

South East Asia and japan cruise W H Y C R U I S E ? Easy, convenient way to travel. Unpack once and experience the best of the region you are visiting in one cruise holiday.

There is nothing easier than simply waking up in the morning in the world’s most exciting and interesting cities.

Singapore: Whether you’re a nature lover, culture buff or thrill-seeker, Singapore has a wide selection of memorable leisure options, all within easy reach. The melding of Singapore’s rich tapestry of cultures into a harmonious collective is the country’s biggest attraction.

The rich heritage of Singapore is also evident in the wealth of food choices. Food centres such as Maxwell Food Centre are one-stop venues with different ethnic cuisines all under one roof. Newer additions to Singapore’s colourful “foodscape” include celebrity restaurants and trendy eateries in heritage districts.

Tokyo: Contemporary Tokyo may be the most

astonishing city on earth. It’s a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture.

The Ginza - an international shopping mecca stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st Century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture.

Tokyo provides the traveller with a dizzying experience.

Ho Chi Minh City: Over three decades have passed since the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon. Today, the name of this bustling metropolis on the Mekong River is Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, the essence of the city, a major trading centre since the 18th Century, remains unchanged. The air is filled with the cries of street hawkers and honking horns. Bicycles, motorbikes and automobiles fly down the boulevards at dizzying speeds. And everywhere, friendly faces and warm greetings meet you.

Well Creative - designing logos that work At Well Creative we have a strict approach to logo design. It comes from years of experience and seeing the problems that poorly designed logos cause. This is why we stick to the following principles:

Timelessness: Trends come and go but where your logo is concerned, longevity is key. Producing and rolling out a brand is an expense you should not have to revisit. Make your logo timeless.

Simplicity & versatility: A logo must work across a variety of mediums and applications. It could be used on the side of a pen, a billboard or stitched onto a uniform. Additionally it may be used in horizontal or vertical formats. This is why we avoid small details, effects such as drop shadows and blending colours. A simple logo composed of strong shapes, minimal typefaces and limited flat colours will eliminate future usage problems. It will also be easily recognised and more likely to appeal to your customers!

Appropriateness: A logo should be appropriate for its intended purpose. The fonts and colours used for a toy store would not be appropriate for a law firm.

Finally, a logo doesn’t always need to literally depict the goods or services of the business.

Just think of Apple or Toyota. A logo is purely for identification. It can be either an abstract or literal pictogram, type or an emblem.

Contact us to see how we can help you get your logo right.

ys DESIGNERS BUT a s m i T THEY’RE GREAT

LOUSY ROCK GODS

MAKING YOUR BUSINESS ROCK! wellcreative.com.au

02 6553 5828 greater port macquarie focus. 91

focusinterview.

SOPHIE

LOVE W A U C H O P E

F A R M E R S ’

M A R K E T

Business

S

ophie, you and your husband have a business called The Naked Farmers based at Tom’s Creek and you are also the current coordinator for the Wauchope Farmers’ Market. What was your career background before moving to the Mid North Coast and embarking upon these business initiatives?

I have been in Advertising, Marketing, PR and Events for 30 years - working in London, Hong Kong and Sydney. I still have a Marketing Company, The Zen Pen, helping small/medium enterprises take their bold vision into the marketplace and then to the next level. I am passionate about branding, communication and Marketing 101 for small businesses.

What was it that inspired you to move here and venture into these roles?

I decided to buy a farm for peace and quiet to write and ride my horses, but life had other plans! After many months of looking, I realised I was not going to find my dream property south of Sydney. The first time I looked northwards, my eyes rested on the images of a tiny off-thegrid cottage on the banks of the Ellenborough River, and I fell instantly in love. I was 40 and had reconciled myself to a life alone. Local electrician, builder and solar expert, Ged McCarthy, came to quote and commence work firstly on upgrading the solar, then take over the building works. He lit up my life in more ways than one! Soon we were engaged, and with a baby on the way!

Can you tell us a little about The Naked Farmers, where the name came from and what you are producing?

92

greater port macquarie focus.

There was a great photo of little Ben and I naked at the end of a hot day, leaning on the timber rails of the house paddock fence, and it inspired the name and the logo which Sydney Morning Herald’s John Shakespeare drew for us.

But Naked is less about no clothes (which is very impractical when farming!) and more about no frills, nothing added, back to basics, simple food and products, farmed as nature intended. We have free range pastured pork, free range beef, garlic, basil, lemon verbena, honey from our wonderful bees and amazing tomatoes. We sell some of these direct to the customer, and others we make into fantastic foods which tantalise the taste buds and remind people that food should taste good, be real and nurturing for body and soul, and use fresh and organic and chemical free ingredients.

You seem to exude a great passion for what you do; what is it that you love most about running your business and coordinating the Wauchope Farmers’ Market?

I am passionate about reconnecting people to the land, farmers and real food. I see the disconnect is so prevalent in our lives, with most people shopping in the duopoly and having no idea where their food comes from, how it is prepared or treated. Just recently an 18 year old told me that he had no idea that bacon came from pigs! For our health and the sustainability of the planet, we must all reconnect to nature.

Farmers’ Markets are at the cutting edge of the slow, real, food movement and reconnecting consumers to local food, farms and farmers.

We mustn’t let farms be mined or fracked and forsake our food security into the future.

As a local producer, what are some of the biggest challenges you face day to day?

Lack of time or money! There is always so and Cider festival. much to do, and it can get very debilitating How does this positive shift affect when wherever you look there are endless producers such as yourselves? jobs to be completed. It helps to focus on one It is great to be able to connect directly thing at a time, have long lists and cross things with consumers at events and markets, giving off when they finally get done. Like all small people the chance to taste real food, which business operators, investment in infrastructure often reminds them of their childhoods. Every is always a challenge, even though it is obvious single one of us needs to eat three times a day. that will advance the business. Farms We need to thank a farmer, know and animals eat money, so cash a farmer, buy from a farmer flow is always an issue. and know where our food It sounds like you’ve comes from. This is for got some great plans our own health and t ou ab te I am passiona le in store for the the health of the op pe g reconnectin al re d an Wauchope Farmers’ s planet. er rm to the land , fa ct ne on sc di Market. Can you What advice e th e food . I se r lives , ou in t en al tell us a little bit would you ev is so pr le shopping op pe t os m about what may offer to other ith w and having in the duopoly be in the pipeline? people looking here their food w ea id no We have just to venture into w it is comes from , ho launched our Battle farming? ” d. te ea tr prepared or of the Buskers! We Follow your heart are inviting Buskers to and hold onto your every market to strut their dream. The rest will stuff, sing and play their hearts follow. out, demonstrating their talent and And finally, if you could invite our panel of judges will decide who goes to any three business people to lunch, our grand Busk Off in December. It’s a great who would they be and why would you initiative to get local youth involved with the invite them?

Farmers’ Market and engaged with real food.

Richard Branson, whom I have enormous The “foodie” spotlight seems to be shining respect for - I love his fearless flair and vision. a little brighter on the Hastings region Andrew Penn, CEO of Telstra, so we can recently, which helps shift the tourist have a frank discussion about rural telephony perception from us just being a beach and internet, offshore call centres and the holiday destination. We have fabulous food importance of fantastic customer service! and beverage festivals such as Tastings Brendon Burchard, inspirational life and on Hastings and Slice of Haven and more marketing coach and mentor. recently the Blues and BBQ and the Beer Thanks for your time, Sophie!

“

robyn’s

spot

Robyn Butler.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR, A NEW PRIME MINISTER SWORN IN … WE ARE VERY GENEROUS IN THIS COUNTRY, LETTING EVERYONE HAVE A TURN IN THE TOP JOB, AREN’T WE?

A

n email that took my fancy and had me chuckling, read … "KEEP CALM - only three more Prime Ministers 'til Christmas!"

ANGEL GOWNS AUSTRALIA - GOWNS AND TUTUS A friend and very special lady told me about a non profit organisation called Angel Gowns Australia and how she and her sister are now involved in this organisation. After speaking to the Local Area Manager, Jessica Nash, I thought I would write about this organisation. To be honest, I was so touched by what Jessica wrote and said to me, I am finding it hard to put into words, as it is such a sensitive and very personal matter - though unfortunately part of many young families' lives.

The two main projects are the Angel Gowns (made from wedding gowns) for babies that have passed and tutus for children with disabilities or long term illnesses.

The Angel Gowns are beautifully presented and given to families to help create lasting memories … These gowns have been given to hospitals all over Australia. The community volunteers hope to touch the hearts of everyone who has suffered the tragic loss of their baby.

This organisation is wholly and solely run by volunteers, and not one cent is received by any individual. Also, there is no charge to the families receiving these outfits that are made with so much love by people with big hearts and lots of compassion.

All money raised goes towards their quality of care in presenting their programme to the many families who will need them though the loss of their baby or who have a child in special care.

At the moment, Jessica said they need no more wedding gowns, but would love donations of Gutterman thread, 5 mm satin ribbon in pastels, delicate laces, and haberdashery store gift vouchers are always most welcomed. Cash donations are tax deductable.

If you can, look on their website to see just how beautifully the whole experience is handled and how the gowns are wrapped with love; also, a lovely crystal and poem for the family are

enclosed. www.angelgownsaustralia.org.au For more information about joining the group, sewing the gowns, and other enquiries, email Jess on jessica.nash@angelgownsaustralia.org. au or look on their Facebook on www.facebook. com/tutuprogrammeaustralia Or Angel Gowns Australia and Tutu Programme Australia.

Thank you volunteers all around Australia ...

What would we do without you?.

BOUQUETS TO: 1. Sarah at Hastings Meat Deli Department (was Freddo's) for her expert knowledge in all the cheeses and meats - not to mention the taste test she gives the customer before they buy.

Prices aren't bad either! Keep up the good work, Sarah.

2. Sam at Aldi’s Port Macquarie for getting out from behind his counter and completely unloading a lady's trolley of goodies because she had trouble seeing. Several people told him how nice he was. He smiled and said, “Hey, it is my job!" Play it again, Sam! 3. If you are in town on Friday 2nd October 2015, Adam Bishop and a tall blonde will be performing at the Glasshouse for the lunchtime concert around noon. FREE - Adam was born blind, but his fingers certainly know their way around the piano. He graduated from Toowoomba University with Distinctions in Jazz.

“Magic2gether” will be performing songs to please everyone.

4. My sincerest apologises to the Port Macquarie Hastings Breast Cancer Support Group, especially Judith Hutchesson, for not attending your Mini Field Day for Women in September in the library.

To finish my column for this month, I thought this was very apt for all of us: BEFORE YOU SPEAK …

T ... IS IT TRUE H ... IS IT HELPFUL I ... IS IT INSPIRING N ... IS IT NECESSARY K ... IS IT KIND Keep smiling, Robbie. x greater port macquarie focus. 93

94 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus.

95

focusinterview.

“The Smug”

THIS MONTH THE SMUG TEST DRIVES THE BRAND NEW 2015 MAZDA MX-5 1.5 L MANUAL,

T

COURTESY OF PORT MACQUARIE MAZDA ON GORDON STREET, PORT MACQUARIE.

he 2015 Mazda MX-5 is a pretty funky little number that certainly turns heads whilst out and about.

I took this one out around town and out to the beaches and attracted quite some attention as I drove past. Not for my rough head, but for the vehicle of course.

Well weighted and responsive in the handling, the 1.5 L 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC S-VT petrol engine performed quite well and above its “on-paper” capacity. Never one to pre-read a specs book before a test drive, my guess was that the Mazda MX-5 1.5 L performed closer to a 1.6 to 1.8 L in power and performance.

It must have been the stunning Soul Red Metallic paintwork that made it feel like it was going faster?

The open-top “Jinba Ittai”, the philosophy of horse and rider as one and the “KODO - Soul of Motion” design is a deliberate move by the design team at Mazda that in my view does very much succeed in its mission in fusing the “horse and rider as one”.

If that sounds a little new age, let me put it this way. When you drive this little nugget, it feels like the car is an extension of your body in the way that it wraps around you and is very responsive to every move you make. In a way, you feel like you’re at one with the vehicle. Like I said, Jinba Ittai and KODO ...

96

greater port macquarie focus.

Having had plenty of motoring experience bit of fun on the weekend, the MX-5 is a pretty over the years, I compare driving the new MX-5 funky option to help you through the crisis or to something like crossing a motorbike (wind just to stand out from the crowd. in your hair - or lack thereof for me) with a As fun as this little bunny is, there’s a pretty racing go-kart (low to the ground, grippy and serious whole basket of safety features to responsive). With of course, feeling a lot more ensure you’re in good hands. secure with and relatively more comfort ABS, EBD and Emergency Brake Assist than both could ever offer. helps with the sudden need to The Mazda MX-5 includes pull up and the Limited-Slip the new SKYACTIV Differential which helps e iv dr u yo n Technology and after 26 maintain traction - maybe he W , this little nugget years of going around, not so good if you want r is an ca e th e lik s el fe it this model is certainly to do doughies in the ur body extension of yo keeping up with the plaza car park at night? ps ra it w in the way th at technological advances, This is a through and ry ve is around you and y not just in the internal through sporty option er ev responsive to ” e. functions, but also with which although sitting ak m move you the engine design and very low on the ground, performance. doesn’t “bottom out” like On the interior, the multisome lowered vehicles. The function commander control suspension is excellent and ensures system, which includes a compact push a comfortable drive. button and turn dial console between I’m not sure if you’ll really be needing driver and passenger, links up to a pretty the climate control air conditioning, because darn impressive digital display (optional) nestled you’ll never pull the top up, but it’s there along conservatively in the middle of the dashboard. with rain sensing wipers, keyless entry and of Bluetooth connectivity is pretty standard these course, front seats with heating function. days for inclusion in quality vehicles, with the Fuel consumption is pretty tidy at 6.1 L per MX-5 having that on board as well as internet 100/km in the 1.5 L manual model (combined) radio integration (Pandora, Stitcher and Aha). and with a 2.0 L model due on the showroom There’s only enough room for one significant floor very soon that will reportedly only creep other to accompany the driver, being a up to around 6.9 L per 100 km. compact two-seater and all, but if you’re into a The Mazda MX-5 is one of those stand out

“

from the crowd type fun-mobiles suited to a young professional or a mid-life couple looking to re-capture some youth. Having said that, I quite enjoyed the novelty factor, and the on-road costs are pretty achievable for most people in the new car market.

My suggestion is going for the red one. They go faster.

- The Smug

SNAPSHOT ENGINE & GEARS 96kW 1.5L 6 speed Manual RWD BODY Convertible, 2 seats.

FUEL 1.5L Petrol 4 cylinder DOHC 6.1L / 100km combined.

RANGE 1.5L Petrol and soon a 2.0L Petrol.

FAST FACTS Born in 1989, the MX-5 is 26 years and still going strong.

Only the second time in it’s history has the MX-5 had a chasis re-design as it does with the 2015 model.

The best priced MX-5 in recent memory.

It’s the smallest MX-5 to date.

focus_business.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

Hadyn Oriti.

MINDING YOUR

business THAT WOOLWORTHS HAS DECIDED AGAINST PURSUING THE PURCHASE OF THE PLAZA CAR PARK IS AN UNDENIABLY GOOD THING.

H

owever, we are still a long way away from our ultimate objective.

That the Plaza car park remains in public hands at this point in time is not the end result we are seeking.

The outcome that our Chamber has consistently lobbied for is the implementation of the community’s foreshore vision and master plan. A large supermarket for that site

did not meet the community’s expectations.

We have met with the Minister for Lands and his bureaucrats. They have told us they will provide us with their proposal for how the foreshore plan of management may be implemented. We look forward to seeing that proposal soon.

We are in one of the best regional centres in Australia. As a chamber, we

encourage business investment and economic development. Whilst we welcome Woolworths pulling out of the expression of interest process in respect of the car park, it does not end there. The Food for Less site must be developed or demolished. Woolworths is welcome to develop another site within the CBD, and I encourage the Council to engage in constructive discussions with Woolworths to assist them in locating such a site.

The key to developing our foreshore is funding. That is why the Chamber has called upon the creation of a state owned corporation in which all of the lands from Settlement City to the break wall are vested in the one authority.

Minister Niall Blair has told us that there are other mechanisms that the State Government prefers to implement the plan. There is more than one way to skin a cat. Our objective is not the type of authority that is put in place, although it must be one with the appropriate powers, but rather the development of the foreshore. If we can have an authority that has access to funding and local control of the development of that site, ensuring consistency with the foreshore plan of management and the vision, then we can create something of which the whole community can be proud.

I do not pretend to have a blueprint for the foreshore. However, there are other areas around Australia we may look to for inspiration. Southbank in Brisbane is a stunning

example of what happens when the right vision, structure and funding is put in place. So too is the Noosaville foreshore development along the Noosa River. Equally, there are the Townsville and Cairns waterfronts, together with the Darwin waterfront. They are everywhere. We need the political will to make it happen here. That requires all of our political representatives, council, state and federal working together to achieve community expectations. How hard can that be?

With the right structure in place, with the right plan and funding, the community could expect to see something along our foreshore which would engender pride and be an attraction for locals and visitors. It would encourage activity, draw people to the CBD and elsewhere along the foreshore.

Development might include a mix of a revitalised fish co-op, open space, playgrounds, barbecues, cafés, restaurants, retail, commercial and residential.

That is our ultimate goal. And that is why the Chamber took the stand that it did in relation to the Plaza car park. Let’s acknowledge that the Plaza car park is ripe for development and demand something be done soon. The status quo is not good enough. Port Macquarie deserves much better.

The community has shown what it can achieve when it works together. Let’s get together to finish the job.

Coalition’s Infrastructure and Jobs package

delivers for the Hastings

Pacific Highway

Record funding for Port Macquarie Hastings infrastructure

The Federal Coalition’s decision to boost funding for the Pacific Highway upgrade by an extra $2 billion is delivering major economic benefits for our region.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will receive record funding as part of the Coalition’s $50 billion infrastructure programme.

Port Macquarie to Kempsey upgrade:

2014-2018 Federal Funding to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council:

• • • • •

• Extra Roads to Recovery Funding for the Hastings: $3,937,752 • Total Roads to Recovery Funding for the Hastings: $11,423,993 • Federal Financial Assistance Grants for the Hastings: Nearly $40 million

Project cost: $1.05 billion Project scope: 37km state-of-the-art motorway Construction Timetable: 2014-2017 Direct Jobs: 933 jobs Indirect Jobs: 2,900 jobs

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, 75-77 Clarence St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444.

Dr David Gillespie MP | Federal Member for Lyne greater port macquarie focus.

97

focusinterview.

Success & Sustainability in Human services: Creating a New future 16 - 17 November at Panthers, Port Macquarie.

W

hat is the conference about, and what are the aims?

Most importantly, it is a vehicle for learning and collaboration for Human Services organisations (many of them not for profit) as they prepare for the 2016 introduction of The Federal Government’s new National Disability Insurance Scheme, that will change the whole face of Human Services nationally.

The conference will investigate how Human Services organisations need to navigate these reforms, be strategic in how they do business moving forward, collaborate and partner with other organisations while providing a well trained workforce.

It is extremely important for organisations to change the way they operate, including ensuring they have a well trained, flexible workforce. In doing so, they will be equipped to retain employment and job opportunities for the many professionals within this huge sector, one of the largest employers in our region.

Only by being prepared for the changes, can they go on to sustainably provide high quality professional care delivery.

The long term end result is ensuring Mid North Coast and national communities continue to receive the best available care and professionalism from Human Services providers in the far reaching fields of health, aged and disability care, child care, mental health, support for youth and women at risk, Indigenous groups and multicultural services and more.

This conference initiated by the Mid North Coast Human Resources Alliance will be the first of its kind in Australia.

We have attracted high calibre guest speakers to collaborate and plan the future delivery of these vital services,

98 greater port macquarie focus.

Our speakers ar

“

e

nd with organisational Executive Officer for drawn from arou ve ha l sustainability and Peninsula Community al d an y the countr d an customer needs the Centre Inc and Kay ce en ri pe great ex e. The ar sh to key focuses within the Dean, National s ie ud st case r and our ke ea new NDIS business sp Disability Coordination e ot yn ke erence is model.

Officer with the MC for the conf orthy. ” The Mid North University of Newcastle.

Michael G oldsw Coast Human Services The programme Alliance was established addresses major factors in April 2014 to help noninfluencing these national government organisations to work changes, including workforce more sustainably, preserve their tradition multiskilling, customer-focused choice of being person-valuing and communityabout care rather than a service-focused building. approach, and exploring different forms of The aim of surviving economically while also partnerships, alliances or amalgamations to maintaining personal connections with people ensure customers receive the best choices and requires finding ways of generating “profit how best to deliver key messages. for a purpose”. This concept has replaced Our website includes a full list the old “Not for Profit” concept, so providers of speakers and their bios: www. generate enough revenue to sustain and build successandsustainabilityconference.com their service, rather than always relying on Hoped for outcomes? government handouts.

We want our conference delegates to walk Key Topics and Presenters? away with a clear Action Plan for developing Our speakers are drawn from around the effective strategies for sustainability into the country and all have great experience and case future. studies to share.

To help organisations identify where they are The keynote speaker and our MC for the currently needing to change, and how best to conference is Michael Goldsworthy. Michael find partners in the local region who can help specialises in facilitation, development make those changes possible with the best and project management of governance, combination of activities. strategic planning, business development, To retain and train Human Services amalgamations, mergers and partnerships. employees toward job retention and He has the big picture and trends projects maintenance of strong community for Not for Profit organisations. His expertise relationships. Not to give away profits to has seen him working with more than outside organisations working for distant 6,000 boards, chief executive officers and shareholders. Ideally, to support the creation of senior management teams of Not For Profit more local jobs and improved quality of life for organisations, in all states of Australia all in our local communities. throughout the last 25 years.

More specifically, the advent of the NDIS Other speakers include Sue Ellen Evans, (National Disability Insurance Scheme), the Workforce Advisor (DWN), National and NDS; current Aged Care reforms, and changes Stephen Groombridge, Manager, Clinical in Community Mental Health care are just Services with Samaritans; Andrew Tuck, Chief three examples of major changes sweeping

everyone’s lives. The way into the future will be marked by much more choice and clientcentred care, and much less organisational domination of how human services are run.

To ensure top quality person to person care for our Human Services customers as we plan, embrace and grow within the new NDIS. To retain strong relationships with our customers.

What are the different roles of the collaborating organisations in the MNC HSA towards the Conference?

The MNC HSA Conference Committee comprises a range of professionals from leading Human Services providers. They are donating their time and contributing to our group effort to ensure the MNC and its national counterparts work together for the best results for our organisations and our customers.

Over the past six months we have focused on finding great national speakers, a generous and supportive local venue at Panthers, and planning a series of breakout workshops that will give hands-on practical support for people to use post conference. No single organisation has taken the lead; it’s a totally collaborative effort by all involved.

Who should attend the conference?

The conference is aimed at board and committee members of NGOs, management, staff and key allies in the sector. We want to encourage a sharing of ideas and experiences.

The aim is to have combinations of new partners leaving the conference all fired up for the next phase of evolution in the Human Services change agenda.

How can people register or learn more?

Please go to our website: www. successandsustainabilityconference.com for registration and more information.

Interview with Cynthia Fitzpatrick and John Carroll.

focusrealestate

focusinterview.

4WD • PORT MACQUARIE & DISTRICT •

REBECCA CARLIN

CLUB

Ask Greg

THE PORT MACQUARIE AND DISTRICT 4WD CLUB IS TURNING 40, AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE THAN A PARTY! CHRISSY JONES CAUGHT UP WITH ONE OF THE MEMBERS, REBECCA CARLIN, AND FOUND OUT MORE ABOUT THE CLUB AND THE FESTIVITIES ...

T

ell us about the club ...

Throughout the past four decades the 4WD club has been bringing adventure seeking, travel loving families together to explore coastlines, mountains, bush and the outback of Australia.

Roads long and short, dirt and tar have been driven by the numerous club members over the years, giving members and their families the opportunity to experience the well and lesser known areas of our beautiful country.

The travel bug that this club inspires has spread through the Port Macquarie and District 4WD club members, caught by their family generations and their friends who have kept the club alive throughout the 40 years it has been running.

Between unpacking the camper and washing the dirt off the 4WD from whichever track was explored, the members also raise money for local charities such as the Port Macquarie Base Hospital Oncology Unit, Westpac Rescue Helicopter and Riding For The Disabled, putting their 60 odd club members to good use in the local community.

Your mum and dad, long-time members Steve and Trudy Carlin, are looking forward to the 40th anniversary celebrations; tell us more ...

They have made many lifelong friends over the past 18 years as representatives of the Port Macquarie and District 4WD Club and are really looking forward to the day so they can catch up with former members they haven’t

Q

Greg Trembath answers your real estate questions.

I’m frustrated by real estate agents who don’t advertise properties for a specific price. I’m tired of playing the

“offers over” game - I just want to find a suitable home and know whether it’s one

seen in a few years.

Mum has sat in the passenger seat on many trips in the 4WD with Dad and their two kids.

She is looking forward to hearing about past trips and comparing them with the current ones and seeing how all our old friends are getting along.

Now the part about the party…

Celebrations will commence at 9:45am on Saturday 17th October with a four hour day drive around the local area and continue long into the night. Present club members are inviting former club members, wherever they may live now, to join in the Gala Day and share their memories and experiences with the current 4WD club members.

The 40th Anniversary Gala Day will consist of a mystery day drive around our local area followed by a casual finger food dinner, drinks, catch ups and lots of memories at the Black Duck Brewery.

Who's invited?

All current and past members of the club, young and old. We are excited to celebrate the past 40 years and are looking forward to the adventures and memories that the next 40 years hold.

So pack the fridge or esky for a BYO BBQ lunch, grab the kids and come and enjoy the Port Macquarie and District 4WD Club’s 40th Birthday Celebration!

Spaces are limited, so to reserve a place contact Gavin Sharp for more information, or RSVP on 0428 462 701 or email gavjan1@ gmail.com Thanks Rebecca.

I can afford, without having to

selling price stated in the Sales Agency Agreement with the vendor.

While these reforms are primarily designed to assist prospective buyers, my feeling is they will also protect sellers from techniques that disguise the likely selling price and unfairly raise expectations.

play guessing games. Karen, Port Macquarie.

A. Karen you are not alone on this issue; in fact, widespread frustration has led to NSW Fair Trading stepping in to review real estate marketing

This should d spell an en e is c re p to im or unclear statementsers such as ‘off over’.

techniques and pricing practices.

The good news is that reforms are underway, requiring agents to be specific when giving price guides. This should spell an end to imprecise or unclear statements such as “offers over”. Importantly, agents will also be prevented from including any price in advertising that is less than the estimated

Public awareness of these reforms will result in more support for the agents doing the right thing, and a more comfortable and transparent way to buy and sell property.

This clarity is a good thing, particularly as it is the biggest financial transaction in most people’s lives.

In the meantime, Karen, try to be direct with your questioning - ask the agent, “What will it cost me to own this property?” and good luck with your home hunt.

Greg Trembath is Principal/Licensee at Greg Trembath Real Estate. Licensed Real Estate Agent - Licensed Auctioneer.

gregtremb th REAL ESTATE

greater port macquarie focus.

99

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

lawrence built H O M E S

100greater port macquarie focus.

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

focusabode.

lawrence built H O M E S

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

October FOCUS Home of the Month is brought to you by Lawrence Built. Scott

and Vanessa are proud of their latest build, their own custom built home. Many months in the planning, Scott has built a very comfortable home for his family that is truly stunning. Chrissy Jones

had the pleasure of being shown through the residence by Vanessa.

Beautiful recycled r ba Iron rk timbe rfoot; de flooring is un adds d ar bo a six inch d an el fe a rustic isp, contrast to the cr .” or ri te in white of the

“

et high at 10 Horizons Parkway in the Crestwood Heights Estate, the home takes full advantage of its sloping foot print and boasts magnificent views from every possible vantage point.

From first look the home presents as a modern, contemporary facade having a mix of both colours and textures from the James Hardie horizontal cladding to the rendered brickwork and timber panelling - all blends superbly with the easy care landscaped gardens. An exposed aggregate drive leads from street level to the gated entry way onto a tiled patio area with

timber lined ceiling fitted with down lighting. The front courtyard encases the patio and wraps around the side of the home to the rear yard.

Entrance to the home is via an extra wide timber and glass panelled doorway into the entry foyer. Beautiful recycled Ironbark timber flooring is underfoot; a six inch board adds a rustic feel and contrast to the crisp, white of the interior.

Right of entry is a teenagers’ retreat, having an extra large bedroom with ensuite. Soft carpeting underfoot, square set cornice, ceiling fan and a bank of built-in wardrobes provides an abundance of storage. A wall of windows, both flat panel and louvre, allow direction of air flow, and roller block out blinds let in the required amount of natural light.

greater port macquarie focus. 101

focusabode.

lawrence built H O M E S

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

The ensuite has been incorporated under the home’s stairway - a space saving idea that works extremely well. A glass doored shower, polished black floor tiling, which are a contrast to the white floor to ceiling wall tiles, black towel rails and a black square set shower rose all match the black frame edge of the shower.

The recycled Ironbark flooring has been crafted into a magnificent, extra wide stairway that leads to the second level of the home.

At the top of the stairs you are treated to the wow factor, stepping into an opulent, open plan living area made up of lounge, dining and kitchen flanked both sides by outdoor entertaining areas; all areas have the ironbark flooring underfoot.

102

greater port macquarie focus.

An extra wide island bench houses a double nk stainless steel si , under er ix m ck fli ith w r, bench dishwashe ok no e av microw close and lots of soft .” ts storage cabine

“

KITCHEN/LOUNGE/ LIVING AREAS Highlights of the kitchen from Mid Coast Kitchens, are the 60 mm stone black granite benchtops and the black glass mirrored splash-back, and the pendant lighting placed over the island bench from Beacon Lighting. A high raked ceiling overhead adds a light and airy feel, and the flow between the kitchen and the adjoining dining room will make entertaining a breeze. With high gloss cupboard fronts and louvre up door fronts on the overhead cabinetry, the kitchen is a very functional, stylish and maintenance free,

designed for a family.

An extra wide island bench houses a double stainless steel sink with flick mixer, under bench dishwasher, microwave nook and lots of soft close storage cabinets. A five burner gas cook-top and gas oven in the back wall of the kitchen has deep drawers either side, adding to the storage provided in the kitchen.

The lounge is spacious - a very comfortable space boasting relaxing views through the silicone joined corner window and glass sliding doors at the front of the home. Opening onto a tiled balcony with glass balustrade, this is a lovely spot to sit and relax, that is protected

from northerly winds and captures the afternoon sun. The front balcony, living areas, lounge, kitchen and dining rooms all combine and open out onto the rear alfresco, creating a fantastic entertaining area alongside the pool area.

The rear entertaining area completes the living space perfectly. Having the same flooring as the interior combines all into one large open plan area pool side.

The pool is from Pollard Pools and is surrounded with a frameless glass balustrade.

Resort style, the pool has a travertine tile, from Tiles With Style, Your ColorTile store, around the edge and timber decking, which adds a touch of style and safety. Scott has utilised

focusabode. the slope of the land, building a retaining wall at tap-ware all adds to the luxe look and feel. the rear of the pool and incorporating tropical, MASTER BEDROOM maintenance free gardens. An outside toilet with Once again, a very spacious room, the master hand basin is conveniently placed adjacent to the is its own private retreat placed at the rear of the pool area for summer. home, with access to the pool and entertaining Left of the living areas is a hallway leading to deck area through a double glass sliding door. the bedrooms. A centrally placed media room has Black frames around the sliding glass doors (as are soft carpeting underfoot and can be closed off the aluminium frames of the windows and door for private movie nights via wooden, cavity sliding throughout) are a modern, striking contrast to the doors. crisp white of the walls.

An extra large carpeted walk-in linen press gives Separate his and hers wardrobes, block out roller plenty of storage for the family’s needs and is blinds, ceiling fan and soft carpeting underfoot conveniently placed between bedrooms. all add to the tranquility of this light filled master Scott and Vanessa’s daughter’s bedroom. bedroom is a dream for any The masters ensuite has a custom teenager. Having a three made wall mounted vanity, with doored built-in wardrobe, above bench square set his and d an s hi te ra pa plush carpeting, ceiling fan hers hand basins with cabinetry Se , hers wardrobes and a wide, high window below. A large vanity mirror offering beautiful views, sits above, and opaque glass block out roller n blinds , ceiling fa the bedroom is luxury louvre windows have been ing and soft carpet itself. Next door is a placed both sides to allow d to underfoot all ad study, with a mirror the natural light in and a this the tranquility of image layout to the directional airflow. The shower r light filled maste bedroom. Servicing the has a black polished floor to bedroom .” bedroom is a bathroom, ceiling tile as a feature on one wall fitted out expertly with a freeand a glass shower-screen. White standing bath which sits beneath tiling floor to ceiling encases the ensuite; an opaque glass window, hidden WC, black towel rails and fittings and fixtures are wall hung vanity, plus a glass screened shower a striking addition that matches the window frames cubicle with a wall recess included for shampoos and black polished floor tiling. etc and a smart-tile drain in the floor tile. White Overall, the home is an excellent example of the and black porcelain floor and wall tiling mirrors the top quality that is delivered every time by Scott and his team at Lawrence Built. master ensuite design, and black towel rails and

“

lawrence built H O M E S

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

greater port macquarie focus. 103

focusabode.

lawrence built H O M E S

Our designs centre on nt s’ tin mee g our clie s ed individual ne lst and lifestyle whi ’s te si a utilising to its characteristics ” e. best advantag

“

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

FROM THE DESIGNER DEREK COLLINS COLLINS W COLLINS PTY LTD | AWARD-WINNING BUILDING DESIGNERS Collins W Collins specialises in custom designs with a guiding philosophy of “individual designs for individual people”. Our designs centre on meeting our clients’ individual needs and lifestyle whilst utilising a site’s characteristics to its best advantage.

THE BRIEF • Family sized contemporary style home that takes advantage of the south-western views to Lighthouse Beach and southern views to Lake Cathie • Create a functional design that utilises the slope of the land • Entertaining is a priority for this family • Outdoor living to incorporate a resort style pool and alfresco area • Guest accommodation to be separate from the family bedrooms and living areas

104

greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode.

Scott Lawrence finishes a home to such a at high standard , th s ht lig gh hi ly it real al ur ct ite ch ar e th characteristics .” within the design

“ THE DESIGN • The contemporary design is reflective of the home's coastal location, featuring an integration of external materials and finishes and varying low-pitched roof lines • Generous open plan living areas with high raked ceilings and timber flooring offer a sense of space, yet exude the warmth of a luxurious family home • The covered balcony with raked ceilings to the north is perfect for entertaining, and the use of large stacker-sliding door units visually connects the indoor area to the outdoor living and pool area, maximising natural light

and ventilation throughout the home • A covered balcony to the south provides access to the available water views to Lighthouse Beach and Lake Cathie • The generous master bedroom overlooks the modern resort style pool and features a spacious ensuite with double vanity and walkin-robe • The guest bedroom is located on the first

level of the home and includes an ensuite and private courtyard outlook, ensuring maximum privacy • The home incorporates a number of "little" features such as a well-sized walk-in linen,

lightwell/void for natural light to the foyer and stairs, raked ceilings throughout creates a sense of space and adds a touch of luxury, an outdoor toilet adjacent the pool and alfresco areas, and a separate cinema room

COMMENTS FROM THE DESIGNER "This project was an absolute pleasure to work on!" says Derek Collins. "Scott Lawrence finishes a home to such a high standard, that it really highlights the architectural characteristics within the design. Scott is very flexible when it comes to using alternate and contemporary products and is always open to new ideas, and it's this attitude that has resulted in the creation of this stunning, contemporary home.

Want to see more of what Collins W Collins do? Head on over to our new website collinswcollins.com.au and have a look at more of our projects in the Project Gallery.

LEDlux Vice

Rectangle exterior up/down wall bracket in charcoal.

$129

Vaille

3 light pendant in oil rub bronze.

$489

Ando

1 light pendant in concrete with clear glass shade.

$169

Proud lighting supplier of

Lawrence Built Display Homes

Port Macquarie 180 Lake Rd. Ph 6581 2062 shop online beaconlighting.com.au

6432B Port Macquarie 1/4 page ad.indd 1

15/09/2015 4:54 pm

greater port macquarie focus. 105

focusabode.

lawrence built H O M E S

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

ABOUT THE BUILDER Lawrence Built has been building and renovating homes on the Mid North Coast now for over 35 years.

They specialise in the building and design of custom made homes and renovations and offer clients a full range of building services, including small jobs, such as room and deck additions, renovations of kitchen and bathrooms, to impressive custom built homes, construction of dual occupancies, as well as large commercial construction.

The team of qualified builders have a solid understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls of renovating every style of home, and can help guide you through the building and renovation process from start to finish.

Their pledge is to establish lasting relationships with their clients by exceeding customer expectations and gaining trust through exceptional performance by their construction team, who deliver high-quality, cost effective projects on

schedule.

Scott and Vanessa believe a Lawrence Built When you choose Lawrence Built to build successful build process involves are a family d, your new home, you are choosing to deal with open lines of communication with run, locally base ng a team of expert builders from start to finish. the client at all times, and they will award winni u Lawrence Built are specialists who have built go out of their way to help guide business that yo a solid reputation locally for delivering a full you through the build process from can trust.” range of custom-made quality homes, on time start to finish. and on budget.

Questions are welcome at any point, The decision to build a new home is exciting; and because they think it’s important that however, it is sometimes hard to know just where to you know what’s involved at every step of start. your build, they’ve developed some resources that The team of experts can work with you every step of the way outline the main steps and milestones experienced within a new as they guide you through the process involved in transforming build. your dreams of a home into a reality.

Lawrence Built are a family run, locally based and award All tradesmen used are qualified, experienced and specialists winning business that you can trust. They have gained a solid within their field and best of all, when they are on site, they are reputation for providing a service founded upon strong work friendly, respectful and always take a “safety first” approach. ethics, attention to detail and a thorough knowledge of industry

“





  









106

greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode.

codes and regulations.

Nothing pleases Scott, Vanessa and their team more than a satisfied client, and they are happy to say they have had many.

Renovations - also a Lawrence Built Specialty Lawrence Built has been a trusted consultant in both home and commercial renovations in the Hastings region since 1975.

The team of qualified builders have a solid understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls of renovating every style of home, and can help guide you through the renovation process from start to finish.

It’s Lawrence Built’s aim to always exceed your expectations, which they have done over the years with many of their renovation clients.

If you would like to find out more about building your new home or completing a renovation on your existing home, call them today on 0412 065 903.

lawrence built H O M E S

&

R E N O V A T I O N S

If you would like to find out more about building your new home or completing a renovation on your existing home with Lawrence Built,

CALL THEM TODAY ON 0412 065 903

greater port macquarie focus. 107

focusinterview.

Michelle

PERCIVAL MICHELLE AND THE TEAM AT P E RC I VA L P RO P E RT Y A R E D E D I CAT E D TO S U P P O RT I N G B R E A ST CA N C E R F U N D I N G A N D R E S E A RC H . T H RO U G H O U T O C TO B E R , T H E Y W I L L B E FUNDRAISING FOR THE “PINK T R AC TO R” A S I T T R AV E L S A RO U N D T H E C O U N T RY, A N D W I L L H O L D T WO S E PA R AT E F U N D R A I S I N G E V E N T S ...

W

Our supporters will be able to make a small hat is the Pink Tractor Trek, and how will this donation, take a look at the pink tractor and have a benefit the McGrath chat to Hugh, who will also be on hand to auction a Foundation?

McGrath Foundation cap signed by former Australian The Pink Tractor Trek is cricketer and Foundation co-founder Glenn McGrath. the initiative of a fellow real The auction of the cap will be held at 10:45am, estate agent, Hugh Bateman from Mudgee. so if you are a cricket collector, or just Hugh set a goal to raise $250,000 want to support a wonderful cause, for the McGrath Foundation for the please come down and put your n tio placement of breast care nurses in hand in the air to bid.

Your dona lp he ill regional areas and has garnered As a side note, receipts will of $5 w d an e, nc re ffe the support of real estate be issued by the McGrath make a di tle lit a ng hi et agencies in over 20 locations.

Foundation for donations. as som ho w ne yo an a, Offices, including Percival Sadly, one in eight extr n to makes a donatio e Property, are staging Australian women will th our fundraiser in will fundraisers and hosting the be diagnosed with breast er ob ct O of month “pink tractor” as it travels cancer before the age a r fo go into the draw arvey thousands of kilometres from of 85, and around 100 H at r $500 vouche October 9 to October 31.

Australian men receive the ” .

Norman The team at Percival Property is same diagnosis every year. hosting TWO events.

McGrath Breast Care Nurses The first is a High Tea at our Sales are health professionals specially Office on Thursday, October 8th. We are trained to manage the care of breast cancer patients throughout the course of their inviting people to call into the office between treatment.

8:30am - 11:30am for a coffee, tea, sweets and They liaise between the patient and specialists savoury eats - we will even have a barista from Café coordinating the treatment - whether it be surgery, Buzz on site! radiotherapy or chemotherapy, play an advocacy role Your donation of $5 will help make a difference, and most importantly, offer emotional support and and as something a little extra, anyone who makes a friendship to the patient and their family. donation to our fundraiser in the month of October Percival Property sponsored the 2015 Port will go into the draw for a $500 voucher at Harvey Macquarie Relay for Life and has pledged to raise Norman. funds for the McGrath Foundation in October; On Monday, October 26th, we will host a breakfast/ what is the driving force behind your team’s morning tea at the Sales Office. fundraising endeavours?

Again, people can call in from 8am - 11:30am for In our close knit Percival team of 20 staff, there are a Buzz coffee, strawberry milk and something to eat. four members, including myself, who are all survivors Grab breaky on the run, or stop in for some morning and others whose family members or friends have tea - we would love to see you!

“

108

greater port macquarie focus.

received a cancer diagnosis.

Every day I feel grateful to be alive and to be able to use my experiences to help others. When you confront the greatest challenge in life, the outcome really is up to you.

The Percival team is very passionate about everything we do!

People’s lives are touched by cancer every day, whether from a personal diagnosis, or that of a family member, friend, work colleague or acquaintance.

You have experienced all of these - can you give us a personal perspective?

The actual moment when the specialist gave me my breast cancer diagnosis is etched deeply - your life changes in an instant. Having the incredible support of my husband, Michael, children Camille and Jesse, aunt and uncle Paul and Sandra Jones and aunt Margaret Fowler was extraordinary.

It was a truly humbling experience.

The role of a breast care nurse is to bridge the gap between you, your family and the medical professionals who are responsible for your treatment.

In many cases, there are people who are not as fortunate as I was to receive the support from family, and the role of providing that support throughout the process is that of the breast care nurse.

In remote areas where family are not close, the breast care nurse’s support is invaluable.

The information on the internet can be a minefield, but breast care nurses are specialists in this area knowledge is a powerful thing, and often your fears and concerns can be quickly allayed and comfort and reassurance gained during this very traumatic time.

The McGrath Foundation’s placement of breast care nurses is invaluable in the treatment outcomes for breast cancer patients in regional areas.

Thanks Michelle.

greater port macquarie focus.

103

BUY BUILD

SELL

YOUR NEW LOCAL BUILDERS With over 10 years’ experience in the building industry, Fiona and Andrew Petterson are the latest builders to join national building network Hotondo Homes.

While Fiona and Andrew may be new members of Hotondo Homes, they are not new to the building industry. The two siblings have come from a family who have been building homes in the area for over 40 years.

“Since joining Hotondo Homes, we can now offer over 90 flexible floorplans to our customers,” Fiona said.

“We help with everything from choosing your land right through to the handover stage.”

With their new colour and selections centre on Gordon Street in Port Macquarie, they cater for a range of people that have varying lifestyle, family and budget requirements.

110

greater port macquarie focus.

Whether it’s first home buyers looking to get into the market, a family wanting to upsize, an investor or somebody wanting to build a holiday home, the Port Macquarie team will work closely with their clients to bring their building dreams to life.

“We offer expert local knowledge and want to build everything from homes on big estates to homes for retirees,” Andrew said.

“Working with our clients to create their perfect home is what we do best.”

For more information or to view their house and land packages, visit the Port Macquarie team at their new office located at 2/151 Gordon Street, opposite the Growers Market. Alternatively, you can contact them on (02) 6583 1034 or view their full range of designs at hotondo.com.au.

BUY BUILD

SELL

The designers and stylists at Designing Divas - (left to right) Linda, Julie, Michlle, Eva.

STYLING A HOME

D E S I G N I N G

D I V A S

TA K I N G T H E T I M E TO P R E S E N T YO U R H O M E I N T H E B E ST P O S S I B L E WAY TO P OT E N T I A L B U Y E R S I S A LWAYS WO RT H T H E I N V E ST M E N T: I N T I M E A N D M O N E Y.

W

ithout question, a What’s the timeline for Home Styling? well presented home “Three - four weeks is a comfortable helps your real estate timeline to allow for the furniture hire and agent ask for a higher preparing a property for sale to be ready to price and means be photographed for advertising purposes or a quicker sale in for open days. However, ideally, you should comparison to poorly presented properties,” have the initial styling consultation with said Michelle Burton of Designing Divas, Michelle or Julie as soon as you decide to sell, when Chrissy Jones interviewed her as the recommendations might include recently to discuss the Property new flooring, window treatments Styling service available to or custom upholstery which home owners and real have up to eight weeks lead rs estate agents in Port lle time. It will also give the se n te of Too Macquarie. homeowners more time still regard as le sa Designing Divas r fo to do a lot of the work e ac pl the what is a design firm themselves and therefore their home and isn’ t offering interior save money.” works for them ta design (Michelle), necessarily wha r.”

Any other home styling fo buyer is looking decorating and styling tips?

(Julie), landscape “Giving the property ‘street design (Eva) and building appeal’ and presenting a well design (Linda). Any one, maintained back yard and garden or combination of the four are always appreciated. That’s when designers at Designing Divas may be our landscape designer (Eva) gets involved. involved in helping to present a property In some cases our building designer (Linda) for sale. will provide concept plans to show prospective What’s involved in Home Styling? buyers what could be done with an internal “We look at the property through the eyes layout change, or an addition or alteration to of a potential buyer and show the property the property for sale.“ in the best possible light. Too often sellers Is property styling worth the investment? still regard the place for sale as their home, “Yes. Often, when owners see what a and what works for them isn’t necessarily difference property styling (sometimes referred what a buyer is looking for. Decluttering is to as home staging) makes to the look and feel usually high on the list of necessary styling of their place they say, ‘It looks so good we’ll tasks, along with recommendations for the be sad to leave’. Then, when they discover the repair or replacement of easily fixed items like sale price their real estate has negotiated on old light fittings or worn carpet. Furniture their behalf, they agree that Property Styling re-arranging, hire of new furniture, additional was one of the best financial decisions they co-ordinated homewares, artwork and have ever made.” accessories for photography and open days To find out more, visit: quickly transforms a property. A fresh coat of www.designingdivas.com.au or call paint can also do wonders.”

Michelle Burton on 0413 398 908.

“

greater port macquarie focus. 111

112 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus. 113

focusrealestate

estellegough.

UPDATE President’s annual report New partnerships have brought many people into Landcare this year to work “on the ground”. We’d like to introduce our new partners to you!

O

ne very strong partnership is with Corrective Services NSW. It brings teams of workers with a supervisor, for three full days per week, to do primary knockdown as well as site maintenance.

This productive arrangement has helped us to make great progress with our Environmental Trust Project. The CSO workers have also helped us get the weeds under control at Rushcutter Reserve, Lighthouse Beach and Sea Acres.

Our partnership with the “Work for the Dole” scheme has also been a success. We will have 10 placements this year, and already five people have begun learning bush regeneration techniques with our Tuesday and Thursday volunteer working bees.

Both of these partner groups had a big role in preparations for our National Tree Day 2015, our most successful yet.

With 3,000 native seedlings planted, this event brought the community together, as our volunteers worked alongside more than 70 residents. Many were children, who will be caring for our environment in the future.

The new partnerships mean we have been able to increase our annual contribution to the community. It’s now more than 18,000 hours of environmental work.

Our partnership with Council is essential too, though it’s not new. It brings us guidance and support from experts like the Bushfire Management Officer, the Ecologist, and others in the Natural Resources Section.

Two more groups have recently affiliated with us: Dunbogan Bushcare Group, and the Friends of Mrs York’s Garden. We can help

114 greater port macquarie focus.

such groups to secure grants, and give them access to plants from our Landcare Community Nursery, which will make their funding go further.

The Nursery is thriving too, just like the plants it produces. These low-cost, healthy local native plants are not available anywhere else, so they meet a growing demand.

The Nursery has supplied plants to the Lions Club for their Gaol Point project, and is growing 4,000 tree seedlings for the Koala Preservation Society. Recently we were invited to quote for thousands of native plants for a large new subdivision.

Our group also continues to care for many urban bushland Reserves. Blair Reserve and the Lilypond are well known as they feature boardwalks through attractive bushland full of wildlife.

Our newest project is the “Koala Corridor” that links Transit Hill to the Lilypond, and improves connectivity for wildlife. The community will be getting involved in planting this area in the near future.

Now I’d like to thank all our volunteers, especially our committee members, who between them have decades of experience.

President and Nursery Manager, Estelle Gough, joined in 2002. Secretary Joan Wilson first joined Landcare in 1997, and Funding Officer Julie Ho in 2001.

Treasurer Ken Gough took up this role in 2007 and Vice-President Bruno Ryan became a member in 2008. Other committee members who have contributed enormously include Bronwyn Newton (joined 2008), Brian Grant who has been a member since 2011, and Geoff Teasdale who joined in 2014.

BUY BUILD

SELL

DAVID EVANS PROPERTY REVIEW

SPR I NG I S H E R E , SO W E SPE A K TO DAV I D E VA NS F ROM L A I NG+SI M MONS TO SE E HOW T H I NGS A R E SH A PI NG U P FOR T H E “ SI L LY SE A SON ” I N R E A L E STAT E .

W

hy do real estate agents get so excited by spring?

I guess it can be a little over-hyped, but traditionally spring is the peak season for selling homes, and I can understand why. Spring is a time of change; the days are longer, the sun is shining and the gardens look greener, so homes just look more appealing, and we all know how important good presentation is when selling a home. It’s the same all over the world; for example, in the UK (where I am from) it is even more imperative to wait for spring before putting your home on the market, as nobody likes looking at homes when it’s cold, dark and raining! There is also an element of people wanting to be in their new home by Christmas and for families, the desire to be settled in prior to the start of a new school year, which drives up buyer activity.

That said, we’ve had an exceptional winter selling season. Across all price ranges, we have seen really good numbers at open houses and at Laing+Simmons, our sales volumes have

continued to rise and we are selling homes with fewer days on market, whilst achieving record sale prices. These are all great signs of a healthy market and point to a great spring season.

So, are we set for a bumper spring selling season in Port?

In brief, yes! Recently, the Sydney market has softened, auction clearance rates have dropped to 75% and the rate of growth is levelling off. But this slowing had to happen and, according to industry experts, it is considered to be a vital adjustment in order to avoid the bubble bursting altogether. Here in Port Macquarie, however, we have seen more conservative annual price rises of just over 10%, but we are still very much on the upwards curve. There is a huge gap locally between housing supply and demand, so I am confident that if we get a sufficient number of new listings coming on to the market for sale, we will sell them!

Should I sell in spring though, if everyone else does?

Not necessarily. I would say the best time to sell is when you are ready. But, equally, I would not be put off from placing a home on the market, for fear of too much competition from other sellers. Our marketplace can not only “handle” tplace an increase in Our markteonly o properties coming can n increase onto the market, it ‘handle’ anies coming desperately needs in propert arket; it onto the mly needs it! So, if you are desperate considering a move it!” in the next year or so, I would certainly suggest that now is a great time.

Any specific springtime tips?

I would say the usual selling rules apply. To give yourself the best chance of achieving the highest price possible, you need the best real estate agent, presentation and price strategy. If you would like to get the cutting edge on the competition with your home’s presentation,

“

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

call my mobile anytime, and I will be happy to drop over the free Laing+Simmons 101 tips guide on how to present your home.

For your FREE full report on the market call or SMS: PROPERTY REPORT to 0421 833 167

Even in a good market, choosing the right agent is key to getting the best result.

In 2015 David Evans has already:

ALL SOLD BY DAVID EVANS IN 2015 SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

+ SOLD over $18 million worth of real estate + SOLD more than 45 homes + SOLD more than 1 home every week + SOLD multiple homes for record prices So if you are thinking of selling, or would simply like an update on the latest property prices, call David Evans for the best service, experience and result.

Buying or Selling: The Difference is David Evans.

0421 833 167 or david.evans@lsre.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 115

116 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus.

117

focuskitchens.

Wayne Byrne - Designer Living Kitchens

BUY BUILD

SELL

BERMUDA BREEZE TOWNHOUSES LIGHTHOUSE BEACH

WAYNE BYRNE DESIGNER LIVING KITCHENS

LOOKING FOR A KITCHEN MANUFACTURER IN PORT MACQUARIE THAT IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE INDUSTRY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN DESIGNER LIVING KITCHENS.

A

very proud of the jobs we do. little about your role …

You not only manufacture high quality I am the Laurieton showroom kitchens, but also vanities, wardrobes and manager and bring to DLK bathrooms. Tell us more…

18 plus years of product and We build and renovate kitchens, vanities, industry knowledge. I will be bathroom fit-outs, laundry fit-outs and based in the Laurieton branch; however, I will work out of Port Macquarie from time to time. wardrobes. Our kitchen manufacturers can build modern kitchens from state-of-the-art Tell us about the business? How long designs. If you don’t know what you need, we has Designer Living Kitchens been also offer professional consultation services operating? The company itself for 25 plus to give you the modern kitchen of years and was formerly known as Olsen’s your dreams.

Joinery. The Barnes families took Our team of kitchen ownership in 2011. manufacturers make Designer Living use of advanced Kitchens moved to equipment to new premises at se li ia We spec build the design 16 Milton Circuit g in n ig in des g n that you are recently. How ri u ct fa u and man m o st looking for. We has this helped cu y it al u high q d an s have a variety to grow the en h tc ki built home th o b r of materials to business? fo y er in jo d new choose from, It’s helped us a lot. renovators ans. so you are sure We are now all under home builder ” to get the ideal one roof, rather than modern kitchen for running across town. your home.

This has helped with work When you give us a call, flow and less down time. It has you can schedule to have a increased our efficiency. one-on-one meeting with one of What does DLK specialise in? our designers to ensure that your new Everything from custom made joinery modern kitchen is exactly the one that you right up to project builders’ work. We want and need. specialise in designing and manufacturing Do you also cater for the D.I.Y or budget high quality custom built kitchens and joinery person? for both home renovators and new home Yes, we sure do. We can provide flat pack, builders. Our commitment is to work with the to fully assembled and supply only, all priced customer to provide both a professional and competitively. individual experience throughout the entire How do readers find out more about project.

Designer Living Kitchens?

Our experienced designers pride themselves We have well-appointed showrooms in in working closely with our clients to design Laurieton, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and spaces that are not only innovative and Ballina, which all display the latest features attractive, but functional as well. Our factory and trends available in kitchens and joinery. is well equipped with the latest machinery and Call into one of our showrooms, check out software to ensure that our joinery is of the our website, www.designerlivingkitchens.com. best possible quality. au or give our friendly staff a call on 5525 We do a lot of work outside the town for different builders who work over the state and 0800.

Thanks Wayne. even into south east Queensland. So we are

“

118

greater port macquarie focus.

There are onlys 10 townhousef h6o in stage 2, witd ou ble these having w ith 4 d garages an s.” ge ra single ga

“

SELLING FAST! STAGE 1 - COMPLETELY SOLD STAGE 2 – 2 SOLD IN THE FIRST WEEK

T

his exciting Lighthouse Beach Townhouse development is an easy 900 metre stroll from the picturesque white sands of Lighthouse Beach and the iconic Tacking Point Lighthouse.

This modern and unique development will provide you with easy to maintain living on two stunning levels in a high finish townhouse.

Backing on to a beautiful reserve and only minutes from Port Macquarie CBD, this location is as close to perfect as it gets.

Each townhouse has been designed with quality in mind. The key features of these two story townhouses include: • Spacious open planned townhouse • Ducted air-conditioning • Stone bench tops in the kitchen • Galley style kitchen with stainless steel appliances • Timber, bamboo or tiled floors in the living area • Good size bedrooms, some with balconies • Two bathrooms plus an extra WC on the ground floor • Double lock up garage or single lock up garage • Undercover alfresco area • Secure yard Rental estimates have been received at $430 - $490 per week, giving the savvy property investor an estimated gross rental yield of 5.0% - 5.5%. With vacancy rates in Port Macquarie sitting at 1.5% for August 2015, this is

the ideal time to jump into the market.

As there is very limited vacant land remaining in this beautiful area of Port Macquarie, this beachside property may be your last chance to invest in this rapidly growing region.

Construction of this new Bermuda Breeze complex has begun, with Stage 1 expected to be completed in approximately July 2016, with stage 2 being completed later in 2016.

Stage 1 is completely sold, and stage 2 is now open for sale. There are 10 townhouses in stage 2, with six of these having double garages and four with single garages.

Stage 2 apartments are very competitively priced from $449,950.

Beachside properties in this area are few and far between and represent great value to the astute investor with an eye on future growth, or those wishing to downsize or begin their property journey.

If you’re looking for a fantastic low maintenance lifestyle property located in a highly sought after beachside location, Bermuda Breeze Apartments tick all the boxes.

Contact Tony today on 1800 223 768 to take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity at Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie. www.bermudabreeze.com.au Follow us on Facebook

BUY BUILD

SELL

BUY BUILD

ALL TIME GLASS SWIM IN LUXURY Australia’s most economical swim spa.

Don’t think you have enough room in the back yard for a swimming pool? Why not a Swim Spa then?

Pools are out of the question for some people, because they don’t have sufficient space in their backyards. Swim spas may be the answer - they don’t take up nearly the size of a traditional swimming pool and are a great way to create a fun way to exercise within your own home!

Some Benefits of a Swim Spa With a swim spa you get all the comforts of a spa, the massaging hot water jets and all the enjoyment that a spa offers in a unit that includes a swimming area. The only difference is that this is much more compact than a traditional in-ground pool, but still large enough to fit a number of people and to allow the same kind of fun, with a separate area for a hot tub.

Special Offer Cascade Pool & Spa Centre are offering a saving of up to $12,000 off their range of swim spas until the end of December, 2015. Call into the showroom at Shop 3 / 57 Hastings River Drive, see the range and chat with the knowledgable team.

Spring is here, and with this season comes weekend BBQs out the back, doors and windows left open to invite the spring and summer breeze into your home, but we need to also be thinking how we keep unwanted guests out.

Prowler Proof is at the top of the game in security screens.

Australia’s only welded security screens, Prowler Proof screens and security doors meet or exceed all relevant Australian Standards. They are tested to withstand kicking and pulling and other simulated intruder attacks with knives, screwdrivers and pliers.

These welded screens minimise corrosion and are backed by a no-questions-asked 10-year replacement warranty. Because of interaction between metals, other screens and grilles that use screws or rivets are always at risk from corrosion.

All Time Glass & Aluminium is Port Macquarie’s authorised Prowler Proof installer. We can supply a range of security screens, flyscreens and pet mesh to suit your needs. From heavy-duty stainless steel doors to a more flexible screen, our team will help you choose the right product and effortlessly fit it for you.

Contact us today for a free measure and quote for Prowler Proof products.

SELL

SMARTER PROPERTY Smarter Property Group can help you Buy, Sell and Build.

The Smarter Property team are licensed Buyers Agents who will locate and negotiate the purchase of a property for you.

Buying - We will find the property that meets your criteria and provide you with a selection to choose from.

We will negotiate with the vendor on your behalf to lock in a price that reflects the true value of the property.

As Buyers Agents, we have access to silent listings and pre-sale opportunities that you may not find elsewhere.

Selling - We can provide you with information on what buyers are looking for and how to market your house to attract the right buyers.

We may even have a buyer who is looking for your property.

However, we cannot represent you as the vendor’s agent, as we only work for the buyer.

Building - We will find you the ideal land to build your dream home, negotiate the purchase price and the settlement terms.

We can review your build contract and negotiate the build terms with your builder so you, as the buyer, are protected throughout the build process.

Let us help you buy property - SMARTER. Call 1800 257 377.

greater port macquarie focus.

119

114

greater port macquarie focus.

focusarchives.

with Debbie Sommers

Buying, Selling or Renting?

10 Reasons why you need to talk to Laing+Simmons.

PORT MACQUARIE GAOL NO LONGER EXISTS; HOWEVER, IT ONCE STOOD IN THE AREA BETWEEN LORD AND JOFFRE STREETS, NEAR THE HEADLAND KNOWN TODAY AS GAOL POINT. REFERRED TO AS THE “OLD GAOL” BY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, IT SERVED AT OTHER TIMES AS A NEW SOUTH WALES PRISON AND POLICE LOCK-UP.

W

hen Port Macquarie was established as a penal settlement for secondary offenders in 1821, there was no gaol. The settlement’s isolation was intended to keep the convict population confined. Convicts were housed in huts and barracks in and around the settlement, close to their places of work.

Built by 1840, the gaol’s brick exterior was described as somewhat imposing, with its outer walls forming an irregular polygon of eight sides. A newspaper report published in the Sydney Herald in 1840 was not so complimentary about the gaol interior: “…We cannot bestow much praise on the architect. The cells are in our opinion, extremely unhealthy, from being too confined and wanting ventilation - the same remark, in fact, applies to the buildings generally; the gaoler’s quarters are the most inconvenient as to size and shape, that we have ever seen …”.

For various reasons and perhaps because of the building’s failings, the gaol was not used regularly. In September 1865 it was declared a place for the detention of male offenders, including with hard labour. The gaol received its first 28 prisoners on 22 September 1865. The group had committed crimes including larceny, horse stealing, indecent assault, robbery under arms and embezzlement. A little over a month later, six of those prisoners had managed to escape through a hole in the outer wall, giving

an indication of the building’s insecure state.

In March 1872, prisoner Thomas Hampton escaped by scaling the gaol wall using stools tied together to form a ladder. Warder Matthew Conan was on duty in a nearby sentry box and set chase, firing his rifle at the escapee on several occasions and eventually finding him dead. A coroner’s jury returned a verdict that Hampton died of a gunshot wound inflicted by Warder Conan, whilst in the execution of his duty, and that it was a justifiable homicide.

A Prisons report of 1877 indicates that the gaol had accommodation for 11 separated and 122 associated prisoners. However, records suggest the number in custody at that time was mostly in single figures.

In 1912, its final year of use, the lock-up was proclaimed a prison under the Prisons Act, which effectively de-proclaimed it as a gaol. The Port Macquarie Agricultural Show Committee came up with plans to redevelop the building for its own and community use, but did not proceed.

By July 1920, the old gaol had been demolished. It was systematically disassembled, and its bricks and other materials disposed of by tender.

You can discover more stories about the Port Macquarie Penal Settlement and the Port Macquarie Gaol at the Port Macquarie Museum. Take advantage of free entry during the Museum Muster Day on Sunday 11 October.

#3

We’re a one-stop real estate agency.

We offer the ultimate one-stop shop for investors. Not only can we assist you to find the perfect investment property, we can expertly manage it for you too. We take a proactive approach to property management on a personal and tailored level, and work diligently to maximise the performance of your investment. We also recognise that a happy tenant is crucial to the investment property’s success, and our ability to cultivate and foster successful relationships with both owners and tenants, ensures our property management service consistently exceeds expectations.

Looking to maximise your investment property potential?

Call our team on 6583 7733 today.

Expert Advice. Proven Marketing Strategies. Exemplary Service.

6583 7733 | lsre.com.au/portmacquarie

greater port macquarie focus.

121

I know I must sound like a broken record in recent months talking about the lack of properties for sale here in Port Macquarie.....

H

owever, my last check of realestate.com.au indicated there were just 308 properties for sale in our town. By the time this column goes to

plentiful and it is value for money areas that appear to have performed well over the last six months – mostly areas close to the university.

Should you be interested in receiving this easy to read market report that

print I would envisage this figure

is broken down into areas

could be even lower.

As we know, the lack of supply and excellent demand have been two

of Port Macquarie, or are

The lack of supply ex and cellent demand have been two of the main drivers ...”

“

of the main drivers in the local real estate market.

I have crunched some numbers over the past week to identify what areas have taken advantage of the current marketplace. In my opinion,

your property could be worth in today’s market, feel free to contact me on 0448 836 000.

On the 18th of this month, Port Macquarie will once again come alive with the

70.3 Ironman. For some crazy reason,

it would seem to be Clifton ($393,000),

I’ve put my hand up to be part of a mixed

Greenmeadows ($414,500), Innes Lake

team called ‘No Expectations’ (because of me

($491,000), Sherwood ($415,000) and

I think!). I will complete the run leg with Fiona

Westport ($390,000). The figures in brackets

Baker (swimmer) and my wife Simone (cyclist).

represent the median house price over the

I wish all the other competitors the best of luck

last six months. Innes Lake doesn’t attract as

and welcome those that have travelled to Port

many investors as the other areas however it

Macquarie for the event.

has been driven by infrastructure like the St Columba Anglican School, Innes Lake shops and the large, good quality homes on offer.

With interest rates low, investors have been

122 greater port macquarie focus.

simply curious about what

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.

SOSTA SE S LD GE LL TAG O 1 IN E UT G 2 NO W

Artist Impression

BERMUDA BREEZE An exciting Lighthouse Beach Townhouse development

MORE SOLD IN STAGE 2

Now Selling – Brand New Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie Townhouses

Artist Impression

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to live or invest in these brand new townhouses positioned only 900 metres from the sands of Lighthouse Beach and 650 metres short walk to Lighthouse Beach Shopping Village.

Designed with quality in mind, features include:

Artist Impression

✓

Three bedrooms

✓

Spacious open plan living

✓

Generous undercover alfresco areas

✓

Ducted air conditioning

✓

Stone bench tops

✓

Choice of timber floor boards or modern tiling

If you’re looking for a fantastic low maintenance lifestyle property, highly sought after beachside location or solid returning investment, these tick all the boxes.

CONTACT TONY TODAY T:

1800 223 768

W: bermudabreeze.com.au E: info@bermudabreeze.com.au

3 from

$

2

2

449,950

116 greater port macquarie focus.