Greater Port Macquarie Focus i123

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

February 2016 // issue 123

Feature Story Sally Lloyd

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contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

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

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jasmin Johansson

Welcome to the February issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

jasmin@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Jo Atkins

W

jo@focusmag.com.au

e hope that everyone enjoyed the recent summer holiday season and made the most of our beautiful region. For the FOCUS folk, we

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Chrissy Jones JP chrissy@focusmag.com.au

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

SALES SUPPORT/ FEATURE CONTENT CO-ORDINATOR: Sarah Gale

shut up shop for a fortnight for some much

sarah@focusmag.com.au

needed R & R, and we headed out to enjoy the

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

area.

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

Having the time to explore our region keeps us

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan

in touch with just how lucky we are! Lake Cathie

jeff@focusmag.com.au

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

was booming on the summer days, as the opening

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Marchment

of it allowed fresh seawater to flow in - and this

michael@focusmag.com.au

attracted hundreds of people to come enjoy the

COPY EDITING: RnR Media rnrmedia@bigpond.com 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.

Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2016 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

idyllic seaside location. Families, locals and tourists were all making great use of the shallow waters for everything from paddling, to boarding and kayaking … Make sure you get down there and enjoy it before it closes up. There are some great picnic areas and a park for the kids; take a short

drive further south through to the Camden Haven, where there are more treasures to be discovered.

ON THE COVER This year we’re stretching our creativity a little further and engaging with more local businesses to put together our front cover for each edition.

This month for our annual “Wedding Guide”, we were proud to team up with local stylists Sarah J Hudson and Kate Petrie to create our classic bridal look featuring Sarah Kesby, wearing a gown from Divine Bridal, Swarovski jewellery from Jons Family Jewellers and Inniu shoes from The Department Store.

We love collaborating with locals to bring together a great cover image, and it’s always amazing to see the end result! A huge thank you to everyone involved for all your time and efforts in pulling this fabulous wedding cover together.

You can find out more about the look we created on page 44.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE We’ve pulled out all the stops to find both inspiring locals and visiting celebrities to interview this month. Happily married couple Ron and Pat Clarke will celebrate their 52nd anniversary shortly, while skilled photographer Natalie O’Donnell and performer Sally Lloyd share their creative talents with us! Add this to chats with Adam Brand, James Bennett and visiting artist Craig Gough, and there’s some terrific reading in this issue.

FINAL SAY Did someone say chocolate? Spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day - or every day!

“When love is not madness, it is not love.” Pedro Calderon de la Barca.

E S U O H S S A L G N WHAT’S O Saturday 20 February, 8pm

ROY OR BIS ON & TH E EV ER LY BR OTHE RS

renowned Starring Internationally special artist Dean Bourne and Brothers. guests The Robertson show for This is a must-see relive the anyone who wants to all of the sound, the voice and on & The magical hits of Roy Orbis Everly Brothers.

Sunday 21 February, 2pm

TH E MI KADO

BY GI LB ERT & SU LLIVAN

Wednesday 24 Feb, 7.3 0pm

BAGO MAGIC: RO CK AR OU ND TH E CR OC

n adventure from Bago and much A Peter Pa .

Don’t miss this popular rring Roxy Montgomery musical as Magic sta loved Gilbert & Sullivan ma dra very last Live music, dance and it tours Australia for the . gic Ma le go ee Litt from Ba time. Come join the Thr ed by er ion cut Exe h Hig rd Lo Produced and direct Maids, The a strel for Greta Warner. and The Wandering Min s gh lau of ds loa h wit d show packe and glorious tunes.

16 GLASSHOUSE 20 ASED! LE RE SEASON SHOWS ry Hungry Orchestra, The Ve Sydney Symphony d MORE! an t lle Ba l Russian Caterpillar, Imperia t sales commence General public ticke ry Monday 15 Februa

Friday 26 February, 8pm

TH E SU N RE CO RD ALL-STARS: TH E BI RTH OF RO CK ‘N RO LL

Saturday 27 February, 8pm

GO LD TH E ULTIMATE AB BA SH OW: DANC IN G QU EE N 40TH AN NI VE RSARY TO UR

e AB BA experience ion of the Get the tru This concert is a celebrat h your inner dancing captures and unleas birth of rock ‘n roll and of AB BA’s hits in passion queen to all rt the music, imagination, cial two-hour conce Records - this spe you e and magic of Sun hav l that wil is, Elvis production including Jerry Lee Lew dancing in the aisles. sly les me s, Johnny sha Presley, Carl Perkin .

Cash and Roy Orbison

02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au greater port macquarie focus. 3

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Sally Lo yd

WHEN SOMEONE FOLLOWS THEIR DREAMS, IT’S ALWAYS INSPIRING … AND WHEN IT MEANS MOVING TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD AND LEAVING EVERYTHING THAT’S FAMILIAR BEHIND, PERHAPS EVEN MORE SO! FORMER LOCAL SALLY LLOYD IS CURRENTLY PURSUING A PERFORMANCE CAREER IN LONDON, AND HARD WORK AND DEDICATION ARE ALREADY PAYING OFF FOR THIS TALENTED LADY …

W

hereabouts did you grow up and go to school?

I moved to Port Macquarie when I was five and went to school at St Peter’s Primary, followed by St Paul’s High School and MacKillop Senior College.

What came first - your interest in singing, dancing, or acting - and how did you develop each of these skills while you were growing up?

Music has always been my first love. I started piano at the age of three and always enjoyed singing from a young age and relished any opportunity to play or write music.

I started singing lessons at the age of eleven and used to compete in local eisteddfods. I remember feeling so nervous whenever I sang in front of people, but I always had this feeling that I wanted to keep doing it. Luckily, I stuck with that instinct! My first musical was The Mikado at the Civic Theatre when I was 13, and I absolutely loved the experience.

I never intuitively knew I wanted a career in performing, so I never studied drama in school. I took jazz, tap and hip-hop dance classes growing up, but purely for fun. It wasn’t until I left school and moved to Brisbane that I realised I wanted to do more performing, so I took acting classes and did a professional dance course. Learning classical ballet at 18 was a steep learning curve!

Currently you’re based in London. That was a big move to make ... How long have you lived In England, and why did you decide to establish a career on the other side of the world?

I’ve lived in England now for two years, and I’ve been in London for around 18 months.

Before moving to London, I lived in Brisbane and worked full-time in a variety of Project Management roles whilst balancing performing work on the side.

I reached a point where I was doing twenty plus hours a week of rehearsals and performing 4 greater port macquarie focus.

outside of my full-time job, and it just wasn’t sustainable. My agent would send me aust In 2015 I was ca ditions, and I had to keep a in a us ed M as turning them down. usical called m w ne I decided to take a was a ‘Pandora’. This leap of faith and quit my as it e, m r fo highlight al job and move to London on si es of pr y was m tio to pursue performing. uc n first fringe prod I’ve always wanted to in London ...” experience living abroad, Prior to our first show at and London seemed like the the Union, we had only one perfect place, given it has some hour to do a technical run in the of the world’s best theatres. I made new space; it was the shortest tech the move and fortunately was successful in run I’ve ever done and a valuable lesson in my audition for one of the world’s best drama adaptability!

Last year I also played Myrrhine in schools. It was a bit crazy looking back, but it’s Lysistrata and Cinderella in a devised production definitely paid off. called Big City Dreams both of these were part You recently obtained your Masters in Music of my Masters.

Theatre from the Royal Central School of I think the main lessons learnt from these proSpeech and Drama. Congratulations! What ductions were the need to be playful and work did you enjoy most about studying overcollaboratively as an ensemble. seas?

Other highlights include being in the ensemble Thank you! Central is such a well-renowned of Jesus Christ Superstar at QPAC and playing drama school, and it was inspiring to train at a Ginny in A Very Potter Musical. school where so many successful actors have Tell us more about your own particular cretrained. I loved being surrounded by a diverse ative style. What types of dance and songs group of creative people every day, all studydo you like to perform? ing some aspect of the performing arts. I also I’m very passionate about new writing. As a enjoyed being able to go to the theatre often; composer/lyricist and performer, I appreciate the there are a great variety of shows in London, creative process and emotional investment that both on and off West End. goes into bringing a work to life. As a performer, What have been some of the productions working on new material often allows for you’ve been involved with - and what have greater openness and exploration in the rehearsbeen some of the most valuable things al process, as there are fewer pre-conceived ideas you’ve learned from these experiences? about how the character should be portrayed.

It’s In 2015 I was cast as Medusa in a new musical a really empowering feeling when you perform called Pandora. This was a highlight for me, as someone else’s work, and it sparks new ideas for it was my professional first fringe production in the Director or Writer about the character.

London and gave me the opportunity to perform My favourite composers are Stephen Sondat the well-established Union Theatre. I was heim and Jason Robert Brown. Their music and fortunate to work with an incredibly supportive lyrics are very expressive and lend to character cast and creative team, who taught me the discovery, which makes them a lot of fun to importance of enjoying the rehearsal process and perform. of trusting the material.

“

Tap dance is my favourite dance style; I like that it’s percussive and a bit grittier than other styles of dance.

Who would you like to acknowledge for helping you along your life’s journey so far?

I’d like to thank my wonderful family and friends for always being incredibly loving and supportive. My parents and brother have always encouraged me and have taught me to be resilient and create my own opportunities, and for that I am grateful. My writing partner, Ben, for helping me bring my ideas to life. My previous singing teacher, Denise Begnell, for teaching me good technique and introducing me to a variety of musical theatre repertoire. My teachers at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama for helping me grow as a performer last year.

What plans do you have in the pipeline for 2016?

I’m filming a short film this month in London, and I am performing in a concert performance of Pandora in March. I am currently auditioning for shows in 2016.

Where can readers follow your career or find out more about you?

My stage name is Sally White, and you can follow me on the social media links below. For professional enquiries, please email sally_white@ outlook.com.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_sallywhite_/ Twitter: @_sallywhite_ Thanks Sally.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

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F E B R U A R Y

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CRAIG GOUGH.

Craig Gough’s bright, vibrant abstract art is on view at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery until March 6.

Resonance seeks to capture the emotions that Craig feels when he views a scene - with his own garden the current source of inspiration …

ADAM BRAND. Twelve time Golden Guitar winner Adam Brand is joined by Country music stars Drew McAlister, Travis Collins, Matt Cornell and Mike Carr; together, they make up Country’s newest supergroup, Adam Brand and The Outlaws. Having released an album and kicking off on a national tour, FOCUS caught up with frontman Adam Brand …

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JAMES BENNETT

Our very own home grown talent, James Bennett, has ticked yet another box on his to do list, releasing his debut self titled album - which is already hitting the high end of the music charts. James tells FOCUS all about his official album launch and what he’s been up to over the past few years since we chatted last ...

R EGU L A R S 14. what’s on for February 20. eat local restaurants 24. out to lunch with Susie Boswell 26. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 27. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 36. tourism with Janette Hyde 59. starguide with Terri Hall 67. robyn’s spot with Robyn Butler 69. landcare with Estelle Gough 79. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 80. travel with Susie Boswell

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e ver at th o g in p p d sto show A ment an … in s r a t a r t e t -S n ct E rd All s such y Abstra n un Reco b S o c e d i e h t t f n o is e ic Pres onth rful mus arl Perkins and e se this m d u o n h o s s w e rl Gla Lewis, C sings Ca tures th that cap esley, Jerry Lee ber Bill Culp, who in Niagra bin Pr em as Elvis ash. Lead cast m s us from a cozy ca C ll …

Johnny known classics, ca down of the show n well e us a ru iv g Perkins’ o t s ll Fa

H

i Bill. What’s your musical background?

I started performing when I was 7 years old. My very first gig was as a singing cowboy in a talent show where I won $15 singing Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head. I like to joke that musicians’ pay hasn’t really changed a lot!

By the time I was 13, I was playing in my first band. My household was very musical; my grandfather played guitar and harmonica, and he was a Square Dance caller. We had many nights around the campfire singing songs (breaks into a chorus of She’ll be Coming ’round the Mountain when she Comes, accompanied by guitar) …

You have your guitar with you!

Yes, I have my guitar with me! I’m in Niagra Falls, Canada, with 8 inches of snow. I’m in this really nice cabin on a hill surrounded by trees and snows. It’s so really cool … I’m here with my guitar, doing interviews with Australia!

Well, it’s almost 40 degrees Celsius here today!

Oh, I can’t wait! (Laughs!) I’ll be there in a couple of weeks.

So … yes. When I was 13, I was in a band. I always had a love for the music of the 1950s; around my house that was a big type of music.

We grew up just outside of Buffalo, New York. Buffalo was a real big venue for lots of gigs from Rock ‘n’ Roll guys - people like Bill Haley, Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis played there. My mum saw Jerry Lee Lewis at her high school! This music was very much around …

A lot of this type of music is very guitar-driven; you get to play some really neat Rockabilly type licks and everybody’s got their own style 6 greater port macquarie focus.

- there’s a lot of cool stuff (segues into a Johnny about it. When you look at the Sun Records Cash style rhythm on guitar …) show and the main personalities in the show, it’s I played a lot of different musical styles over about the guys who are known as “the million the years, but this genre is something I’m very dollar quartet” - Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, well versed in. I’m a bit of a music historian Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins - all four of those guys myself and I love music from every era, but I while they mined the same musical genre, Rockabilly/Rock ‘n’ Roll, each guy completely certainly have a very strong affection for and has his own style, both musically knowledge of American Rock ‘n’ Roll of and as people. the 1950s.

We do a segment in the In the show, you play Carl show we call the “MilPerkins. What is it about ng su Carl is an un lion Dollar Quartet”, Carl and his music you n Su e th hero in in d where we do a great most admire? an y or Records st ’ ‘n ck Ro little jam session and I think Carl was a of y or the hist t ea gr a d collaborate on a very honest, authenha e H Roll. a lot of bunch of songs that tic and passionate career and wrote atles Be aren’t set songs of musician who created a great song s; the rl theirs, but are songs unique style. I consider covered more Ca they an Perkins song s th t ...” that inspired them. him the father of Rockatis ar r did any othe Gospel songs, Blues billy - the king of Rockabilsongs - Chuck Berry ly even. He blended Country songs even. It’s pretty cool! music with Blues music, and I imagine you sing some he came by it very honestly. Carl of Carl Perkins’ big hits in the grew up very poor - his family were share show, like Blue Suede Shoes, for croppers and picked cotton for a living. He example? learned to play guitar from a coloured man Yeah, we do Blue Suede Shoes - that was a - another cotton picker - who taught him key cut for Carl Perkins. That was the first milto play more of a Blues style. So Carl was this lion selling record that Sun Records ever had! hillbilly kid who learned how to play Blues, and That was the song that launched Carl’s career, it really gave birth to a different genre … and was also the first record that reached the Carl is an unsung hero in the Sun Records top ten on the Blues, Country and Pop charts story and in the history of Rock ‘n’ Roll. He had at the same time. We explain a lot of this type a great career and wrote a lot of great songs; of stuff in the show. the Beatles covered more Carl Perkins songs I also do a medley of Carl’s that I really than they did any other artist. Cash recorded his like - Honey Don’t, the flip side of Blue Suede material, Patsy Cline recorded his songs, later Shoes (that was also covered by the Beatles), artists like Vince Gill and Ricky Skaggs recorded Matchbox (covered by the Beatles) and Your his songs.

True Love … Those are three of my favourites .

He had a great career; there’s no two ways

“

There are a lot of hits in the show by all the other guys - Great Balls of Fire, Whole lotta Shakin’, I Walk the Line, Folsom River Blues … and it goes on and on! We try to cover as much musical ground as we can in the show; it’s a huge musical territory to do. Some of the songs we have to do in medleys just to cover the material. It’s a show that’s full of a lot of songs, and there are also stories behind the songs and the artists … We provide some insight into the music as we go along.

It’s also a very audience interactive show, so the audience is always up dancing by the end of the show - it’s great!

And there’s also a visit from Roy Orbison in the show, I believe?

Yeah. Roy Orbison recorded a single in Wink, Texas with his high school group, which was sent to Sam Phillips at Sun Records. Sam gave him a record deal, so a bunch of Roy’s early records were all recorded at Sun …

Roy comes out in the second half of the show as a guest; it’s often a surprise, as a lot of people don’t realise that this is where Roy got his beginning as well …

Thanks Bill - it sounds like an amazing show. See you soon!

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See the Sun Record All-Stars at the Glasshouse on February 26, at 8pm. adults $65, members • concession • group 10+ $55. www.glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office: (02) 6581 8888.

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Meet this month’s Behind the Lens guest, Natalie O’Donnell. With a flair for photographing some of life’s most beautiful moments, Natalie’s work shows an eye for colour, setting, and detail.

i Natalie. Share with us a little of your background and how you and your family came to call Port Macquarie home ...

My family and I are from Sydney. Growing up, we visited Port Macquarie for family holidays and to catch up with a Great Aunt who lives here. When I met my husband (Graham) over 15 years ago, I discovered that he also had family in Port. We both agreed that it was a beautiful town and the perfect place to raise a family.

In April 2003 we made the best decision of our lives and moved to sunny Port Macquarie.

I landed a job as a photo technician in an established photo lab in town, where I honed my editing skills for well over five years. I eventually moved into a sales role working for “The Good Guys” as their “Camera Sales Specialist”. My love for camera equipment made it easy and enjoyable.

What (or who) sparked your interest in photography originally?

My ambitions as a budding photographer started in high school. I had an amazing visual arts teacher who was extremely encouraging and supportive of my artistic flair and love for “still frame imagery”. I remember saving all my hard earned pennies for months so I could purchase my first “decent” film SLR Camera. I was very excited!

When and why did you start your business, Natalie O’Donnell Photography and Design?

Was running your own business something you’d always wanted to do?

I’ve been running this business (part-time) for

I remember saving all my hard earned s th pennies for mon se ha rc pu so I could t' en ec 'd my first a. I film SLR Camer ” d! te was very exci

“

over 12 years. Having a passion’s great, and being able to make a career out of that passion’s even better. So starting my own business was always high on my agenda. Actually, come to think of it, I even wrote that very thing in my high school year book!

The maternity and family photos you’ve taken are truly beautiful. Why did you choose to specialise in these types of shoots?

Maternity - I hear too often women saying that they regret not having maternity photographs taken. I believe there are certain times in our lives that need to be captured. The miracle of pregnancy is one of those precious moments, regardless of how we feel about our bodies. I know with the growing waistlines and new odd body shape, we feel the need to avoid cameras during this time, but that’s the very reasons we need to get in front of a camera.

Maternity photos are not just about a bump.

They are a celebration for the baby you’re about to meet, to celebrate your current partner or family and to celebrate the strength of your body.

That baby bump is beautiful; let me capture that please.

Families - what’s more treasured than a family portrait? It’s funny, I hear people say that they have been “meaning to update their family photos for ages, but just haven’t gotten around to it”. My response to that is there is no better time than now! My favourite quote by a fellow photographer (Missy MWAC) in the US is: “The

full value of a photo is only understood years after it is taken” - so don’t let a moment pass you by and be left with the regret of not capturing those treasured memories.

What do you find to be the most difficult - and also the most rewarding - thing about photographing children?

What’s that saying? Children and animals?

Ha ha ha; it’s sooooo true! Children between the ages of 1 - 4 years are so unpredictable and definitely make you work for it! But when you catch that gorgeous natural smile, it makes all the clowning and goofing around I have to do worthwhile.

Tell us more about the “design” element of your business. What other services do you offer?

Aside from photography, I also offer digital design services. For example, “Birth Announcements and 1st Birthday Milestone Prints” - I personalise/custom make printable artwork that can be framed and hung in a child’s nursery or to have at your little one’s first birthday party or incorporated into their “cake smash” photo sessions. I also create business cards, flyers and logos, along with watermarks for fellow photographers.

What are some of your favourite photos/ moments?

My favourite session to date would have to be a family session I did at Upper Landsdowne. The family lives on a large property, and the scenery was just gorgeous - so different to what I’m used

to around Port Macquarie. Nice big long dirt roads, rich lush greenery with the late afternoon sunset was the perfect cocktail for producing magical memories.

Where would you like to see yourself in five years’ time?

The last three years I’ve made good progress.

If I continue working hard and keep delivering good quality work, the next five years should see me expand my business further, which would require me to employ one or two assistants.

A few quick photography facts about you …

Your favourite camera and lens combination?

Canon 5DMIII and 200mm f2.8.

Favourite time of the day to shoot?

“The Golden hour” (one hour before sunset).

Preference for indoor or outdoor shoots?

Outdoors - I love natural light.

An item (apart from camera equipment) you can’t be without on a photo shoot?

My Elmo lens buddy - great for kids!

Most magic moment ever experienced on a shoot?

Capturing a two day old newborn - just so fresh and squishy!

Something or someone you dream of photographing one day?

My husband! Ha ha ha - he hates the camera.

Where can people contact you or see more of your work?

I have just set up my new in home studio! So for all those interested in sessions, please email: natalieodonnellphotodesign@outlook.com or you can find me on Facebook. Mobile: 0407 820 753.

Thanks Natalie.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

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CRAIG GOUGH’S BRIGHT, VIBRANT ABSTRACT ART IS ON VIEW AT THE GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY UNTIL MARCH 6.

RESONANCE SEEKS TO CAPTURE THE EMOTIONS THAT CRAIG FEELS WHEN HE VIEWS A SCENE - WITH HIS OWN GARDEN THE CURRENT SOURCE OF INSPIRATION …

B

orn in Western Australia, you’ve had a successful career teaching art - first at the Claremont Fine School of Art, prior to your move to Victoria - where you lectured at the Caulfield Institute of Technology (now Monash University). Going back even further than this, what first inspired you to paint?

From as far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be an artist. In primary school I realised that I could draw better than my peers and some teachers had sought my assistance sometimes, in drawing things for them on the blackboard, like a map of Australia or Europe or whatever, which I found I could copy well enough.

Painting seemed a natural follow on from drawing and although I liked making things, I didn’t want to become a sculptor. This is very much a “process” and not as immediate, as making a drawing or a painting. It doesn’t have the same instant result and it requires a lot of forethought and planning, before you can just get into it. It doesn’t suit my personality!

You’ve been fortunate enough to travel extensively, including experiencing a residency at “il Paretaio”, the Arthur Boyd Studio in Tuscany, Italy. How do you feel travel has broadened your experience?

The residency at “il Paretaio” was not a student one. It was offered to artists who could apply for it. There were only three residencies there a year. Other residencies were at the time offered in Paris, New York, London and some other places, usually for three months each, by the Australia Council. They were very hard to get!

While at the residency, I got a lot of time to travel to other parts of Italy (Rome, Venice, Milan, Sienna and many cities and towns in Tuscany) by car or train. The use of the car came with the residency. I was constantly drawing and sketching as I went, at the sites as well as in the studio, but always visiting the major art galleries and churches to see the art that I had only previously known from reproductions in books.

Whenever I travel now, I am constantly seeking out the major art galleries and museums. Naturally along the way I am absorbing the visual sights and culture like most tourists do. Lots of things can inspire the production of art works,

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although the garden is my current inspiration.

Describe your artistic technique ... What media do you prefer to use?

Most of my work derives from my observation of surroundings. Currently it is my garden and aspects of the landscape where I live, which at the moment is very dry, without rain for a long time. I have mainly worked from (or against) something that I’ve seen or experienced. There are other factors as well, where the materials that I use paint, charcoal, pastels etc. (and the surfaces on which I work - canvas, paper or board, plus the tools used - brushes, rags, fingers, palette knives etc.) all affect the final result.

The size and proportion of the work makes a huge difference also. Here I’m only talking about techniques, but a major factor, probably the most important, is the “psychological aspect”. By this, I mean what I bring to the subject by way of ideas. What I am trying to say in the works, that are unique and each new to me, is a question that I am continually asking myself.

I mostly work in a “series”. One work leads on to the next and then the next, and so on. The specifically garden theme has been ongoing since the early 1990s. It has had various manifestations and been more specifically “my” garden from about 2002.

Before, the works were about suburban taste in gardens, and I was having an ironic dig at that.

Earlier, there were many TV programmes about DIY gardening; Burke’s Backyard, Backyard Blitz and others, as well as Gardening Australia.

The forms in my paintings have now developed into a more simplified, flatter appearance, much more “abstracted”, but still having areas with painterly application in depicting trees, shrubs, low walls, lattice screens and suggestions of buildings in some.

I am now less concerned with the “observed facts” of the garden and more about the emotional feeling that I get from that subject.

I prefer acrylic paint (on paper or canvas) to oils at the moment. It gives me more freedom, as I am constantly making adjustments to get a particular feeling from each colour interacting with another, layering over and over to get the right shape, hue, intensity, tonality or placement of the colour. In a practical sense, oil paint dries more slowly, and therefore reduces my spontaneity.

Tell us about your current exhibition,

Resonance, which we can view at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery …

Resonance is the title of my exhibition, and I have used this same title for a number of recent exhibitions. Each showing, although different, has the same sensibility, aiming to evoke strong emotions by the various combinations of strong colours and forms.

What is more important to me is the effect of the work as a “painting”, and that viewers who see the works for the first time may feel a sense of “rightness” of resolution, I hope. It has nothing to do with the rightness that photography verifies. In conveying strong emotion, using vibrant colour to give a sense of excitement and exhilaration, I’m exploring at the same time, intimacy and vulnerability. These are works made by a person, not a machine or other technical device.

Your artworks in this exhibition are predominately bold and colourful. Why do you favour this style?

Strong colour seems to convey the emotions and responses that I seek. Therefore, I want the maximum amount of colour. The size of my works have generally been fairly large, to present a kind of feast for the eyes and the senses.

Small works demand a closer scrutiny; whereas, the larger scale, which I generally prefer to do, presents an “experience”, so that I am almost “in the work” while I am doing it. I guess I want the “Wow” factor to play a part and hope that the viewer will also feel this.

How much does the natural world inspire your work?

Because I live on considerable acreage with an expansive rural garden, which I am constantly tending, I have no desire right now to copy it onto a canvas. What I feel can’t be expressed as

strongly as I wish. So, I am constantly working , most days for many hours, perhaps hoping that the next work will really do it.

I have a camera to reproduce what I see, but not what I “feel”. I am inspired by what is around me, and I relate to that directly with an instinctive mind, rather than documentation of researched facts that are available for anyone.

You’ll be giving a talk at the Glasshouse on February 18. What topics will you discuss?

My talk at the Glasshouse will be about the things that I have outlined in my answers to these questions: about my concerns as an artist and where I think that I am now and where I am headed at this time in my life. My desire has always been to “develop” my work. I have never sought to find a style and then go on making more and more works like that until I leave the planet.

Where can readers find out more about you?

I have a website: www.craiggough.com.au Also, just Googling my name will come up with various things on my work and how everything has led to where I now am.

Thanks Craig. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

The Glasshouse would like to acknowledge Spot 81 Gallery for their support with this exhibition. See Resonance at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from 22nd January to 6th March. Craig will also present a talk at the gallery on February 18 at 5:30pm.

Tickets for the artist talk: $15 adult; $12 member. Call 6581 8888 for details or visit www.glasshouse.org.au

JOHN OXLEY Ĺ KODA 130 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie, (02) 65888555 MD7571

skoda.com.au Member of the Volkswagen Group

greater port macquarie focus. 11

focus_local recipe

hickesn cwing TEQUILA GLAZED

THIS IS A RECIPE FOR SWEET, STICKY AND (IF YOU LIKE IT) SPICY CHICKEN WINGS, DONE IN A TEX-MEX STYLE.

Image of the month.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 10)

Title: After a surf at Town Beach.

Photo by: Nathaniel.

Camera: Nikon, 50 mm lens.

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

2 tbsp olive oil 1 lime’s juice 2 shots of Tequila 1 tsp chilli flakes or to taste 1 tsp each of sea salt and pepper ½ tsp Habañero Tabasco 2 finely chopped chillies 4 tbsp honey

2 tbsp Demerara sugar 1 cup of cola ½ cup of ketchup 1 kg chicken wings Method: Smoke, grill Suggested Woods: Hickory, apple Approx. Cook Time: 1.5 hours

METHOD KALE

WH

AT ’ S I N

Step 2.

Take the wings out of the bowl and hot smoke them at around 250°F for 45 mins, adding your chips/chunks at the beginning and half an hour in.

It’s basically a leafy relative of wild cabbage, and has green or purple leaves with a firm central stem. It’s incredibly good for you, so you can be healthy and hip all at the same time.

Whilst they’re on the smoker, add the following to the bowl (you did keep it, right?):

To take advantage of all these good things, be sure to eat it raw, or cook it quickly. Shred the raw leaves finely and add to salads, pasta or pizzas.

To make a nutritious green side to grilled fish and meats, toss the leaves in a pan with a little butter, olive oil, garlic and sea salt.

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

12 greater port macquarie focus.

Cover the bowl with cling film and put them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them; one hour minimum to let the flavours penetrate the skin. Keep the bowl and the juice in the bottom.

Whilst you may not be growing Kale in your backyard veggie patch, you have no doubt spied it on the menu at local cafés and restaurants. It’s not only in-season locally right now, but has been a trendy veg for some time in the food world.

It’s low in calories, and high in fibre, iron, calcium, protein, vitamin C, vitamin A, carotenoids and flavonoids. And if that’s not enough, it also contains the antioxidant vitamin K, which is thought to protect against cancer.

WHERE

Step 1.

First of all, put the wings in a large bowl and marinate the wings in; 2 tbsp olive oil 1 lime’s juice 2 shots of Tequila 1 tsp chilli flakes or to taste 1 tsp each of sea salt and pepper

½ tsp Habañero Tabasco 2 finely chopped chillies 4 tbsp honey 2 tbsp Demerara sugar 1 cup of cola ½ cup of ketchup Mix this well and put it in a saucepan over low heat; the top should only just bubble/froth.

Step 3.

Once the wings have been smoking for 45 mins, take them off and put them into the bowl (still got it?)

Pour about ¼ of the sauce from the saucepan onto the wings and give them a shake to cover them evenly, before putting them back on the

smoker for 15 mins, and putting the saucepan back on the heat, stirring it occasionally.

Step 4.

Take out the waterpan and grill the wings over the coals skin side up, spooning ½ the remaining sauce in the bowl (THE bowl) over the wings, and shut the lid for 5 minutes.

Step 5.

After the 5 is up, open the lid and turn the wings skin side down, baste them again, using all the sauce if you can. This not only glazes the wings and gives them their sticky, slightly charred skin, but also looks really cool with the flambe effect when the sauce hits the coals.

Keep turning the wings for about 5 - 10 minutes, until they look like you like them, take the saucepan off the heat and pour the sauce into a bowl or bowls to use as a dipping sauce for your wings.

The times in the recipes we write are approximate, due to all manner of factors including weather, the charcoal you use and many more, but fear not!

For there is a sure way to tell whether or not your cooking is done. Internal temperature is accurate and infallible if it is taken correctly. The most important things to do are: Take the temperature in the centre of the largest piece of meat (e.g. on a chicken this would be the breast).

Make sure the probe isn’t touching the bone; you will know if it does, as the temperature will be impossibly high.

For chicken, 165°F is done.

Recipe by www.proqsmokers.com.au

focusinterview.

Festival of Small Halls WAUCHOPE COMMUNITY ARTS IS NO STRANGER TO UNIQUE AND AMAZING ACTS, AND THE SPECIAL SHOW PLANNED FOR MARCH 9 IS NO EXCEPTION! THE FESTIVAL OF SMALL HALLS, ORGANISED BY A PASSIONATE TEAM FROM THE WOODFORD FOLK FESTIVAL, TRAVELS TO SELECTED SMALL HALLS/ VENUES AROUND AUSTRALIA, PRESENTING BOTH AUSTRALIAN AND INTERNATIONAL ACOUSTIC AND FOLK MUSIC TO REGIONAL AUDIENCES.

C

hloe Goodyear from the Woodford Folk Festival and international music phenomenon Vishtèn take the time to tell us more about the upcoming

performance …

Chloe Goodyear, Head of Programming, Woodford Folk Festival/Festival of Small Halls Australia.

How did the Festival of Small Halls idea originate?

I heard about the show on my very first night, my very first time in a beautiful place called Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. I was jetlagged as anything and went to the pub to have a drink to just try to stay up until 8pm.

I ended up meeting a bunch of locals who bought me dinner, and one man in particular was head of tourism at the time. He asked me a bit about why I was visiting - for a music conference - and then said, “I reckon you'll be interested in the Festival of Small Halls”. I was hooked just on the name, but after learning a bit more about how a team of people had started reinvigorating small town halls in local communities with folk music, I could see how with a bit of tweaking, the concept could be applied in Australia.

It's part of the Woodford Folk Festival's charter to support folk music and culture in Australia, and this certainly fell under that mandate.

Explain the concept ... Who will be touring, and what venues will they be visiting?

A fantastic Acadian trio from the homeland of Small Halls - Vishtén - and a fantastic Australian outfit that we're just locking down now. We're splitting this tour between The Little Stevies and another artist about to be

the islands having a predominantly French announced. culture, how did your upbringing influence The festival tour will drop in at Wauchope on March 9. What time will the show kick the style of music you play today? off - and what type of vibe do you believe Edward Island (Canada's smallest province) the production will bring to town? is actually predominantly anglophone with only Doors at 6:30pm for a 7pm show, and if this 5% of the population that speaks French, while show goes like those we've had before, it will the Magdalen Islands (part of the province be just - FUN. Really great, thrilling music, and of Quebec) is the opposite, with 95% French a good time with people you may or may not speakers. know from the local community.

There are lots of musical and cultural Where can readers purchase similarities in both Acadian French tickets? communities, mainly the festivalofsmallhalls.com healthy music scenes where Vishtèn - Emmanuelle music is learned by ear It’s part of the LeBlanc from family members Woodford Folk What’s Vishtèn’s back or at kitchen parties. r to Festival’s charte story ... Who are the Acadian fiddle music ic and support folk mus , and various members, and and dance have deep alia culture in Austr r de how did you come Celtic roots that ll un this certainly fe together to form a have developed in that mandate .” band? a unique style. What The members are really makes them stand Pastelle LeBlanc (accordion, out is the podorythmie piano, step dancing, vocals), (sitting down foot percussion Pascal Miousse (fiddle, guitar, accompaniment), syncopated fiddle mandolin, vocals) and myself (whistles, bowing styles, variations on tunes and piano, octave mandolin, jaw harp, foot crooked melodies. Furthermore, there are percussions, vocals). beautiful old songs, mostly originating from Pastelle and I are twins and have been France, and mouth music, which used to be playing music and step dancing together since used as a way of preserving melodies, as well as making people dance. we were teens. We founded the band in 2001 Describe the performance you’ll be and after a few successful showcases, started presenting in Wauchope ... What touring extensively. We met Pascal through his instruments will you be playing, and what brother, and he joined the band in 2003 after are some of the pieces of music we can the original fiddler left. expect to hear?

My understanding is that two of your When arranging our music, we mix the old members were raised on Prince Edward with the new, digging in the archives as well Island (off Canada’s east coast) while the as composing new melodies. We mix in new third member is from the even smaller sounds, rhythms and instruments, to create a archipelago, the Magdalen Islands. With

“

fresh twist on the traditional high energy reels, haunting Acadian songs and percussive dance.

That's what you’ll be hearing in Wauchope, along with some anecdotes from home.

What are your thoughts about being part of this special tour - the Festival of Small Halls? What do you hope the overall experience will be like?

We are beyond excited to be part of this tour!

Having played Festival of Small Halls at home on Prince Edward Island and now travelling to the other side of the world to play it in Australia is amazing to us, and we're so looking forward to connecting with the communities, sharing the stage with Australian artists and presenting our music to these new audiences. I know it will be a wonderful and unforgettable tour!

A few words from Wauchope Arts Council…

Wauchope Arts is thrilled to be part of the Small Halls tour, as many members have close ties with Woodford Folk Festival, as patrons and volunteers. This collaboration reflects a shared vision to provide fabulous musical and cultural experiences for regional communities.

It is also a great way for Wauchope Arts to celebrate 21 years of music, theatre, visual arts and festivals, as well as expanding our audience.

Thanks everyone. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photo (left) - Vishtèn. Photo (right) Tamaryn Goodyear and Chloe Goodyear.

the plug!

The Festival of Small Halls will drop in at Wauchope Community Arts Hall on March 9, at 6:30pm. festivalofsmallhalls.com greater port macquarie focus. 13

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

February 2016

6.

13.

LIONS PARK AT GAOL POINT OPENING

The new Lions Park at Gaol Point will be opened.

When Saturday 6th Feb. Mayor Peter Besseling will perform the opening at 11:30am. There will be sausage sandwiches and kite flying for children. We encourage everyone to come and look over the family and commemorative pavers, some of which highlight the history of Port Macquarie.

14.

VALENTINE’S DAY AT LITTLE FISH CAFÉ

Three course French menu. Bookings recommended.

When Sunday 14th February. Cost $55pp. Phone 6581 1332.

COME AND RUN PORT!

7.

BUTTERFLY MARKETS

Handmade local crafts, organic and local produce and more!

Playground, food and drinks, entertainment. When Sunday 7th February, 9am - 2pm and the first Sunday of every month.

Where Long Flat Pub Beer Gardens. Contact 6587 4231.

13.

FREE TAI CHI ON THE BEACH

Gentle moving exercises, deep breathing, energy gathering and meditation for all to enjoy. When Saturday 13th February at 8am; continuing the second Saturday of every month.

More info Port Macquarie Academy of Tai Chi. Phone 6583 3886.

14 greater port macquarie focus.

Brooks Port Macquarie Running Festival. When 13th March.

Register on Line at www.portmacquarierunningfestival.com.au Contact Peter Camilleri Race Director Phone 0404 835 060.

13.

LADIES IN RED

19.

A fundraising fashion event celebrating everything red!

Proudly supporting the Salvation Army.

When Friday 19th February 2016, 6:30pm - 10pm.

Where Rydges Port Macquarie. Tickets $39pp.

For bookings contact Rydges reception on 6589 2888 or email kate_woodfoye@rydges.com

28.

HERO PRESENTS DRAGHERO Hosted by Maxi Shield and Carmen Geddit. Glamazonian Drag Queens from across the country competing for the title of the Supreme Queen. This will be some stellar competition! Send in the Queens! When Sunday 13th February. Doors open 6pm.

Where Rydges Port Macquarie. Cost $35 general entry; $50 VIP. 18+ only. Tickets available from Rydges Port Macquarie reception. Phone 6589 2888 to book.

MID NORTH COAST WEDDING EXPO 2016 When Sunday 28th February, 11am - 3pm.

Cost $5 entry. Where Port Macquarie Panthers Auditorium. www.midnorthcoastweddings.com

focuseditorial.

Tracy Stone, Michelle McClure, Suzanne Naylor, Toni Wright, Sue O’Bree, Jackie Brennan, Magalie Lameloise, CJ Grootenboer and Gai Henry.

focuseditorial.

Pink Girls

P

ort Macquarie Pink Girls would like to warmly invite any ladies on the Mid North Coast interested in joining our group. The group

offers face-to-face and online support through Facebook. It’s a secret group, which means no one on Facebook outside this group can see your comments or can see who the members are. We share our stories, questions and thoughts. We meet regularly, alternating between an early dinner on a week day and women only, but occasionally we organise meet up where partners are welcome. The

Old Holdens

PORT MACQUARIE

LOCAL SUPPORT FOR BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS IN PORT MACQUARIE

a breakfast on a Sunday. The group is for

HA STINGS

group is for young women living with and beyond breast cancer and other cancers.

Port Macquarie Pink Girls forms part of Breast Cancer Network Australia’s national network, along with more than 300 other support groups around the country.

Contact: Tracy Stone: fourstonesinport@ bigpond.com / 0411 027 171 or Magalie Lameloise: magsblog@yahoo.com / 0406 430 384.

BCNA - https://www.bcna.org.au/support-groups/port-macquarie-pink-girls Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ portmacquariepinkgirls/

CAR CLUB INC.

THE HASTINGS OLD HOLDENS CAR CLUB INC. WILL BE HOSTING THE 2016 CLASSIC CRUISE OVER THE WEEKEND 4TH TO 6TH MARCH. THE CLASSIC CRUISE HQ WILL BE AT THE EDGEWATER HOLIDAY PARK, AND THE WEEKEND WILL COMMENCE WITH THE MEET & GREET BBQ ON FRIDAY NIGHT FROM AROUND 6PM.

T

he Saturday morning Cruise departs the Hibbard Sports Club Car Park at 9:30am and eventually ends at Westport Park for the Show-NShine from 10:30am until 3pm. Entry to the Show-N-Shine is free. There will be plenty of hot food and cold drinks available, along with Mini Melts ice-creams, model toy cars, trade stands, a local SES demonstration, and a Port Macquarie Holden marquee. At 2:30pm the

Show-N-Shine presentations will commence for the trophy winners.

The Club and Major Awards dinner will be held at the Hibbard Sports Club from 6:30pm and on Sunday from 7:30am will be the “recovery” breakfast BBQ. All profits from the Classic Cruise this year will be donated to the Port Macquarie SES. More info: www.hastingsoldholdens.com or email: hohclassiccruise@gmail.com

greater port macquarie focus. 15

focusinterview.

L O V E B I R D S

CLARKE 52 YEARS OF MARRIAGE

LOCAL COUPLE RON AND PAT CLARKE WILL CELEBRATE 52 YEARS OF MARRIAGE IN MARCH. THIS WONDERFUL TWOSOME SHARE THEIR HISTORY, THE DETAILS OF THEIR LOVELY WEDDING CEREMONY … AND GIVE SOME TIPS FOR A LONG-LIVED AND HAPPY UNION BETWEEN MAN AND WIFE.

H

i Ron and Pat. Where are you both from originally?

Pat: Ron and I both came from Kellerberrin, which is a small wheat belt town in Western Australia. Ron and his brother were building contractors, and I worked at the local Council office.

Work experience is also a good grounding for marriage; the many opportunities to learn are helpful in running the family home.

It was also a time to learn etiquette and communicating with others. In those times we dressed appropriately for occasions, and the girls even wore gloves to church or to the movies.

Describe how and when you both met ...

Pat: Even though we attended the same school, we did not meet until we both went to the Salvation Army Youth Group.

How and where did Ron “pop the question” - was it a surprise, Pat, or expected?

Pat: Yes, it was expected. We were close friends for about seven years, which included the two and a half years that Ron was in Papua New Guinea.

16 greater port macquarie focus.

Ron came home from PNG in October 1962. On the night before we were officially engaged in June 1963, Ron asked for permission from my father, who wasn’t going to make it easy for him - my father was very Victorian, and it wasn’t until almost midnight that Ron managed to broach the subject and ask the question.

We left for Perth the next day at 6am, arriving just before Caris Bros opened; we had already chosen the ring from the shop window. Ron laughs about the fact that we had the great ring ceremony in the car - in the car park.

In September 1963, Ron and his younger brother, Hector, drove over to Wauchope in an enclosed Bedford truck which contained my bedroom furniture and glory boxes, also building tools and a couple of camp stretchers for sleeping.

There was approximately 800 miles of dirt road on the east/west road across the Nullarbor; the trip took about 5 - 6 days.

What was your wedding like? Where and when did it take place?

Pat: Ron flew back to Perth one week before we were married; he was very ill with Malaria and ever so thin.

Ron’s brother and Cliff Fowler traveled by train from Wauchope to Kellerberrin, to be Ron’s attendants at the wedding. Ron had ordered a suit about three months before he was due to go back to WA - the suit did not arrive at the shop, so after many visits from Ron to enquire where the suit was, the proprietor of the shop told him that he would send it over when it arrived.

On the Tuesday before our wedding, a telegram arrived saying “suit stolen at Station, procedure fig leaf” - unfortunately, I tore up the telegram, and now wish that I hadn’t!

Ron had to go into Fremantle, where he was able to purchase a suit off the rack.

We were married at the Salvation Army Church at Kellerberrin on the 21st March 1964. The bridesmaids wore cherry red knee length dresses, and the little flower girl’s full length frock was white, made to almost the same style as my gown.

After the reception, which was held in the Kellerberrin Town Hall, we travelled to Perth and stayed our first night at the Rose and Crown at Guildford, east of Perth, where we were met at the door by a small English man who was dressed in a long white night gown.

He wore a nightcap and carried a candle - he

was gorgeous!

We sailed on the FairSky from Fremantle to Sydney and then to Lord Howe Island for our honeymoon.

On returning from Lord Howe we settled in Port Macquarie. Ron built our first home in Pappinbarra Parade. Our house was the eighth house on Bellevue Hill; Pappinbarra Parade was then closed up to where a farmer was growing peas and beans - the view looking right across to Point Plomer.

What brought you both to the Wauchope area, and how long have you called the it home for now?

Ron: My brother, Arthur, and I had the opportunity to go to PNG, where we joined a team to help build a hospital for TB patients at an Anglican Mission.

Two other members of the team were Cliff Fowler and Allan Miller, who came from Wauchope. Arthur and I called in to Wauchope on the way home and on seeing this beautiful area, I decided that it would be a great place to live and bring up a family.

Introduce us briefly to your family ...

How many children/grandchildren do you have?

Ron: We have three children; two families

focusinterview.

L O V E B I R D S

Marriage has to have a firm similar foundation with es in os rp aims and pu other. an e on t life. Trus look to Work hard and the future . ”

“ live in Port Macquarie, and our daughter and her husband are Salvation Army Officers now living in Queensland.

We have 13 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

You’re about to celebrate your 52nd wedding anniversary in March.

Congratulations! What plans do you have (if any) to celebrate the occasion?

Ron: Yes, we have been married for almost 52 years … and as yet have not made plans for celebrations.

To what do you attribute the longevity of your marriage - 52 years is a remarkable achievement?

Ron: When we married, we made promises to each other and have tried to keep those promises throughout our marriage. We have always placed Christ at the Head of our Marriage. We have respect for each other and trust, allowing each other to have room to move with our different responsibilities and individualities. Yes, everybody has ups and downs, but that is a time to rely on each other to work things out.

What are some of the activities you both enjoy doing together?

Pat: We love our garden and Church Fellowship. We are very blessed to be able to conduct services at an aged care facility three times each month.

Ron enjoys his choir at the Camden Haven Choral Society. We love spending time with

family and friends.

If you could give any advice to couples intending to marry these days, what would it be?

Ron: Marriage is a responsibility for life toward each other and also the children; it is not to be treated lightly.

Firstly, to always have respect, patience and understanding for each other and remember why you first fell in love. Enjoy building a home and family together. If there is a problem, then discuss it between yourselves.

Make your home clean, friendly and welcoming, so that when you come home from a hard day’s work, it is fresh and inviting.

Keep your finances in order and do not spend what you do not have.

Marriage has to have a firm foundation with similar aims and purposes in life. Trust one another. Work hard and look to the future.

Thanks Ron and Pat. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Photos with many thanks to TLC Photography Port Macquarie. greater port macquarie focus focus. 17

COMING UP in 2016 Players Theatre Port Macquarie is proud to announce a great line-up of shows for 2016.

LONGPOINT Vineyard White Magic is the power within us and the power around us. Not just for creatives, but for anyone. It’s that force of energy that lights people up with passion, compassion, or drive to do something extraordinary.

We kick off the year with the great Paul Simon play - The Odd Couple, under the Direction of Steve Harris and a great local cast.

The Odd Couple is centred around the lives of two friends, Oscar and Felix, who share an apartment. Oscar is messy and out of control. Felix is neat and particular. Put them together and watch the sparks fly, as Oscar’s messy nature keeps Felix busy and Felix’s fastidious characteristics drive Oscar spare. We won’t spoil the story, but suffice to say there is an enormous argument and Oscar throws Felix out ... and a twist you won’t believe. At the end of the day though, it is clear some of Felix has rubbed off on Oscar.

Show runs March 4 - 20.

BROOKS PORT MACQUARIE RUNNING FESTIVAL The fifth Brooks Port Macquarie Running Festival will be staged on Sunday, March 13th 2016 from Port Macquarie’s Town Green.

Yvonne Kiely and Samantha Clark are two well-known local artists and friends now for over ten years. Having done previous exhibitions together, Yvonne and Sam were blown away by the synchronisation of their two explorations of the White Magic concept.

Next up it’s the musical The Producers, under the Direction of Daniel Parlievet, which runs from 13-29 May.

Sam says, “I’m a bit obsessed with this concept at the moment - journaling, meditation and getting into nature connects me to White Magic- so my paintings for this exhibition came together quickly and are both wildly loose and freely simple, with no judgement on my behalf!”

Grease, the wonderful Musical, will hit the stage under the Direction of Hamish Keddie from July 22 to August 14.

Yvonne has been enjoying the journey and the work she is currently producing. Yvonne says, “From an art therapy point of view, this style of painting so freely is very therapeutic, relaxing and calming.”

We then round out the year with the musical Sweet Charity under the direction of Peter Dransfield and Sue Morvan from November 11 to December 4.

All competitors throughout the day will receive finishing medals, fresh fruit and ice cream for their recovery, whilst the kiddies also receive a fun pack.

We also are bringing back the Panto, with Puss In Boots returning in January 2017.

Enter online at www.portmacquarierunningfestival.com.au/event/

As you can see, it’s another year of quality community theatre, and we look forward to delivering these top productions in 2016.

Brooks - Port Macquarie Hastings Council - Newcastle Permanent - Rydges - Macquarie Waters - Sundowner Tourist Park - Athletes Foot - Enriched Health - Michelles Sport Jewellery - Saxbys Coastal Sport And Fitness - Adam Holborow LJ Hooker.

Follow Sam and Yvonne on Facebook: Hey Stella and Yvonne Kiely Art. Visit the exhibition at Long Point Vineyard and Gallery from Jan 30 to March 30. You might even meet one of the artists while you’re there!

18 greater port macquarie focus.

The Festival of One Act Plays returns over the June long weekend, with the organising committee seeking submissions from interested Directors and visiting theatre companies.

‘Allo ‘Allo, the well known BBC TV series adaption of this fabulous comedy comes to Players under the Direction of Cameron Marshall from September 23 to October 9.

Book now online at playerstheatre.org.au

Enjoy a family day out of fun and fitness, where an expected 1,000 plus competitors will choose from the kids’ fun run, 4 km walk and talk, 5 km fun run, 10 km run, or a 21.1 km half marathon.

You will be surrounded by the beautiful Hastings River and ocean as you make your way running along breakwall and paths. This amazing backdrop transforms one of the most picturesque run courses you will experience.

Not a runner? Team up with your family and friends and enjoy the picturesque 4 km walk.

Proudly supported by:

T

he weekend of events includes aquathons and triathlons for all ages and abilities held around Coffs Harbour’s picturesque foreshore, making it ideal for competitors and spectators alike.

The bcu Coffs Tri includes children’s events on the Saturday for ages five to fourteen. And on the SunON THE 5TH AND 6TH MARCH, TRIATHLETES day, there is the choice of an “enticer” triathlon (375 FROM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY WILL DESCEND m swim/10 km cycle /2.5 km run) and the headline ON THE MID NORTH COAST FOR THE ANNUAL Olympic-distance race (1.5 km swim/40 km Cycle/10 MULTISPORT FESTIVAL, THE BCU COFFS TRI. km run), with the option of competing as an individual or part of a team.

750 competitors took part in the 2015 event and organisers are expecting to eclipse that, with numbers already double compared to the same time last year.

Yamba’s Lindsey Wall took out the Olympic distance triathlon and said it is one of the most spectacular courses he has ever raced on.

“This race is as good as they get the swim is in the stunning harYou don’ t have bour and takes you out around te le to be a triath the iconic Coffs Jetty; the ride is u bc e th to compete in on fast, fully closed roads out as ng lo s Coffs Tri. A ow to the Coffs Harbour airport; kn , im sw you can and ke bi and the run takes you out to a de ri to how you’ ve n, ru the end of the Jetty, then loops or k al w n ca s.” around to the end of the newly got all that it take revamped break wall. It’s one of those events where it can be hard to focus on the actual race, because the scenery and atmosphere is so incredible.”

Event organiser, Village Sports, is offering a total prize purse of AU$4,500 for the top three overall male and female placegetters and is expecting

BCU COFFS TRI

“

to attract a high calibre of professional athletes again this year. Brad Kahlefeldt won the 2014 event, with Michellie Jones claiming victory in the enticer distance the same year. Other well-known triathletes who have raced the bcu Coffs Tri course include Clayton Fettell, Mitch Dean, Rachael Paxton (2015 female winner), Matilda Raynolds and Anna Cleaver.

While the event attracts the elite of the sport, it is open to all levels, from those doing their first triathlon to those stepping up from the enticer to Olympic distance event, or those just wanting to improve on a previous time.

Event director Sinclair Black said, “You don’t have to be a triathlete to compete in the bcu Coffs Tri. As long as you can swim, know how to ride a bike and can walk or run, you’ve got all that it takes. And, if you’re not up for all three legs, the Olympic distance event has a team option.

“Triathletes often have to travel long distances to compete on a quality course,” he said, “and Coffs Harbour is very fortunate to be able to host a world class race that is easily accessible to those living in regional NSW. “We have also ensured the entry fees are kept low whilst delivering a very safe and scenic course.

“This year’s event will incorporate the recently completed Jetty Walkway, and it is a great opportunity for Coffs Harbour to showcase its beautiful harbour and foreshore area to visitors.”

Village Sports donates all proceeds from the event to local charities and community groups, and to date has raised over $200,000 for the Coffs community.

For more information about the bcu Coffs Tri and to enter, visit www.villagesports.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 19

mixed berry crumble from salty’s bar and grill.

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

20 greater port macquarie focus.

views, soaking up the sun and enjoying a glass of wine or cold beer has never been easier, match that with delicious meals and you have the perfect lunch or dinner.

Think of Salty’s when booking your next function or birthday party, talk to us today about the perfect package to suit your needs.

Licensed Family friendly Indoor / outdoor dining

Lemongrass butter poached bugs tails, courgette, 9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie pinenuts, champagne foam.

6584 0841

A new menu, a new restaurant feel combined with our classic Hastings River view and friendly service.

The team at Salty’s.

Crispy pork belly, shitake mushroom, soba noodle, Buller Street, Port Macquarie ponzu broth, lotus root 25 crisp 6583 1499 thewestportclub.com.au

Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm.

Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

Kingfish carpaccio, fingerlime, chorizo and radish

zebu bar+grill Lovers love Zebu! Book in for a decadent evening on the waterfront with a Valentine’s menu lovingly created by Executive Chef Adam Tait.

Enjoy three divine courses and a rose on arrival for $85pp. Arrive a little early and add a delicious his or hers lovers’ potion from our extensive cocktail list and relax together with live music in Zebu Bar. Bookings are essential.

If you would like to share a Valentine’s Day that is a little more low key, enjoy a relaxed dinner, drinks, live music and a fabulous water view from our casual dining menu from noon ‘til late.

Diary Date: DRAGHERO Event - Saturday 13 February Glamazonian Drag Queens from across the country competing for the title of the Supreme Queen upstairs at Rydges 6pm. $35pp includes light finger food on arrival - tickets available at reception.

Chefs d Chris &

Bookings are recommended.

Chef’s The Westport Club's

TABLE SPRING Sensations

7 days. Lunch 11:30am 2:30pm. Dinner 5pm - 8:30pm.

zebu bar+grill Summer is just around the corner - head to Zebu to soak up the pre holiday atmosphere with cracking water views and blue skys.

Enjoy the quintessential taste of summer with a glass of vino or a muddled mojito teamed with some succulent oysters or crispy duck spring rolls, whilst listening to some live tunes from many local talented musicians. If it’s something a little more refined you are after, head to the grill for our degustation menu with five hand crafted courses from Executive Chef Adam Tait matched with fine wines sourced from across Australia. can’t WhereStill food and service work in harmony. decide? Be tempted by the King Fish Carpaccio Synergy Restaurant & Bar, located at the Mercure Centro Hotel in the heart of with fingerlime, chorizo and radish paired with a town. crisp Andrew Thomas Six Degrees Semillon - simply For an intimate dining experience, offering modern Australian cuisine at its best. irresistible! private dining rooms available on request, for bookings of 10 or more Diary Date: New Year’s EveIntimate - Bring in the New Also consider our unique rooftop banquet room, with amazing ocean Year in Sin City Style with aguests. night in Vegas Off the Hook is owned and operated by Paul and Narelle Walsh. right: Executive Chef views, for that spectacular event. with Executive dancing girls, blackjack and poker!

Chef Jay Snelgar Adam Tait.

We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, See page 21 for more info! Save the date: ” VALENTINES DAY” left: Sous Chef snacks, salads, and of course, fish and chips.

Shivaneel Nath.

restaurant synergy

off the hook

Back by popular demand: Our Romance Dinner - 4 course intimate dinner, Wewine haveoradded a larger selection of fish to our menu, including our with complimentary bottled sparkling. favourite, the Flathead llets.BOOK NOW Once again limited bookings available - don’t missfiout

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

The frie staff.

Cnr Hay & William Streets, Port Macquarie 6583 0830 www.centrohotel.com.au or book online www.resdiary.com 7 days, 6:30am - 10am for breakfast; 5pm - late forChef dinner. Bookings essential.

Executive Adam Tait.

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

Chocolate fondant, candied orange and crème fraiche.

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green.

6589 2822 www.zebu.com.au 6584 1146

Dino rump

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

26

7 days, from 11am - late.

EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

greater port macquarie focus.

Bago Tavern

aqua the westport club

Have you tried our Dino Rump?

When Dinosaur met cow, seriously good food was created.

Come and put one to the test today.

Along with a great restaurant serving well crafted modern pub food, a fantastic range of draught and packaged beers, an extensive wine list, and friendly professional staff, the Bago Tavern is truly your place to enjoy. We even have a great spot for families with little ones, an undercover outdoor area with children’s playground.

Designed for two, Aqua’s “to share dishes” are pefect to enjoy with the one you love.

235 High Street, Wauchope 6586 4722 We are open seven days a week, 11am ‘til late.

Lunch from 11:30am and dinner from 5:30pm.

Head Chef Grant Smart

Aqua’s “to share dishes” will take you on an intimate food and wine journey. Delight in a selection of exclusive Australian wines, chosen to enhance a seasonal modern Australian menu designed by our chefs.

Relax in the stunning and fully refurbished surroundings overlooking the sparkling Hastings River.

Bookings are recommended; call 6583 1499.

Chef de Cuisine Luke Corkery.

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

Dinner 7 days - 5pm - 8:30pm. greater port macquarie focus. 21

Massaman Lamb Shank.

northpoint thai cuisine

salty's bar and grill

Fresh and full of flavour, Northpoint Thai Cuisine has been established in Port Macquarie for nearly three years. With an experienced Thai chef, the extensive menu features a wide range of local products and fresh ingredients with true Thai flavours.

Jackson James is back Book today to secure your table for our Valentine’s Day lunch or dinner.

Live music with Jackson from 1 - 3pm.

A chilled out atmosphere, live tunes, great food and your loved one sounds like the perfect day.

Fully Licensed Family friendly Indoor / outdoor dining

Northpoint Thai is conveniently located in a quiet corner of the CBD at the end of Murray St. Choose from a selection of entrees, salads, soups, noodle dishes, stir fires and curries.

Bring a group of friends and enjoy a banquet style meal of different dishes to share for an experience to remember.

Northpoint Thai is the perfect place for your next special occasion, party or event - book now.

• Lunch specials from $9.90 - daily specials • Book now for Valentine’s Day! Sunday, February 14 • BYO

Shop 1/2 Murray St, Port Macquarie 6583 8990

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841

Lunch Tues - Sat ,11:30am - 2pm. Dinner Tues - Sun, 5pm - 9:30pm Closed Monday. Open Christmas Day, 5pm - 9pm.

Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm.

Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

Seafood Paella.

Milk chocolate lava cake, 70% dark chocolate nache tart, dipped strawberry, orange gel and

mi casa restaurant

Enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine at its best! With an exciting modern take on Spanish favourites, Mi Casa has a relaxed atmosphere with views overlooking the Town Green and Hastings River.

Spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner at Mi Casa. Match the flavoursome Seafood Paella with a glass of Marques de Caceres Rioja. Or share some dishes from our banquet menu - more than synergy just tapas! work in harmony.

ComeCentro and try the revamped menu from Chef Kris Winter. ocated at the Mercure Hotel in the • Bookings preferred erience, offering modern Australian cuisine at • Fully Licensed (no BYO)

ms available on request, for bookings of 10 right: Executive der our unique rooftop banquet room, with Chef Jay on Snelgar 3/2 Horton Street (Located Town hat spectacular event. left: Sous Chef

Green), Port Macquarie.Shivaneel Nath.

6584 4559 6 nights Tues - Sun from 6pm.

ets, Port Macquarie trohotel.com.au

breakfast; s essential.

The team at Salty’s

22 greater port macquarie focus.

and Prawn Pad Thai

mi casa cafÉ & restaurant Celebrate summer at Mi Casa Café and Restaurant!

With an exciting modern take on the traditional Spanish menu, Mi Casa have introduced Weekly Main Specials such as the 400 g rib eye on the bone with cured meat crumble, haloumi and vegetable stack with a duck, rosemary and Have a meal with Dasher’s. juniper jus. Pair it with a glass of Marques De Caceres Rioja Rose.

Dasher’s is quickly becoming Forster’s favourite restuarant. With meals that the Enjoy a table outside overlooking the Town whole family can enjoy, from burgers to hot dogs, onion rings to cheesey fries Green, and choose from a wide selection of traditional Spanish tapas with a -jug of our and don’t forget about the famous Dasher’s shakes. famous sangria.

Located across from the water along Memorial Drive, Dasher’s is the perfect • Bookings preferred • Fully Licensed (No BYO)

Dasher’s

Owners Brendan & Jennis Field.

spot for that after swim cocktail or get together with friends and family.

Licensed.

Head Chef John Kaukasi

Eat in or take away.

24 - 30 Memorial Drive, Forster

Owners Brendan 6555 7352 & Jennis Field.

Closed Mondays only. Tuesdays 11am - 3pm, Wednesday - Sunday Lunch from 11 - 3pm from 5pm.

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

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

seabreeze beach hotel Seabreeze Beach Hotel hosts first ever “Crafts on the Coast”.

The Seabreeze Beach Hotel, located in the mid north coastal playground of South West Rocks, will host their first ever craft beer event on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 March.

The inaugural Crafts on the Coast event will celebrate local and regional boutique breweries including Bucket Brewery (Kempsey), Black Duck Brewery (Port Macquarie), Little Brewing Co. (Port Macquarie), Murray’s Brewery (Port Stephens), and Six String Brewing (Central Coast).

Entry is free, with tasting tickets available to buy across the weekend, offering visitors the chance to taste their way through a selection of craft beers and ciders. The hotel will further highlight the beers by pairing them with a limited edition menu, sourced locally from Macleay Valley producers. There will also be live entertainment

across the weekend.

For those wanting to take their beer and food exploration one step further, Saturday night’s “Brewers Dinner” will see each of the brewers on hand to discuss all things brewing while enjoying a locally sourced degustation menu.

The Hotel is offering a range of accommodation packages for the event, so it’s a great opportunity to make a weekend of it. South West Rocks is a hidden gem on the Mid North Coast, located just under an hour’s drive from Port Macquarie airport or a five hour drive from Sydney or the Gold Coast.

Cnr Livingstone Street and Prince of Wales Avenue, South West Rocks, NSW www.seabreezebeachhotel.com.au (02) 6566 6205.

Entry is FREE and tasting tickets are $22 for 10 with a tasting cup.

greater port macquarie focus. 23

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

TREVOR SUITOR P O R T M AC Q UA R I E ’ S E N J OY I N G A B I G R E SI DE N T I A L CON ST RUCT ION BO OM .

E X I ST I NG HOUS E S , TO O, A R E BE I NG S NA PPE D U P FA S T AT H E A LT H Y P R I C E S . F U R T H E R , T H E VA L U E O F - A L L - D E V E L O P M E N T A P P L I C AT I O N S , I N D O L L A R S , H A S N E A R D O U B L E D I N T WO Y E A R S . S U S I E D I S C U S S E S T H E B U OYA N T M A R K E T T R E N D W I T H A N U P B E AT L O C A L B U I L D I N G P I O N E E R .

P

ort is flavour of the month - of the past 12 months in fact. In the most recent financial year the value of residential construction applications rose by more than 27 per cent to $143 million, an average $3 million a week over 48 weeks. Excluding intrinsic materials, that’s a lot of chaff going into the local economy, a lot of people moving in (many from Sydney), or moving up (upsizing, or upgrading existing homes) or moving on (downsizing into new villas or “over-55s” condos).

We’re also heavily searched, among ex-Sydney locations, by buyers using real estate portals seeking existing dwellings. Good houses, especially “beachside”, offered below a certain price point are selling quickly. Housing expansion’s been big recently, I suggest to long-time local builder Trevor Suitor.

“Mm, it has!” he agrees. Is it the greatest ever? “In the 1990s Port Macquarie was building close to 500 homes a year. Then we had periods in the past 10 years when we’ve been down to 200. There were many factors in that regression.

One was a boom period in units: a lot of people moved into units, creating a big second-hand supply of housing, which affected the building industry. And some of the available land wasn’t coming through in the normal flow of things and that created a land shortage that created problems. They’ve been some large residential lifestyle villages, close to 800 or 900 [units] such as

24 greater port macquarie focus.

Dahlsford Grove, Newport Gardens, and at Bonny Hills, so the over-55s moved into them. Those are big numbers; they’d be traditional home or villa buyers: that’s an effect on the industry. So a few factors kept numbers down. But now we’re back over the 500 houses.” The building industry in general - in all sectors, including commercial, residential, multi-dwelling, lifestyle villages - is busier than ever, in a much bigger market.

The only exception, Suitor reckons, is contract housing ... yet busier probably only for a brief period in 2000 when clients signed contracts in a pre-July 1 GST frenzy.

Suitor’s Pycon Homes & Constructions is one of only several home-grown builders in the emerging Port township of 35 years ago still operating under the same family ownership. It’s 43 years since, newly married to Lynne, he arrived here from Sydney in 1972 with a background in banking and accountancy and began work in real estate. Towards the end of the ’70s into the early ’80s he started developing land subdivisions. One was around the Summit Road-Bangalay Drive area of Lighthouse Beach - then mostly open fields - where he filled, compacted and reshaped a big quarry that had been used for road base, and created building blocks. By 1980 he’d become a commercial builder of light industrial property. Prominent landmarks such as those home to Furniture One, The Good Guys, Captain Snooze, Lachlan House (site of the NRMA offices) on Horton Street, Growers Market and, more

lately, Columba Cottage child care centre and many more - all Pycon work.

“Until about ’89 we built predominantly commercial buildings. We moved into housing in 1990 and it became a big part of the company in ’99.” Most builders then, including Pycon, employed their own team of licensed tradesmen on staff, not contractors like today.

Over the ensuing 25 years Pycon has built an estimated 750 dwellings: among them, 60 homes on the canals alone, Sala townhouses at North Harbour and, one of its specialties, multi-dwellings such as Sienna Grange Retirement Village, Governors Retirement Resort, and 21 new villas in Toorak Court. It’s expanded its operating area to cover from Gloucester-Forster to Grafton and beyond. In November it opened an office and display home in Coffs Harbour; it’s now building some 100 dwellings a year.

The walls of its offices, overlooking the Hastings River estuary, are covered in top industry awards. And it’s one of 94 defined major builders in NSW who account for around half of the state’s entire housing market.

This concentration’s partly due to the nowheavy regulation of the building industry and of homeowners’ insurance provisions. “We’ve a large insurance cover. And with it comes a lot of responsibility, much greater accountability: governance, reporting, to the broker, insurer and the government organisation SICorp [NSW Self Insurance Corporation, which oversees the

six-year indemnity]. You’re under a microscope.

We have to maintain extremely accurate reporting: good in-house accounting, a computer system with accurate data on weekly cash flows, profit and loss reports, estimating, job costings, all of that. Bankruptcies now are a lot fewer and redundancy rates are high: companies move out of the industry because they can’t meet the requirements. You have to be capitalised. You can’t just shake hands and build a house for someone; those days are gone.

“When there’s land available and approved, and willing developers, there’s building activity.

In Port Macquarie we’ve seen an unusual amount of land available for building over the past few years, and that seems to be the case for the near future. In the early ’90s, for instance, a very good town planner had the foresight to rezone all the land from the CBD, basically, out to Lighthouse, which created a large available land bank - the Crestwoods, Dahlsfords, Green Meadows, all those estates: that period of building, 1990 to 2000, was very buoyant because of available land.

“There are other factors like the economy, interest rates and so on. Sometimes all of those factors will come together - interest rates low, duplication of the Pacific Highway for example, and available land - to create a larger supply ... and that’s what we’re seeing at the moment.”

NEXT TIME: What the future holds for Port Macquarie.

Kate WOOD-FOYE

from Rydges Port Macquarie and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Photo Credit Steve Harris Fab Photos

Right. Georgia Everingham, Felicity Hill, Amy Thomas at the Sails Resort Pool Party.

Below. Cian Morgan, Tom Valentine and crew enjoying Rydges Las Vegas NYE.

Right. WPMPA show girls and guys at Rydges Las Vegas NYE.

Photo Credit Steve Harris Fab Photos

Photo Credit Steve Harris Fab Photos

Above. Enjoying a cocktail at Rydges Las Vegas NYE.

SOCIAL/SCENE

Right. Cocktail glam at Rydges Las Vegas NYE.

Photo Credit Steve Harris Fab Photos

AS WE HEAD INTO THE MONTH OF LOVE I AM GOING TO ADMIT A SECRET LOVE OF MINE…AN ADDICTION TO THAT RIDICULOUSLY ENJOYABLE AND EQUALLY TRAGIC SHOW TOTAL WIPEOUT…..

T

he fabulously wacky poms who head abroad to launch themselves across ludicrously high inflatable walls, muddy sludge pits with below the belt blows from dodgy punching apparatus, obscenely dangerous spinning levers and of course those big red bouncy balls!

Anyone who knows me knows that I am also a die-hard Survivor fan and fancy that perhaps one day I could give it a crack! (They allow some luxury items, right?) I consider “Big Balls” as we refer to it in our house as the training ground for just such an adventure.

To my delight, Port Macquarie now has just such a place to hone these unique and slightly unusual skills. Under the guise of entertaining my four year old on a school holiday Saturday morning, we all venture to the fabulous Inflatable World for a morning of fun, blow outs and a ton of unexpected exercise! Bazillions of kidlets and their accompanying adults happily running about in socks, sweating it out and launching themselves through an awesome inflatable obstacle course of epic proportions… And guess what they have: four big green balls! Awesome family fun! Survivor, here I come! Congrats to the Wilken family and their lovely team, who have set up a fantastic sports centre and activity for all the

26 greater port macquarie focus.

family!

VIVA LAS VEGAS! Two hundred and twenty guests brought in the New Year with a nod to all things feathers and fabulous, with a night at the Rydges-Vegas casino. The gorgeous revellers dressed in their glitzy and glamourous Vegas best were greeted by the twinkling Vegas sign courtesy of the fabulous Jeremy Bates of Creative Vibe, the Rogue MGM Grand Cocktail and a bevvy of beauties and buff bods performing for them in sequins, feathers and super high-high heels! Leg kicking, fabulous shimmies and plenty of sass swept the dance floor, as the talented troupe from Stacey Morgan’s WPMPA had the crowd shaking and shimmying to sensational sin city classics.

Guests enjoyed music from Vegas DJ Chris and plenty of delightfully devilish Black Jack and Poker well into the night. Guests included Gus and Jodie Gould, Donna Liver, Vickie and Bruin Taylor, Tim and Bec Olsen, Sarah and Bob Holster, Lee and Craig Reimer-Madden, Jacqui Eller, Leanne MacDonald, Nerida Galloway, Tim and Melinda Farnsworth and Kylie and Mark Lyons, to name a few. A fabulous night … Danced so much, I broke my high heel ... Nothing like a bit of gaffa tape and a boogie to bring in the New Year!

Sundays are fun days and are even more so now with the introduction of limited release events for locals beside Sails Resorts stunning

new pool. Over 200 guests enjoyed a chillaxed afternoon by the water, enjoying mojitos, icy cold beers, lobster rolls and lamb burgers whilst taking a dip and listening to smooth tunes from Mat Broker and Liz Robinson. The weather turned on a treat for guests, including lots of families and groups of friends, such as Elle Brown, Casey Wallace, Tania Marino, Brad Diebert, Kylie Zeimer, Danny Tate, Tracey Pascoe, Matt Jones and Felicity Hill, who all settled in for a chilled afternoon of fun in the sun. Stay tuned for some extra shade, some new tunes, some awesome new menu additions and lots more of those funky poolside ottomans to kick back and relax on! Thanks to our lifeguard James Turnham and the Sails team, who are already working on ways to bump up the fun for next time!

Just when you thought it was safe to venture out on the town … Those glamazonian goddesses are back in their insanely high, high heels (size 13 kickers no less!) - to strut, preen and perform their hearts out for you at this year’s DragHero event.

Last year 200 lucky guests enjoyed a raucous and highly entertaining night of raw talent and glam performance with a lethal dose of cheek and fun.

This year’s event, coordinated by Melbourne’s Jacob Merchant, will be no different, with the wickedly witty event being held on Saturday 13 Feb in the waterfront venue at Rydges. Talented

performers from all over the country will converge on the venue to battle it out in a talent quest to beat all talent quests in the theme of LOVE to honour its Valentine’s weekend appearance.

A limited release of VIP tickets will be available, as well as general admission, which will include light finger food on arrival. Tickets from $35pp available at reception. Frock up, or miss out!

Guy Sebastian snuck into town recently to rock a full house at the Glasshouse - this guy has some moves and can seriously entertain. Amanda Perrin-Sumner, Vanessa and Jasmin Lawrence and Sarah Gale were among the 600 strong crowd who had the pleasure of his talented company.

Watch this space for more talented stars to head our way in July for Luminosity 2016!

Australia Day conjures those familiar faves, sun, surf, sand, swims, backyard BBQs with friends and Triple J Hottest 100, beach days and family celebrations and of course, that little extra public holiday we all love - not to mention the vast and fabulous array of food and cultural experiences created from the diverse melting pot that our modern day Oz has become. What an absolutely gorgeous expanse of an island we live on, literally heaven on earth… Pinching myself every day that we get to enjoy our beautiful little slice… ‘til next month!

Kate.

focus_eat

Lou Perri from the Stunned Mullet

LOU PERRI

WHO GETS IT? “A GRATUITY (ALSO CALLED A TIP) IS A SUM OF MONEY CUSTOMARILY TENDERED IN ADDITION TO THE BASIC PRICE, TO CERTAIN SERVICE SECTOR WORKERS FOR A SERVICE PERFORMED OR ANTICIPATED …

T

ips and their amount are a matter of social custom and etiquette and the custom varies between countries and settings” Wikipedia.

Gracing this column more than once in the

past has been the topic of the importance of

gratuities in the hospitality industry in terms of the sheer recognition of good or perhaps excellent service. And also discussed previously has been the fact that this is common practice, if not mandatory in other parts of the world, and also that the waiting of tables and service of customers in a restaurant setting is much

more so seen as a respected and skilled career choice, as opposed to the “stepping stone” to something else that it is often viewed as in these parts.

It still remains that Australia is somewhat in two minds over the issue of tipping - and it is pretty much black and white - those that do and those that don’t and probably have never done and never will. Bearing in mind that the leaving of a “gratuity” is very much that - completely discretionary, and absolutely the choice of the consumer. This a fact that we in the hospitality trade are utterly accepting of, and we certainly don’t discriminate against those that exercise their right not to.

However, a question we are often asked, after the meal is done, after the dishes are cleared and as the inevitable financial exchange commences “If I leave a tip, does it go to you?”

Where else would it go? We might ask ourselves this, in an ideal workplace, where employees actually receive the gratuities which are specifically given to them. But somewhat depressingly, this question actually needs to be asked as sadly, the tips that are meant to be received by staff never go into their hands and are mis-appropriated by questionable management practice.

This practice is utterly abhorrent, to say the least. The tip is generally inspired by a connection made between the server and the guest(s)The fact that interactions between customer and employee have been pleasant, timely and without complication but most importantly, adding value to the overall experience. The tip is

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a concrete acknowledgement of that moment of time and the specific people that were involved in its success.

It, in itself, is a tangible incentive to the person(s) who provided the service, to be motivated to keep providing the same, or better service to others - a valuable financial enhancement to a lack-lustre hourly rate, and a pure boost to the self-esteem of a person in a job which often offers a combination of hard physical labour and the challenging task of dealing with many varied and interesting personalities.

To not provide this small reward to its intended recipient damages the entire industry.

Workers become frustrated and hostile. Talented individuals - who might have stayed and become the most wonderful hosts, managers and restaurant owners leave the industry in search of a career free of exploitation.

And less customers leave a tip. For all those that don’t actually ask the question about who gets the tip, there is an equal amount that just believe the answer is - not to the person who has earned it. And therefore, a tip is never left.

It is a sad fact that such suspicions abound quite naturally regarding unscrupulous management practices and one that reflects our intrinsic distrust of the concept of a “gratuity”.

The message here is - when in doubt - ask the question. And if it’s the reason for holding back in rewarding good service, dig a little deeper.

The bottom line is, if we want better service, we need to acknowledge it and as an industry, we need to pass it on …

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greater port macquarie focus. 27

focusinterview.

TWELVE TIME GOLDEN GUITAR WINNER ADAM BRAND IS JOINED BY COUNTRY MUSIC STARS DREW MCALISTER, TRAVIS COLLINS, MATT CORNELL AND MIKE CARR; TOGETHER, THEY MAKE UP COUNTRY’S NEWEST SUPERGROUP, ADAM BRAND & THE OUTLAWS. RELEASING AN ALBUM AND KICKING OFF ON A NATIONAL TOUR, FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH FRONTMAN ADAM BRAND …

H

i Adam. Take us back to your first memories of having an interest in music; what was it that first captivated you?

My dad and my uncles had a band; my dad was the singer, my uncle was a drummer, and one of my other uncles was a bass player.

My other uncle couldn’t sing or play to save himself, so he was the dodgy manager! My first time on stage was when I was three years old with that band singing How Much is That Doggy in the Window? So if you want to go back to the beginning, that’s where it all started. All through my life ... I was playing drums, I loved music; it was just always something I wanted to be a part of.

What is is about country music that you love, and why did you choose to write and play that genre of music?

I grew up listening to Springsteen and Mellencamp and Chisel, Fleetwood Mac, all that sort of stuff. Country music is just so easy to connect with - it’s easy to listen to a lyric and go, “Yeah, I get it. I’ve been through that; I’m going through that”. I suppose it really does cover everything from having a big night out with your mates at the pub dancin’ on the bar, doing nudey runs down the street, right through to standing up in honour of people who have served and make the ultimate

28 greater port macquarie focus.

sacrifice for our country ... and it’s just very, that’s just engrained into your heart and your very real stories and things that we can all soul, keeping that motivation going is pretty relate to. easy.

I didn’t grow up listening to music Introduce us to your latest venabout living on the outback ture, Adam Brand and The sheep station or cattle station Outlaws. How did you or those types of things, come together, and who When you do but I grew up smaller makes up the group? something you country towns, so I The unique thing el like love , it doesn’ t fe sing about things about this group is hing work! It’s somet g, I can relate to. For it’s made up of five in that you love do me, it’s being able to individual artists, all re something you’ and find something that coming together to t, passionate abou e rc fo to connects me with my form one band.

They’re ve you don’ t ha ” audience. all accomplished, they all yourself to do it.

Being such a musically have amazing careers and inspired man, how do you in those amazing careers keep your creative side alive? they’ve all had albums, all had You hear this a lot - maybe it’s a number ones and top tens, made cliche, but its absolutely true: when you videos and toured for years ... do something you love, it doesn’t feel like So there’s such a wealth of knowledge work! It’s something that you love doing, and exprience in the band. It’s made up of something you’re passionate about, and you Travis Collins, who’s nominated this year don’t have to force yourself to do it. It’s you, for his last album for male vocalist; highest you want to do it - you get up in the morning selling Drew McAlister, who’s half of McAlister and you want to listen to music. Most people Kemp, a huge duo and band; Matt Cornell, just have conversations, but when I’m talking who’s played in everyone’s band over the and someone says something that’s interestyears from Baby Animals to Richard Clapton; ing, I go: “Oh, that’s an idea for a song!” So Mike Carr, who’s won ARIA awards for Buddy I write down a line, and it could be a seed Goode - the comedy artist - as well as written that starts a song. I think when it’s something hit songs over the years, including ones for

“

me! There’s just so much diversity in the band.

This is an idea I’ve had for over 10 years ... and what’s the foundation of this? It’s that these guys are all great mates of mine and we’ve all worked together in some capacity over the years, so it’s great to be able to put that together and say, “Fellas, let’s take a break from our normal careers and go out and do this thing”.

The idea behind the songs that we’re doing is that they’re party songs - let’s get together in a room and jam on all of our favourite songs, the kind of songs we would want playing if we were at a party or a BBQ at our house that we all love to sing along to - great anthems. So that’s the idea for the album and the shows: five artists, all on stage singing their favourite songs that everyone else knows ... And a party!

Thanks Adam.

the plug!

Catch Adam Brand and The Outlaws at LUSC. When Friday, 26 February 2016.

Time 8:15pm.

Tickets $35. www.laurietonclub.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 29

focusinterview.

LINDSEY S C H W A B

2016 is shaping up to be a stellar year for Fusion 7! With the restaurant that’s renowned for its stunning flavour combinations about to celebrate its 10th anniversary, to receive a coveted “hat” from the Australian Good Food Guide is yet another acknowledgement that this business is doing great things!

Honestly, it’s great to receive is . It’s an award like th of al go n not the mai get to t bu , ss ne the busi th t en at acknowledgem great a you are doing dustry in e m job from so ” . tic as nt fa allies is

“

30 greater port macquarie focus.

i Lindsay.

Congratulations on your most recent award for Fusion 7. Tell us about the award and what it stands for...

Thanks. It’s always nice to get some recognition from an industry guide. The Australian Good Food Guide is an online publication, whose roots go back to 1977.

It’s been solely online since 1999 and rewards the top echelon of the restaurant industry. Only 429 restaurants received “hat” ratings Australia wide, so it’s nice to think our little restaurant is serving some of the country’s finest fare.

How does it feel to be rewarded with this prestigious award after all the hard work and hours you put into the business?

Honestly, it’s great to receive an award like this. It’s not the main goal of the business, but to get acknowledgement that you are doing a great job from some industry allies is fantastic. A lot of blood, sweat and tears go into running a restaurant; there’s a lot of behind-thescenes activity, which a lot of people don’t know about. As we are approaching our 10th birthday, this is our first award like this - so we must be getting better! In saying that, seeing people dining out with smiles on their faces and having a good time is more satisfying.

What were the main components that made up the overall score; do you know what you were judged on?

The judging is all done anonymously by

inspectors appointed by the AGFG. The general public can also voice their opinion, which does have some bearing on the results. “Hats” are awarded solely for food, which is scored on taste, appearance, menu composition and value for money, so our food must have impressed!

What does this award now mean for Fusion 7?

We are all very excited about receiving this accolade. I guess people will be coming to the restaurant with high expectations now, and we believe the consistency with our level of food and service is what has kept people coming back, so ... “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Obviously you can’t always please everyone, but we try to put smiles on people’s faces.

Heading in to autumn, will you be changing your menu? Tell us about some of the dishes ...

After the bounty of spring and summer, people think autumn foods are a bit tough to deal with, but there is some great stuff coming into season. Pears, figs, quince, wild mushrooms ... Need I say more! Our menu evolves as new produce becomes available. Spur of the moment inspiration often happens when we create dishes, so even we don’t know what’s going to be on the menu next.

What is it about Fusion 7 that makes it stand out from other restaurants?

I think when people go out for dinner they want to try something they wouldn’t make for themselves at home. I believe we tick that box. We have a pretty loyal local customer base now, and most of them trust that we are going to deliver them a meal

with innovative flavour combinations that may sound uncommon, but actually work.

What plans do you have for the next 6 months with the restaurant?

Valentine’s Day is looming fast and booking up fast, so we are getting together our two or three course menu. It’s nice that it falls on a Sunday this year - it will be very chilled.

We have a “research” holiday coming up at the end of February. Frea, Henry and I are off to Singapore for some food adventures and probably plenty of pool time too. With Easter not too far off then school holidays after that, hopefully we will continue to be busy for the next few months. Another holiday will most likely be due after that!

And we have our 10 year anniversary at the end of April.

You have a night coming up that you are putting on with Black Duck Brewery.

Can you tell our readers about this and how they can secure their table?

Yes, we are collaborating with the fantastic local Black Duck Brewery for the first time to create a food and beer matching dinner. We are tasting some of Al and his team’s brews at the moment and lining them up with some tasty morsels.

It’s great to work with some other local businesses to see what we can come up with. The dinner will be held on Thursday 10th March at Fusion 7. If you would like to book, just call us on 6584 1171. Seating is limited, so get in quick.

Thanks Lindsay. Well done; we look forward to seeing what’s in store for Fusion 7 in the future.

WE ARE THE LUCKY COUNTRY I thought for this month we would go on a nostalgic journey and look at how things have changed in the fruit and vegetable industry over the years. How the different cultures have helped shape what we have today.

In the ‘60s and ‘70s we had the after effects of World War II, with a lot of Europeans, such as the Greeks, Germans, Polish, Lebanese and Italians (just to name a few) who came to our country and brought seeds with them; for example eggplant, Lebanese cucumbers, kohlrabi and zucchini. I remember during this period we would give samples away for our customers to try.

The next food revolution was after the Vietnamese War and when the boat people started to arrive. Wow! The variety of herbs that suddenly became available. Think about coriander, fennel, cumin, caraway, curry leaf, dill, fenugreek from the Middle East, China, South East Asia, India etc. What about basil and oregano, which are used extensively in Italian and Greek cuisine. The Asian vegetables such as bok choy, choy sum, gailum, kai-lan, chye sim suddenly came on the scene too.

As we headed into 2000, the people from Asia, the Philippines and Thailand introduced us to taro root, galangal root, turmeric, okra beans, snake beans, Thai eggplant, bitter melon, Jicama root, lemongrass and many more herbs.

When we were kids, it was potato, pumpkin, carrots and peas.

No other vegies. Just look at how our tastes have changed. How interesting all foods are today!

We certainly are the “lucky country.”

Ken.

CRUISE THE BEAUTIFUL hastings river Nothing is stopping us at the Cruise Terminal, with our regular cruises operating daily, and we are adding a few more for February and March.

Dinner Cruise Our Dinner Cruise to Sails Resort has hit the ground running, with a fantastic response from the local community every Thursday and Sunday night. We will be running the Dinner Cruise up until the end of May so if you are thinking of coming please book in so as to avoid disappointment.

Jazz Cruise Our famous Jazz Cruise is back on Sunday 21st, with a local jazz band, Black Birds, who sound amazing.

You can BYO nibbles only - drinks are sold on board - so for all you jazz fans, this Jazz cruise is a must. We promise you will thoroughly enjoy the band. Departing at 2:30 and arriving back at 5pm, tickets are $25pp, but if you book before the 10th of February, tickets are just $20pp.

Mardi Gras Cruise If you enjoy sparkles, glitter and all things bright, then why not dance the night away on our first ever Mardi Gras Cruise with entertainment and finger food, $35pp or pay before 20th Feb to get special price of $30pp, and a licensed Bar on board. We set sail at 6:30pm on the dot and arrive back 8:30pm, so bring a friend or a group, and frock up. To book your ticket, please call the office.

greater port macquarie focus. 31

focusinterview.

James Bennett HOME

G ROW N

OUR VERY OWN HOME GROWN TALENT, JAMES BENNETT, HAS TICKED YET ANOTHER BOX ON HIS TO DO LIST, RELEASING HIS DEBUT SELF TITLED ALBUM - WHICH IS ALREADY HITTING THE HIGH END OF THE MUSIC CHARTS. JAMES TELLS FOCUS ALL ABOUT HIS OFFICIAL ALBUM LAUNCH ANDWHAT HE’S BEEN UP TO OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS SINCE WE CHATTED LAST ...

t’s been nearly three years since we last spoke to you at FOCUS - we can only imagine it’s been an amazing journey to where you are now! Give us a little insight…

Yes, too long! I've been playing as many gigs as I can, playing as often as possible. I don't expect to “make it” sitting at home all day like a lot of people think you can do.

I enjoy going away every weekend, and the booking side of things is kind of fun too!

Lining up dates, working out where I want to be, I love surfing and taking photos too, so I’ll often try to coincide my gigs with places I want to surf or take photos. So, it’s cool I can combine my three favourite pastimes and make it work!

Last time we spoke think I’d just released my first EP. I've since done another EP, These Walls, a single, Colourful Kites and as of a few weeks ago, my first ever album! I've also played at a tonne of great festivals and events!

Tell us about the creative process behind your freshly released self titled album …

The creative process for the album as a whole has many different elements! First there’s the writing of the songs, which can happen whenever (and generally doesn't last long), the recording is another thing, then comes the mixing and mastering and finally combining it with some kind of “fitting” artwork. Towards the end of this last project, I think my creativity had seen better days; it was all very draining, expensive and tiring, but 32 greater port macquarie focus.

festivals

I’ve done that’s all part of it, and street. e where people ar it’s something I think I’ll be doing another d wild just too drunk an e you get better and show the following r th to really care fo e, but better at every time. night at the Pier, with fin music, which is y da As for songwriting support from Todd at the end of the dience I au e in itself and the songs th Bourke for anyone who t no ’s at th ” on the album, I don't can’t make the Friday. want to attract. think I’ll ever write a What is your biggest group of songs and “indream and goal, and have tend” them to be for the one these changed over time? album. Every song of mine should My biggest dream at the moment stand for itself and most times when I would be getting into some bigger write a song, it’s done in around an hour festivals and maybe heading overseas. My or so - never any longer! ultimate goal is to make people feel happy Since its release only a few weeks ago, and enjoy the music that I create and also to your album has been scaling the iTunes hopefully inspire others to play or write music charts; you must be stoked! like others did for me.

Yes, it’s very cool to see my first ever album They haven’t changed much, except the sitting side by side with some of my biggest festival thing. I love to play at festivals, and I influences, like Angus & Julia and John Butler! have played quite a few in the last few years, The best its hit so far was number 11 on the but these days I prefer to play to a small, singer songwriter charts on iTunes. Couldn't attentive crowd, where the songs really get a be happier! proper listen.

And you’re holding your official album I've done festivals where people are just too launch this month in Port Macquarie; drunk and wild to really care for the music, where and when? which is fine, but at the end of the day that’s The “official” launch night will be held on not the audience I want to attract.

Friday 12th February at Sunset Gallery in Port In saying that, there are smaller festivals Macquarie, with two great local support acts, that have that intimate vibe that attract the Todd Bourke and Vena Klymo, who are both right kind of people, so I guess the goal is just great friends of mine as well. The cost is $10 to find the right ones to play at. at the door, anyone and everyone is welcome, I still want to go overseas to play. I did a kicking off at around 6:30pm and wrapping surf trip to New Zealand earlier this year and up by around 10pm. The venue has limited sussed out some bars and places to play at, seating/standing space, so people will need so if I go anywhere overseas to play anytime to get there early to avoid standing on the soon, it would probably be there!

“

To the last part of the question [my goal] I know I've accomplished this to some degree; I've had many people tell me they've walked down the aisle to some of my music, and I'm always being told stories of my CDs being played on long car trips, so that’s pretty cool as well.

You’ve worked alongside some amazing artists - Ian Moss, Wendy Matthews, to name a couple. What was it like working alongside these iconic storytellers?

Sure, I love it - you learn a lot from being around people who've been doing it forever.

The most memorable support shows I played were for Wendy Matthews and her band just over a year ago.

I did about six shows with them and after about the third show, they invited me to hang with them back at their accommodation, where we’d play guitar ‘til an ungodly hour of the morning, hear all their stories of past tours and their opinions on certain things. I've got beautiful memories of hanging out with Wendy and her band, and we still keep in touch!

Where can we buy your music and follow you?

All my music is on iTunes, and hard copies are available from my website: www.jamesbennettmusic.com I always have hard copies to sell at my gigs too!

People can follow me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/jamesbennettsound Instagram jamesbennett_ and you can find my videos on YouTube as well.

Thanks James.

Rock motorcycles Rock Motorcycles is your premier destination on the North Coast for all your BMW Motorrad needs. Manager Rory Rock tells us more about the range now in store and the exceptional quality of the BMW brand.

What makes the new BMW S 1000 XR the perfect motorcycle for those who want a cross between a touring and a sports bike?

The S 1000 XR was voted bike of the year with AMCN (Australian Motorcycle News Magazine), and combines the dynamic performance of a sports motorcycle with the comfort of a touring bike. It is the first ever adventure sports bike made by BMW Motorrad; perfect for everyone in search of on road sports and big days in the saddle. Experience it for yourself: demo now in store.

What other models are available in the BMW S Series? The bike that revolutionised the super sports category: the S 1000 RR. It’s been heavily upgraded for 2015 and still leader ot its class. We also have the S 1000 R roadster, combining the RR engine with a more versatile naked road bike. Available to test ride at Rock Motorcycles, and both models are currently on

sale (ex demo) at great prices.

What finance options are available?

BMW have some great finance rates available, with guaranteed future value lease. BMW Full Circle by 3asy Ride guarantees the value of your new BMW Motorcycle at the end of your finance contract, even before you ride it home.

What options are available when it comes to extra accessories for your BMW motorcycle? BMW have recently announced bundle pricing on certain model accessory packs. Genuine BMW accessories will make any machine seem like one of a kind.

There is a great range and for a limited time packs of accessories are available at discounted prices - enquire now.

Come and see Rory and the experienced team at Rock Motorcycles today! Located at 175 Gordon St, Port Macquarie.

Phone (02) 6583 6655.

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Rock Motorcycles 175 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Tel 02 65836655 or 1800 00ROCK Web rockmotorcycles.com.au Email sales@rockmotorcycles.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 33

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focusinterview.

HARD HITTING SONGSTRESS MOJO JUJU IS ONE OF THE ARTISTS ON THE TOP SHELF LINEUP AT THIS YEAR’S BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH HER BETWEEN GIGS FOR A CHAT ABOUT HER NEWLY RELEASED ALBUM AND WHAT WE CAN LOOK FORWARD TO AT HER GIG ...

BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL

We brought in a t lot of really grea is th musicians on ink record , and I th y. ke s ay w al that is bum al an of el fe e Th do has so much to s.” er ay pl with the

“ ell us a bit about your musical background; where did it all begin for you?

I’m pretty sure I came out wailin’ when I was born.

I grew up in a musical household, so there was no escaping it, really; I just had to pick an instrument.

How would you describe your musical style?

I think I’d try really hard not to describe my musical “style”.

I don’t really like the idea of being boxed into a genre.

I love too many different genres, and too many different artists have inspired me - I’m very aware that there are certain kinds of nostalgic throwbacks in my music.

Every time I make an album people wanna call it a different thing or describe me as a “blues artist” or a “soul singer” or link it to Jazz or RnB … Whatever it is that they connect with in the music. And it’s true. Those things are all in there.

Those genres have all influenced me … Along with a lot of other stuff like Hip Hop and Funk and even country music.

BUT my aim is to just do my own thing, experiment and challenge myself always, and hopefully one day people won’t have to ask me what style of music I play.

Hopefully one day people will just hear music and know straight up, “that sounds like Mojo Juju”.

You’ve got an impressive catalogue of records to date, with your most recent released in July last year. Talk us through

the vibe of your latest album and how your music has evolved …

The last record I made was Seeing Red / Feeling Blue. I worked with an amazing producer, Ptero Stylus. We are old friends and had been talking about working on something together for years.

He has mostly worked on hip hop albums and when I started to write songs for the album, I realised it was going to be very different to the one before it.

I felt like the best way to serve these songs was by bringing them to someone who could really understand the cross over and relationship between things like soul/funk/rnb and hip hop.

Not that the album is strictly any of those things, but there were flavours of all of it all over the record. In some ways I guess I wanted to work with someone who wasn’t afraid of pop music.

And I feel like Stylus and I brought all of our (vastly different) experiences and met in the middle. It was really fun writing with him and hearing my ideas evolve into totally different songs than I could have made on my own.

We brought in a lot of really great musicians on this record, and I think that is always key.

The feel of an album has so much to do with the players. I’m lucky I’ve always worked with great musicians. And we really found the perfect players for this album.

Making albums is a really collaborative process, and I feel like more than ever I was able to let go and just trust everyone was really on the same page.

Your music has been used as a soundtrack to a German film.

What is the film about, and how did your music set the scene?

Well, the film is called Bestefreunde. It’s about these two best friends, when one of them gets into a serious relationship, the other starts to feel like they are being left behind …

It’s kind of a complicated love story, I guess.

The director was in particular a big fan of the Snake Oil Merchants, my old band, and initially wanted to use a bunch of that back catalogue, which they did, but also I think there were a lot of songs from my first solo album that really made sense with the film. I think I wrote a lot of complicated love songs ha ha ha.

The Snake Oil Merchants; we were really a bunch of best friends who spent a lot of time on the road together, so I think you can hear the ups and downs of friendship in the music maybe?

I’m also a really visual person … When I write I always have pictures running through my head.

I think I always write with a cinematic kind of feeling. At least, I try to.

I think my music has been used in a few things, but the is the first full length film to ever use my music for an entire soundtrack ha ha.

When it comes to writing, what inspires you?

Everything, really. But people mainly. And travelling. But really it’s observing other people, and being introspective. It’s like solving riddles … Or trying to, at least.

They’re not always true stories, but the sentiment, the feeling, whatever is at the core of it is truth. The details may change, because it’s a creative space, right? It’s for my imagination.

We’re excited to have you on the lineup for our Blues & BBQ festival in Port Macquarie this year. What do you love most about the BBQ culture?

I love cooking; I love summer. BBQ really brings these things together, right? It's also about bringing people together. BBQ isn’t something you do on your own; it’s always with family, friends, community. So yeah, it’s only ever a good thing.

Who will you be bringing along to this gig to accompany you?

I’m coming up with my brother, Steve … We call him T-bone, ‘cause the first solid food he ever ate was a T-bone steak. He’s gonna love the BBQ part ha ha. But he’s also coming up to play drums. We work together a lot as a duo or in the band. He’s my right hand man.

Any parting words you’d like to share with our readers?

Watch out! We’re coming for ya!

Thanks Mojo.

the plug!

Catch Mojo Juju at the Blues & BBQ Festival 2 APRIL 2016, 2PM - 9PM. Town Green, Port Macquarie Earlybird tickets $45 Plus Booking fee, Camping $10 per person www.bluesandbbq.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 35

focus_tourism

Janette Hyde from Port Macquarie Tourism Association

tourism UPDATE

TOP 5 COASTAL DESTINATIONS GREATER PORT MACQUARIE IS PROUD TO BE LISTED IN THE TOP 5 COASTAL DESTINATIONS IN AUSTRALIA.

W

otif.com Travel Specialist Kim Stockham said thousands of Aussies had booked their Australia Day travel with Wotif, with many of them stretching the trip to make a four day weekend, swapping work for a beach getaway, capital city escape and for some, even overseas Australia Day celebrations.

“The top Wotif destinations this year include iconic Australian beach destinations, as well as local coastal spots, attracting holidaymakers from all over Australia for breaks like Australia Day,” she said.

1. Surfers Paradise; 2. Noosa; 3. Broadbeach; 4. Caloundra; 5. Port Macquarie.

People who live in this beautiful part of the Mid North Coast already know that we are very lucky to have such a diverse environment, as acknowledged by Wotif in the number 5 position.

Foreshore Plan on Display - the concept proposes wonderful beautification to an area that is a key linkage between the CBD and Westport Park (a key recreation and major events precinct). The Foreshore enhancement is a long time coming and will really add to the ambience

of the area. Complementing the work already approved for the Town Square and Town Green, the proposed changes will certainly be an asset for locals and tourists alike.

The increased width of the walkway will be a welcome improvement. The new building planned for a café, office, toilets and ticket office will really add much needed dimension to such a picturesque area. The planned improvement will also provide a strong link from the CBD to Kooloonbung Creek nature reserve, which is loved by visitors.

The Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association enthusiastically supports this concept plan.

Junior Touch State Cup is back on the 19-21 February - the Greater Port Macquarie region will be hosting the largest number of athletes ever competing in this competition, with over 17,000 athletes, referees, parents and officials expected to attend this year.

Re-Distribution of Federal Electoral Boundaries - unfortunately, Port Macquarie lost the debate regarding changing the Lyne electoral boundaries, in spite of the great presentations to the Commissioner at the recent inquiry held in Port Macquarie. It is unbelievable that a thriving tourist area such as Greater Port Macquarie can be combined with another major centre - Coffs Harbour.

Port Macquarie Beatles Festival - relive your youth from 11 - 14 February as The Beatles Festival grooves into Port Macquarie for four days.

ACTIVITIES HAPPENING IN FEBRUARY Pathways to Abstraction Exhibition, 5 Feb - 20 Mar - The Glasshouse - 10 - 5pm. The

PATHWAYS TO ABSTRACTION

be inspired

Hastings Valley Fine Art Association EXHIBITION

GLASSHOUSE

5 February - 20 March

REGIONAL GALLERY

Robyn Toms, Red Chair 2, 2015, acrylic and charcoal on canvas, 75 cm x 60cm, (detail), courtesy of the artist.

entry to the Gallery is FREE

Tuesday to Friday: 10am – 5pm Saturday & Sunday: 10am – 4pm Public Holidays: 10am – 4pm

SUNDAY DRAWING SESSIONS with Hastings Valley Fine Art

Come along and be inspired with the Hastings Valley Fine Art Association, as they discuss their artworks currently featured in Pathways to Abstraction in the Glasshouse. Free.

Drop in for an afternoon of drawing session in the Gallery.

All abilities are welcome. Free.

CRAIG GOUGH: RESONANCE 22 January - 6 March

02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

36 greater port macquarie focus.

Sunday 7, 14, 21 & 28 February, Sunday 6 & 13 March , 1pm - 3.30pm

GREYSCALE 22 January - 6 March

Craig Gough’s exhibition, encompasses dynamic and vibrant collection of abstract paintings.

In the exhibition Greyscale artists present a personal response to theories connected to the colour grey.

ARTIST TALK: CRAIG GOUGH Thursday 18 February, 5.30pm

DRAWING WORKSHOP with Lisa Jones and Pollyxenia Joannou

Cost: $15 adults, $12 Members Bookings essential.

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

The exhibition celebrates the creativity and artistic talent of this well-known local artist collective. Each artist presents two artworks, one showcasing their established style, subject matter and theme, and a second artwork that presents the same theme exploring the technique of abstraction.

ARTIST TALK

Saturday 6 February, 11am GALLERY OPENING HOURS:

exhibition celebrates the creativity and artistic talent of this well known local artist collective. www.hastingsvalleyart.net.au Jazz in the Vineyards with Reds Jazz Quintet, 14 Feb, 10 - 3:30pm, Bago Winery. Join them for their 18th Annual Grape Stomp and Media Challenge. www.bagovineyards.com.au Port Macquarie Beatles Festival - 11 - 14 February, Various Venues.

Thursday 11 - Fun Trivia Night - Bago Tavern.

Friday 12 - Dance Party with The Beatle Boys Laurieton Services Club.

Saturday 13 - Free Concert of Beatles Music Glasshouse Forecourt.

Saturday 13 - Rock and Roll Dance Party with The Beatle Boys - Port Macquarie Panthers.

Sunday 14 - Valentine’s Day Breakfast - Rose’s Vineyard.

Sunday 14 - Markets, Car Shows, Rock and Roll Dancers, Pin Up Girl Parade and Entertainment Plaza Car Park, Short Street Port Macquarie. www.portmacquariebeatlesfestival.com Junior Touch State Cup - 19 - 21 February.

The world’s largest weekend touch competition, now extended to three days. www.nswtouch.com.au Comboyne Show and Goat Races - 20 February from 9am.

Rural show with the added attraction of our goat races starting at 10am. Feast on the foods, see the displays of local craft and shop at the markets. www.comboyneshow.com

Craig Gough, Primary, 2013, acrylic on linen, 91x107cms (detail). Courtesy of the artist and Spot 81 Gallery, Sydney.

Transaction fees may apply

Saturday 27 February, 10am $80 adults, $70 Members Bookings essential.

Lisa Jones, Cracks in the World - Yellow Line, 2015, pencil, ink, pastel on paper, 130 x 130cm. Courtesy of the artist.

PLEDGE for

parity

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surrounds the toes and guides them back to their natural position, which are often constricted by formal dress shoes.

The Profi-Birki has a deep tread, raised heel and is made from an oil and grease resistant plastic.

The footbeds are removable, replaceable and washable at 30 degrees celcius. Perfect for use in commercial kitchens or operating theatres.

Every pair of Birkenstocks is made from the highest quality materials. The original BIRKENSTOCK footbed is inspired by the natural imprint of a foot in the sand and feels just like walking barefoot. Its anatomical shape ideally supports the natural walking action of your foot. Your feet, joints and back are protected.

At the same time, your foot and leg muscles are exercised, and your health and wellbeing benefit as a result.

DO YOU KNOW A HASTINGS HEROINE? This International Women’s Day help us celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of local women who have encouraged effective action in gender parity.

NOMINATE YOUR HASTINGS HEROINE BY EMAILING Hastings.Heroines@gmail.com to request a nomination form

Leslie Williams MP Member for Port Macquarie

Book your tickets at HBWN.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 37

focusinterview.

•

P

T OR

MACQUARIE

’S

•

Mister Shane Stelzer

Port’s very own Mister Whippy … a chap well known for his delicious soft serve ice

creams and slushies, who’s able to get kids (and big kids!) from far and wide running when they hear the sound of Greensleeves! After more than 10 years’ trading, Port’s Mister Whippy plans to head in a new direction, and his business is for sale.

Do you love ice cream? If so, this may be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for!

H

i Shane. Share the history behind Port’s Mister Whippy …

Port’s Mister Whippy van was built in Port Macquarie by local business couple Paul and Joy Broad in 2004, and I bought the business in September 2005. My first “training run” was the Comboyne Spring Festival of that year. I developed the business from there and started to seek more events in close by areas, as well as in Port itself.

Over the years Port’s Mister Whippy has been seen as far afield as the Muswellbrook and Singleton Shows (which I still do every year) and to the north at Coffs, Grafton and Macksville Shows, the SWR Triathlon and Carols and every Father’s Day weekend at the Rusty Iron Rally in Macksville.

Locally I still do the Camden Haven, Wauchope and Comboyne Shows, as well as the State Touch Footy, the GP Power Boats, Beechwood Billy Kart Classic, the Swap Meet, Comboyne Spring Fair, Riverwalk and Foreshore markets, various Carols by Candlelight, the Westport Club’s “Christmas under the Stars” and any other gathering of people that would like a delicious Frosty Boy soft serve ice cream!

As well as events, Port’s Mister Whippy conducts a regular run through local neighbourhoods - mainly concentrating on areas with cul-de-sacs, as this allows the kiddies time to run and ask Mum or Dad for a couple of dollars for an ice cream or slushy drink while the van is circling the cul-de-sac with Greensleeves playing and the school bell ringing!

I also service Shelly and Town Beaches, the Skate Park, Westport Park and seasonal sports fields in Port.

I once had a young man at Tuffins Lane tell me he’d thrown his wicket so he could come and get an ice cream on a particularly hot summer’s day!

Mister Whippy is well known for his soft

38 greater port macquarie focus.

ured I have been hono to s over the year rtificates iv rece e many ce om local fr n tio of apprecia rv ice groups charities and se ns and tio for my contri bu e Customer th ed iv ce re ve ha llence ce Ex e Care Servic ry in go te ca y m Award in 11 ..” both 2010 and 20

“

serve ice creams - but what other products do you sell?

Port’s Mister Whippy sells the traditional Frosty Boy soft serve ice cream range, from choc dips to nut sundaes as well as frozen slushy drinks, soft drinks and water. A special favourite is the “Iceberg”soft serve ice cream floating on a slushy drink topped with sherbet or sprinkles - yum!

What have been some of the awards your business has received over the years?

I have been honoured over the years to receive many certificates of appreciation from local charities and service groups for my contributions and have received the Customer Care Service Excellence Award in my category in both 2010 and 2011. I am also proud to say that Port’s Mister Whippy is a dedicated supporter of “Give me 5 for Kids” and has donated all 5 cent pieces collected over the years - as well as a personal cheque for $55.55 to this wonderful annual campaign.

What are some of the special services the business offers?

Being an owner/operator allows you to run a “special” business and do whatever you please to keep the customer (the kiddies) happy.

To this end, Port’s Mister Whippy gives away the first ice cream ordered each day - a great surprise for the lucky recipient - and also has a “clumsy kids replacement guarantee” … If a child drops or spills their ice cream or slushy in sight of the Whippy van, it will be replaced free of charge; this has avoided many a tantrum or tears over the years!

I also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and will replace or refund any product that is not satisfactory - I am proud to say I have never had to do this in my 10+ years of operation.

After more than 10 years as Port’s Mister

Whippy, you’ve decided to sell the business.

What led to this decision?

I have made the decision to sell the business while it is going strong and give myself back my weekends and move on to something different. While being Port’s Mister Whippy is great fun, it’s still very demanding of your time and requires a lot of effort in the background.

There is paperwork to be done, sourcing of shows and events, organising accommodation, maintaining stock supplies, as well as servicing, cleaning and fixing the various machines that make up the Whippy van and looking after the van itself.

Port’s Mister Whippy is 57 years old, and while fit (and very handsome!) he may be in need of some time off and a few less responsibilities.

What equipment etc. forms part of the sale?

The business includes the van itself and the regular annual bookings, markets, shows, events etc. as well as various fridges, freezers, shelving, storage, spares and stock, including “emergency backup” ice cream and slushy machines.

I consider the most valuable part of the business to be the 10 years’ successful trading and growth and the reputation of Port’s Mister Whippy, along with “the knowledge” - the secret locations, the timing and “tricks of the trade” learnt over the years of the business.

I’ll also provide two weeks of training and printed and filmed details of the entire operation, as well as ongoing consultation. The new owner will also benefit from the continued growth of Port Macquarie - every new neighbourhood or new event is a new bunch

of customers!

How’ve you been able to successfully manage the peaks and troughs of ice cream and slushy sales throughout the different seasons?

While spring and summer are the best times for the business, Port’s Mister Whippy trades throughout the year and is supported in the cooler months with markets, local sports and various events - all this business needs is a lack of rain and a crowd of people!

Except for the summer school holidays, Port’s Mister Whippy only works weekends. As I have always said: “It’s much better than a real job”.

My gorgeous wife and I also enjoy a break in the cooler months, with the occasional overseas trip in July or August to warmer climates, exploring the culture, country and cuisine.

What are your plans for when you “retire”?

Not “retiring” at all. I am completing my Traffic Guidance Officer training in February with the highly successful “Men at Work” and hope to be gainfully employed as a “lolly-pop” man. I have a background in service, advertising and hospitality and will also be investigating opportunities in the local tourism industry.

Where can people contact you if they’re interested in the business?

At this stage I have not even employed a business broker; my wife says she will believe I’m selling the business when it happens!

However, I am selling (really!) and anyone who is seriously interested can contact me via email: shane@portsmisterwhippy.com though not until after 20th February please; we’re just off on a little relaxing break in the caravan after a very busy holiday season!

I’m really going to miss all the little kiddies I have served over the last 10+ years - locals and the tourist families that return each year. It’s been great fun and a pleasure seeing them all grow up!

Thanks Shane.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

focusinterview.

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

focusinterview.

Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Samantha and Brock Baird are this month’s feature bride and groom. We catch up with Sam to find out all about their day and just what it took to bring it all together.

D

escribe Brock’s proposal and your engagement ring ...

Brock proposed to me on the 7th March 2013 at Cresent Head beach. We both had the day off work, so he decided to take me to Cresent Head for lunch. It was just an ordinary day, and I had no idea that he was going to propose; I was very surprised when he pulled out the ring and asked me to marry him. My ring is a gold princess cut diamond ring with little diamonds either side.

What was the overall theme of your wedding?

The theme was a pink rustic cocktail-canape wedding.

Describe the timeline of your wedding day.

7am Woke up to prepare for the day.

8am Hairdresser arrived.

both?

The ceremony and reception were both held out at Rose’s Vineyard. When looking for a venue, we both knew we would like an outdoor wedding, and Rose’s ticked all the boxes. We got married in front of the vines, followed by the reception in the marSome of the quee. decorating was 8:30am Coffee and Who did all the Vineyard done by Rose’s breakfast whilst decorating at your themselves as well hair is getting reception? as Jill from Wedding helped started.

Some of the Perfections, who ces 11am Makeup decorating was done me pick out centrepie as bar for tables as well - Hayley Dwyer

by Rose’s Vineyard tables.” arrives. themselves, as well as 12pm Have some Jill from Wedding Perlunch in between hair fections, who helped me and make-up getting done. pick out centrepieces for ta1:30pm Photographer Matthew bles as well as bar tables. We also J arrives. had a big chalkboard upon entrance 2pm Start getting dressed and have welcoming people to our wedding, which some photos before leaving for the was done by a lady who has a Facebook ceremony. page called “Designs by Bec”.

3pm Ceremony at Rose’s Vineyard.

Who were your bridesmaids, grooms4pm End of ceremony and start of photos. men and beautiful flower girls?

5:45pm Start of reception.

My gorgeous bridesmaids were Maid 10pm End of reception. of Honour Kristy Pike, Holly Schultz and Tell us about the location of your cereMichelle Smith, along with our 8 year old mony - why is this place special to you daughter, Isabelle Baird.

“

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG 46 greater port macquarie focus.

SUBLIME CHIMES It’s unusual to find a handbell ringing group outside of universities and churches, but here in Greater Port Macquarie we have TWO community-based groups! I’m a founding member of The Sublime Chimes - and we are based right here in Port Macquarie.

H

ow and where did Concert and Beechwood Uniting Church. handbell ringing start?

Our motto is “learn with us - play with us”, Well, handbell ringing and our vision is “to learn to play as a team, came about centuries ago so we may present the pleasure of music to in England as a means for people of all ages through our traditional and Church Tower Bellringers contemporary interpretation of the ancient art to practice their pealing without disturbing of handbell ringing”. A bold statement, but the whole Parish! And for hundreds of years one we hold dear! it remained just that - a practice regime. But So what does the future hold for The in more recent times, handbell ringing has Sublime Chimes? surged in popularity internationally, We would love to expand with thousands of groups our repertoire and be able springing up across the to accept more gigs. To United States, the UK, e do so, we need some im bl Su The Europe and, surprisingly, additional players. We Chimes formed throughout the Orient, ago, s ar ye of have our own 3-octave le up a co where it is very popular er set of handbells, bringing togeth d an in South Korea and various friends and 3-octave set of bers of Japan. In fact, the some fellow mem alia ChoirChimes - at this ustr Kiriku Bell Ensemble the local Sing A point, I should make - said to be the best choir. ” mention of the Holiday in the world - hail from Coast Credit Union, and Japan! the Kendall Community Back to the local group of Op Shop plus some other very handbell ringers - The Sublime generous benefactors, who have Chimes. Tell us about yourselves. assisted us in purchasing our instruments The Sublime Chimes formed a couple and performance equipment. So to be able of years ago, bringing together various to play all our bells and chimes together, friends and some fellow members of the we would make a phenomenal sound and local Sing Australia choir. We come from it would open up our ability to play such all walks of life, but are united in a desire varied music. That’s why we are inviting new to make music! We were a mix of musicmembers to join us in 2016. readers (although their knowledge was If you are a music reader, it’s easy! With a a bit rusty) and also complete beginners bit of revision if you are out of practice, you’d (of which I was one!) Over time, we have be able to slot into our team seamlessly. If you forged ourselves into a great team - both can’t read music, but love it, then handbell socially and musically! After all, so far as ringing is for you. You don’t have to read we know, handbells are the only instrument music, per se, to be able to play handbells. that requires a team of players. Last year, But you do need to have a good sense of our ensemble became a Sub Unit of the Port rhythm.

So for beginners, we are planning to Macquarie Hastings Municipal Band. hold workshops during 2016. Whether you Members of The Sublime Chimes meet are a music-reader, or beginner, get in touch each Friday afternoon to play together and with me for details. Call me on 0408 852 048 also prepare for “gigs:, which are great or email gail.s.perkins@gmail.com fun, especially Carol Concerts. We recently Thanks Gail. performed at The Salvation Army Christmas

“

Groomsmen were best man Rikki Baird, Kodi Baird and Drew Smith. We also included our 9 week old baby boy, Nate Baird, into the bridal party (when he wasn’t sleeping lol).

What was on the menu for guests to enjoy?

We decided on a cocktail-canape wedding, as it was something different to weddings we had been to in the past. Guests enjoyed mingling on the beautiful deck overlooking the vines, choosing from many different cheese platters whilst the bridal party had their photos. Once the reception started, we had different canapes ranging from butter chicken and rice to satay skewers.

How far in advance did you start planning? Any hot tips for brides-to-be?

I started planning pretty much straight away, booking mainly the ceremony and reception as well as celebrant and photography. My hot tip would be know what you’re looking for and what you want before you start searching, as it made things a lot easier.

What was your favourite part of your wedding day?

Becoming husband and wife in front of family and friends and having both our children there to share the day with us.

Thanks Sam. greater port macquarie focus. 47

ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our Wedding Guide from the print edition of each region! United in one flip book and delivered online for you to download... for free.

COFFS COAST ARMIDALE NEW ENGLAND

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

MANNING - GREAT LAKES

VIEW THIS MONTH’S FEATURE ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGPMQ GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

greater port macquarie focus. 39

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

40 greater port macquarie focus.

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Touchwood Flowers Touchwood Flowers are wedding specialists.

blogs and magazines.

Highly acclaimed florist Ashley Sargeson has created hundreds of stunning arrangements, using only the highest quality flowers. Consulting with brides and planning beautiful flowers has been part of her life for a dozen or so years now, and remains close to her heart.

“It helps to see samples of our work and to talk

Not surprisingly, her talent for design has caught the eye of industry professionals.

In 2015 Ashley made Tesselaar’s Top 10 list for wedding floristry for the second time in four years, an honour which reflects the love, passion and years of experience that go into her work.

“I really want brides to be confident that their flowers will be amazing and to enjoy the whole process.”

Touchwood Flowers has an in-store bridal studio in Port Macquarie where brides can browse through an extensive range of images, books,

about what’s going to be in season - I invite all brides-to-be to phone me to arrange a relaxing and obligation-free consultation.”

Touchwood’s Interflora connections provide access to the latest design trends, styling ideas and assistance sourcing specialty or hard-to-get stems, foliage and accessories.

Our gift to you

“Offering that global reach adds an additional creative advantage and means we never disappoint.”

Whether you prefer a soft and romantic look, bold colour, elegant simplicity, lavish abundance or a twist of vintage glamour, Touchwood Flowers can help you achieve your floral nirvana.

“If you want your flowers to be breathtaking, choose Touchwood Flowers,” Ashley concluded.

*BOOK AND PAY YOUR DEPOSIT PRIOR TO FEB 27 TO RECEIVE A PAIR OF SAMANTHA WILLS DESIGNER EARRINGS

1 Hay Street, Port Macquarie.

Contact: Amanda Perrin-Sumner: 02 6589 2816 Email: amanda_perrin-sumner@rydges.com Web: www.rydges.com

greater port macquarie focus. 41

42 greater port macquarie focus.

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Sarah J Hudson Flowers & Styling Based on the Mid North Coast, Sarah J Hudson Flowers & Styling specialises solely in floral design and styling for weddings and events.

Sarah’s style has been described as vintage inspired, organic and hand picked. She loves to work with lots of lush foliage and the highest quality blooms, chosen especially for each client.

Rose’s Vineyard Celebrate the most amazing day of your life at Rose’s Vineyard. We are a small boutique vineyard that pride ourselves on giving you memories that will be treasured forever. Your guests will be kept comfortable in the same venue, with the ceremony being held onsite followed by drinks and canapés on the deck overlooking the vineyard, whilst the bridal party have portrait photography on the grounds.

Your reception will then be held in the marquees overlooking the vineyard and perfectly manicured gardens. We at Rose’s Vineyard are committed to providing you with the wedding of your dreams. Please contact us or visit our website to get more details on our all inclusive packages.

Sarah is extremely passionate about what she creates, and each flower is prepared and arranged with love and care. She places a great amount of focus on using seasonally appropriate, locally sourced materials at every chance.

From the initial enquiry until the final flower is placed, Sarah works one on one with each client to bring their vision to life.

Sarah can offer unique and personalised floral design and styling for your wedding or event with attention paid to all the finer details. Sarah Hudson can be contacted by appointment from her Port Macquarie studio. www.sarahjhudson.com.au

Weddings Made Easy When you commit to getting married, your focus is on making sure that your special day is problem free!

Hire Port has built a reputation on providing exceptional, professional service which takes the worry out of your wedding day. We have over 18 years experience in the wedding industry and can promise that your day will be one to remember.

Our services include ceremony hire items including red carpet runners, battery PA units, a wedding arch, Balinese style flags and of course the signing table... From the ceremony to the reception we can set up a beautiful silk lined marquee complete with flooring and lighting which, without a doubt will impress your family and friends.. If you are also needing tables, chairs, cutlery, glassware, catering equipment, we can supply that to!

If you appreciate professional, reliable service, please give us a call today ! www.hireport.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 43

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

f

Get �

O

�

Behind the Cover

Hair and Makeup

O

The Gown Whether you already know the exact gown you want or if you have no idea at all, let us help you find your gown! Our stunning range of ready to wear stock will have you bursting with excitement and that imagination running wild! We can create it together! Our professional team of designers, seamstresses and manufactures will ensure you have the most incredible gown with a perfect fit. This stunning gown featured on the cover of FOCUS has a beaded bodice with crossover back and v neck, flowing into a princess tulle skirt. Inspired by JAdore Designs, we can customise for you to make this your one-of-a-kind gown for your special day.

To obtain this look I used a range of professional products. DMK Cosmetics foundation for a flawless lightweight feel.

Too Faced Chocolate Bar palette for a neutral eye, perfect for a blushing bride, in colours - Salted Caramel, Marzipan, Black Forrest Truffle and Triple Fudge. Benefit Pose Tint for cheeks and Clinique Soft Bloom for a natural Pink lip. I finished the look with NYX Illuminator in Narcissistic. My style influence was the chic classic look of the red carpet.

Simple flowing waves with a neutral fresh complexion. Stylist tips for you - be yourself!

Accentuate your best features by filling in the brow with Benefit Gimme Brow, use a highlighter to enhance a dewey complexion over your favourite foundation and don’t forget the mascara. I love to use Benefit They’re Real Lengthening Mascara for bigger, bolder, sexier lashes that will last all day and night.

DIVINE BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR

Something Blue Find something unique for your special day at The Department Store.

Stocking top quality brands including jewellery by Samantha Wills, Inniu footwear, Royal Doulton homewares, Wish clothing and many more.

KATE PETRIE, ALL DOLLED UP

SHOES BY INNIU- THE DEPARTMENT STORE

Flower Swing

Alternate Options

Seasonal blooms and foliages in a classic white and green colour palette - mixed variety of roses, dahlias, lissianthus and lush garden foliages ...

Naturally styled to achieve a handpicked vibe.

The glamorous mixed-plated Fit All Around Necklace

SARAH J HUDSON FLOWERS AND STYLING

Jewellery Swarovski

JONS FAMILY JEWELLERS

Serving the Port Macquarie area with quality and care for almost 30 years. Our expert staff work tirelessly to provide you with the very best in customer care and knowledge for your special day.

Jons Family Jewellers is your local diamond destination for breathtaking engagement and wedding rings from Passion8, CanadianFire, Australian Argyle Pink and Chocolate diamonds. We also carry an extensive range of quality, affordable bridal jewellery, including stunning 44 greater port macquarie focus.

The Talesia Bracelet with pear-shaped crystals in an alternating pattern crystal pieces from Swarovski, Ellani and Showcase Jewellers.

Pictured in the Cover Shoot are the following Swarovski pieces: Attract Light Pierced Earrings, featuring sparkling clear crystal pavé and dangling elements; Angelic All-Around Necklace; Angelic Bracelet.

greater port macquarie focus. 45

focusinterview.

46 greater port macquarie focus.

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Samantha and Brock Baird are this month’s feature bride and groom. We catch up with Sam to find out all about their day and just what it took to bring it all together.

D

escribe Brock’s proposal and your engagement ring ...

Brock proposed to me on the 7th March 2013 at Cresent Head beach. We both had the day off work, so he decided to take me to Cresent Head for lunch. It was just an ordinary day, and I had no idea that he was going to propose; I was very surprised when he pulled out the ring and asked me to marry him. My ring is a gold princess cut diamond ring with little diamonds either side.

What was the overall theme of your wedding?

The theme was a pink rustic cocktail-canape wedding.

Describe the timeline of your wedding day.

7am Woke up to prepare for the day.

8am Hairdresser arrived.

held out at Rose’s Vineyard. When looking for a venue, we both knew we would like an outdoor wedding, and Rose’s ticked all the boxes. We got married in front of the vines, followed by the reception in the marquee.

Who did all the Some of the decorating at as decorating w d ar your reception? ey in V done by Rose’s 8:30am Coffee and l Some of the el w as themselves ng di breakfast whilst hair ed decorating was W as Jill from lped he ho w , is getting started. ns done by Rose’s tio Perfec repieces 11am Makeup - HayVineyard themme pick out cent as bar l el w ley Dwyer arrives. for tables as selves, as well as tables .”

12pm Have some Jill from Wedding lunch in between hair Perfections, who and make-up getting done. helped me pick out cen1:30pm Photographer Mattrepieces for tables as well thew J arrives. as bar tables. We also had a big 2pm Start getting dressed and have some chalkboard upon entrance welcomphotos before leaving for the cereing people to our wedding, which was mony. done by a lady who has a Facebook page 3pm Ceremony at Rose’s Vineyard. called “Designs by Bec”.

4pm End of ceremony and start of photos.

Who were your bridesmaids, grooms5:45pm Start of reception. men and beautiful flower girls?

10pm End of reception.

My gorgeous bridesmaids were Maid Tell us about the location of your cereof Honour Kristy Pike, Holly Schultz and mony - why is this place special to you Michelle Smith, along with our 8 year old both? daughter, Isabelle Baird.

The ceremony and reception were both Groomsmen were best man Rikki Baird,

“

Kodi Baird and Drew Smith. We also included our 9 week old baby boy, Nate Baird, into the bridal party (when he wasn’t sleeping lol).

What was on the menu for guests to enjoy?

We decided on a cocktail-canape wedding, as it was something different to weddings we had been to in the past. Guests enjoyed mingling on the beautiful deck overlooking the vines, choosing from many different cheese platters whilst the bridal party had their photos. Once the reception started, we had different canapes ranging from butter chicken and rice to satay skewers.

How far in advance did you start planning? Any hot tips for brides-to-be?

I started planning pretty much straight away, booking mainly the ceremony and reception as well as celebrant and photography. My hot tip would be know what you’re looking for and what you want before you start searching, as it made things a lot easier.

What was your favourite part of your wedding day?

Becoming husband and wife in front of family and friends and having both our children there to share the day with us.

Thanks Sam. greater port macquarie focus. 47

48 greater port macquarie focus.

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

XS Food XS food have established a reputation as the best caterer in the Hastings region. Whether you’re entertaining two of your closest friends for an intimate dinner party or organising a major event with over 2,000 guests, we can design a menu to suit your needs and budget. No function is too big or too small.

XS food are specialists in offsite catering. We regularly cater at local vineyards, surf clubs, function centres, private residences, corporate offices, community halls, arts and conference centres, marquees – anywhere!

With over 50 years’ combined industry experience, we are passionate about delicious, fresh and beautifully presented food.

We have an extensive menu selection available, or we can tailor a menu specifically for your event. We source local produce and suppliers where available and prepare food on site or in our own commercial kitchen and patisserie.

Attention to detail is what sets us apart from other caterers. We take pride in our friendly, professional service, and our experienced team has a genuine can-do attitude.

XS food holds a NSW Caterers Liquor Licence and has great working relationships with local vineyards and breweries, giving us the ability to meet all your beverage needs.

We understand the importance of providing excellent value catering. We publish all prices in our menus, so that you can see our costs up-front. We also provide flexible options to suit every budget. Our reputation is backed by our clients rebooking our services time and time again. Our unique combination of good food and incomparable service will complement our customers’ overall experience and add another pleasant memory to their lives.

Contact us NOW to discuss the options for your next function or event. Ph: (02) 6581 0554 or Mobile: 0412 680 779.

greater port macquarie focus. 49

50 greater port macquarie focus.

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Port Macquarie Golf Club With sweeping views across the landscaped greens Port Macquarie Golf Club can provide an ideal venue for your celebration.

After exchanging vows at either nearby Lighthouse Beach or amongst the lush golf course backdrop, your guests can mingle in the reception room whilst you capture your special day at the picturesque on-site coastal rainforest area or one of the surrounding beaches.

Our function room is the perfect size for an intimate reception with the area suited for 50-80 guests and with ample on-site parking all guests can easily enjoy the night.

Providing everything you need for a memorable and relaxing wedding day, our qualified and

friendly team will make every effort to ensure your function is planned and catered to your complete satisfaction. Through our close relationship with local suppliers, soft furnishing for the function room can be tailored to suit your theme with flexible offerings for dressings such as table runners, centerpieces and chair sashes. Ceremony and reception packages can be tailored to suit your needs with a range of three course, banquet or cocktail style catering available together with a wide selection of bar items.

For enquiries regarding available dates or to receive a function package please email kelly@portmacquariegolf.com.au with the subject Focus Wedding.

greater port macquarie focus. 51

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

f

�art� BRALEY

OVows and Kisses O

Marty Braley from Vows & Kisses has helped over 60 couples celebrate the most special day in their lives. Able to design a wedding ceremony that’s perfect for you, whether that’s traditional, contemporary, unique or just a little bit quirky, Marty loves his job … And it shows in his attention to detail …

W

hat’s your association with the Port Macquarie area?

My mum’s side of the family all live in the Port Macquarie region, so while I grew up in Sydney, there’s a strong connection forged over countless visits and hours spent on the beach.

I’ve always loved Port for its beauty, lifestyle and people - it’s for all these reasons that my wife and I decided to raise our family here (two boys aged 3 and almost 2). It was a big decision to move from Cairns, but we’ve been here for a year now and have loved every minute of it, especially winter - it was a real novelty to wear a jumper!

Why did you decide to become a Celebrant?

It’s funny, I never thought I’d ever get married, let alone be a part of so many weddings!

Of course, this all changed the moment I met my wife - it was instant head-over-heels stuff, and we said “I do” less than six months later.

Our wedding day was filled with incredibly powerful emotions, delicate moments of romance and a wonderful sense of fun. It was one of the best days of my life, and since I couldn’t experience it again as a groom, I decided to take the skills I had gained as a broadcaster and public speaker, and become a Celebrant.

It’s easily one of the best jobs in the world every day you get to hear a couple say “This is the happiest day of my life”.

How long have you been a Celebrant?

I’ve been a celebrant for over three years,

52 greater port macquarie focus.

and have had the pleasure of marrying over 60 couples.

Describe the full service you offer to soonto-be-wed couples ...

I take a full service, boutique approach to soon-to-be-wed couples. I’m there for them every step of the way to listen, chat and guide them through the process. As part of that, I take care of all the boring stuff, like: completing the paperwork, lodging info, and ticking all the legal boxes.

I also work with each couple to design a ceremony that reflects them, and shares their adventure together so far, in a unique and engaging way. This includes writing the script, helping with the vows and coaching them through the ceremony.

What would your advice be to couples who wish to write their own vows?

Every couple should write their own vows (with my help if needed) because this is your day - where your friends and families have come together to celebrate the best decision that you have ever made - don’t be boring and let a moment like that pass you by! If you do want to write your own vows, think about: Romance: this is your opportunity to make a promise to your soul mate in a way that will never be repeated. It is an outward expression of how you feel about each other and your opportunity to share why the person standing next to you is the one you want to spend your whole life with.

Personality and fun: people always say they want a quick wedding, when they mean they

don’t want a boring wedding. Keep your wedding fun, interesting and unique by ditching the traditional vows and replacing them with something personal, meaningful and interesting. Look to your favourite lyrics, books, movies or real life stories for inspiration.

You’re probably thinking that it’s easier said than done, so here’s a little more inspiration for you! I recently married a couple who met and got engaged on Palm Beach (NSW) aka Summer Bay (Home & Away). After lots of giggles, these are the vows that they came up with ... They may sound familiar.

Groom: You know we belong together.

Bride: You and I, forever and ever. Groom: No matter where you are. Bride: You’re my guiding star. Groom: And from the very first moment I saw you. Bride: I never felt such emotion. Groom: I’m walking on air … Just to know ... You are there! Hold me in your arms, don’t let me go. I want to stay forever … Closer each day … Bride: Let me be the one that you turn to; someone you can rely on. Both: Closer each day ...

I can tell you now, the above set of vows got a massive reaction from the audience - cheers, laughter and applause! If you want a wedding that is unique, interesting and fun, you need to write you own vows - of course I’m here to help you along the way!

What have been some of the most special moments you’ve experienced at weddings?

Every wedding is special to me - the fact that out of the 9 billion humans, the two in front of me have found the “one”, is a constant source

of celebration.

Last year I was part of a truly touching wedding. It’s one of those situations that reminds you of how great people are. Friends of a couple, whose son was diagnosed with a terminal illness, learned that his greatest wish was to see his mum and dad get married. There wasn’t much time, but a whole bunch of people in the wedding industry pulled together to make this young boy’s wish come true.

By the wedding day, he was mostly getting around in a wheelchair, but he still managed to walk his mum down the aisle - I don’t think there was a dry eye to be seen.

Many couples find organising a wedding to be a stressful experience. What are a few tips you can give future brides and grooms?

A perfect wedding is one where the person you love most in the world gives you a vow and a kiss (hence why it’s Vows & Kisses) everything else is just icing on the cake. Leading up to the big day, I give the couples perspective and remind them: if it rains - it doesn’t matter.

If the flowers are the wrong shade of white, or the dress is a little too tight - it doesn’t matter.

If the bride is an hour late, or it’s the wrong flavour of cake - it doesn’t matter. What matters, is that you end the day as husband and wife.

Where can people find out more info about your services?

You can always visit my website www. vowsandkisses.com.au/marty or you can call me on 0433 395 800.

Thanks Marty. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

f

focusinterview.

FlashMob

Proposal O O Kylie and Kris

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When Kris was planning to propose to his long time love and best friend Kylie, he knew he had to do something completely out of left field and exciting … After four months of preparation, he organised a flash mob to dance in the middle of Settlement City Shopping Centre. Little did Kylie know this was no “ordinary” flash mob …

i Kylie and Kris. Firstly, congratulations on your engagement … Tell us about when and how you first met?

We met through mutual friends early in 2011, and we started crossing paths quite regularly. We started having random coffee and cake dates until it was a daily occurrence, shopping and lunch dates turned into dinner dates, and we have been inseparable ever since. One of the best parts of our love is that we really are best friends.

Introduce us to your family…

We have three beautiful daughters: Hayley - 13, Sofia -10 and Ivy - 2, who are all very excited to help plan our special day.

Kris: How did you come up with the idea of a flash mob to propose to Kylie?

I knew Kylie absolutely loved mob dances; she has danced in one herself a few years ago and just gets super excited even watching them on TV. I knew I had to do something big and exciting, as Kylie actually doesn’t like surprises, so it had to be fun enough that she didn’t even care about the massive shock factor I had planned for her.

I was actually expecting her to get up and dance, so we made sure there was seating between her and the makeshift dance floor...

Kris: What went on behind the scenes organising the flash mob; how did you get the dancers and the Shopping Centre on board?

I had asked Kylie’s dad for her hand in

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marriage a couple of years ago and had and joined the group … pondered on different ideas, but I knew I As soon as I heard loud music, I was had to wait until I found the right people to instantly excited; I knew it must have been help me organise such a big surprise ... a flash mob dance. I actually started telling I play baseball for Port Macquarie Sparother Gloria Jean’s customers it must be a tans and a lady I play with, Sarah Rowsell, flash mob dance and explaining to them is a drama teacher for the Players Theatre in what it was and already had my phone out Port Macquarie and was excited to help me ready to film the excitement ... It took me a with my mission of love. minute to recognise the song and The centre originally just that it was "our song” that said no to the thought was playing, and I looked and wanted 20 million at Kris with the biggest dollars liability, grin - so happy we a t ha W !

Wow ly al re I but nothing was were there to see ! ng ni or m t’... en om m ie stopping me - all all this happen. ov ‘m had a Kris is in en dd su I could think was He was grinning a of ll A calling this girl is worth back at me; I just the flash dance tting me over and ge the chance! I thought he was ee ... down on one kn had all the centre as excited as me or e to AND ... asked m employers helping just excited for me, !”

IM MARRY H me set up music because he knows speakers and keep my how much I love flash big surprise, as we "came mob dances. to have coffee with Kylie’s Then all of a sudden, Kris mum" after an overseas trip she’d was pulled into the middle by been on ... the head dancer! I thought that as he Kris: Who choreographed the knew the lead dancer, she was trying to dance? involve the crowd, and then he was doing Sarah Rowsell, whom I play baseball with, spirit fingers and calling me over to him and loved the idea, and four months before the getting down on one knee asking me to big surprise day, Sarah was holding secret marry him ... All I could think was,”Oh my dance classes with all her mob dancers in gosh, is this real life!” I kissed him, and said, their spare time.

“Yes, yes, yes!”

Kylie: Talk us through your thoughts Kris: What made you choose that particfrom when you first saw people get up ular song - One Direction’s What Makes and dance to the moment Kris got up You Beautiful? Does it hold a certain

“

significance to you as a couple?

When this One Direction song was first released, I sang it to Kylie - it’s my song for her …

Kylie: Have you set a date for your wedding?

No date as yet, but we plan on becoming Mr and Mrs in 2017.

Thanks guys.

Facebook post made by Kris on 12/12/15 ... Been 4+ months in the making and no one knowing, but at 2:30pm today I flash mob danced Kylie in the shopping centre and proposed. Here's one of the videos we got; of course she said yes ha ha, but on the 12th day of Christmas I gave my true love a ring.

Facebook post made by Kylie 12/12/15...

Wow! What a morning! I really had a "movie moment"... We were having coffee in the busy shopping centre ... when I heard loud music start playing. I got sooo excited, because I knew it was a flash mob dance (one of my fave things in the world) and it was to a One Direction song which happened to be Kristova Stewart’s song for me ... *sings* "You light up my world like nobody else"... Which made it even more awesome ... THEN ... All of sudden Kris is in the flash dance calling me over and getting down on one knee ... AND ... asked me to MARRY HIM! I’m happier than I’ve ever been, which is crazy, ‘cause he already makes me the happiest woman alive. #‎healwayssaidhewouldkeepmeforever #‎nowitsofficial #‎imhisfiance

Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

Luxe Catering We understand at LUXE that your wedding day is the most important day of your life ... ensuring the food is of the highest quality, allowing you to sit back and enjoy every moment of this special time, offering all types of menus, catering for everyone’s different tastes, making sure that your favourite foods will be presented and any guests’ requirements looked after.

LUXE offers a wide range of menus to suit every occasion, and we personalise every event to suit our clients. Our food presentation and focus on texture, style and taste makes us stand out from the rest.

Wondering where to hold your private function? You are most welcome to book our restaurant if you wish.

“One of LUXE’S greatest strengths is their flexibility whilst still maintaining high quality standards. I have engaged LUXE for catering in a range of contexts, from professional functions to special family celebrations, and each time we have been absolutely delighted with the food and service. Josh is an excellent chef who knows how to tailor a menu to suit the guests.” Adam Spencer.

stylish & elegant waterfront weddings Be one of the first to experience the stunning new waterfront event and reception centre due for completion in December 2016. Exclusive onsite ceremonies at The Point overlooking the bay or in The Waterfront Pavilion and Wedding Chapel all with private landscaped gardens. Stunning resort grounds and pool terrace perfect for photography, champagne and canapés.

Premium resort accommodation for you and your guests.

We are now accepting waterfront wedding ceremonies from Feb 2016

wedding packages FROM $95PP

Contact Rachelle Dufty Wedding & Events Co-ordinator P. 02 6589 5100 F. 02 6584 0397 E. rachelle_dufty@rydges.com www.rydges.com/sailsresort

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

CS Event Management Say hello to the Mid North Coast’s newest wedding and event management company, C.S Event Management.

perfect.

C.S Event Management is a local business whose mission is to put the “fun” back into “functions”, and one that clients can rely on for the best event-planning service.

special.

We know how stressful planning a wedding or an event can be, but with C.S Event Management, you can rest assured that your event will be everything you want - without all the hassles that go hand-in-hand with it.

After your first free consultation, we will be hard at work sourcing all that is required to make it Be it a classical or themed wedding, we cater for your needs and will not rest until we have your special day organised to perfection.

Our “love of locals” commitment extends to both our clients and local businesses. Where possible, we will always source local for all event needs.

How do we achieve this?

We tailor the planning around your needs and requirements - from the wedding dress right down to the style of cutlery you want.

Venues, catering, décor, floral arrangements and

We will provide you with the products and services you need to ensure your event is

Want to know more? Phone Nicholas Cameron

many more will be sourced locally to help our clients receive the best possible product whilst also supporting our local small business. on 0456 008 767 for your free consultation.

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Greater Port Macquarie Wedding Guide

By Michael Yarad

Men’s Suits O O

Bouquets O O Touchwood Flowers

Yarads Menswear

By Ashley Sargeson

Long before I was a florist, traditional bouquets used to be fully wired, featuring traditional roses or other classic white blooms, more often than not in a long, elegant trailing style.

Over the last couple of years we have seen the vast evolution of wedding suits as styles have become more high fashion, on trend and less traditional. As the style of weddings have stepped away from strict tradition becoming more adventurous, so too have the suits.

G

rooms are now spending more money, largely choosing trend led suits and often putting as much effort in as the brides are.

There is currently a large focus on attention to detail to complete and enhance the look of the suit with an emphasis on vests, braces and pocket handkerchiefs.

The first thing to consider before deciding on a suit is the formality and dress code of the wedding. Not only is it important to look great but also to match the overall style of the wedding. Informal weddings tend to break away from the traditional suits and tuxedos.

The ever popular relaxed beach or garden wedding usually opts for light colour suits and crisp white shirts.

The big wedding trend alert is the blue suit.

Whilst blue is the new black for men, we are also seeing the burgundy suit transitioning through to the wedding scene. Such suits often don slim lapels in a contrast of colours. But don’t forget the classy black and white is still a show stopper for the more formal wedding.

Making sure the suit fits well is still the key to looking good on your wedding day. Yarads Menswear is where you can find a good fit, quality materials and excellent service, all for an excellent price.

T

hese days, loose, mixed vintage style very much in fashion, with seasonal posies are favoured pretty pastel colours and blue/grey foliage. by modern brides, with With outdoor weddings in marquees, barns, exciting contemporary and village halls also increasing in colour popularity, couples have become combinations. A lot of more involved in styling and attention is now paid on the decorating their own n io binding of the bouquet, weddings. I believe the nt te at of t A lo e th on with new fabrics like pendulum is likely to id pa w no is uet, uq bo e hessian, lace and jute swing back towards th of g in bind s like often preferred over the more traditional with new fabric d jute conventional organza style of floral design. hessian, lace an er ov and satin ribbon.Today’s We have had a often preferred nza ga conventional or bride often hangs items few requests lately .” and satin ri bbon with sentimental value to create the longer from their bouquet - a trailing bouquets, so photo locket of a loved one, this may be a sign we’re grandma’s brooch or even old beginning to move on from war medals. The variety of flowers the vintage style. Future brides and foliages used to create wedding may see a traditional trailing bouquet bouquets has also changed over the years, as a point of difference, although not all as availability to glasshouse and imported florists have been trained to create these stems has grown. Brides are also getting properly. I guess the real issue is that anything much bolder with their foliage choices. The goes these days ... posies, teardrop, trailing use of succulents has increased as more - brides have much more freedom of choice people become aware of the texture and and can easily find and select exactly the right interest they offer. 2015 saw the rustic or style to express themselves.

“

The Cruise Terminal O O Perfect Weddings

With more people looking for the best location for their wedding and one that fits any budget, The Cruise Terminal covers it all.

O

ffering a memorable is there to spend your special day! With day out on the ever changing scenery, the cruises Hastings River, are perfect for photos and the there are ideal spot for your guests a g in Hav two vessels licensed bar on to sit back and enjoy the r available; the Chinese Junk, occasion. The friendly team bo ard, what bette to e which holds 30 people, is can help you with all your way is ther ial spend your spec great for a small intimate wedding needs and come day! ” wedding, and the River up with a package that suits you. To book an appointment, Princess, which holds up to please call Rebecca from The 110 people, is ideal for cocktail and sit-down meal options. Having Cruise Terminal on 6583 3058. a licensed bar on board, what better way

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with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

FEBRUARY 2016

with Terri

AQUARIUS.

January 21 - February 19 Relationships will provide ample opportunity for self-awareness and growth at present. Enjoy a mutual project with a loved one and experience a new found level of love. See your own divinity in your relationships for self-approval.

Rose Quartz is a beautiful loving crystal, helping us to feel our unconditional love.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Total change is likely to take effect. Your need to achieve your life’s purpose is on your agenda. Set some new goals and be realistic, then thank yourself for achieving. Selfappreciation is most beneficial for attracting new success.

Rose Quartz is the crystal for self-love.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Relationships will be offering opportunities to learn about yourself. Mirroring yourself in your partner will enlighten you and increase your tolerance and ease disappointments. When someone does something you do not like, find out from looking within why you have a problem with it. Citrine shatters negativity.

TAURUS. April 21 - May 21

Time to set some new goals, but be aware of your motive to ensure attracting the best of the best. If you are at a loss when it comes to knowing what to look for, don’t despair.

Make a list of emotions that you would like to experience and pray for those feelings to be fulfilled. Selenite shatters fears and encourages positive energy.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

May 22 - June 22

Now is a great time to learn something new.

Your thoughts are centering around the bigger picture in life and helping you to achieve the excitement of connecting to something that you were born to do. Think about a gift or talent you would like to play with, and take action.

You’ll be surprised with the outcome. Clear Quartz helps us to reach our true potential.

September 24 - October 23 Don’t allow delays to deter you from a long set goal. Instead, try visualising yourself walking the walk and feel the potential excitement this offers. It will restore your faith in the bigger picture, lessoning any likeliness of sabotage. Try not to lose the passion for your pursuit. Appophyllite helps us visualise.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

June 23 - July 23

Now is a great time to recognise your fears, take hold of them and reshape them, so you are in control of them. Once you have become aware of your challenge or fear, try laughing at it. Your subconscious can only confirm, not reason. This technique will shatter the fear very efficiently.

Ruby shatters fears.

October 24 - November 22 Making simple choices may seem like a huge challenge at present. Make things easier for yourself by knowing nothing needs to be forever. If you’re unhappy with the change, make new ones. Avoid feeling like life is a one-way street, or your fears could leave you totally trapped. Ruby shatters fears and helps us to feel secure.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

July 24 - August 23 Your mind is vulnerable to becoming bored at present. Also, there is a growing need to pursue your life’s purpose or destiny. If you set some goals centering on accessing a gift or talent that provides learning opportunities, you should be content with the next year’s cycle and elevation in selfesteem. Rose Quartz restores self-worth.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Now is a great time to pursue a dream from either a long time ago, or a dream you have carried for a long time. Write a list of all the things you will require and take action; getting something on the list will have you poised and ready for the opportunity as soon as it presents. Citrine shatters negative and attracts abundance of positive energy.

November 23 - December 21

Avoid concerning yourself with morbid thoughts of what you believe others are thinking of you. You are very capable of being extremely charismatic; you just need to occupy your thoughts with self-esteem and compliments. Who cares what other people think? Rose Quartz is a powerful self-loving crystal.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

You may be feeling unsupported at present.

Identify any emotion you wish to feel externally and wake it up on the inside by breathing into it and igniting it. By becoming the answers to your fears, you will avoid facing them and having to challenge or grow through them. Ruby is powerful for inner strength.

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WELLBEING W I T H K A R E N FA R D O U LY F R O M O U RY O G A

Z O N TA C L U B P O R T M A C Q U A R I E

INTERNATIONAL

H AT H A

YOGA for everybody

A

GIVE IT A TRY ... YOU JUST MIGHT LOVE IT.

bout thirty years ago I stepped onto the Hatha Yoga Path, after being a student for seven years. I studied at the International Yoga Teaching Assosiation and have been teaching Hatha Yoga for the past twenty two years in Sydney. I was amazed at how quickly the techniques intergrated with me; I felt calmer, more positive, stronger, my posture improved and I started to view life through brighter eyes ... I was hooked.

I moved to beautiful Port Maquarie eight months ago to open up OurYoga. I do not grade my classes, and they are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. I aim to assist my students to bring out the best in themselves.

I love to watch them grow and flourish as the postures, breathing practises, relaxations and mindfulness techniques assist them to

harness their peaceful, stronger and happier self. I run weekly classes at Girl Guide Hall (set in a peaceful bush setting) and Organic Fitness Studio (A Hub of Organic Products and Services in Bellbowrie St). I also run four week courses to allow students to see and feel the benifits of Hatha Yoga.

In conjunction with my partner Frank James Lagudi who offers Massage Therapy, we aim to offer body maintanance, good health and improved overall wellbeing. Frank James Lagudi Massage Therapist: one hour Massage $58 (usually $69) at Beachside Medi Spa Horton St, Port Macquarie and OurYoga 2016 Introduction Pass $30 for three classes. To book a massage, contact Frank: 0448 446 360.

To book a yoga course or class, contact Karen: 0402 118 544.

Women’s Day

ZONTA CLUB PORT MACQUARIE CELEBRATES IWD. COME JOIN US AND "LEND A HAND". INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY IS TUESDAY, MARCH 8TH 2016, THE ONE DAY OF THE YEAR WHEN PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD COME TOGETHER ACROSS PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL DIVIDES TO CELEBRATE THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS.

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or the second year in a row, the Zonta Club of Port Macquarie is marking IWD with a luncheon raising awareness of the plight of women around the world, and making a difference by assembling clean birthing kits.

Zonta are excited to have specialist Gynaecologist and Obstetrician, Dr Ray Hodgson as guest speaker. Ray is the founder of Australians for Women's Health (A4WH), a charitable foundation aiming to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity in developing countries, by providing advanced gynaecological surgery to women in remote areas.

In 2016, Zonta Club members have challenged themselves to assemble 1,400 clean birthing kits, 40% more than assembled in 2015.

These simple birthing kits have been proven to help dramatically reduce the rates of infection and death during homebirths in remote, disadvantaged communities.

To reach this goal, the club hopes to raise $4,200 to pay for the contents and transport of the kits to remote destinations in Asia, Africa and the Pacific.

Last year’s event was a great success, with all ages enjoying getting together to help make a tangible difference in the lives of those less fortunate. The community and local businesses were incredibly generous in supporting this event last year.

We would like to acknowledge our amazing local sponsors: KFC, StatePlus, Port Macquarie Private Hospital, RSL Lifecare and Khodary Discount Pharmacies.

All community members are invited to join us and lend a hand. The event will be held at the Tacking Point Surf Club Macquarie from 10am to 3pm on Sunday 6th March 2016.

Tickets are $20p/h or $10 for children and will include a light lunch.

Email portmacquarie@zontadistrict24.org or contact Charlotte on 0419 992 362 for tickets and donations.

W I T H K RY S T Y N A Z AWA D Z K A F R O M S O M AT H E R A P Y

REAL STEP FORWARD FOR PAIN RELIEF

Live Without Pain SOMATHERAPY

EVERY DAY THOUSANDS OF AUSTRALIANS WAKE TO DEBILITATING CHRONIC PAIN – MONTH AFTER MONTH, YEAR AFTER YEAR. CHRONIC PAIN AFFECTS LIVES! ANYBODY WHO HAS EVER HAD TO LIVE WITH PAIN KNOWS HOW INSIDIOUS AND SOUL DESTROYING IT CAN BE.

V

arious factors are causing the body’s misalignment, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility. But far too often chronic pain, and basically, anything that that happens in your body, is tied to ageing.

Habitual movement patterns, caused by physical trauma “embody” dramatically. For example, a person who has fractured a leg tends to walk in an unbalanced way to protect the injury. The irregular movement pattern can become the body’s normal way of moving, long after the injury has healed.

As ageing continues, more of these physical patterns become embodied in the tissues, and we lose flexibility.

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Local restrictions became a source of tension to the whole body and they are cumulative.

Understanding the pain patterns will help you to determine the nature and cause of the pain more effectively. Get to the root of chronic pain, target the source of the problem to relieve symptoms and return to good health.

Breakthroughs in international scientific research are bringing hope for FINDING YOUR FREEDOM FROM PAIN. To learn more about what is available to heal your pain, please contact Somatherapy Clinic 1300 877 011 or 0414 332 037.

& WELLBEING

Dr. Bobby Kumar COSMETIC SURGEON Who can offer you: • Training and qualifications specifically in Cosmetic Surgery • Comprehensive knowledge, expertise and experience • Surgical and Non-Surgical Procedures tailored to the Individual’s needs

the perfect stairlift solution With a tailor-made Acorn Stairlift, you can stay right where you are - keep your home, keep your freedom and retain your independence.

At Acorn we want to make sure that you get the perfect stairlift solution for your needs. Our unique rail system means that we can fit an Acorn Stairlift to all types of staircase, and what’s more, we can do so within a matter of days, rather than weeks.

A visit from one of our friendly surveyors will allow you to see what sets Acorn Stairlifts apart from any other stairlift company.

After assessing your needs, our surveyor will instantly be able to give you the peace of mind of knowing exactly how affordable an Acorn Stairlift can be.

Acorn has always been at the forefront of the stairlift industry.

We have led the way with our design and innovation. Acorn will always strive to deliver our products with you, our customers, in mind.

Acorn Stairlifts are the first stairlift manufacturer to be awarded the Arthritis Foundation’s Ease-of-Use Commendation.

Dr. Bobby Kumar, Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, performs:

New Year NEW YOU

Breast Augmentation: enhance and/or restore breast size, shape and volume

By Tony Hanks.

You will see that our current advertising is all about “New Year - New You”. But what does this really mean?

Many people make resolutions at the beginning of a new year and most of these are about some form of self-improvement.

By now they are starting to see progress, or some of those good intentions have started to get distracted by our busy lives.

One of the easiest ways to achieve a “New You” is to update your spectacles. When somebody looks at your face, your spectacles are one of the first things they see. It’s a simple interpretation that we all make - trendy frame, trendy person - daggy frame ... Well, you know what I mean. There was a recent post on Facebook (illustration above) that followed this same theme. It was funny, but it’s also true!

Call in and see our wonderful staff to discuss new spectacles for a “New You” and talk to your Eyecare Plus optometrist about how to better care for your eyes - we only get two!

Breast Lift: restore shape and position of breasts, typically after pregnancy, breast feeding and/or weight loss Breast Reduction: reduce size of breasts, common for women experiencing pain, discomfort or lifestyle limitations due to large breasts Combination Breast Augmentation/Lift/Reduction: typically appropriate for women after pregnancy, breast feeding and/or weight loss who want to retain volume and fullness Tummy Tuck Surgery: restore a flat, tight tummy, typically after pregnancy and/or weight loss Facial Surgery: Facelift, Necklift, Rhinoplasty (Nose), Blepharoplasty (Eyes) – pursued by men and women seeking a long lasting refreshed and rejuvenated facial appearance.

Dr. Bobby Kumar only operates in fully accredited private hospitals with a Specialist Anaesthetist.

Call Wendy for an appointment on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009, or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au

Plus, get a FRee 2nd PaIR wIth youR InItIal PuRchase.

It’s haPPy new yeaR FRom us. *Conditions apply.

Port Macquarie: 95 william st – 6583 7333 29 horton st – 6584 3948

eyecareplus.com.au/Portmacquarie

Wauchope: 6 Bransdon st – 6585 2393 eyecareplus.com.au/wauchope

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WELLBEING

TAI CHI Tai Chi has been around for many years and is a way of maintaining physical and mental health. It is an art form strengthening bodily functions, developing one’s intellect and elevating one’s centre of feeling. Based on the theory of Yin and Yang, in ancient Chinese philosophy, it helps promote self esteem and physical health.

Throughout most of its history Tai Chi was kept secret and only taught to family members or trusted students.

With today’s hectic lifestyle, people are looking for ways to improve their health and wellbeing and to release daily pressures, settle the mind and relax the body. Tai Chi has been proven as a way to achieve this. There is only one way to practice Tai Chi. That is to learn gradually, one movement at a time, and to develop a stringent practice routine which requires patience and perseverance to gradually “master” each form. There are 40 or 50 forms or movements in Tai Chi. These forms are simply choreographed into hand and step patterns involving handwork, footwork and

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legwork. For beginners, we must start with the basics. One must lay a good foundation at the very beginning to give the student confidence.

The emphasis on the practice of Tai Chi are gentleness and continuity. The shift from one movement to the next should be done in a circular motion, evenly and continuously. After learning the art of Tai Chi, the student may like to move on to using weapons such as a double sided sword, a broad sword or even a fan. The use of weapons in Tai Chi will further enhance the student’s desire and ability to achieve fulfilment within the art.

Classes for beginners and advanced students will begin shortly in Port Macquarie with an internationally recognised Master who has many years’ teaching experience in Asia, North America and Australia. Special classes utilising weapons such as double edged swords, broadswords and fans are included for those who seek to enhance their Tai Chi skills.

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focusinterview.

KUMIAIRYU MARTIAL ARTS SYSTEM

Tell us about your business - KRMAS? Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts System (KRMAS) is an exciting and innovative world renowned multi award winning professional government accredited martial arts school, with its national headquarters based right here in Port Macquarie!

Our Martial Arts Programmes enable students to develop at their own pace and improve co-ordination, confidence, self-worth and self defence skills, whilst improving their overall health and wellbeing. All our classes are conducted in a fun, exciting and enriching manner.

We are a progressive system that is always evolving. We strive to offer each of our students the support needed for them to achieve their personal goals and offer many opportunities throughout the year for them to challenge themselves, such as gradings, tournaments and seminars.

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“There is a lot more to it than just learning to kick, punch, grappling and throwing,” says Kyoshi (Grandmaster) Kevin Blundell Chief Instructor. “Students learn many valuable life skills in a fun filled positive environment.”

You have moved to new premises recently; how is that going?

We love our new permanent home! Having outgrown our previous location, we were looking for something special that would tick all the boxes and would grow with us. We were lucky to find just what we were looking for at 4 Bellbowrie Street and set about building a first class facility. We are thrilled with the feedback we have received from members, who also love their new home. We now enjoy easier access in a more central location. We have three separate air conditioned training areas, two viewing/ waiting areas, a well-equipped gym area and homework station. We also offer a large range

Kevin Blundell and his team of highly qualified instructors have moved premises and are going from strength to strength!

Chrissy Jones chatted with Kevin about martial arts and what the future holds for KRMAS. of martial arts equipment for sale for members and non-members.

What are your business’ strengths/specialties?

Experience is what I call upon, as I have been training in the martial arts since 1969 and teaching since 1979. In 1989 I branched out and formed KRMAS with only a handful of students, which has now grown to 25 locations and thousands of members - well beyond my wildest dreams.

With a worldwide network, I can call upon experts in every aspect of the martial arts.

Most are long term friends such as my Muay Thai trainer, who has been a good friend for 30 years. I conduct regular seminars on both martial arts and business coaching. I conducted talks in Europe last year, and this year I will once again be back in the USA. In February I am guest speaker at the annual Australian Martial Arts Summit in Melbourne.

What do you offer patrons?

Martial arts for the whole family!

KR Little Ninjas for preschool to11 year olds and KR Colts Karate for 12 to 17 year olds. Other classes for children include modified Thai - kick boxing and XMA tricking classes.

For adults we have Muay Thai - kick boxing,

MMA/grappling and Karate!

While the skills taught vary according to proficiency, values such as respect, self-confidence, discipline, concentration and self-control are at the centre of every class. Anti-bullying and personal protection skills are integrated in to each class, all communicated in an age specific manner.

Anything new in 2016?

We are very excited about our soon to be launched KRMAS Online Martial Arts University for members and instructors. This value added tool steps each student through their specific training criteria, which will enhance what is taught in class ... not replace it! In this day and age, everyone lives on their mobile devices, so we needed to move with the times and produce a learning tool that was mobile friendly and easy to take anywhere! As the member progresses through their grades, more content becomes available. All instructors are fully government accredited and are bound by a national code of conduct, are child protection compliant, fully insured and can produce an accredited Instructor ID card issued by the Martial Arts Industry Association: www.maia.com.au.

Call today on 6584 1050 or text 0407 248 648 or visit www.krmas.com.au

focus_editorial

robyn’s

spot

ROBYNBUTLER

BACK TO NORMALITY WHAT A BUMPER SEASON FOR THE HASTINGS AREA OVER THE CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR PERIOD. GREAT TO SEE COFFEE SHOPS OVERFLOWING EACH DAY, THE BEACHES PACKED AND MUSIC AT THE SUNDOWNER GRASSHOUSE ENJOYED BY HUNDREDS.

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he weather was unbelievable for this time of the year and for some reason the tourists seemed to be around in volume for a week longer … I have to say Port Macquarie looked fanastic, with work completed by the Council in time. My beef is the lack of Christmas decorations around the town … Maybe next year!

I hope the restaurants did well, with such a variety of cruisine now available in the Hastings … Tried the Korean in William Street when it first opened, and it was delicious. My daughter took me to a well known restaurant in town for my birthday last month, and she was so upset because the meal was unacceptable … To the credit of the “motel”, they did not charge her for my meal. Being the sticky beak I am, I asked a family outside, as they were staying there, had they tried the restaurant. Their facial expression was enough for me … Took the wind out of my sails …

How disappointing, when the view is to die for …

Congratulations to everyone who made so many visitors to the Hastings enjoy their stay in one of the fastest growing regions in New South Wales …

Back to normality - but don’t forget to still look after the locals; they are your bread and butter.

SNIPPETS 1. If you can, try to purchas SPC/Admona tomatoes, as they are all Australian grown tomatoes. The cheaper ones on the market are very tempting, but most are from farms in Italy, where the farmers are dumping their excess crops to us. The CEO of SPC Admona on The 7:30 Report acknowledges the difficulties competing with overseas products, but points out their tomatoes and fruits are grown and canned in Australia and helps support our hard working “struggling” farmers.

2. Speaking of The 7:30 Report regarding a plum called Queen Garnet, that has wonderful fat reducing elements: they tried them on obese rats and after consuming the plums with their usual meals, the rats reduced weight and were healthier. Bring it on … I want to order three boxes … NOW! 3. Before icing a cake, dust a little flour or cornflour over the top to prevent the icing running off the cake … What a great idea.

4. If you don’t want the water to boil over the saucepan when cooking spaghetti, put a wooden spoon across the top of the pan …

No more spills.

5. This takes the cake ... sorry, post … A dollar to post a letter, guaranteed to get there in four days - extra if you want it to reach its distination earlier. Do you think the costs are to pay the exorbitant wages to the CEO …

Millions of dollars … Something very, very funny going on there … No stamp of approval from many.

6. When baking veggies for a baked dinner, for a change, add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the olive oil and garlic to give it a sweet and sour taste ... Delicious.

7. A lovely Valentine’s gift for your wife, fellows, is offer to cook her dinner for a week and clean up … What did you say you already do that! Happy Valentine’s Day anyway...

8. How many Aussie men does it take to change a light globe … None - it is a woman’s job!

I’m in the throes of moving, so the column’s a bit “how’s your uncle”! Back to normal next month …

Hope everyone had a happy Australia Day and that we all appreciate what a great country we live in. Let’s not lose our wonderful sense of humour and larrikinism.

Keep smiling, Robbie x x greater port macquarie focus. 67

focus_interview

with Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

IVANA MOUDRY

DOCTOR OF CHINESE MEDICINE

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oday, approximately 1 in 5 couples struggle with issues in confidence.” fertility. As infertility rates increase, acupuncture The clients who visit Ivana about fertility issues have often is becoming more popular as a safe, natural and been trying to fall pregnant for a long time and regard treatment drug-free alternative for couples. as a last resort. “They are already emotionally exhausted, and Ivana Moudry, Clinical Director of the Centre have spent a lot of money on other options or procedures.” for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, has spent the past 17 Many of Ivana’s days are filled with extreme joy and happiness. years providing treatments to help couples conceive, “One couple came to me for preconception supporting women through pregnancy and in treatments prior to starting on IVF with ICSI preparation for labour, and aiding post-natal and donor eggs. Several months into the recovery. treatment they discovered they had fallen ho w s nt ie cl For “Used traditionally for thousands of pregnant naturally - and now I treat their e m co ve ha e years, acupuncture is relatively new little girl.” tiv si po a ith in w lt, or to the western world. “Involving the Working with fertility issues can pregnancy resu ages gentle use of thin, disposable sterile be an emotionally charged field of are in the fin al st me co needles at strategic points near the medicine. “The hardest part of my job of waiting to wel e th to in by ba r surface of the body, acupuncture can is looking into the sad faces of women thei ileged world , I feel priv r increase fertility by reducing stress, who come in distraught that they did ei th of rt to be a pa increasing blood flow to the reproductive not achieve a pregnancy this cycle.” journey.” organs and balancing the endocrine Ivana keeps centred and energised by system,” Ivana said. beginning each day with meditation and “I have always felt very passionate about gentle exercise. being able to help people whose deepest desire is to After living in the Czech Republic, West Germany, welcome a healthy child into their lives.”

Saudi Arabia, New Zealand and Canada, Ivana chose to Ivana began her Traditional Chinese Medicine career settle into the slower pace of Port Macquarie in 2006. in 1998. She studied a four year bachelor degree and “The people of the Hastings are some of the nicest people then another four years at the Institute of Traditional Chinese I have met. For clients who have come in with a positive Medicine in Canada to become a Doctor of Chinese Medicine. pregnancy result, or are in the final stages of waiting to welcome She then went on to complete extensive post graduate training their baby into the world, I feel privileged to be a part of their in gynaecology, reproductive health and paediatrics. journey.”

“In addition to the learned skills, it is important to have Over the coming months Ivana will be expanding her practice true passion, commitment, sensitivity, as well as empathy to provide a complete natural health centre catering to women and compassion. The job entails many things, from being a and children. The practice will offer labour preparation classes diagnostician, practitioner, business owner, counsellor, and for couples, fertility workshops, meditation, yoga and more. For providing a safe place where people can discuss their private information, call 6582 7906.

“

68 greater port macquarie focus.

my Day 6:30am

Wake up and enjoy my one coffee for the day

7:00am

Mindfulness meditation followed by a walk on the beach or pilates session

9:00am

Catch up with colleagues in America and Canada regarding the latest developments in our field. Client Skype sessions, bookkeeping and correspondence

10:00am Prepare and review patient files, make calls, write emails, respond to enquiries 11:00am Treat clients, schedule follow up appointments 6:30pm

Hold regular fertility awareness and labour preparation workshops

7:30pm

Leave office and head home for a relaxing dinner in the garden

focus_editorial

Estelle Gough from Port Macquarie Landcare

UPDATE

LIVING ON THE EDGE EVERY GARDEN HAS ROOM FOR A LANDCARE PLANT WE LOVE: LOMANDRA. THIS “TUFTING” NATIVE PLANT LOOKS GREAT WITH MODERN OR TRADITIONAL HOUSE DESIGNS, AND IS VERY EASY TO GROW.

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t smells good too when its small white flowers emerge in spring, to be followed by round bright orange or brown fruits.

Its straplike leaves arch up and out from the base symmetrically. It matures into a dense, rounded shape about a metre in diameter.

Though it looks rather like an oversized grass plant, it is actually a cousin of the “grass trees”, Xanthorrhoeas, which are renowned for their dramatic shapes and sheer toughness.

Lomandra longifolia can grow in a range of soils, in dry or wet areas, from the seaside to mountainous areas. It loves to dwell on creek banks, where it holds the banks and resists floodwaters.

It can withstand both hot summers and low temperatures down to -7°C, but it does not like wet winters.

In Landcare, we value the way Lomandra grows into a decorative natural fence that’s tough and maintenance-free.

We use it to define the edges of bushland reserves.

It’s our green hero, protecting our work by keeping out machines, pesky animals, and a lot of weeds.

The scented Lomandra flowers grow in a prickly panicle, and this spikiness is a useful deterrent too.

Mowers can cut right up to the Lomandra edge as it defines a clear boundary.

This planting strategy is known as “closing the edge”, and it is a cost-effective way to help us restore bushland to a healthy condition.

Behind the Lomandra fence we can nurture

other layers of vegetation: bushes, ground covers and trees. We may plant extra seedlings if natural regeneration is not sufficient.

Lomandra is not just an edge plant though. It also makes a valuable ground cover to stabilise open patches such as sandy beachside areas, where it tolerates salt while preventing weeds from getting a foothold.

Lomandra leaves are long and extremely tough, so early European settlers found them useful for weaving. They called it mat-rush or basket grass.

Long before that, Aboriginal people had used the leaves to make strong nets and baskets. They also used the white inner bases of the leaves as food: these taste like fresh green peas.

A similar species Lomandra hystrix (slender mat-rush) grows happily in rainforest and in moister areas.

Both Lomandras are perennial, rhizomatous herbs that grow wild throughout eastern Australia (but they don’t occur naturally in the west).

You can grow Lomandras from seed, or you can divide a clump and replant, keeping the plants moist while they establish.

When planting, place Lomandras at least half a metre back from pathways to let the plants spread out as they grow.

If you need to cut back the plant be careful, as the points of their leaves can be quite sharp and jagged.

It’s interesting that the pointed shapes of these leaf-tips are an important feature for identifying the different species of Lomandras.

Contributed by Julie Ho. greater port macquarie focus. 69

70 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus. 71

focusinterview.

DEMENTIA S e m i n a r I N T E R V I E W

S U S A N

W I T H

M C C A R T H Y

IF YOU CARE FOR SOMEONE WITH DEMENTIA, YOU SUFFER FROM THE CONDITION YOURSELF OR YOU’RE JUST INTERESTED IN HEALTHY BRAIN AGEING, THERE’S A SPECIAL SEMINAR PLANNED FOR MARCH 2 THAT YOU SHOULDN’T MISS.

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he seminar will be hosted by Alzheimer’s Australia NSW, Mid North Coast and presented by the Healthy Brain Ageing Programme, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney. Susan McCarthy, General Manager, Services, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW, tells us more about the event ...

Tell us about Alzheimer’s Australia NSW and your role there ... What are the aims of the organisation, and what does your job involve?

The aim of Alzheimer’s Australia NSW is to minimise the incidence and impact of dementia through advocacy, policy, education, services and research. As the peak body and charity for all types of dementia, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW supports leadership in dementia policy and services, encourages and participates in research initiatives and aims to extend the knowledge and skills of others working with people with dementia, their families and carers.

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW also provides a range of support services and education for people living with dementia, their families and carers to help them live well with dementia.

In Port Macquarie we’ve established a Dementia Memory and Community Centre (DMCC), and this centre provides information and resources about dementia and dementia care; dementia advisory services including individual and family support; access to counselling, and assistance with referrals to other services, including education for people living with dementia, carers and health professionals.

In addition, the DMCC promotes community awareness about dementia, how to minimise risk, the benefit of early diagnosis and the support services available, including links to local community and health services, and works with these services to improve coordination and enhance care for people living with dementia.

My role as General Manager, Services, is to provide strategic direction and leadership for the planning and delivery of dementia services, 72 greater port macquarie focus.

open education and sector The seminar is rs be development across to all mem ity, NSW, ensuring positive of the commun le living op pe g outcomes for people includin d carers , living with demenwith dementia an al ic ed tia, carers and their service and m y providers, and an the families. of rs be em other m This year on March ested in community inter ing.”

2, the Brain and Mind ge Healthy Brain A Centre based with the University of Sydney Lewis, Professor Sharon Nawill be coming to Port ismith, Dr Loren Mowszowski, Macquarie to deliver a seminar.

Dr Shantel Duffy and Port Macquarie Firstly, what is Alzheimer’s Australia’s local Geriatrician Dr Matthew Kinchingrelationship/association with the Brain ton.

The speakers are leaders in dementia and Mind Centre, and how have the two care, research, knowledge and information. organisations been working together to Throughout the day you will learn how sleep, help improve the lives of those who suffer physical exercise, challenging your brain, diet and from dementia? depression can effect and improve your memory, We’ve had an extensive relationship with the cognition and reduce the risk of dementia.

Brain and Mind Centre (BMC) based at the UniThe seminar is being hosted by Alzheimer’s versity of Sydney. This relationship emphasises the Australia NSW, Mid North Coast and presented importance of collaboration amongst those who by the Healthy Brain Ageing Program, Brain and are working within the dementia sector.

Mind Centre, University of Sydney.

To achieve optimal outcomes for those living What types of people in the community do with dementia, their carers and families, its you feel the seminar will appeal to? vitally important that research is developed by The seminar is open to all members of the organisations such as BMC, University of Sydney community, including people living with dementia and that this research is informed, translated and and carers, service and medical providers, and adopted into practice by organisations, such as any other members of the community interested ourselves, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW. This enin Healthy Brain Ageing. sures that our information, support and services Why is a seminar of this kind particularly are evidence-based and that, together, we are relevant for Port Macquarie? Statistically, providing the best services and opportunities for how does the local community here measure those living with dementia. up in terms of dementia prevalence, for Where and when exactly will the seminar be example, when compared to the rest of the held? state?

Event Details: date: Wednesday, March 2; time: In NSW, there is estimated to be almost 10am registration for a 10:30am start, finishes at 112,000 people living with dementia, which is 3pm. Morning tea and lunch are included. expected to grow to 128,500 people by 2020 Venue: Panthers, Port Macquarie, 1 Bay Street, and 272,000 by 2050. The prevalence of demenPort Macquarie. tia within Port Macquarie is expected to signifiWho will some of the guest presenters be, cantly increase over the next five to 30 years. In and what topics will they be covering? terms of state electoral districts, Port Macquarie is Speakers include myself, Professor Simon

“

currently the 3rd highest area for dementia across NSW and is expected to increase by 150% over the next 25 years.

What outcomes are you hoping the seminar will achieve?

Similar to other conditions, we know that risk reduction is an important element to reduce the incidence of dementia. Evidence has found that exercise, sleep and many other factors can influence your risk of developing dementia.

We also know that these risk reduction strategies are applicable for all ages; research has shown that adopting these risk factors should apply to all ages, and in some cases 20 to 30 years before a diagnosis of dementia is likely. For instance, exercise today can make a significant difference in reducing your risk of dementia in 20 to 30 years from now. We also know the importance of sleep, diet, exercise and diagnosis for those who are living with dementia, their carers and families. The purpose of this seminar is to share this wealth of local information and evidence based strategies with people in the community.

Is there a cost to attend the seminar, and how do people register their interest in attending?

The seminar is free; however registration to attend is essential. Please email NSW.MidNorthCoast@alzheimers.org.au or phone (02) 6584 7444. We look forward to seeing you at the seminar!

Thanks Susan.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

greater port macquarie focus. 73

BACK TO BUSINESS

74 greater port macquarie focus.

BACK TO BUSINESS

HARCOURTS greater port macquarie

Y

ou have moved offices to a new location in the JBC building - why the move?

The last four years have been a period of consolidation and growth for Harcourts Greater Port Macquarie and correspondingly now we require larger premises. The opportunity to relocate to the JBC building benefits the company but more importantly, provides high exposure for the properties we are selling. Our highly visible window display is of great benefit for property owners wanting their property exposed to the maximum numbers of customers, and the location directly opposite Port Central’s main entrance does just that.

Harcourts have a new image with a new logo and branding - tell us about that ...

For 125+ years Harcourts have built a solid reputation without a change to the “branding”.

With a worldwide focus for their company, Harcourts have decided a revamp of their colours and image to a new, more professional look was required. A new modern design of the logo has resulted.

What successes did your business have in 2015? Our emphasis over the past year has been on growth in properties under management

and increase in staffing numbers to cater for the large number of properties we have for sale. We currently hold the highest number of properties available for sale across the Greater Port Macquarie region. Our sales achievements are growing, and we would rank in the top five of agencies across the region for number of sales.

What’s 2016 shaping up like for Harcourts?

I expect this to be our best year yet. Along with the relocation of the Port Macquarie office to this dynamic location, our Wauchope office also retains a high profile within the town, with sales and property management exceeding expectations. There are enormous opportunities available for qualified agents to join our growing team and have the opportunity to work all facets of real estate, depending on their expertise. For a confidential interview, ring me on 0417 473 620 or alternatively, post a resume marked confidential to the Manager, PO Box 125 Wauchope 2446.

Your company’s motto is “From the Beach to the Bush” - what does this really mean?

We are the only real estate company in the Greater Port Macquarie region that can provide a service buying, selling or leasing property across

all areas of the valley. Whether it is residential, commercial, industrial or rural properties, we have the staff and expertise to provide a service truly from “The Beach To The Bush”.

Tell us about your team? What are their specialties? We currently have eight sales staff across the two offices that have experience in all facets of real estate. Barry Thompson and Mark Minor are two well known identities with a wide range of experience in residential and rural property sales and work out of the Wauchope office. In Port Macquarie there are five sales staff. Well respected agent with his own

business previously - Bill McNamara - has recently joined the team, Paul Wright is also well known to the business community and has achieved some dynamic sales recently in commercial real estate. Jim O’Mara and Allan Sergent are both experienced agents who have solid sales experience behind them, with sales manager Max Lindsay holding his real estate licence. Personally I have had over 30 years’ experience in real estate and hold real estate, stock & station, business and strata management agencies licences and am also a qualified auctioneer.

Interview with Ross Lindsay.

greater port macquarie focus. 75

BACK TO BUSINESS

TELSTRA BUSINESS SYSTEMS

HELPING YOU DO YOUR THING WHEN YOU’RE A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER, YOUR TO-DO LIST CAN SEEM NEVER-ENDING. THE TEAM AT TELSTRA BUSINESS CENTRE PORT MACQUARIE UNDERSTAND THAT YOU HAVE A MILLION THINGS ON YOUR MIND AT ANY TIME, BECAUSE WE’RE SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS TOO.

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hat’s why we want to help you and your business in any way we can. We’ll handle the tech side of things, so you can keep doing your thing.

Whether you are running a small family-owned store or a multi-state enterprise, communications are at the core of your business. It’s vital to keep in touch with customers, suppliers, staff and other stakeholders quickly and effectively by using Telstra Business Systems. We’ll manage it all for you through one point of contact, so you can stay focused on what you do best. We know one size doesn’t always fit all, so we want to tailor a solution that’s just right for your business.

There are five simple steps to help you choose the perfect Telstra Business System for your needs.

1: First, we’ll help you choose from our large

76 greater port macquarie focus.

you’re on the run. SIP Connect will help you take advantage of IP Calling technology and combine all of your voice and data e ag an m ll traffic onto a Telstra Next e’ W range of phone systems to r you fo l al IP network service. If you it find the ideal system for h one point ug want a little help to reach ro th you. These systems are NBN contact, so you of out to your customers, compatible - so whether you d on can stay focuse you could choose Ad On st .” have the NBN now or it’s what you do be Hold and use professionally on the way, you’ll always be recorded messages to get connected. in touch with your customers 2: Next, you can select the custom while they wait on the phone. features that will most effectively help Ad On Digital uses digital media to you to do your thing. We have a great range engage your customers using customised animated videos and digital campaigns. Feeling of options for you to choose from, and the a bit spoilt for choice? Don’t worry - our team expert knowledge to help you decide. HD Video Conferencing technology will save you travel time of tech experts will be with you every step of the way to choose the perfect features for your and expense, while Integrated Communications business. gives you quick access to your calls and messages

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on all of your devices and platforms. With these options, you can keep in touch constantly while

3: The next step is to decide which Telstra Calling Plan suits your business. We’ll help you to analyse

the unique way your business makes calls, so we can recommend a calling package tailored to your specific needs. You’ll only pay for what you need, with the features that are right for you.

4: Then, we’ll chat with you to choose which level of support your business needs from us.

There are a range of options to choose from, including onsite support, add-ons to your care plan, or support on a per-incident basis.

5: Finally, we’ll tailor your repayment options to protect your business’ cash flow. However you decide to make payment, you’ll be able to make arrangements through a single, easy-to-reach point of contact and receive charges in your single Telstra bill. No fuss and no worries, so you can keep your business running smoothly.

Come and chat to the team at Telstra Business Centre Port Macquarie about what Business Systems would suit you and your team. Drop in and give us a visit today at 177 Lake Rd, Port Macquarie or call on (02) 5525 0000!

BACK TO BUSINESS

SMARTER TEAM = ACHIEVING YOUR PROPERTY DREAMS

HASTINGS VALLEY REAL ESTATE Hi, I’m Julie Steep from Hastings Valley Real Estate in Wauchope, and I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. 2016 is going to be a great year.

I have just returned from two weeks in Singapore over the Christmas break, and wow - was that a fantastic city! So clean and green.

You have mostly seen us as a Property Management business, but in 2016 we will be reaching out in the Sales Department as well, so please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff for any sales advice. After all, I have been in real estate for 16 years and have sold quite a few properties as well.

My staff continue to amaze me with their skills, knowledge and professionalism. We travel anywhere to manage or sell your property, from as far as Yarras to Bonny Hills and Kempsey and all areas in between.

Even with the fantastic sales in real estate in 2015, this year will not be quite as busy, but will see your home or business sell relatively easily.

Please call Hastings Valley Real Estate anytime without obligation. We are ready to go for work for you today.

HAPPY NEW YEAR Wauchope Travel would like to wish their clients a Happy New Year! 2016 brings us some fabulous new touring opportunities; we have an escorted tour to Sri Lanka - a fascinating new destination - as well as our Evergreen favourite, Canada with Alaska cruise departing in May. For the garden lovers, you cannot beat the North Island of New Zealand, with a specialist New Zealand Garden expert tour leader. Join us 12th April for our mystery coach tour by Grand Pacific Tours to experience a taste of what they offer in New Zealand (numbers are limited). If these group departures are not your thing, pop into the office for one of the friendly and very experienced staff to create an itinerary - just for you!

Our popular day tours are back - ask to add your name to join us on a fun local expedition and meet some like minded travellers to enjoy our fantastic local tourist attractions.

Wauchope is such a great place to shop - no parking meters come on out and experience our “unique, boutique” town for yourself.

The party’s over - let’s get started!

Now the festive season is over, children are back at school, it’s time to put those property plans into action for 2016.

If your plan is to buy your first home, buy an investment property or create wealth through property - it’s time to get started with “Smarter” and let the professionals help you kick your property goals!

Whether you are an investor or a first homebuyer or simply looking for a new home, we can help you by; • Reducing the risk and stress of buying • Helping you save time and money • Accessing professional research • Negotiating contract terms for the best deal • Bidding at Auctions to remove the emotion • Giving you peace of mind For more information: visit our website/Facebook page and view the great results we have achieved for our happy clients. www.smarterpropertygroup.com.au Call today and talk to one of our friendly staff on 1800 257 377 Let us help you buy property - Smarter.

So let’s get started and come on board with us so we can help you fulfill your property dreams in 2016.

We will Save you Time, Money and Stress.

greater port macquarie focus. 77

focus_interview

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly marketing

BUSINESS minds

ANTHONY DE JAGER

C

WRIGHTS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

an you tell us a bit about your business Wrights Chartered Accountants and the services it offers clients?

Wrights is a three partner accounting firm based in Kempsey. We offer businesses strategic financial advice and provide services including business structure advice, auditing, tax and BAS preparation, accounting and SMSF set up and administration.

Your business operates in a fairly competitive environment locally. How do you differentiate your businesses from the competition?

Whilst we offer the traditional accounting services, a major part of our business is meeting with clients and discussing and implementing strategies to monitor and grow their business.

Most accountants focus on compliance and tax minimisation, which is important; however, our philosophy is that as accountants we should assist in growing a profitable business first and then work through how to minimise tax.

Building solid relationships with your clients is an imperative pursuit for any business. How do you ensure that this activity is prioritised and implemented across your business activities?

At Wrights we have always strived to ensure that we are our clients trusted adviser. This is brought about by a range of systems and processes. One thing we prioritise is proactive and responsive communication with our clients.

We return all client phone calls and emails promptly. We also proactively review our clients’ financial status on a regular basis, which allows us to remain on the front foot with identifying strategies to offer them which will improve their business or minimise their tax.

What are some of the common challenges that you see some of your locally based clients facing?

Economic uncertainty is always something 78 greater port macquarie focus.

that plays on clients’ minds.

However, I see another ver I’m a strong belie challenge emerging ’ ss ne that a busi which revolves around s ts should alway un co ac how traditional ith W e. at -d -to be kept up accounting software ion, current informat st is changing and cloud pa you can revi ew based accounting sily and performance ea sions is becoming more ci de e ak m adapt to gy .” te prominent. Whilst this ra st re tu fu about can be challenging for some clients, I see it as a really good opportunity to revisit a client’s administration.

The great benefit of using this Accountants? software well is that it provides access to upI really enjoy working with different to-date information on a daily basis which businesses and getting to know the people makes reviewing a client’s business so much that own the business. Helping to grow a easier. business and seeing the owners achieve their Tell us about your background and how goals, whether it is to appoint a manager so you came to be in Kempsey? they can travel or accumulating wealth, it’s I grew up in Sydney and after completing my great to be able to help them get there. degree, worked in the accounting departments What are some of the biggest challenges of some large businesses. During this time I you have personally faced throughout worked my way from a Trainee through to your career? a Group Accountant. Around 10 years ago I I’ve been lucky in that I’ve worked previously relocated from Sydney with my family to join in commercial businesses, so I know first-hand the team at Wrights Chartered Accountants. A some of the administration and accounting few years after that, I became a partner in the issues that businesses face. Whilst this varied practice. experience has provided a great background, You consult to Sydney based clients as well one of the most important factors of our as clients based on the Mid North Coast. profession is to keep on top of legislation and What, if any, are the major differences administration processes. It’s important to between servicing clients in a metro area find time to do this and to attend the relevant such as Sydney to advising in a regional seminars, but when you are running a business community? and servicing clients, sometimes this is not easy I don’t find any major differences. I’m happy to fit in. to travel so I can meet clients at their site, no What advice do you have to offer to matter where they are. Technology also makes local business people wanting to build a access to client information easy, so I find it profitable and sustainable business? quite easy to advise clients whether they are in The two main areas that my business advice Sydney or on the Mid North Coast. continually revolves around is understanding What is the most rewarding part about your business’ market and knowing your breakyour role with Wrights Chartered even point. Once these two fundamentals are

“

known and understood, targets can be set.

Challenges always arise in business but if you continually monitor these two areas, then you can focus on what drives the business.

What are some of the key financial considerations business owners and individuals should focus on to help them plan financially for the future?

I’m a strong believer that a business’ accounts should always be kept up-to-date.

With current information you can review past performance easily and adapt to make decisions about future strategy. Without this up-to-date information, you find yourself guessing.

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

I’d invite Gerry Harvey, because I know that he’s had failed businesses and learnt from them to build many further diverse and successful businesses, so I’d like to discuss that. I’d invite Matt Moran, because I can’t work out how top Sydney restaurants are profitable and I’d want to pick his brain on their business model. And I’d invite Jimeoin. I know he’s a comedian, but I’m sure he makes money along the way, plus I like quick wit - so it would be good to have a laugh with him.

Thanks for your time, Anthony!

focus_business

Hadyn Oriti with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

I

have noticed the baristas are more from the hipster mould. The cafés offer a modern edginess to their offerings. Still, however, they do it in an inclusive way, retaining the family friendly values that help to shape the character of this town.

The works undertaken by the Town Centre Master Planning Committee and council at the intersection of Clarence and Murray Streets look great. They have made the whole precinct at that end of the CBD that much more attractive and accessible. In modern planning parlance, the area has been activated! With the new establishments like Burger Rebellion and Bar Florian, this corner will increasingly draw people looking for an interesting food experience. Eat Street will become a reality.

The commercial office and new unit development there will only add to the level of vibrancy. Being welcoming of families is our edge over other beachside towns across Australia.

Only the most curmudgeonly curmudgeon would MINDING YOUR lament the influx of visitors to our town during the Christmas New Year period. Sure, there’s a bit of traffic, but who seriously cares that it takes another 15 seconds to move through the roundabout.

Visitors are impressed not only by our beautiful environment and weather, but also our facilities, accessibility, places of cultural interest and historical features. They see the level of activity in construction as a real indicator of the confidence in the future, and many of them want to be a THERE IS CHANGE AFOOT IN PORT MACQUARIE. I SEE IT ON THE STREETS part of it. Land is being snapped up and houses WHEREVER I GO IN THIS BEAUTIFUL PART OF THE WORLD. constructed at Wauchope, Thrumster, Lake Cathie, NORMALLY IMPERCEPTIBLE, THERE APPEARS TO BE A BREAKOUT OF Bonny Hills and Laurieton.

CHANGE ALL OVER THE PLACE. The Base Hospital, Charles Sturt University

business

THERE IS CHANGE AFOOT

campus and our Airport are both foundations for and signals of the growth and vitality of the region.

Already they are having their effect on the café, hipster culture here. It is evident, as young people know they can cast their net here and expect to reap rewards for their endeavour. Students will benefit from the jobs these places provide, and the town will benefit also.

The TCMP and council are now eyeing the reach of the foreshore between Town Green and Kooloonbung Creek footbridge for a bit of a makeover. As regular readers will know, I have been an enthusiastic lobbyist for activation of the foreshore. It is a truly under-utilised asset. The current concept plan on exhibition by council for public comment is a small step in the right direction to activate our foreshore. But we need more. And I have an idea for another change.

The TCMP is a product of visionary business people. It is a committee whose works are funded by a levy on CBD businesses. Its Charter focuses on the CBD. Because the TCMP model has been so successful over the last couple of decades on re-vitalising Port Macquarie, I am tempted to think that perhaps it can look to cast its net a little wider and, potentially, include the foreshore from Settlement Point to Town Beach. As we will not be receiving any proceeds of sale of the Plaza Car Park, we need to be innovative in how we look to put in the infrastructure that will really draw out the best in the foreshore.

Funding is the perennial issue. If we can couple existing funding with State Government grants, the TCMP structure, in the absence of alternatives, seems to be best placed to undertake the implementation of the foreshore vision.

greater port macquarie focus. 79

focus _Travel

BACK TO BUSINESS

with Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

FUEL 4 BUSINESS Fuel 4 Business takes it up a gear.

Local business coaching firm Fuel 4 Business has taken it up a gear and expanded its operations with the recent addition of business consultant, Adam Roberts.

WOR L D-C L A S S G OL F A N D F I N E C H I NA

A

“lust for luxury” is what a newish Chinese spa resort’s aiming to satisfy with its six-star status and exotic appointments just 40 minutes from Guangzhou’s international airport. Discerning Australian travellers are being enticed to visit to play the exclusive 27-hole golf course, stay in sumptuous surroundings served 24/7 by a personal butler and indulge in soothing thermal pools at Imperial Springs Resort & Spa, just north of Guangzhou (Canton) - itself a bit over 100km north-west of Hong Kong - and one of Sydney’s six sister cities.

The Sydney-Australia connection goes further: the resort was developed by billionaire ChineseAustralian businessman Chau Chak Wing, best known here for recently buying, sight unseen, our most expensive home, James Packer’s $70m Vaucluse mansion. A philanthropist who gave $20m to build the Business School at Sydney’s University of Technology, opened 12 months ago, Chau followed up with $5m for scholarships. It’s said he’s long maintained homes both here and in Guangzhou, and that his wife lives here, his son was educated at UTS and his daughter has worked for the NSW Government. So, time for a SinoAussie cultural crossover?

The Imperial Springs course was designed by British ace Colin “Monty” Montgomerie (a good view of the amazing central clubhouse and near-lying holes is at www.colinmontgomerie. com/imperial-springs-golf-club). All the same, the ethos is refreshingly different to St Andrews’.

Aside from the refinements of the clubhouse and course, another feature is its driverless golf buggies, guided by GPS. La! Nestled in foothills amid the fresh rainforest air of the Phoenix Mountains, adjacent to national parks and enjoying a subtropical climate, the opulent complex showcases a modern-day interpretation of traditional Chinese architecture and design.

Opened four years ago, it’s set in 280ha of magnificently manicured grounds. Its own massive private museum, shaped like an ancient theelegged Chinese cauldron, holds more than 20,000 pieces of art and Chinese antiquities – porcelain and pottery, bronze, jade carvings, paintings and calligraphy – displayed in four exhibition halls. A recommendation, perhaps: it’s reported many leading Australian politicians (three PMs, a Treasurer, a Foreign Minister and one or more 80 greater port macquarie focus.

Premiers) have personally admired the precious artefacts.

Imperial Springs’ spa and “wellness oasis” includes tennis courts, a fitness centre and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Accommodation is in 148 lavish suites and villas, all with heated floors and, it goes without saying, impeccable service.

Aussie palates have long relished Cantonese cuisine but, it’s advised, forget honey chicken and sweet and sour pork ... the resort’s master chefs prepare gourmet Asian and Western-fusion cuisine in a choice of four fine restaurants.

World Resorts of Distinction, the Australian agents, say it’s the ultimate relaxation for body, mind and soul. Contact: www.wrd.com.au.

VISIT THE ZOO: Sydney’s Taronga Zoo opened 100 years ago this year and to mark the occasion it’s offering $1 entry to patrons when they visit on their birthday throughout 2016. Register on Taronga’s website, www.taronga.org.au/100-years, to receive a $1 voucher to use on your birthday. It’s a generous discount: normal entry is $46 adults, $36 pensioner/senior and $26 for 15 and under (concessional family and annual passes available).

Taronga’s also encouraging the public to share zoo photos on social media at #IGrewUpWithTaronga.

A photo from your first visit as a child or the first time you took your own children to the zoo: old and new memories uploaded have a chance of featuring on the Taronga 100 website and entering a draw for weekly prizes including Zoo Friends family memberships. Roar & Snore overnight zoo camping in safari tents (pictured) is an unparalleled experience, as are Twilight at Taronga open-air concerts currently playing on various Friday and Saturday evenings through to March 12. Book chairs, picnic blankets, hampers and enjoy truly stupendous views and live music.

Price includes return Quay ferry. Car park: $17. twilightattaronga.org.au.

Focus Travel: sunconsulting@ozemail.com.au

Whilst helping many local businesses with coaching, training and helping with growth strategies, founder of Fuel 4 Business Malcolm Neale had also been working towards his own business expansion.

A simple conversation between Malcolm and Adam at a local fundraising event in late 2015 led to the pair joining forces to increase the business’ skills and capacity.

electrical trades, textiles, commercial cleaning, signage and printing, hospitality and more recently co-founding a national non-profit association.

Aside from the business ownership experience, Adam holds a number of qualifications covering management, mentoring and has trained as a Life Coach.

The pair have known each other for a number of years and had regularly caught up at community events and fundraisers. Both are passionate about helping others succeed, whether in business or in life in general, and there’s a natural synergy between the pair.

Malcolm says that Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in business to the table, having owned and operated a number of his own businesses locally. His experience having been Deputy Mayor and working closely with other levels of government and his vast networking on strategic issues across the region and interstate will no doubt serve our clients well.

Aside from continuing to support the regular clientele of businesses in training, business coaching and strategic advice, Malcolm and Adam are currently developing a new and exciting range of products and services offered by Fuel 4 Business in 2016 and beyond.

Adam has managed or owned businesses in

02 6583 FUEL

To contact Malcolm or Adam, simply visit www.fuel4business.com.au or call

STUDY STAYS After being offered a place at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Port Macquarie last year, Ryan needed to relocate from Sydney.

Ryan was advised of csu.studystays.com - a site run by CSU where local providers and real estate agents list properties and rooms to rent.

“There were several listings in Port Macquarie, including rooms in share houses and family homes as well as entire units and houses for rent,” Ryan says. After considering his preferences, he opted to rent a room listed by an elderly couple.

“Living with a local provider was ideal for me; having only visited the town on family holidays, I was quite unfamiliar with the area,” Ryan says before adding, “renting from a local provider allowed me to be as independent as I wanted while the owners, Colin and Lyn, were there if I needed anything. It was great having that support while finding my feet in a new town.”

With over 600 new and returning students studying at CSU in Port Macquarie this year, CSU is inviting enquiries from both students looking for accommodation and providers who have a space to rent out.

Go to csu.studystays.com or contact Kristy on 6582 9345 or accommodationpmq@csu.edu.au

greater port macquarie focus. 81

FOR 70+ YEARS

The team at Donovan Oates Hannaford Lawyers

70 AND STILL GOING STRONG For more than 70 years Donovan Oates Hannaford Lawyers has been providing professional services to the local area, offering solutions that draw on broad experience, leading practices and extensive local knowledge.

GENERAL SERVICES: Commercial law Property law Estate and wealth planning Trusts Construction Environmental law and planning Banking and finance Litigation and dispute resolution

www.dohlaw.com.au 82 greater port macquarie focus.

I

t’s been 70 years since Frank Donovan founded the firm, but at Donovan Oates Hannaford the values he instilled are just as important today as they were in 1946. A focus on partnering with clients and being accessible and responsive to their needs, is still at the heart of the Donovan Oates Hannaford philosophy, seven decades on.

The firm may be 70 years old, but its focus is firmly on the future. The staff at Donovan Oates Hannaford recognise the changing needs of their clients, and the changing legal environment in which they operate. The team is committed to remaining at the forefront of these changes: in the law, in technology, and in the local, national and international business environment.

A part of our continuous development and response to the changing environment, we are very pleased to welcome lawyer Jaclyn Fenby to the team. She has exceptional skills and complements the team with a wealth of building and construction law experience.

The firm’s long history extends beyond its service to local clients – there has always been a strong focus on community service within Donovan Oates Hannaford, too. Partners and staff are actively involved in local community organisations, including the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce, the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Rotary as well as local sporting and community groups.

111 William Street Port Macquarie NSW Telephone: 02 6583 0400 Fax: 02 6583 0480

www.dohlaw.com.au

PROPERT Y, DEVELOPMENT AND ELDER L AW

CONVEYANCING AND ESTATE PL ANNING Helping you navigate through the different stages of life, with services including superannuation, trusts, wills, probate, powers-of-attorney and reverse mortgages.

Comprehensive legal services covering the full range of transactions, including conveyancing, property development, commercial leasing, environmental and planning issues.

Justin Levido

Scott Williams

COMMERCIAL L AW

LITIGATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Assisting with all areas of business, including business structuring, franchising, dealer distribution agreements, intellectual property agreements and terms of trade.

Hadyn Oriti

Extensive experience with regard to the process of taking or defending legal action in a range of Courts and Tribunals.

Melissa Bice

BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

ESTATE ADMINISTRATION AND PROBATE

Advice and expertise in a complex area together with experienced dispute resolution and Commercial litigation experience.

Providing comprehensive support in relation to Estate administration and Probate.

Jaclyn Fenby

Cathy Glover

INTRODUCING JACLYN FENBY

T

he team at Donovan Oates Hannaford is pleased to welcome lawyer Jaclyn Fenby to the firm.

In addition to her legal career, Jaclyn has held senior analytical positions within the Queensland government.

A specialist in building and construction law, Jaclyn also brings to the firm her broad capability in the areas

“Jaclyn’s legal experience is complemented by a background in business and economics, which will be a fantastic asset to our clients,” said Managing Partner Justin Levido. “We’re pleased that Jaclyn has chosen to make a sea-change to the Port Macquarie area, after having holidayed here for many years.”

of commercial litigation, contract drafting, estate planning, Corporations Act compliance and business structuring.

Jaclyn’s extensive experience in construction law includes representing builders and owners in residential building matters and commercial building disputes. She has also represented clients in relation to construction contract disputes in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal and State Courts.

Justin Levido Hadyn Oriti Scott Williams Melissa Bice Cathy Glover Jaclyn Fenby

6583 6583 6583 6583 6583 6583

0434 0449 0427 0436 0451 0431

Jaclyn looks forward to becoming involved in the local community, and is particularly interested in bringing together women in the building industry for networking and support.

With a musical background, she is also keen to explore the Port Macquarie music scene in her spare time.

jlevido@dohlaw.com.au horiti@dohlaw.com.au swilliams@dohlaw.com.au mbice@dohlaw.com.au cglover@dohlaw.com.au jfenby@dohlaw.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 83

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

GEM BUILDING C O N S T R U C T I O N S

84 greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode.

QUIET AND STYLISH EASY CARE LIVING

GEM BUILDING C O N S T R U C T I O N S

A STRIKING BLEND OF MATERIALS, TEXTURES, AND COLOURS AND BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED GARDENS COMPLETE THE PICTURE OF A STYLISH, MODERN RESIDENTIAL DUPLEX, BUILT EXPERTLY BY GEM BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS.

ebruary FOCUS Home of the Month is found in the bushland setting of Lake Innes, Port Macquarie. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of viewing one side of the duplex that offers two completely separate homes on the one block of land.

Both homes have been designed with privacy and contemporary comfort at front of mind.

Both compelling and functional in design, these architecturally designed homes offer a magnificent blend of style and family sized comfort. A journey through one of the residences reveals an interesting architectural experience incorporating modern fittings and finishes,

high ceilings, and a light filled void illuminating the entry. This abundance of natural light is paired beautifully with the inclusion of accentuated, yet subtle down-lighting throughout, which enriches the beauty of the bamboo flooring underfoot in the living and high traffic areas from Geoff Thompson Carpets.

The exterior is a modern blend of finishes and textures, including rendered and feature brickwork, James Hardie Sycon cladding, metal roofing and guttering, tastefully landscaped gardens, a black oxide concrete drive and pathways that encompass the home.

greater port macquarie focus. 85

focusabode.

GEM BUILDING t Fitted with a se s or do t lif l ne of pa rs D oo , from Mid Co ast , ge the garage is hu at r fo e allowing spac d extra least two cars an ” ... space for a bo at

“ Upon entering through the 1.2 m wide opaque horizontal panelled glass and timber framed entrance door, you are introduced to a split level home via a light filled foyer. This level has the entry foyer, media room and three car garage.

Two separate stairways, one down to the living/dining area and the other ascending to the family bedrooms, are encased beautifully in bamboo and have hardwood timber handrails.

Media Room A space to kick back and relax and watch a movie in private, or entertain family and friends in style, the carpeted media room offers the best of both worlds.

Adjust the plantation shutters, from Apollo

86 greater port macquarie focus.

Blinds, to suit the mood, either closed for privacy or open for light filled fun.

The Garage Fitted with a set of panel lift doors from Mid Coast Doors, the garage is huge, allowing space for at least two cars and extra space for a boat, plus it has a storage room with a custom-built work bench and cabinets. James Hardie Pine Ridge vertical slat wall panelling, windows and vertical blinds from Apollo Blinds help to make this garage a little different to the norm.

C O N S T R U C T I O N S

The Ground Floor Comprising kitchen, dining, lounge, laundry and master suite, the ground floor is one set for family entertaining and comfort.

An open plan living/dining area is the heart of the home and blends seamlessly into the adjoining kitchen. All opens out through glass sliding doors to the alfresco entertaining area and rear yard that melds with the surrounding bushland.

The Kitchen An expansive island bench divides the well appointed kitchen from the dining/lounge,

has “Raven” Caesar-stone bench-tops with a stainless steel square set sink, euro dishwasher and storage cupboards both sides incorporating both soft close drawers and cabinets. The custom-built kitchen provides a place for all the mod cons, including an in bench gas five burner cook-top, electric wall oven and microwave. A bank of windows act as a splash back in the cooking work area; a walk-in full butler’s pantry adjoins behind a wooden sliding cavity door, and overhead cabinetry provides plenty of storage for all home cooking needs.

The Alfresco Outdoor entertaining is made easy by the alfresco entertaining and deck area that not only

focusabode.

QUIET AND STYLISH EASY CARE LIVING

ith The BBQ area w g in til ip sl its nonAmber underfoot from ot to sp Tiles is an ideal and ily m fa n ai rt te en d xe la re friends in a setting ...�

“ has an outdoor kitchen with fridge, Ziegler & Brown BBQ and side-burner with an Easiair 1200 wide range-hood, plus a pizza oven, but also has a comfortable lounge area alongside the eight seater spa that is built into the Merbau deck.

With a ceiling fan for summer comfort and remote control heaters for winter warmth, plus downlighting in the fully lined ceiling, the BBQ area with its non-slip tiling underfoot from Amber Tiles is an ideal spot to entertain family and friends in a relaxed setting. Merbau steps lead down to the paved courtyard that has purpose built above ground vegetable beds and a pizza oven that has its own hand crafted timber slatted surround and roof area. Paling fencing two sides and a rear Merbau post and aluminium rail fence

allow for both privacy from the neighbours and unimpeded views to the bushland.

The Master Suite Very spacious, the fully carpeted master bedroom boasts lovely bushland views through double glass sliding screened doors and access to the rear deck. Having a his/hers walk-in robe, and ensuite with separate WC, it is a private retreat. The ensuite is reminiscent of a resort, having opaque glass louvre and fixed panel glass windows, floor to ceiling tiling from ColorTile Tiles With Style, a wall mounted coloured glass topped vanity with his and hers in bench hand basins and a glass

screened double shower.

Twin, square set shower roses with a hand held rope spout and wall recesses each end allow for individual space in the shower area.

Finishing off the ground floor is a guest WC, laundry and home office.

The Upper Level Easily accessible via bamboo encased treads, the upper level has two good size bedrooms, study/rumpus, linen and storage hallway cupboards and a functional family bathroom suite that incorporates a three way floor plan. A separate WC, vanity room and bathroom, with a deep bath and separate corner shower with floor

to ceiling tiling, may all be closed off individually via sliding wooden cavity doors.

Two good sized light filled bedrooms are fully carpeted, have ceiling fans, down lights, wide horizontal panel windows with vertical blinds and mirror fronted, double built-in robes built-in.

Bamboo flooring in the hallway leads through the upper level to the rear of the home to the study/rumpus, that also doubles as a guest bedroom.

Nestled in a tranquil leafy setting on a quiet street and conveniently located to Lake Innes Village Shopping Centre, schools, Base Hospital and only 10 minutes to the centre of town, the home is the perfect balance of style and modern design standing proud in its surrounds.

greater port macquarie focus. 87

focusabode.

GEM BUILDING C O N S T R U C T I O N S

From the Builder - Todd Dimon of Gem Building Constructions Tell us a bit about your business - how long have you been operating?

GEM Building Constructions specialises in building unique architectural designs to suit our clients’ needs, either created by us or by an architect of their choosing. We custom design homes to suit your exact lifestyle. Our professional team of trades and suppliers all work together to build your dream home, on time and within budget. We were established in Port Macquarie over 13 years ago, developing strong relationships with local trades and suppliers throughout this time, and continue to provide our services to many satisfied clients along the Mid North Coast.

What are some of the feature design

88 greater port macquarie focus.

elements of the home?

This home has been designed to maximise the near 900 m² site. This duplex makes sure both residences are private and look like two separate homes. The first home is designed to be a maintenance free investment property, and the second home the owners’ custom built residence.

The owners specified a home that has an entertaining zone, storage on three levels, the main living and master bedroom on the lower split level with guest accommodation on the top floor. Plus, they wanted plenty of natural light, tiles to the ceiling, a media room, cross flow natural ventilation, boat storage in the garage, a butler’s pantry, computer/study open to the living room and minimal maintenance gardens, including native planting, stone mulch, a mix of concrete and paving.

This split level home helps maximise the building area and creates three separate, private levels. The open area on the lower level makes sure everything flows upon entering through to the alfresco.

The foyer is designed to impress, with angled stairs to both levels, high ceilings, natural light, designer hanging pendant lighting and a sense of space flowing to the other areas of the home.

The entertaining area being the most important part of the home includes full outdoor kitchen, spa, pizza oven, veggie garden, heating, ceiling fans, television, plenty of seating and a mix of decking, paving and tiles.

The garage was also to be customised to include room for two cars and a boat. Also, a work bench and storage cupboards throughout.

What are the types of building that you

specialise in?

At GEM Building Constructions we build all types of dwellings, specialising particularly in duplex construction, modern alfresco entertaining, and all aspects of decking and landscaping. We can fully complete your home from start to finish.

How do we go about commissioning you to build for us? What is the process?

We would love the opportunity to meet with you and make your dream home a reality. We ensure that costs are transparent and clearly identify the inclusions from the initial phases of your project. Give us a call or email to arrange a time for consultation, and we will design, construct and landscape your home to your individual needs.

Thanks Todd.

Percival Property has THE best line up of Port Macquarie properties for sale. This summer of auctions has been SIZZLING! Having listed more than 30 properties for auction in 2015 and sold over 80 per cent of them prior to the event, we urge all prospective buyers to view and register their interest early. Auction does not mean the property will definitely be offered on the day and you may miss out on your dream home!

Preview properties going under the hammer at percival.com.au & register for property alerts. You’ll be the first to receive photos, floor plans, video tours & inspection times...

E IT S 6 N B O FE

Luxurious Semi Rural al Haven 20 Mins ffrom rom ro m Beaches 4 3 3 1 Athena Place, King Creek

Gracing an impressive 1.7 acres, cres, this expansive single level residence showcases ann en envi enviable viab able le llifestyle... ififes estyyle...

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Register your interest with hM Michelle iche ic hell lle e Pe Perc Percival rciv ival al 0 0404 404 466 500 View the amazing video!

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E IT S 13 N B O FE

Stunning Lighthouse e Beach “Private Estate” 4 3 3 12 Daintree Lane, Portt Macquarie

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E IT S 13 N B O FE

Contemporary Living, g, Q Quality ua ali lity ty F Finishes, inis in ishe is hes, he s, E Elevated le leva eva vate te ted ed Ou Outl Outlook tlloo ook k 3+ 2 2 1/166 Granite Street, Po Port Macquarie ort r Mac acqu q arie

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E IT S 20 N B O FE

Dual Level Ocean Views ews - Shelly Beach - Renovated Family Home 2 2 27 Grandview Parade, Port Macquarie 4

me enjoys the perfect north easterly aspect & panoramic c ocea ean n vi view ews. s.

A beautifully renovated home ocean views. effortlles e s fa fami mily ly lliving. i in iv ing g.

Set within private gardens offering wide side access for a boat or van, this is effortless family g wi with th a g rani ra nite te kkitchen. ititchen en. En Enjo j ya A wrap around entertaining deck is an extension to open plan living granite Enjoy s, sspacious paci pa ciou ouss be b drooms, 3r 3rd d to toil ilet, t solar luxurious master suite with large patio capturing ocean views, bedrooms, toilet, ork rksh shop op and and so so much much more mor ore e fr from om tthis hiss wa hi walk lk to beac a h location. power, auto garage with workshop beach h Michelle Mic iche hell lle e Percival Perc Pe rciv ival al 0404 040 404 4 466 466 500 500 Register your interest with

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A DVA N C E D

AUSSIE BLINDS A N D

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ADVANCED AUSSIE BLINDS AND AWNINGS HAVE BEEN THE LEADING CHOICE IN THEIR FIELD THROUGHOUT THE REGION FOR CLOSE TO 20 YEARS ...

D

avid Thompson started the business Harrington Blinds and Awnings. We extensively in 1998, although he had worked cover all of the Mid North Coast to supply in the industry for many years prior the best quality, the best service and the best to opening his own business. His product to all. Customers must also be aware business is a Luxaflex Gallery Store, and he that if they cannot afford the higher end invites the customer to buy the top of the products, we have varying options to suit every range products. These products include: budget.

Duettes, Silhouettes, Luminettes David and Sandra have and Pirouettes. The extensive lived in the area for over showroom displays these 35 years. They have and many more. All of supported many y el iv ns We exte e these products can be th sporting groups over of l al r cove to t as manually or electrically that time, including Co th Mid Nor ality, qu st be e controlled. They also the RSL Junior th ly supp and the e ic rv se st be come with a five year Soccer, the Pirates e th all.” best product to warranty. Customers Rugby League, The must be aware that other Sharks Girls’ Touch businesses advertise that team and Saints Junior their products are Luxaflex, Soccer teams. They have but unless the products have the worked actively for the Port Luxaflex warranty and brand name, Macquarie Speech and Drama they are not a genuine Luxaflex product!

Eisteddfod Society, which provides Advanced Aussie Blinds and Security also has students from all over the Hastings the an extensive range of awnings. The clear and opportunity to develop their communication sunscreen ones can be seen on many schools, and acting skills. Sandra is the Director of cafés and private homes in the area, as well as Saints Youth Drama, and her students have on commercial premises. the opportunity to participate in local and David has successfully grown his business state competitions, as well as Trinity College of so he was able to expand, and under the London exams in many areas of the Performing umbrella of Advanced Aussie Blinds and Arts.

Security now includes Port Macquarie Blinds Advanced Aussie Blinds and Security, and Awnings, Kempsey Blinds and Awnings, Unit 2, Barton Cres, Port Macquarie.

South West Rocks Blinds and Awnings and 6581 3171.

“

90 greater port macquarie focus.

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Buying, Selling or Renting?

10 Reasons why you need to talk to Laing+Simmons.

2016 has certainly started with a bang with buyer enquiries picking up since late last year.

W

e are finding that more than one buyer is showing interest in many of our properties at the same time. This is obviously great for sellers however buyers need to be well prepared to avoid disappointment.

A verbal offer and acceptance from the seller does not guarantee the buyer the property. It’s only when contracts are exchanged between the two parties that the sale is legally binding. Up until the exchange of contracts the law requires agents to inform the vendor of all offers. Unfortunately any vendor can choose to sell to another buyer up until exchange (unless exchanged with a cooling off period).

So once an offer and acceptance is secured, buyers should do everything possible in their control to exchange contracts to minimise the risk of the property being sold to another buyer.

It’s not a situation an agent likes to be in, however, it’s the law and it’s the environment that we currently must work within.

My advice to buyers is to have their finance well and truly organised before entering the market.

Due to buyer activity being rather buoyant, auctions are still going rather well in all price categories. Last month we had a property in Dent Cr (Lighthouse Beach) which attracted

considerable interest in the market place and was sold after the first open house with two buyers in hot pursuit of the property. Once we had an offer and acceptance, contracts were exchanged within two days. A lovely result for both the sellers and buyers.

I have crunched some numbers on each of the areas of Port Macquarie and identified the median sale price for a house in the six months from July to December 2015. I hope you find these interesting: Bellevue - $456,250, Canals - $745,000 Clifton - $400,000, Crestwood - $581,000 Dahlsford - $489,250, Eastport - $435,000 Emerald Downs - $536,250 Flynns Beach - $420,000 Greenmeadows $400,000 Hastings - $432,500, Innes Lake - $521,000, Lighthouse - $545,000 Shelly Beach - $460,000, Sherwood $435,000, Transit Hill - $542,500 Westport - $360,000 Certainly some interesting numbers and I think the big improvers over 2015 were Clifton, Crestwood, Innes Lake and Sherwood.

Until next month – have a great February.

Sources: corelogic.com.au and NSW Fair Trading 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.

TEAMWORK

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We deliver results.

More listings; equals more buyers; equals more sales. Because we list and sell more properties than any other agency in Port Macquarie, we have the most comprehensive knowledge base in the market, and first-hand involvement in the prices being achieved. More properties for sale, means more buyers coming through our Open Houses, and as a bi-product, a database brimming with active purchasers looking for property. So, what does this mean for Laing+Simmons’ clients?

Quite simply, it means the best chance of achieving a swift sale, and a good price.

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THE ONCE FUTURISTIC IDEA OF FINGER PRINT READERS, PROXIMITY CARDS AND DIGITAL KEYPADS ARE NOW A WELL ESTABLISHED AND EFFECTIVE WAY OF SECURING YOUR HOME.

T

echnology intergrated the black digital keypad featured on this into security means that page, which is designed to retrofit into an we can do things like existing hole. have good access to our Latest trends in hardware are moving own homes at all into the matt black look, which times, but is cool, but we’ve also having effective locks in discovered a beautiful your home doesn’t and cutting edge th On the Mid Nor mean you have to l tempered glass ee st s Co ast stainles sacrifice style for to handle which ea id is always a good salty functionality. r would be ou consider with d an s, on There iti amazing on a nd co astal co nge ra g in az am are modern an timber door, there is rdware ha d an s le alternatives nd and we are of ha 6 Marine available that available in a 31 hearing rumours Steel.”

Grade Stainless can give a more of another new streamlined look by colour hitting our either minimising the shelves shortly, which door furniture or by omitting will be exciting - so stay keys altogether with an ultra-modern tuned for that. On the Mid North keyless access device.

Coast stainless steel is always a good You could be setting off for your idea to consider with our salty coastal morning swim or run with nothing conditions, and there is an amazing range but your water bottle, secure in the of handles and hardware available in a knowledge you’ll never lose your keys 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel. again. Electronic keypads with numeric Our minimum recommendation when touchscreens are 100% pick-proof and it comes to home security would be to bump-proof, and what’s more it’s now have double cylinder deadlocks on all more affordable and easier to install - like external doors, including the connecting

“

door between the garage and the house, adding a secondary blocking device such as an anti-lift device or lock in the track of all sliding glass doors, properly functioning locks in all security screen doors, window locks on all windows including those often overlooked in the laundry and bathroom; and we recommend a small safe to protect valuables against burglary and fire.

We’re proud to say that in the 17 years we’ve been in business, we are yet to have a customer report a break-in after we’ve fitted suitable locking devices to doors and windows. At Romer Locks we encourage householders to be proactive about home security. Don’t just wait until there’s a problem - make the protection of your family and home a priority right now.

Locks installed by licensed Security Industry professionals are just like buying a good night’s sleep. Call Romer Locks today on 6581 4470 for an obligationfree on-site assessment. Alternatively, call into our Port Macquarie showroom to view our range of modern door furniture and hardware. greater port macquarie focus. 93

GIVINGISGOLD. Providing financial & volunteering aid to

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$1,440,000 plus volunteer support

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community groups making possible 335 local projects.

APPLY NOW FOR YOUR

2016 COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP GRANT

The Application Form and the Grants Guidelines are available from the Holiday Coast Credit Union website at www.hccu.com.au, by calling 1300 365 7 24 or email jrideout@hccu.com.au Applications must be recieved by Holiday Coast Credit Union no later than Friday 29th April 2016 at 4pm.

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NORTH COAST RECRUITMENT MARCH THIS MONTH MARKS THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NORTH COAST BOOMERANGS’ RECRUITMENT MARCH THROUGH LOCAL TOWNS. THE MARCH WAS ONE OF SEVERAL VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT DRIVES FOR THE AUSTRALIAN IMPERIAL FORCE HELD DURING WORLD WAR I ACROSS REGIONAL NSW.

T

he “North Coasters” left Grafton in January 1916 with 27 recruits and passed through most towns along the way, walking 320 miles to the Army recruitment centre at

Maitland.

After marching through Coffs Harbour, Nambucca Heads and Macksville, the recruits travelled by private motor cars from Kempsey to Cooperabung on Friday 4 February before being welcomed by the people of Telegraph Point, Rollands Plains, and the Hatch. The community erected two arches for the occasion. One was opposite the pay office with the words “Welcome from the Railway” and the second “Welcome from Telegraph Point and Rollands Plains” opposite the School of Arts, where the recruits were treated to a sit down tea. Afterwards a social and concert were held in the hall, including a number of recruiting and patriotic speeches before the men retired to their camp.

The following day, after lunch at Blackman’s Point, the men marched to Port Macquarie, where they were escorted into the town by the visiting Metropolitan Cadets’ Band. A newspaper report described first impressions of the recruits “… dressed in dungarees, most blue, they did not look very prepossessing, dust and travelstained as they were - it is a wonder that a more suitable and becoming uniform is not chosen for the occasion …”

The blue dungarees were a feature of the march and whenever men stepped up to join the recruits, they were greeted to a chorus of “Go and get your dungarees on”.

Social events for the Port Macquarie weekend visit included dinners, concerts and bathing parades. Local girl, Ivy Dick, sent her brother Arthur serving overseas a postcard of the march through town and wrote “… tell you Art - we did have some fun when they were here …”

The recruits marched out to Wauchope on Monday 7 February, where two of them made quite an impression. Private John Dowling and William James Clarence Quinn started a row at the Hastings Hotel that evening, which continued after lights out on the parade ground. Apparently Dowling severely kicked another North Coaster recruit called Mason before the fight was stopped. At 6am the following morning, all the recruits were lined up in two single files ten paces apart, told off, and then Dowling and Quinn were placed under police arrest and marched out to the beat of a kettle drum. Quinn was fined £1 or seven days gaol for riotous behaviour and Dowling £5 or two months gaol for assault.

The march continued on to Kew, Coopernook and Taree before arriving at Maitland with 240 men. It is thought that the march attracted at least double that number of recruits, with many men motivated to enlist afterwards. The North Coast march was one of the longest and most successful of the 1916 NSW recruitment marches.

Surviving reminders of the North Coasters’ visit to our region include postcards and a rare North Coaster’s Badge, which are currently on exhibit in World War I at Home at the Port Macquarie Museum, open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4:30pm.

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