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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Feature Story The Strutt Sisters

May 2016 // issue 126

magic beyond the plate

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focus Greater Port Macquarie

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie POSTAL: PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts.

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

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

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jasmin Johansson jasmin@focusmag.com.au

Welcome to the May issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Jo Atkins jo@focusmag.com.au

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

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

SALES SUPPORT/ FEATURE CONTENT CO-ORDINATOR: Sarah Gale sarah@focusmag.com.au

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

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

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITING: Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services rnrmedia@bigpond.com

TRAVEL EDITOR: Susie Boswell - Port Business Hub sunconsulting@ozemail.com.au

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. 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.

lice of Haven is once again bringing fun, food and festivity to the Camden Haven region! FOCUS is proud to support this local event each year, and we had a great time creating the scene for our front cover shoot. Gathering everything from antique furniture to teacups, tables...and a lot of delicious food! A big thank you to our cover identities, chef Jason Bird from Laurieton United Services Club, Kate Dwyer from the Slice committee and daughter Flynn, and entertainer Magic Jake. Also a big thank you to our local supplliers, Bel’s Bakery, Laurieton United Services Club, Latin Loafer, Grape & Petal, Town & Country Removals, Ash Evans from The Happy Adventure and Germaine Cartwright from It’s About Time Antiques. Read more about the

quirky shoot on page 26. WHAT’S ON! The ETC Business of Being Creative workshop is being held at the Slim Dusty Centre on May 24. With a diverse range of creative businesses on the Mid North Coast, the workshop will bring creative practitioners from throughout the region together to learn from creative industry experts. Read the interview with guest speaker Cathy Young on page 78. The Digital Marketing Day Out is taking place on May 5 and includes a line up of presentations from three leading marketing masterminds, interactive digital marketing workshops, an insightful Q&A session and so much more; it will be a business event not to be missed. Tim Silverwood, co-founder of the not-for-

profit organisation Take 3 will be presenting at the annual Luminosity Youth Summit in July. Tim asks everyone to simply take three pieces of rubbish with them when they leave the beach, waterway or … anywhere. What began as a grass-roots project to clean local beaches has developed into a global movement to “change the face of trash”. Read his story on page 72. FOCUS MINI-MAGS! Earlier this year Focus introduced online minimags as a bonus feature to our popular print edition for some of our most popular features. So far, 1,169 people have read the Best Kept Secrets mini mag, 1,750 for the Wedding Guide and 2,609 for Women in Business! You can view them all online at www.focusmag.com.au/minimagpmq

be inspired GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY entry to the Gallery is FREE

Northern Exposure 4

GALLERY OPENING HOURS:

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

Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom Julie Paterson

ON VIEW 13 May - 10 July Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom traces 20 years of one of Australia’s most influential textile designers and dynamic creative forces, Julie Paterson. Paterson’s stunning fabrics are a

02 6581 8888

riot of colour, floral forms and patterns.

glasshouse.org.au

Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom is an Australian Design Centre Touring Exhibition, developed and first presented by Sturt Gallery, Mittagong as ClothFabric: 20 Years in the Making. Julie Paterson, Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom.

A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

ON VIEW 13 May - 3 July Now in its fourth instalment Northern

Exposure, showcases the vibrant creativity of the Mid North Coast and its artists. The Glasshouse Regional Gallery supporting arts within our community

Artist Toolbox Forum Saturday 28 May, 11am Are you interested in developing your skills as an artist? Register your interest for the Artist Toolbox Forum: info@glasshouse.org.au

Let The Chips Fall Where They May

Catherine & Jennifer Strutt

ON VIEW 13 May - 10 July The Strutt Sisters’ mixed media artwork uses plywood, pressed tin, magazine images, postcards, books, paint, resin, stencils and fabric to create colour and patterning. A Glasshouse Regional Gallery Exhibition. The Glasshouse would like to acknowledge Kensington Contemporary for their support with this exhibition. Catherine & Jennifer Strutt, Yellow Tulip, 2016, mixed media. Courtesy of the artist.

$15 Adult, $12 Member

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focusinterview. “Frida” mixed media assemblage 2016 by The Strutt Sisters 840 mm W x 120 mm H x 100 mm D

“Bowie” mixed media assemblage 2016 by The Strutt Sisters 830 mm W x 1200 mm H x 70 mm D

Sisters Catherine and Jennifer Strutt have an eye for colour and design – their quirky and interesting works encompass mixed media assemblages - both artworks and jewellery. Their upcoming exhibition at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, Let the Chips Fall Where They May, was inspired by a box of vintage paint chips they’d collected years before …

i Catherine and Jennifer. You've had what sounds like a wonderful, vibrant upbringing surrounded by art and music. Could you briefly describe your early introduction to the arts, and how these experiences helped shape the artists you are today? From a very young age, we were colouring in. The smell of coloured pencils and all their colours rolling around was exciting to us. We worked out that some colours looked “pretty” together, and some looked “yucky” together. When we drew pictures to complement our story writing in infants school, we were always careful about composition and colour, so as the picture didn’t look ugly. From this age also we were aware of a condition we thought everyone had that we called “The Colour Number Thing”, or academically, Synaesthesia. This is roughly a crossing over of the senses in the developing brain where we have/see certain colours for certain letters and numbers and which we still have. It was at this time we believe colour became one of our most favourite(d) things. Our parents were great water colour painters, not professionally but capable, and there always seemed to be an appreciation of art in our family. Throughout our whole primary and tertiary schooling we were always encouraged in our work and the people, teachers and lecturers who mattered to us really loved what we were doing. This gave us great incentive and inspiration to

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pursue an art career and the confidence to do it we were sweeping up and decided they might our way. look OK as small artworks around our necks. We You have a background in visual arts ... made a few more as a result of the attention they Where did you study, and what shape did received from our friends and then decided to your careers take when you finished your have a small stall at a market. We made so many tertiary education? sales, we decided to fine tune our deIn 1991, straight out of high signs. We now sell them online and school, we went to TAFE on in select boutiques and galleries Hunter Street, Newcasaround Australia. Every work has started with tle and completed an What types of pieces do int two or three pa Associate Diploma in you typically make ... sting chips with intere s. Fine Art. From here we and what materials do ur names and colo went to the Universiyou mostly use in their From here , we ty of Newcastle and construction? works constructed the completed both a B.A. We have two styles we es ag im from whatever to e Visual Arts in 1993 and normally work in for our m ca and ideas that finished with a Post Grad artworks. With the older .” us from them in Painting/Printmaking. style, the idea for the work is Our time at TAFE was the presented in a diorama like setting most amazing and formulative on a small half circle stage. They years of our whole training. We were look a little like theatres with the props students of the most amazing artists Newarranged on stage. castle has to offer: Michael Bell, Peter Read, The second and newer style is presented in a Claire Martin and John Turier, among others. We flatter grid like composition, and our ideas are became extremely great mates with John and presented on the different shapes within the grid. were thrilled to be studio assistants for him for Every work is typically constructed from paper, one of his Sydney exhibitions. We learnt so much paint, aluminium, fabric, resin and wood. from this time and have always loved our time at Your upcoming exhibition at the Glasshouse TAFE. Everything we are today is because of the Regional Gallery is called Let the Chips Fall very solid grounding we received there. Where they May. What's the significance of How did you first stumble across the idea of this title? creating unique jewellery items? Whatever happens, happens. Life is out of our After every exhibition of work, we have a stucontrol. dio cleanup. We thought it was a shame to throw Tell us a little about the exhibition ... What out the off cuts of coloured and coated timber types of artwork will you have on display?

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Is there a theme that ties all the pieces together? We have a box of vintage paint chips in the studio we had collected years ago. After looking at the colours and names of the colour chips, there seemed to be for us a whole exhibition in that box waiting to be made. Every work has started with two or three paint chips with interesting names and colours. From here, we constructed the works from whatever images and ideas that came to us from them. You'll also be presenting an artist talk at the Gallery on May 26. What topics will you be covering in your presentation? Work practice, our collaborative artist lives, how we make our work etc. Where can readers find out more about you? www.thestruttsisters.com and www.thestruttsistersbespoke.com Thanks Catherine and Jennifer. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug! The Glasshouse would like to acknowledge Kensington Contemporary for their support with this exhibition. See Let the Chips Fall Where They May at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from 13th May - 10th July. Catherine and Jennifer Strutt will present an artists’ talk on 26th May at 5:30pm. Tickets: adults $15; members $12.

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M A Y

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CELLAR DOOR | WINE CLUB | GARDENS | RESTAURANT | HORSE RIDING

MAGIC JAKE.

PR E S E N T I N G P O RT M AC QUA R I E ’ S N E W E S T F O O D A N D W I N E E V E N T

To add to this year’s theme of Magic Beyond the Plate, Magic Jake will be performing at the Slice of Haven event on Sunday, May 29. Come and enjoy the show and meet Magic Jake at the event, where his comedic personality and awe-inspiring magic tricks will have everyone wanting to see more ...

S AT U R DAY 4T H J U N E F ROM 5 : 3 0PM

BLACK DOG INK. A few mates sitting around enjoying a few cold ones listening to Pennywise ... who would have thought that 12 years on, this would have developed into a prosperous and gratifying business! FOCUS caught up with Chris Merrell (Mez) about his love for the artform of screen printing ...

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$112 . 5 0 C LU B M E M BE R S | $12 5 NON - M E M BE R S 3 C OU R S E TA S T I NG M E N U W I T H 9 M AT C H I NG W I N E S T W I L IG H T T OU R OF W I N E RY P l u s E XC L U S I V E TA N K & B A R R E L S A M PL I NG OF C U R R E N T V I N TAG E W I N E S Bookings essential • Call 6582 8320 restaurant@cassegrainwines.com.au

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Travel Editor SUSIE BOSWELL took a week off in 2016’s pick destination, the Cook Islands. She’s still overwhelmed (and tanned) ...

UPCOMING EVENTS MOTHER’S DAY LUNCHEON ARTIST MARKETS IN THE VINES

Sunday 8th May • from 12pm Sunday 22nd May • 9am-2pm

R EGU L A R S 14. what’s on for May 20. eat local restaurants 22. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 23. out to lunch with Susie Boswell 36. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 51. tourism with Janette Hyde 66. starguide with Terri Hall 70. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 84. robyn’s spot with Robyn Butler 94. landcare with Estelle Gough

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PACIFIC HIGHWAY, PORT MACQUARIE Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-5pm Sat, Sun and Public holidays 10am-5pm Seasons Café-Restaurant Opening Hours: 10am-4pm daily

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focusinterview.

PIERS LANE

Photo by Eric Richmond

AUSTRALIAN PIANIST OF INTERNATIONAL RENOWN Brings Chopin by Candlelight to the Glasshouse, 31 May, 7:30pm. London based Australian pianist Piers Lane has had a stellar career internationally, but he remains closely tied to fine music in his home country.

n May and June, Piers Lane is embarking on a national piano recital tour (www.chopinbycandlelight. com) encompassing Sydney Recital Hall, Melbourne Recital Hall, Adelaide Festival Centre, Queensland Performing Arts Centre and several regional centres across the country. Port Macquarie is fortunate to be one of 13 venues selected. Piers will be performing a beautiful selection of piano compositions by Chopin in a romantic recital by candlelight in the Glasshouse Theatre on 31 May 2016, commencing at 7:30pm. Piers Lane reflects on his love for the great composer. “Chopin remains unsurpassed as a composer for the piano. He knew how to make the instrument sing at its lyrical best. The music speaks eloquently to people everywhere of the beauty, the heartbreak, the dance, the yearning, the rhythm, the soul, of life itself”. Chopin by Candlelight promises to be a very romantic musical experience that will excite people who love classical music and entice people who are interested in discovering what classical music has to offer. As testament to his local and international success, Piers Lane was made an Officer in the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished services to the performing arts as an internationally renowned classical pianist, to professional

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and cultural organisations, Piers Lane has performed and to the development of in the world’s great conPiers Lane’s discography of emerging musicians, in the cert halls such as Carnudes Queen’s Diamond Jubilee egie Hall in New York, over 50 CDs incl much admired Birthday Honours in 2012. the Avery Fisher Hall re recordings of ra Born in 1958, Piers in the Lincoln Center Romantic piano Lane’s English father and in Washington DC and concertos. ” Australian mother met while London’s Wigmore Hall. auditioning as piano students Five times soloist at the for the Royal College of Music. BBC Proms in London’s Royal Although born in London, Piers grew Albert Hall, Piers Lane’s concerto up in Brisbane and graduated with a Medal repertoire exceeds ninety works and of Excellence from the Queensland Conservahas led to engagements with many of the torium of Music. world’s great orchestras, including the BBC Piers Lane first came to prominence at the and ABC orchestras, the Australian Chamber inaugural Sydney International Piano CompeOrchestra, Orchestre National de France, City tition in 1977, at which he was named Best of London Sinfonia, and the Royal Philharmonic Australian Pianist and was later a judge in the and Warsaw Philharmonic orchestras. 2004 competition. Now Piers Lane is the artistic Piers Lane’s discography of over 50 CDs director of this august piano competition, includes much admired recordings of rare Roappointed in 2015. mantic piano concertos. Since 2007, Piers Lane has also been the Piers Lane is in great demand as a collaboraartistic director of the Australian Festival of tive artist. He continues his longstanding partChamber Music held annually in Townsville. nership with violinist Tasmin Little, clarinettist In 1994 Piers Lane was made an Honorary Michael Collins and the Goldner String Quartet. Member of the Royal Academy of Music, where He has performed extensively with singers Cherhe has been a professor of piano since 1989. yl Barker, Peter Coleman-Wright and Yvonne Lane is patron and active supporter of the Tait Kenny and has collaborated with Anne Sofie Memorial Trust in London, a charitable founvon Otter and Australian composer Brett Dean. dation to support young Australian performing Piers Lane has written and presented over artists in the UK. 100 programmes for BBC Radio 3, including the

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popular 54-part series, The Piano. He is President of the European Piano Teachers’ Association UK, Patron of the Australasian Piano Pedagogy Conference, the Youth Music Foundation of Australia and the Music Teachers’ Association and the Accompanists’ Guild in Queensland. With such a busy career, we are privileged to have the opportunity of Piers Lane performing a piano recital in Port Macquarie and meeting with young musicians in our community. Presented by national classical music tour organiser Andrew McKinnon and Margret Meagher from The Australian Centre for Arts and Health, part proceeds from Chopin by Candlelight will support arts and health programmes at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

the plug! Chopin by Candlelight, 31 May 2016, 7:30pm at The Glasshouse, Port Macquarie. $59 for adults, $55 for pensioner concession and Glasshouse Members $29 for under 25. Bookings Glasshouse Box Office Telephone: 6581 8888 Online: www.glasshouse.org.au For further information, contact Margret Meagher Email: info@artsandhealth.org

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WEDDINGS ARE TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHER JASE ALLAN’S PRIME FOCUS … HE LOVES NOTHING MORE THAN TO SHARE A COUPLE’S BIG DAY AND PRESERVE TREASURED MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME. JASE IS ABLE TO CAPTURE THE EMOTIONS, UPS AND DOWNS, THE MAGICAL MOMENTS, AND THE HILARIOUS HICCUPS OF EACH WEDDING DAY HE PHOTOGRAPHS WITH ARTISTIC FLAIR … i Jase. How did you get your start with photography? I first picked up a DSLR in 2006 as a hobby, and began mainly with landscape and automotive photography. I spent a lot of time with other local photographers, Rod Trenchard, James Cause, and Josh Chislett, shooting landscape early in the morning, and late into the night. It was after some friends of mine asked me to photograph their wedding that I began focusing on weddings, and this became the core of everything I do. Why have you chosen weddings as the main focus of your photography business ... What is it about these occasions that capture your imagination? To put it simply, I love weddings. There is something so special about the connection between two people, and I always try to capture this connection and emotion in my photos. I’m

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B Y

J A S E

not sure why, but I just have this passion for As a child I was extremely creative and photographing weddings and couples. From the artistic, and I still am. I love to draw and sing, first wedding I’ve photographed to record music and more. I think this the most recent, I’ve thoroughly creative streak in me is really enjoyed every one. There satisfied through my wedding have been occasions photography, and coupled t ge A lot of people al where people have been with my passion for it really ic st lost in the logi er saying their vows and sets my work apart from th ra side of the day, r ei th I’ve been shedding others. I think I’ve also on than focusing I r. he ot tears behind the found that my age has an e love for on e m at th ve camera. In addition to put a different spin on lie truly be the of rt pa a g this, I love having fun things - there’s a lot of in m beco suring with my couples and young talent popping up, day is key to en d.” xe sharing their wedding which is putting a fresh everyone is rela day; it’s incredibly special look on an already incredible to me, and every day I’m industry. It’s an exciting time blessed to share such a big day to be a wedding photographer, with so many people! because there are so many fresh ideas, What do you feel sets you apart and technology is becoming more accessible from other photographers within the for everyone. industry - what are your special skills or Weddings can be stressful occasions for the talents? bridal party, guests - and the photographer!

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How do you help ensure the day is as relaxed as possible for all concerned? I try to meet with every couple at least once before their big day, and every time my advice is to relax and have fun. A lot of people get lost in the logistical side of the day, rather than focusing on their love for one another. I truly believe that me becoming a part of the day is key to ensuring everyone is relaxed. Sometimes I’ll join in the wedding dances, or we’ll have groomsmen pulling their pants down and bridesmaids pulling ridiculous faces. The best way to stay relaxed is just to be yourself and have fun. Everything else falls into place. If something can go wrong ... It's bound to happen at a wedding! What are some of the more unusual or even funny moments you've had to deal with as a photographer? I think every wedding has a funny/unusual moment, and it’s important to note that these are usually the small things that make the day! Josh Chislett (my assistant) and I really like

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to push the boundaries with every wedding, location and couple. I’ve had a groom fall out of a tree, Josh has climbed on top of wine vats at Cassegrain Winery (because I’m scared of heights), we’ve had an entire wedding go perfectly until location photo time, where it has teemed with rain and ruined our equipment. If I had to pick the funniest moments, I’d have to say it’s always fun shooting the bridal party quite often I see bums and more, and it’s always hilarious for everyone involved. How far will you travel to shoot a wedding ... and what are some of your favourite locations to shoot at along the Mid North Coast? Realistically I’m willing to travel as far as my clients need me to. I love shooting weddings, so I’ll go anywhere! I’ve photographed weddings in Vanuatu and Sydney, with clients booking from the Gold Coast to Canberra, but I mainly service from Port Macquarie to the Hunter Valley without travel costs for the couple. I’d have to say my favourite location is the Hunter Valley;

there are endless locations for breathtaking photos. What are some I’ve also studied phy, ra of the awards/ wedding photog , es accolades you've lighting techniqu ore under m received for your positioning and d Ryan an a or photography? Rocco Anc of the best In 2015 I was Schembri, some phers in ra accepted into the wedding photog I think it’s important to self the world .” Australian Institute develop or enter competitions, of Professional because it continues to push you Photography as an to create better images for your Accredited Professional clients. Photographer. Additional to What are your top tips for brides and this, I’ve been awarded at both Bronze grooms to ensure fantastic photos on their and Silver levels in the International Loupe special day? Awards, International Pano Awards, and I’ve Relax, get cosy with each other, and have fun. had some images published in the Automotive Too often I speak to couples who are worried Photography Award books. about having their photo taken or having too I’ve also studied wedding photography, much of their day drawn out taking photos, and lighting techniques, positioning and more under it’s really meant to be fun and loving. Grab some Rocco Ancora and Ryan Schembri, some of the best wedding photographers in the world. drinks, laugh, give each other lots of kisses and

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hugs. Forget your photographer and enjoy the moment with each other. We’ll capture the rest. It’s the biggest day of your lives, and it’s really important to look back on it remember how fun it was. If you’re having fun, your photos will reflect that. How can people contact you or see samples of your work? My assistant, Josh, and I have a website at www.jaseallan.com, we are also on Facebook as Weddings By Jase, and Instagram @weddingsbyjase. Thanks Jase. Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus. 9

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focus_local recipe

Pa n e e r ca p s ic u m

Image of the month. Title: Broken Wall at Camden Head. Photo by: Anthony Brown. Camera: iPhone 6; no filter.

INGREDIENTS

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

AT ’ S I N

BROCCOLI

Broccoli is a member of the cabbage and cauliflower family. It has tightly compacted heads formed from hundreds of tiny flower buds that are attached to a fleshy green stalk. Grown in England and Europe since the 17th Century, broccoli remained second choice to ordinary cabbage in Australia throughout the 19th Century. The influx of Italian immigrants in the first half of the 20th Century saw broccoli become more popular in the Australian diet. Broccoli is fibre-rich and highly nutritious, containing vitamins A, E, lots of C, in addition to folate, calcium and iron. Locally grown broccoli will become available in early May, and will continue through the colder months. It makes a delicious side to most winter meals - simply steam and drizzle with some quality olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. 4th generation grower Matt Davis credits the red dirt at his Telegraph Point property for the quality of his local crop - which will be available at Ken Little Fruit and Veg in Munster Street.

WHERE

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

(Serves 4)

250 g of paneer ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder 1 tablespoon grated ginger ½ teaspoon coriander powder 1 tablespoon yogurt 1 small green capsicum 1 tablespoon oil Sauce 3 medium size tomatoes 1 green chilli 1 teaspoon corn starch 1 tablespoon oil 1 teaspoon salt or to taste ½ teaspoon cumin seeds ½ teaspoon of asafetida 2 bay leaves 1 tablespoon coriander powder ½ teaspoon paprika ¼ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon sugar 1 handful of finely chopped coriander leaves ¼ teaspoon garam masala

Sumita Groger Email sgroger108@gmail.com

method Slice the paneer in small cubes and mix chopped capsicum, ginger, salt, chilli, coriander, and yogurt with sliced paneer in a bowl, to marinate for at least an hour. Blend tomatoes and green chilies to make a puree and keep aside. Dissolve the corn starch in 2 tablespoons of water and keep aside. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a frying pan on medium heat and fry the marinated paneer for about 3 to 4 minutes until paneer becomes light brown. Take out the paneer and capsicum; place in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of oil in the frying pan. Add cumin seeds, asafetida and bay leaves and stir for a few seconds. Add the tomato puree, coriander powder, turmeric, paprika powder, sugar, and cook

for about couple of minutes on medium heat. Add the corn starch mix and stir until the sauce thickens. Add the fried paneer in the tomato gravy and let it cook for few minutes on low heat. Turn off the heat and add coriander leaves and garam masala. Stir slowly and cover the pan for few minutes. Serve hot with your choice of Indian bread or over the rice. I don’t use onion and garlic, but if used then one onion should be enough for the recipe. The paneer and spices used for the recipe are from Foodworks at Munster Street near Ken Little’s Fruit and Veg. greater port macquarie focus. 11

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IT’S ON AGAIN! ONE OF PORT MACQUARIE’S FAVOURITE FAMILY EVENTS, THE BIG DIG WILL TAKE PLACE ON TOWN BEACH ON 15TH MAY. IVANA AGAPIOU TELLS US THIS YEAR WILL BE THE BIGGEST DIG EVER! AND WHAT’S EVEN BETTER … EVERY CHILD WHO PARTICIPATES WINS A PRIZE!

hat's the history behind the "Big Dig" event in Port Macquarie? The Big Dig, Port Macquarie commenced 2011 through Rotary Club of Port Macquarie Sunrise, with the intent of bringing a fun "family event" to town - one adults and kids alike would enjoy. At the same time, we’re capturing our natural beauty on one of our iconic beaches, Town Beach! What's new at this year's Big Dig event? Many more pre-dig activities that will add fun and excitement. The three big mascots, Big Dog, Ditto and Healthy Harold will be there, along with loads more extra adult Big Dig prizes (this last and huge dig was a sell-out last year), big prizes for everyone who purchases a ticket - prizes such as a Macquarie Waters Bed and Breakfast, or a new whipper snipper - all prizes are well over the value of the ticket! That is our guarantee. When and where will the dig be held this year? Sunday 15th May - tickets start selling on Town Beach at 9am for an 11am start for official digs. However, once Big Dog, Healthy Harold and Ditto arrive and dig to retrieve their prize - we perform the ceremonial dunking of the Mayor and 12 greater port macquarie focus.

What a fantastic day y this was for all m e on o son’s friends. N h uc m is can beat th r fo t en nm entertai e such a small pric tag!”

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Councillors - and for only $2 you can be the one who achieves this! Once this royal and traditional ceremony is over, it is almost time for the digs, which start with the ages 0 - 3 years (yes, Mum or Dad can help them.) Please explain in more detail how the action unfolds at the Big Dig ... Is it true that every child wins a prize? True, true, true - yes, yes, yes. Everyone who buys a ticket wins! All the adults who purchase a $30 ticket also win ... One savvy mother last year turned the event into her 7 year old’s birthday party: "What a fantastic day this was for all my son's friends. No one can beat this much entertainment for such a small price tag!" What age categories will be open on the day for entrants? All ages are catered for. How much does entry to the event cost, and what does this entry fee cover? Just $5 for kids and $30 for the adult big dig. Most of the other activities are FREE. Where will funds raised on the day go? Tacking Point Light House restoration project,

BraveHearts, Life Education and the Mera School in Nepal - we reached $6K last year, and this year we are aiming for $8K ... Who would you like to thank for their contributions to the event this year? The Rotary Club of Sunrise members

are awesome volunteers and donors … plus, the following great sponsor businesses are: Green Meadows Heath Centre, Northcorp Accountants, BIG W, Coast Front Realty, Lasting Results & Hypotherapy, Debbie Marks Podiatry, TAG Auto, Salt Water Wine and Port Macquarie X-Ray. Plus, tons of generous local businesses that have donated prizes. We Love Port Macquarie small business. Where can readers register, or find out more info? Like "The Big Dig port Macquarie" https:// www.facebook.com/thebigdig2014 to remain in the loop and/or turn up on 15th May at 9am, or pre-buy tickets from Ivana: 0404 056 278. Thanks Ivana. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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Other features: Picturesque waterfront location Short walk to Settlement City Shopping Centre Community centre Cafe / Restaurant Library

Phone 1300 160 170 or 02 6584 3731. Inspections also available weekdays 10.00am - 4.00pm or by appointment The Govenorâ€™s Retirement Resort, 166 River Park Road, Port Macquarie australianunity.com.au/retirement-communities

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focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

MAY 2016

THE BUSINESS OF BEING CREATIVE

THE DIGITAL MARKETING DAY OUT PRESENTED BY DRAGONFLY MARKETING

ETC Presents 2016 Creative Industries Forum. When Tuesday 24th May. Time 9am - 6pm. Where Slim Dusty Centre, Kempsey. Contact Marilyn Breen on 0417 201 794. www.etcltd.com.au/creativeindustriesforum

When Thursday 5th May. Where The Glasshouse, Port Macquarie. Time Registration from 8am for 9am start. Concludes 4pm. To register go to www.portchamber.com.au Tickets Non-chamber members $295.

CHEMICAL FREE CLEANING

HIGH TEA ON THE HASTINGS

Where Rydges Port Macquarie. When Sat 21 May 2016. Time 2pm - 6pm. Tickets $45pp, including sweet and savoury treats, a glass of bubbles and live entertainment to raise funds for Camp Quality.

Join Rhiannon from The Rhi Rebellion. This is a two-hour hands-on workshop, where you will learn how to create household cleaning products using natural ingredients, such as vinegar, essential oils, bi-carb soda and more. This workshop has limited spaces. Where the Lost Plot Community Garden, Central Road Port Macquarie. When Saturday, May 7, 11am - 1pm. More info events@thelostplot.org.au to reserve a spot.

JAY SCOTT BERRY Magic, mystery and wonder! Enter a world of pure imagination at Laurieton United Services Club, May 28th and 29th at the Slice of Haven Festival. www.laurietonclub.com.au or www.sliceofhaven.com.au

SUCK IT UP BUTTERCUP!

THE PRODUCERS

... at the inaugural obstacle course. Where Bago Vineyards. When Saturday 21st May. Time 8:45am - Competitive Wave. Other Race Waves - 9am, 9:30am, 10am, 10:30am, 11:30am. 11am - Youth Wave. 11am - Child Wave. Register www.centauroutdoorevents.com.auSuck-it-up-buttercup

Players Theatre’s production of The Producers runs from Friday, May 6 to Sunday May 22, with performances Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2pm. Book now online at playerstheatre.org.au or at the Glasshouse Box Office.

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SLICE OF HAVEN When Sunday 29th May - Magic Beyond the Plate! Time 10am - 5pm. Where Camden Haven Foreshore, Seymour St, Laurieton. Entry by gold coin donation. www.sliceofhaven.com.au

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John Oxley Volkswagen 130 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie MD7571 02 6588 8555 johnoxleyvolkswagen.com.au * Manufacturer’s campaign driveaway price for new MY16 vehicles sold by 30 June 2016 and delivered by 31 July 2016. Private buyers only, not available with any other offers. Options and metallic paint may be available for an additional cost. Volkswagen ‡ Australia reserves the right to change or extend all offers. App-Connect is compatible for selected apps with the latest smartphone versions of iOS and Android. Safety technologies are not a substitute for the driver’s responsibility of the vehicle. °Based on a driveaway price of $22,990 for new Golf 92TSI manual to approved personal applicants of VFS** on a consumer loan over 48 months and a balloon payment of $4,609. Total amount payable $24,576.18. Offer based on a 2.8% comparison rate ± . Offer ends 30 June 2016. Standard fees and charges apply. Not available with other offers or to fleet, government or rental buyers. Full conditions are available on application. ± Comparison rate based on a 5 year secured consumer fixed rate consumer loan of $30,000. WARNING: Financial Services Australia Pty This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. **VFS is a trading name of Volkswagen greater port macquarie focus. Ltd ABN 20 097 071 460, Australian Credit Licence Number 389344.

Players THEATRE Players Theatre Port Macquarie is proud to present the hilarious musical The Producers, which runs from May 6 to May 22, 2016. The Producers features pigeons wearing Nazi arm bands, scantily clad chorus girls popping out of filing cabinets and a gay Hitler doing his impression of Judy Garland at the palace all the key ingredients you need for a night at the theatre. The Producers is a musical based on Mel Brooks’ classic 1967 film of the same name. The story centres around failing producer Max Bialystock and his partner in crime, Leopold Bloom, an unhappy accountant. They both set out to find the worst script ever written, the worst director in town and the worst cast in order to produce the biggest flop in Broadway history. However, first Max has to raise two million dollars the old fashioned way, from elderly, sex starved widows. There is no shortage of show stopping musical numbers, and Brooks’ signature humour, to keep the audience in stitches. This production features Rob Doyle as the hopeless Producer Max Bialystock and Mark Morabito as the timid Accountant, Leo Bloom. This show marks the directorial debut of Daniel Parlevliet, who has appeared in numerous Players productions and is now taking the leap off stage to try his hand at something new. The Musical Director, Ben Simon, has gathered a fine orchestra of talented musicians, while Sarah Morabito is producing musical decadence as the Vocal Director. The Producers, “Where did we go right?” the Musical from 6th - 22nd May 2016 at The Players Theatre Port Macquarie. Performances are Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 2pm. Book now online at playerstheatre.org.au or at the Glasshouse Box Office.

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citrus season The month of May heralds the new season citrus. Sweet Imperial mandarins and Navel oranges are now available - all “Aussie” grown, from South Queensland. The flavour of the mandarins was nice and sweet right from the first lot to arrive. Remember ... Imperial mandarins are “mostly” seedless; however, they do have an odd seed in them. The arrival of the Navel oranges and mandarins are always a nice treat to look forward to, as there is usually a gap from when the stone fruit finish and the citrus begins. The Pink Lady apples are back! Thank goodness, I hear a few of you say. How did we manage before they were around? Good local beans and fancy lettuce are still available. Local zucchini and Lebanese cucumber are now in plentiful supply and are of very good quality. Local broccoli will be available from mid May. Good quality local avocadoes with a price to match will start to appear this month too. We will also have a good supply of local shallots, baby bok choy and choy sum. Just great for those stir fries! You will always receive a nice warm welcome when you come to shop! Ken.

Interior design WORKSHOP 25 Ways to add up to $100,000 to the selling price of your home ... The family home, in most cases, is the largest asset most of us will ever own ... And of course we want to maximise its value while we enjoy the lifestyle it offers us while we are living there. Savvy home owners constantly make improvements to their home as they live in it. Having a plan and carrying it out over time can make the most of your hard earned dollar and relieve the stress when it’s time to sell, no matter how far off that might be. Due to popular demand, senior interior designer Lisa Christie from Visual Edge will be hosting another design workshop ... Learn the tricks of the trade and talk to a local designer with over 20 years in the industry in an intimate forum at this popular seasonal workshop. Saturday 28th May, Open House, 216 Hastings River Drive. Time - 10:30am ‘til 2pm. Cost - $50 (includes a $20 voucher to spend on the day). A light lunch and refreshments will be served. Coffee is available from the Coffee Cup Café located in store. Seats are limited, so book early! Call 6584 2555 or email info@openhouseportmacquarie.com

focusinterview. @ScottEhler @LittleGlimpses

PEEWEE

Marketplace events - supporting handcrafted, h o m e m a d e a n d lo c a l ly g ro w n

PAT WILLS

THE INSPIRATION BEHIND PAT WILLS’ PEEWEE TEEPEES WAS TO CREATE SOMETHING WHERE CHILDREN COULD PLAY, ADVENTURE AND DREAM. A MODERN DAY CUBBY OR TREE HOUSE, PEEWEE TEEPEES ARE A PLACE WHERE CHILDREN CAN ESCAPE TO DREAM BIG, BEAUTIFUL DREAMS AND LET THEIR IMAGINATIONS RUN WILD.

hen did you make your first teepee, and what materials were used? I started out using printed fabrics, but because everything is handmade, it was difficult to source the prints I envisaged. I have always created; when my daughter was a little girl, I would make a lot of clothes for her. We would do a lot of crafts together; it was a time that was ours. We would create fairy gardens, cubby houses and decorations for her room. I saw some children in a chain store play in a teepee that was on display; they loved it! When I looked at the teepee closer, the craftsmanship wasn’t there, so I went home and started to cut out patterns and fabrics to make one. The process took me back to when my daughter was little, and I wanted to re-create the adventures and fairytales we would create together, for children of today. How have your designs evolved since then? Now our signature is white/cream teepees. My daughter now lives in New York City, and she sources all the trims for me in Manhattan’s textile district. I like to keep the teepees as a neutral base, and then add hand detailing through embroidered trim, leather lacing and hand finished detail. How do Pee Wee Teepees inspire

children to create their own imaginative space? There is something about a child having their own space to create in. That could be to create in their imagination, or create in actual physical surrounds. We like to think that Peewee Teepees are the modern day cubby house or tree house - a little spot children can call their own. A lot of parents that own Peewee Teepees email us saying that they have never seen their children be more creative; they move toys into the tent, create tea parties, forts, pirate ships. That is the best part - hearing the stories about the little minds that have big imaginations. Why is this so beneficial for kids in our age of technology? I think it is so important to allow children to use all corners of their mind, especially the creative elements. There is a quote that I love that says: “if you want your children to be smart, read them fairytales”. Having a big imagination is one of life’s most beautiful gifts. It can’t be taught or shown, it can only be encouraged, and that’s what we hope Peewee Teepees does. What do teepees symbolise for you? Teepee symbolise adventure. It is physically a space that children can escape to (and it is small enough that it doesn’t take up too much space at home!) It is adventure. It is imagination. With beautiful floral and Aztec themes, how is each teepee unique?

It depends on what the teepee is for. We do a lot of teepees for weddings, in all white with a floral garland applied to replicate the bride or bridesmaids’ bouquet. These are our most common order - a place for your littlest wedding guests to play and dream. The Aztec trims change seasonally, depending on what is available in New York each season. We make teepees in pastels and softer tones, and others in browns, navy, reds … and some just in monochromes, as it matches parents’ décor and is less intrusive to the living room! Why are they great for events such as weddings and birthday parties? They are great, because they provide a special space. Children do not want to hang out with adults all evening at special events. A Peewee Teepee is designed for the littlest of folk. An escape. A dream. An adventure. How can people find out more about Pee Wee Teepees? We are at The Foreshore Market the 2nd Saturday of each month, and at the Artist Market in the Vines at Cassegrain the 4th Sunday of each month. Online: www.PeeweeTeepees.com - and be sure to join us on instagram @PeeweeTeepees to see all of our latest designs + new products. Email: hello@peeweeteepees.com Thanks Pat. greater port macquarie focus. 17

focusinterview. Photos: Louis Dillion-Savage.

What do you get when you combine four highly-skilled puppeteers, 75 brilliantly coloured puppets and a hardworking production team, with the iconic stories written by author Eric Carle? The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show has entertained people of all ages since the beginning of 2015. Co-Producer Michael Sieders introduces us to the magic of the show, ahead of its scheduled visit to the Glasshouse …

Very Hungry

ow was this unique show created, and when did you come on board with the production? I have a friend, Jonathon Rockefeller - an Australian now based in America. Jonathon had been talking to Eric Carle [the author of The Very Hungry Caterpillar] about producing a live version of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, as well as other stories … This was a three and a half year process of discussions and working out visuals. I came on board about a year before the show opened; because my Co-Producer was going to be based in America, we really needed someone on the ground here to get it all up and running. It was my job to bring a team and actors together, so this show could come alive. It was quite a long process to get the show together for its opening at the beginning of 2015 [debuting at the Sydney Festival]. It’s finally up and running, it’s great to see it, and audiences have been to see it and have responded really well. We’re really happy! The show encompasses several of Eric Carle’s books. What are some of the stories it shares? There are three other stories, aside from The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Eric Carle is a lover of nature, and this shows in his books. The first story is The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse - a lovely tale about creativity and nature. It really reflects Eric Carle himself as an artist. It’s basically about enabling children to use all 18 greater port macquarie focus.

This book has been around , so for 46 years now ns tio ra ne ge e there ar ew of people who gr and ok up with this bo ow, sh e th e come to se dkids an gr r ei th bringing es ili . It’s and young fam wonderful .”

“

of their creative might to imagine and think outside the box. It goes through a series of paintings an artist has created of different animals he loves, using very weird colours - like a blue horse, a red crocodile, a yellow cow … The artwork is beautiful, and when you have really large, life-size puppets (like a three-metre long red crocodile and a life-size cow!) the kids love it and scream, all at the same time! The second story is Mr Seahorse. Mr Seahorse is about “daddy fish”. There are a lot of fish in nature where the females hand the eggs over to the father fish to look after, and this story is the journey of one seahorse meeting other daddy fish and learning how they look after their young. It’s a beautiful story. A lot of people buy this book after the show, because it’s just so wonderfully colourful and teaches us things about the natural world we might not have known before. The third book is called The Very Lonely Firefly. This book is about belonging and finding your tribe. It’s about one little firefly who’s born at dusk, who searches the night for all the other fireflies. This is another completely different world - we go into the night-time world, with a whole heap of puppets that light up. It’s a really wonderful story. The book itself actually lights up at the end

too, when the firefly finds his group. Kids really enjoy this! And of course, to finish the show we have The Very Hungry Caterpillar, which everyone knows and loves. Which, of course, is a great counting story for children! Absolutely! But it’s also about nutrition - and about being yourself. There are so many great messages in this story. But this book is so iconic … Eric Carle describes it as a “book toy”, because of course the first thing kids do when they pick it up is put their finger in the hole. This book has been around for 46 years now, so there are generations of people who grew up with this book and come to see the show, bringing their grandkids and young families. It’s wonderful. What is the reaction of the show’s older viewers - the parents and grandparents? There’s a real sense of nostalgia with the show, as people has grown up with the book and have a real visceral connection with it. There are even “Ohhh … Ahhhh” moments from the parents and grandparents at the show, because they remember reading the book. You can’t help but gasp when the giant butterfly comes off the page at the end! Both children and adults get so much out of this show. The show contains quite a menagerie of puppets! Tell us more about them …

It’s a crowded backstage, with our four puppeteers and 75 puppets, and everyone going on and off stage for a 47 minute show! The puppets are so beautiful; it’s like they’ve literally come off the page. We worked with the wonderful puppet company, Puppet Kitchen, who are based in New York. They have captured Eric Carle’s aesthetic really well, and people respond so well when they see what they’re expecting to see (what’s reflected on the pages of the books). It’s so satisfying to see these beautiful illustrations come to life! We really worked hard to make sure each puppet had its own moment in the spotlight, which is quite hard with 75 puppets in 47 minutes, but the puppeteers work incredibly hard. They don’t stop moving the entire time and they bring so much to each of their puppets, ensuring they come to life! This is the mark of a really wonderful puppeteer; even though we can see them, they kind of disappear and they make it look so effortless! This show has such scale and fills so much size and space that even the littlest will be engaged even if they’re in the back row! Thanks Michael. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug! See The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at Glasshouse on 17th May at 9:30am. Tickets: General: $35, Member: $25, Child<21 $22. Visit glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office on 6581 8888 for more details.

WHAT’S ON GLASSHOUSE Theatre

Saturday 7 May, 2pm VOCI STUPENDE Classical Song Virtuosos

Saturday 7 May, 8pm IAN MOSS Six Strings Classics Tour

Let’s share the Magic

Tuesday 17 May, 9.30am

Friday 20 May, 8pm

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW

Fri 20, Sat 21 & Sun 22 May

DOUG ANTHONY ALLSTARS

Presented by Port Macquarie-Hastings Libraries

NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE

Based on Eric Carle’s books Presented by JWR Productions Australia & Michael Sieders Presents

After their 100% sellout world-tour, Paul McDermott, Paul ‘Flacco’ Livingston & Tim Ferguson are back with a shocking new show.

One of the most-read and famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges off the page in a masterful theatrical experience for the whole family. Story time doesn’t get much more magical than this.

Since their rebirth in 2013, DAAS have broken box office records. Their musical comedy is more wicked and dangerous than ever. Wracked by illness and age, the trio has no time to waste.

Saturday 21 May, 8pm FOREVER DIAMOND starring Peter Byrne

Sunday 22 May, 2pm

SYDNEY WRITERS’ FESTIVAL

Newcastle Youth Orchestra Kids Classics

After the success of its inaugural Live & Local program in 2015, Sydney Writers’ Festival returns to the Glasshouse in 2016 – proudly presented by Port MacquarieHastings Libraries.

Friday 27 May, 6.30pm

Prepare to be stimulated and engaged by conversations, debates and discussions, as the Festival brings the world’s finest authors to Port Macquarie in real time.

ExhibitionS

THE MAGICAL MUSIC TIME MACHINE

SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Gallery

13 May - 10 July

Let The Chips Fall Where They May: CATHERINE & JENNIFER STRUTT

13 May - 10 July

Cloth: From Seeds to Bloom JULIE PATERSON

13 May - 3 July

NORTHERN EXPOSURE

Adult Workshop Saturday 14 May 1.30pm CRAFT SPOT

Let’s share the Magic Tuesday 24 May, 4.30pm

Saturday 28 May, 8pm

Tuesday 31 May, 7.30pm

THE BEST OF THE EAGLES

A CDP Production

Margret Meagher, The Australian Centre for Arts & Health, Port Macquarie & Andrew McKinnon present

THE 52-STOREY TREEHOUSE TWO HOUR TRIBUTE CONCERT A play by Richard Tulloch. Adapted from the best-selling book by Andy Griffiths & Terry Denton

Andy Griffiths’ and Terry Denton’s bestseller comes to life on the stage as the team behind the hit adaptations of The 13-Storey Treehouse and The 26-Storey Treehouse return with this imaginative and engaging play. What are you waiting for? Come on up!

A show not to be missed by fans of the band young and old alike.

Founding Sponsors

Government Sponsors A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

Take a journey through the band’s staggering catalogue of hits, delivering a captivating show from start to finish that will deliver no less than the synonymous country rock sound Eagles fans have come to expect.

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

THE ROSS FAMILY

CHOPIN BY CANDLELIGHT

PIERS LANE, PIANO. 2016 AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Experience a spellbinding evening of fine music in the magical atmosphere of a candlelit stage. Australia’s internationally acclaimed pianist, and artistic director of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music and Sydney International Piano Competition, Piers Lane has performed in the world’s great concert halls, attracting rave reviews.

Artist Talk Thursday 26 May, 5.30pm. CATHERINE & JENNIFER STRUTT

Artist Toolbox Forum Saturday 28 May, 11am NORTHERN EXPOSURE

The Gallery is CLOSED 25 April until 14 May

To book: 02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au

house made PEKING roast DUCK from YES YUM restaurant

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

20 greater port macquarie focus.

Holidays. Salty’s have the perfect location to treat yourself to some much needed time out from the hussle and bussel of daily life. With perfect water 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. House made Pappardelle pasta, wild mushroom, Licensed cavolo nero, parmesan Family friendly Indoor / outdoor dining

in our stunning, fully refurbished surrounds. Aqua now offers a full wine and dine experience with an emphasis on Australian Wines at our new Aqua Bar. A new menu, a new restaurant feel combined with our classic Hastings River view and friendly service. The team at Salty’s.

Chef’s The Westport Club's

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841

TABLE SPRING Sensations

25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie 6583 1499 thewestportclub.com.au

Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm. Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

Kingfish carpaccio, fingerlime, chorizo and radish

Chefs de Cuisine Chris & Luke

Bookings are recommended.

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

zebu bar+grill

refined you are after, head to the grill for our degustation menu with five hand crafted courses Treat Mum to a special Mother’s Day on the waterfront with a scrumptious from Executive Chef Adam TaitExperience matched with fi ne magnificent riverfront setting at Aqua while dining the Stilldelicious can’t breakfast or lunch at Zebu Bar + Grill. Enjoy a full buffet breakfast in the grill wines sourced from across Australia. on our new autumn menu. from 6:30am or an à la carte breakfast overlooking the water from 7am ‘til noon. decide? Be tempted by the King Fish Carpaccio With our own blend of rich, aromatic espresso coffee, you can unwind while Don’t miss out on Mother’s Day lunch from noon. $45pp - two course reduced with fingerlime, chorizo and radish paired with a youSemillon await your delicious lunch or dinner at one of Port Macquarie’s most crisp Andrew Thomas Six Degrees - simply

aqua at the westport club

à la carte menu; $55pp - three course reduced à la carte menu. Relax with the desirable restaurant locations - Aqua, on the breathtaking Hastings River. irresistible! family with live entertainment, noon ‘til 3:30pm. Kids’ menu available for $11 per Diary Date: New Year’s Eve -An Bring in the New modern Australian menu served to you by friendly and adventurous little one. Year in Sin CityChef Style with a skilled night instaff Vegas Executive Chef de Cuisine is complemented by ample space foroperated either abyromantic Off the Hook is owned and Paul anddinner Narellefor Walsh. Special Gift with every booking - every mother receives a $25 Zebu voucher* with Adam Tait. Luke Corkery. dancing girls, blackjack and poker! two or a larger specialWe event. you come withtasty a crowd, or it’s just offerWhether a great variety of choice: old style hamburgers, with each lunch booking made. (*Voucher cannot be used on Mother’s Day). See page 21 for more info! the two of you, Aquasnacks, is the perfect place createfish wonderful salads, and of to course, and chips.memories. Bookings essential for lunch seating. Aqua is open sevenWe days a week lunch and dinner. Bookings have added for a larger selection of fish to our menu,are including our Diary Date: the perfect gift for Mother’s Day - treat Mum or Nanna to a “High favourite, the Flathead fillets. recommended; call 6583 1499. Tea on the Hastings”, our special event on Sat 21 May 2016, 2pm - 6pm - $45pp.

off the hook

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie 6589 2822 www.zebu.com.au Seven days, from 6:30am - late. Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

Beetroot cured Salmon with house made Lavosh, Nigella seeds and horseradish air.

The friendly staff.

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

Chocolate and coconut bavarois, mint candy spoon, white choc mi casa restaurant Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green.

ganache, strawberry6584 and grand 6589 2822 www.zebu.com.au 1146 mariner coulis. Mi Casa Restaurant has a delicious new menu on offer for the cooler season ahead. 7 days, from 11am - late. 7 days, from 6:30am - late. Bar open EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome. noon with daily. house Bookings recommended. Try the beetroot cured Salmon made Lavosh, Nigella seeds and horseradish air. greater port macquarie focus. Mi Casa is also introducing Raciones, which is similar to tapas; however, a larger portion is served for sharing. Selecting raciones is a good way to have lunch or dinner with a group sharing the dishes in the centre of the table. Enjoy Spanish and local wines, including the popular Marques de Caceres Rioja. Book now for Mother’s Day - no set menu. Fully licensed (no BYO).

restaurant synergy Where food and service work in harmony. “SPOIL MUM THIS MOTHER’S DAY” Synergy Restaurant & Bar, located at the Mercure Centro Hotel in the heart of town. For an intimate dining experience, offering modern Australian cuisine at its best. Intimate private dining rooms available on request, for bookings of 10 or more guests. Don’t forget to join us at “Happy Hour” every evening from 5pm - a refreshing 40% off all beverages - restaurant SYNERGY’S cocktail lounge. Owners Brendan & Jennis Field.

3/2 Horton Street (Located on Town Green), Port Macquarie. 6584 4559 6 nights Tues - Sun from 6pm.

Our Special MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST: 7am - 11am. Complimentary Champagne Breakfast for ALL MUMS; half price for kids under 16 years.

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

Offer subject to one full price breakfast, to every complimentary breakfast. No further discounts apply.

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 for dinner. Bookings essential. greater port macquarie focus. 21

focus_eat

Lou Perri from the Stunned Mullet

A selection of Chinese favourites.

yesyum chinese restuarant Yes Yum Chinese Restaurant offers a large selection of traditional Chinese meals and gives you a truly unique and tasty experience.

WEDDINGS, PARTIES, ANYTHING.

Some popular dishes include the House-made Peking Roast Duck, and BBQ Pork, which is also very popular in China. The Yes Yum menu is full of traditional favourites, with house made sauces available such as Peking, plum, lemon and more. Lunch Specials and Yum Cha are offered Wed-Sun from 11:30am2:30pm. Spend $50- receive a $10 voucher. Spend $100- receive a $20 voucher. Kids Menu available including lemon chicken or honey chicken with chips.

IN RESTAURANT LINGO, IT’S KNOWN AS A FUNCTION. TO THE REST OF THE POPULATION IT IS REFERRED TO AS AN OCCASION OR A CELEBRATION …

Executive Chef George Hu.

Takeaway packages and delivery available. Fully licensed. Easy access upstairs through Coles complex.

Coles, Upstairs at 2/28 Hayward St Port Macquarie 6583 7171. www.yesyumfood.com Lunch Wed - Sun, 11:30am - 2:30pm. Dinner 7 nights from 5pm.

macauleys restaurant Spoilt for choice with amazing desserts and offering both a contemporary Australian and Thai menu all under the one roof, dished up by award winning chef Alan Gough and well known Thai chef and owner Charoen Sroyphet. MACAULEYS - the perfect venue for weddings, private parties, corporate events and so much more. We can seat up to 80 people for a private function or wedding. Tailored menus to suit your needs, and we love nothing more than looking after you! Spoil Mum this Mother’s Day. Open for dinner from 5:30 on Mother’s Day with complimentary glass of champagne for all mums. Book now.

Head Chef Charoen Sroyphet & Chef Alan Gough.

99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour 6652 5970 www.macauleys.com.au Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm.

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hat better way to herald any type of event than with a great meal at a nice restaurant? So simple ... A neutral location, no mess, no fuss. Letting someone else do all the hard work leaves time for everyone to mingle, for a host to remain relatively unflustered, for guests to kick back and let off a bit of steam. Whether it’s simply a birthday, a landmark anniversary, a work do, a Christmas party or even a wedding or a wake - restaurants are often the first point of call in the organisation of a group gathering. Sometimes it’s an intimate soiree of eight, but it could be a sardine crammed room of 100. Whatever a customer requires, a good restaurant will try to meet their needs and tailor make their experience to suit the flavour of the individual group. Functions are an essential business for restaurants. There is absolutely nothing better in this game than to know exactly how many covers you will be doing on a particular night. And not only that - you know exactly what they will be eating and how much they will be spending! In many ways they are every restaurateur’s dream and if we had them every night, our bread would be truly buttered! We wish ... In reality however, they can be notoriously difficult to manage - requiring many additional hours of planning and preparation to a regular dinner service, and facing quite a lot more stress in “getting it right” for an individual client, who is often making a large financial and emotional investment in planning an important occasion in their lives. Each one is a finely honed balancing act of meeting a client’s specific expectations - agreeing on suitable cost, planning an appropriate menu, creating the right kind of atmosphere … The list goes on. And then there’s getting it all right on the night - the pressure is on in

the kitchen getting multiple meals out all at once, the front of house staff madly coping with drink orders en-masse and trying to keep things tidy and avoiding a descent into chaos. These issues exist with every ordinary service as well, but a function exacerbates the everyday stress. There is even more at stake, and when things go wrong they don’t just go wrong for a table or two; but in fact, the entire restaurant could come crashing down. The stakes are higher, and no two functions are alike. Often you never can tell how things are going to “pan” out until you’re in the middle of it. Sometimes the pressure is on and everyone runs around like crazy, but other times staff are twiddling their thumbs and sneaking glances at the clock … Every group creates its own specific atmosphere - some are hard-core partiers with cocktails flowing, raucous laughter and late night taxis called to ferry them onward to various late night destinations. Others are much more low key, with soft drinks and early bedtimes. Some are downright awkward, when clearly nobody really knows each other too well, or goes out to eat very often. Some care a lot about what it is on their plate in front of them, and some can’t even remember what it was that they ordered! When you go to a restaurant as a customer for a function, you are often completely unaware of the intricate and precarious organisation that has gone into the event. Usually, you are (hopefully!) too busy enjoying yourself and letting your hair down, or perhaps you are feeling a bit self conscious because you don’t know too many people there … Whatever the case may be, know that there is a team of people working hard to create a special event just for you and your friends/ family/colleagues. That team does the best that it can to get it right, but allow for a little randomness, as functions are a bit like life you don’t know what you’re going to get ‘til you get it!

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

LUKE HARTSUYKER NO SO ON E R D O W E BE COM E ACC USTOM E D TO DAV I D GI L L E S PI E A S OU R M A N I N C A N BE R R A T H A N W E ’ R E ‘ R E DI ST R I BU T E D’ F ROM LY N E I N TO A R E DR AW N DI V I SION OF COW PE R . SUSI E LU NC H E S W I T H T H E M P FOR OU R N E W T E R R I TORY.

uke Hartsuyker arrives for lunch in a Ducati T-shirt, black “leathers”, boots, jacket, helmet and thick gloves. On a powerful red 1200cc Ducati Multistrada. He’s asked beforehand if the gear’s acceptable and it’s fine by me; after all, this is his second return trip between Coffs Harbour and Port in 16 hours, covering the better part of 1000km including half a dozen official engagements. “Hello!” he beams, extending a hand, seemingly exhilarated by the ride. It’s Friday morning at the Focus office: yesterday afternoon he and David Gillespie were at the corner of Hill and Grant streets announcing $800,000 to fix road black spots. He’s been home and back again since, making a snack of the two-hour-plus distance between the two centres. This chap doesn’t need a chopper to get around! Three months ago the AEC pushed Lyne’s boundaries south, shunting Gillespie’s area out of Port proper and dragging Cowper down the map to fill the void. As redistributions go, it didn’t seem to make sense for commonality (or conflict?) of interest, or logistically: Sovereign Hills in Cowper, Sancrox in Lyne. The boundaries became effective in February. I live in Cowper but am represented by the MP for Lyne. Confusing. Psephologist Anthony Green says the rearrangement sees the Coalition notionally lose two seats and Labor gain two. Nevertheless, covering big electorates is a given for Nationals MPs as the major party in our sparsely-populated regions. Malcolm Turnbull’s electorate occupies 38sq km. Hartsuyker covers an area of 7,296 sq km. Gillespie’s

new mishmash sees him covering 16,000+ sq km! (The Nats’ Mark Coulton’s seat of Parkes borders S.A. and Qld, Broken Hill and Gunnedah 10-12 hours apart. Coulton must cover an area of near 400,000sq km to meet his constituents). So Hartsuyker’s Ducati’s handy, although he’ll mostly dress and travel more conventionally. Handy too is the collegiality of the Nats’ Gillespie, helping him familiarise with his new bailiwick: discussing local issues with mayor and councillors, addressing Chamber of Commerce, meeting businesses, schools, unis and community groups, holding public “listening posts” at our shopping centres on regular, often twice-weekly, visits. His diary columns are in the papers; he’s interviewed for TV for news items like Pelican Island’s bird habitat; his newsletters fill mailboxes. He’ll keep offices in both Port and Coffs, he says. “While Coffs and Port are different cities, they’ve similar challenges: I see the new boundaries as having more advantages than disadvantages. People are concerned funding will suffer: the reality is funding follows growth. With Port and Coffs in the one electorate you’ve a growth powerhouse happening: both together will make us a magnet for attention.” Hartsuyker’s lived mostly in regional areas, a country boy born and raised in Muswellbrook, elder of two sons. Dad Tom migrated alone, with nothing, from Holland at 17, in the postWWII Dutch diaspora, becoming a successful self-made builder. Hartsuyker gained a B.Comm from Newcastle Uni and went to work in real estate, including some six years in Canberra and Melbourne in investment analysis and property development for the Commonwealth

employees’ super fund. After the family moved to Coffs and started a prominent tourism business - The Clog Barn, model Dutch village, miniature railway, caravan park, cafe, windmills and all – he joined them for a decade, before his election in 2001. Just turned 57, married to Irene, a Muswellbrook girl and primary teacher, two sons – Ben, 22, completing EconomicsLaw on a scholarship at Bond, headed to a Paris OECD internship, and Paul, 20, talented guitarist, studying for his Bachelor degree at Melbourne’s Australian Institute of Music. Hartsuyker seems an average family man, easy to identify with. But he comes alive as a politician discussing his achievements. This year he becomes the longest-serving federal Nationals MP, with a wealth of experience on pivotal committees. He’s proud of last July 1’s implementation of the $6.8b Job Active program, “a quantum shift” in actually getting people into work, a task he assumed as Assistant Employment Minister on the 2013 election of the Abbott Government. Under Rudd-Gillard Labor: “providers were getting a fee to endlessly train people for jobs that didn’t exist. Training alone was considered ‘an outcome’! Now the recognised outcome is getting people into work.” As Minister for Vocational Training & Skills he cleaned up “Labor’s VET Fee Help debacle that’d blown out from $299m to $3b”. There were some good parts, like the Assistant in Nursing qualification. But some “students” got a free iPad to sign up for aromatherapy courses never attended – acquiring, often unknowingly, a $20,000 debt (possibly never to be repaid) ... yet the provider/“college” was paid its fees by

government up front. Now, though, he has plenty to get across in his new southern territory, with his “passionate belief” in regional Australia. “There’s so much potential, with developments in technology, a real competitive advantage: the cost of doing business [regionally] can be drastically less in many aspects. It sets us up well for a bright future! I’m bullish about our prospects: massive capital investment in the Pacific Highway, employment growth, resurgence in agriculture, population growth strengthening the building industry - a lot of positive things happening.” When he gets leisure time, it’s off-road riding and the thrills of the range country. He’s visited the Ducati factory/museum north of Florence. “I used to ride motocross, negotiated that without doing too much damage.” But in 2004, on a precipitous Dorrigo stretch, he was flung from his bike by a car crossing the centre line. “I high-sided it, went over a steep drop, hit the ground hard - can’t describe the impact! - and blacked out. I opened my eyes and the sky was red. It was rather scary because I had a neck brace on and heard an ambulance man say: We’ve a suspected ‘spinal’ coming in. That was quite chilling.” He broke six ribs, out of action for months, bike written off. But aside from “a jolt to the confidence” he keeps on riding, clearly one for getting back in the saddle. It’ll take more than a mere boundary change, one feels, to deter, unnerve or unseat him. Luke and Susie shared kingfish sashimi, prawns and salad courtesy of host Lou Perri at The Stunned Mullet on Town Beach.

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Slice of Haven

Slice Haven of

Taking place on Sunday 29th May, The Slice of Haven Food & Wine Festival has become a leading gourmet

lifestyle event on the Mid North Coast social calendar , attracting tens of thousands of people to the Camden Haven region.

ach year organisers of the Virtuoso of Magic - and Magic Jake will Slice of Haven challenge perform on stage, as well as roam the crowd stallholders to use locallyand surprise you with random tricks. grown key ingredients, The beautiful actors from Bago Magic embrace the event’s vibe of Theatre will bring the tale of Peter Pan (along indulgence and get creative with their incredible props) to Slice of Haven. to meet the yearly theme. For a dash of quirky, musicians from In 2016, Slice of Haven will be “Magic CHUMS (Camden Haven Ukelele Musicians) Beyond the Plate”. will get strumming. For the first time the event will Dancers from Movement Studios will get branch out into quirky, non-food visitors moving. related stalls. In sticking with There will be plenty of space their mission to support to sit back and chill, so bring local small businesses, your picnic blanket. organisers stipulate Little appetites will all stallholders must D on’t miss this be well-catered for, meet the essential opportunity with plenty of kidw criteria of residing to sample just ho e friendly food, rides, eativ within 100 miles of talented and cr on es face painting and the ss the Camden Haven gourmet busine ast Co gigantic sand pit. th or N id M the and provide fare that ” Held on Sunday, May e. ar ly al re is predominantly made 29, 10am 5pm, and now within the region, with in its ninth year, the 2016 a touch of magic thrown festival will once again be held in. on the scenic riverbank behind Don’t miss this opportunity the Laurieton United Services Club. Entry is to sample just how talented and creative by gold coin donation, which goes towards gourmet businesses on the Mid North Coast assisting the volunteer groups which help really are. make Slice of Haven so successful. In 2016, the entertainment at Slice of Haven Parking is available at Bruce Porter reserve. steps up to inspire the senses too. Bands such as Elk and Ghost Road will keep This is a licensed event, so please no BYO food visitors grooving. Magicians Jay Scott Berry or drinks, and kindly leave your pets at home.

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Clayton Donovan Chef Clayton Donovan will attend the 2016 Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival. The Nambucca-born celebrity is Australia’s only hatted indigenous chef. He has written and featured on television shows such as “Wild Kitchen” on ABC TV.

layton Donovan grew up on Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung land on the Mid North Coast. He started learning about native produce when he was four years old, out walking with his aunties and grandmothers. He worked in kitchens in Nambucca Heads as a young man, washing dishes, while performing in a band, skating and surfing. After finishing his HSC, Clayton began a law degree but soon realised his passion was in food. In Sydney he studied commercial cooking, then began an apprenticeship on board a private luxury catamaran, preparing food for visiting stars like The Eurythmics and the LA Lakers. Clayton was developing his own style, but wanted to learn more about using native produce in a restaurant environment. Chef Kenneth Leung was integrating ingredients such as wattle seed and rosella into Asian and European dishes, so Clayton applied to work at The Watermark at Balmoral Beach. Clayton’s waking hours were consumed with

learning. After work he learned skills in Italian, seafood and fine dining by working in different sections of their kitchens. He learned the finer details of creating flavours and presenting dishes in hatted restaurants. Clayton moved to England after his apprenticeship was complete. He worked at Sous Chef and Head Chef positions in restaurants and manor houses. In 2008 he returned to Nambucca Heads to open Jaaning Tree (pronounced “jaanee”) a restaurant which combined Clayton’s international experience and his love of Australian native foods. Clayton won the Australian Good Food Guide chef hat four years running. The Jaaning Tree business has now evolved to include media work, long lunches, pop ups and education. “Native foods are something that a lot of chefs would die to get a punnet of,” Clayton said before the screening of Restoring Earth, a new grassroots documentary. At Slice of Haven Clayton will conduct two cooking demonstrations, at 11pm and 1pm, Sunday, May 29. greater port macquarie focus. 25

Slice of Haven

LIFE IS SHORT LICK THE BOWL Better still, head to Miss Nellie’s for a homemade treat and see why this hip, hinterland café is one of the most popular treasures of the Hastings!

ur cover identities included chef Jason Bird from Laurieton United Services Club, Kate Dwyer from the Slice committee and daughter Flynn, and entertainer Magic Jake, who will have a stage show at the Slice of Haven event on Sunday, May 29.

Nestled in the village of Kendall, where the beaches meet the lush scenic valleys of the Camden Haven, Miss Nellie’s Café is a modern-yet-classic haven for all. Defying the country café trend, the décor and vibe is modern with a retro twist, and guests are greeted with a friendly smile and welcoming atmosphere.

To set the scene, we had an enormous amount of planning to do, gathering everything from antique furniture to teacups, tables … and a lot of delicious food! Croquembouche, canapés, cupcakes, eclairs, blueberry torte and more! We may have had a slight cake spill, but it added to the scene!

Enjoy a relaxing morning coffee with a book on the verandah, treat yourself to a homemade cake or Devonshire Tea with Miss Nellie’s jam, or bring family and friends to indulge in the all-day lunch menu. For those wishing to spoil themselves with a little decadence, Miss Nellie also offers a delectable High Tea service (bookings essential).

A big thank you to all of our local suppliers: Bel’s Bakery, Laurieton United Services Club, Latin Loafer, Grape & Petal, and Town & Country Removals.

Make the most of the fine weather and dine alfresco-style in the recently built outdoor garden area - a great way to also taste the NEW Breakfast Menu (served weekends 9am - 11am). All meals are freshly prepared using the best of the Hastings local produce, including a generous gluten-free menu, while Miss Nellie herself bakes every sweet treat on the menu! Just four minutes’ drive from the Kew turnoff on the Pacific Highway, Miss Nellie’s truly offers a taste of home! While you’re there, why not browse the shelves and take home some local goodies and gourmet gifts. Miss Nellie’s is open six days a week, from 9am - 4pm. CLOSED WEDNESDAY. BYO, EFTPOS, groups welcome, lunch bookings recommended. Child and pet friendly! Air conditioned. Ph: 6559 0085 or email info@missnellies.com.au

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Also to Ash Evans from The Happy Adventure - a carefully curated collection of revamped (or not) retro finds and lovingly handmade, homewares and gifts. Instagram @thehappyadventure

To coincide with the 2016 Slice of Haven theme

“Magic Beyond the Plate”, the FOCUS crew created a quirky Mad Hatter Tea Party.

and It’s About Time Antiques - Germaine Cartwright, co-owner of It’s About Time Antiques, let us borrow some fantastic pieces. As well as Australian Cedar furniture and bone china, It’s About Time Antiques also has a range of quirky collectable teapots, Victorian ruby glass vases, French Art Nouveau inkwell stands, French top hats. Thank you, Germaine! Make sure you get down to the Slice of Haven on the Camden Haven Foreshore in Laurieton on Sunday, May 29 for some Magic Beyond the Plate!

Slice of Haven

Magic Jake To add to this year’s theme of Magic Beyond the Plate, Magic Jake will be performing at the Slice of Haven event on Sunday, May 29. Come and enjoy the show and meet Magic Jake at the event, where his comedic personality and awe-inspiring magic tricks will have everyone wanting to see more. And everyone knows that magic + comedy + danger = one hell of a great show!

here are you from, and when did you first start getting involved in magic? I am from Coffs Harbour and have been doing magic since the age of 12. I was first influenced at preschool when I saw a magician performing, and I just loved magic from then. I picked a few tricks up later at age 11 and started performing at kids’ birthday parties when I was 12. I also specialise in twisted balloon art. What would you say is one magic trick that gets people talking? There are quite a few up my sleeve, but I would say my rope trick is one that gets people wondering! I can’t say too much though and reveal my secrets … My tricks include mind blowing magic that will make you think you can’t believe your eyes, with a twist of comedy that will keep that smile on your face even after the show ends and a finishing touch of danger that will make you wonder why any human being would even attempt this! Where can we find you at Slice of

Haven? performed was the “quick change” trick. At the Slice of Haven I will be I also came third in the Australian performing on the main stage and will Street Entertainment Championships at also be roaming around the event the Gold Coast, performing against performing close up magic. other magicians and street artists What have been some of including hypnotists and illusionists. the highlights of your How do you come up with magic perfomances your original tricks and so far? ideas? In 2014, I I get my ideas went to the from things I see There are quite a Melbourne and think would few [tricks] up my Magic Festival be pretty cool. say my and took out I always try to sleeve, but I would at gets two awards involve humour rope trick is one th g! ” first for stage and get the people wonderin magic and audience involved second in close with tricks I am up magic. This performing. is quite an intense What are you competition, where you looking forward to about have to perform your act on age performing at the Slice of Haven? in front of a panel of judges, including It is a great festival atmosphere with magician Consentino! Everything had to so much great food, a great energy, with be completely original, from the magic everyone there to have a good time. act to the costume and music. I’m always Thanks Magic Jake. asking Mum to go to Spotlight and Dad Contact: to go to Bunnings to get me the supplies www.facebook.com/Magic-jake I need! One of my winning tricks I magic-jake@hotmail.com.au

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greater port macquarie focus. 27

focusinterview.

The Cat Empire are back home on tour in the wake of releasing their #1 Album, Rising With The Sun. FOCUS caught up with Harry and Felix while waiting at the airport to return back home to Oz from their UK and European tour …

t’s been close to two years since we last album. Jumps brought some records into the caught up, and what a massive couple studio and played us lots of Caribbean music. of years it’s been for you guys! Give us a Some of that rubbed off on a few songs, I think. rundown on some of the highlights … At the live show, we always find places in the set HARRY: we've been touring, mainly. The for open solos/jams, but we like to change where touring never ends; sometimes it just seems like that happens from time to time, so that it's not we are doing the same few laps of the Earth over always in the same song! and over again. You see a lot of places, but you We’re really excited to have you back in our never stay longer than 24 hours ... It's an neck of the woods. What do you like unusual way to see the world, but about playing these regional it's always interesting. Recently shows as opposed to big we released our sixth album, theatre and festivals? Although the Rising With The Sun. It's HARRY: It's much easier record sounds pretty good, I think. to get to the beach after its quite ‘altered’ in Your latest record sound check. it , es production at tim med released in March Your last shows you or rf was actually pe real this year has already played here were d an e in quite a liv ’s at debuted at number dynamic, to say the Th e. er atmosph s ng so e th one on the ARIA least,;how do you s ve gi what charts; how has it been think you can top this? their spark. ” received overseas? WILL: Felix and Harry will WILL: We've been really do some juggling acts while pleased with the reception around they're singing, and I will be in a the world. It's had a few top 10 debuts 360 degree aerial-revolving drum kit in various countries too. From the point of cage. How bout that for topping it! Acview of the live performances, the new matually, I can say for sure that the lighting show terial is going down well, especially songs like and overall look of the stage will really be a step Wolves, Bulls, and Midnight. up. And the music will be good! Tell us about the process of writing and Lastly, what’s on the horizon for the next 12 recording this album? months? HARRY: an enjoyable process that involved just HARRY: A few more laps of the Earth. setting up and playing with not too many plans, Plug: Don’t miss catching the Cat Empire on and building something as we went. Although their Rising With The Sun the new (ARIA # 1) althe record sounds quite “altered” in its producbum tour, with special guests the Pierce Brothers. tion at times, it was actually performed in quite Thanks guys. a live and real atmosphere. That's what gives the songs their spark. the plug! Have you introduced any new musical eleSee the Cat Empire on Friday 13th May. ments to the Cat Empire?

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WILL: In terms of actual instrumentation, no, we haven't introduced anything new, but stylistically we kind of picked up from where we left off from the Steal the Light album. We've found some new inspirations though for the new 28 greater port macquarie focus.

Doors: 8:30pm. Tickets: $55 presale - $60 door sale 18+ Event.

DIESEL IS BACK ON THE ROAD FOR A HUGE 21 DATE REGIONAL TOUR, STOPPING OFF AT LUSC MAY 6. CHATTING TO FOCUS, HE TELLS US ALL ABOUT HIS SOON TO BE RELEASED NEW ALBUM AND WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON ...

oon to be released is your new probably to where things were before recording, album, titled Americana. Tell us about except with hindsight. As always, I'll do my best the concept of this album and also to get through the 14 albums I've accumulated the creative process behind it ... as well on the night. The term “Americana” is such a broad We’re excited to have you back in our term. For me, it's the music that I region again performing in Laurieton in heard going back and forth from early May. What do you love most America to Australia and the about these smaller town subsequent fascination shows? I developed from the I love getting out to where t to constant moving the oxygen is! People in the I love getting ou en where the oxyg around as a child. The regional areas of Australia al on gi re process of recording are super warm. is! People in the ia are areas of Austral e started with me It's the closest thing I th super warm . It’s think playing the songs on can think of to a working n closest thing I ca guitar and finding holiday sometimes ... ay lid ho of to a working where they were going Lastly, you always seem sometimes .” to "live" to make them to have something new feel natural to me, then in your pipeline. What’s on adding instruments from the horizon after this album is there. I've ended up taking some released? quite bold liberties with some of the I was actually about to start work on an tracks, kind of "re-writing" them. album of material before my agent of 27 years How did you select which tracks would threw the Americana idea on the table ... make the cut? Resisting was futile ... It could have been more difficult picking Thanks Diesel. songs had I allowed myself more time; instead, I went for what was instantly personal to me, the plug! going back to my first musical memory in the Joni Mitchell song Circle Game, which I Diesel’s Pieces of Americana Tour remember singing in the tub aged three. Fri 6th May at Laurieton United In the lead up to its release, you’re doing a Services Club | Laurieton, NSW. series of regional shows. Will this be a taste of what’s to come on the new album? trybooking.com or via club reception | The solo regional shows will be a taste of (02) 6559 9110. the album in a more stripped back way, closer

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greater port macquarie focus. 29

focusinterview.

EXPOSURE 4 NORTHERN EXPOSURE IS A BIANNUAL EXHIBITION SHOWCASING THE WORK OF TALENTED ARTISTS FROM ACROSS THE MID NORTH COAST. NOW IN ITS FOURTH INSTALMENT, NORTHERN EXPOSURE 4 CAN BE VIEWED AT THE GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY. SALLY HORTON, A LOCAL TALENT FROM KENDALL, IS ONE OF THE ARTISTS WHOSE WORK WILL BE SHOWCASED …

i Sally. What's your association technique as an artist? with the Greater Port Macquarie I love to challenge my techniques. I work area? usually on large scale canvasses, in oils, and My partner and I fell in love with my subjects are generally landscapes or of the the Hastings area, and a few years ago built our natural world … Sometimes almost realism, but home and studio near Kendall. often, abstract/surreal. Briefly describe your background You're one of the contributing artists as an artist ... in the Northern Exposure 4 As a small child, I drew exhibition, to be held at on anything available. the Glasshouse Regional My father used to split Gallery. Please tell us a One has to give time to the open used envelopes, little about the work/s hat is as there was never you've submitted for painting to see w cult ffi there, and it is di e is enough paper around this exhibition... er to descri be as th for drawing on. Imagine is a very soft ity a dreamlike qual st Much later, when I work. One has to give , ju - not quite here was living in England, time to the painting to suggested.” I needed to support see what is there, and it is myself and my two difficult to describe as there children. I drove a truck is a dreamlike quality - not quite around London, collecting here, just suggested. wonderful old doors in skips to paint Where can readers view more of on. your work or find out more about you? My botanical paintings on these doors I am hoping to have my new website up very and furniture became very sought after, and soon. I then worked for some of London’s top Interior Thanks Sally. Interview by Jo Atkins. designers. When I returned to live in Australia, I worked the plug! on large scale interiors in various cities here and See Northern Exposure 4 at the then in Asia. The Sultan of Brunei has many of Glasshouse Regional Gallery in Port my paintings in his home in Singapore. Macquarie from 13 May to 3 July. After a serious illness, I stopped commission There’s also an Artist Toolbox Forum on work to concentrate on developing my painting, May 28, 11am, if you’re interested in and this path, together with teaching others a developing your skill as an artist. Cost: love of drawing and the excitement of painting, $15 adult; $12 member. To register, email: has seen me living now in Kendall. info@glasshouse.org.au How would you describe your style/

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focusinterview.

F U S

I O N

10 YEARS AGO FUSION 7 OPENED ITS DOORS, WITH LINDSAY AND FREA AT THE HELM. THEY HAVE SINCE CONTINUED TO DELIVER DISHES THAT EXCITE AND SATISFY ITS PATRONS.

ongratulations, and happy 10th birthday for the restaurant! When you first started out, did you ever imagine you would be where you are today with FUSION 7? Ten years ago I had a two year plan, and somehow it’s ended up 10 years! It was a bit tough at the start, but a few years in the ball started rolling, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. There has been a lot of hard work during this time, not just by me, but the whole team. All the staff, both past and present, have contributed to make Fusion 7 what it is today, and a big thank you must go out to them. A special thanks must go to long serving team members James in the kitchen and Timmy out the front for their continued support, and of course Frea, for putting up with me! And we certainly wouldn’t have survived 10 years without all the fantastic support of our customers, both locals and tourists. Its great to see all our regular smilers dine with us time and

time again. How have you maintained the high standard that you produce at Fusion 7? I think consistency is the key. People come to Fusion 7 expecting high quality meals, so we place great pressure on being able to deliver dishes that not only excite, but also satisfy. Utilising the fabulous fresh produce around the area and working hard with our suppliers ensures the food we receive is of a high standard. We offer a quite relaxed dining experience, as I’ve always wanted people to feel they are dining at my house, and I think in a round-about way we achieve that. What have been some of your greatest memories about your restaurant? There are so many memories after 10 years! We have won a few awards along the way, most notably a chef’s hat in the 2016 Australian Good Food Guide, but I’d have to say just the people we have met along the way and the friendships that have formed with customers, staff and suppliers

is the most satisfying part of all. Seeing smiles walking out the door after dining with us is the biggest highlight. Sometimes when the restaurant is full of laughter and good times, I take a moment and just enjoy the noise and think, “Wow, listen to what we have achieved!” What are your plans for the restaurant in the coming years? I guess we will just keep doing what we do. Our menu will keep evolving, testing the limits of combination! We will also hopefully be holding some more degustation dinners with wine and beer makers from around the area and further afield. It’s always fun doing special nights like those. You have your degustation on the 19th May. Can you tell us what we can expect and how our readers can secure a table? We are bringing back some of the favourites from the last 10 years in a five course tasting menu. There will be 10 dishes to choose from.

We are trying to pick out a few, but would love to hear from our customers to find out their top memories. If you follow us on Facebook, just post your favourite on our page! The five course dinner is $95/person, and we will be offering matching wines for $35/person.To book, just give the restaurant a call on 6584 1171. What advice would you give young chefs who are just starting out and one day hope to be where you are today? Learning to cook is a lot of hard work, but if you put your head down, work hard and listen to not only your head chef, but everyone in your kitchen, you can learn a great deal and have plenty of fun doing it. Most chefs have worked in many different kitchens and learn to do things differently, so if you take a little bit from everyone, you can find out which way you like to do things. And remember, as my first boss told me, “You are only as good as the last meal you sent out”! Thanks Lindsay.

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Nicolas Philip

With a multicultural background and a passion for fine food, chef

Nicolas Philip is also inspired by teaching people of all ages how to cook! You can see Nick at the St Thomas’ soup kitchen on a regular basis, or register for one of his cooking classes … i Nick. What's your background? I was born in Switzerland in the very picturesque town of Vevey, on the north shore of Lake Geneva. My mother is Swiss, but my dad is French and because I became an Australian citizen in 2014, I am now the proud owner of three citizenships! I first discovered Port Macquarie while travelling around Australia as a backpacker 16 years ago and loved it so much, that I have been coming back ever since. After spending five years in Sydney with my wife, we decided that it was time to experience something different. In 2014 we took the decision to move here with our two year old son, and haven't looked back since. My wife, Magalie, who is French, is now working as the French teacher for the Alliance Française in Port Macquarie. Where did you train as a chef? Switzerland is renowned for having some of the best hospitality schools in the world. I was very lucky to do my apprenticeship in a particularly good Swiss hotel with brilliant chefs and trainers. I won the first prize at the final examination in 1999, which opened up a spot for me to compete for the best Swiss apprentice chef of the year, but I was so keen to travel to Australia, I took the first plane instead! You've been involved with St Thomas Anglican Church's "soup kitchen" in recent times. How were you introduced to this service, and what volunteer roles have you taken on board with this organisation? I found out about the St Thomas soup kitchen in mid-2015. I really wanted to give something back to the community and thought I should probably stick to something that I am good at. I am a pretty poor swimmer and couldn't picture 32 greater port macquarie focus.

myself as a Surf Life Saver! make beautiful, tasty meals for the participants I found out about St Thomas’ soup kitchen and their families. By teaching people to start and just walked in one day to see if they needed cooking for themselves and equipping them with a hand. They took me in, and I have been some simple skills and knowledge, it will hopehelping there ever since. It's great to see so fully inspire them and empower changes in many volunteers giving their time for the way they and their families eat, such a worthy cause. I am now and how they think about food. helping to prepare around Regarding the kids’ classes, 80 healthy and nutritious the dominant messages Now I try to meals most Wednesdays we’re getting nowadays organise kids’ with the other volunabout food are all about ery classes during ev t teers, and I try to add dieting and which foods bu school holidays, my “French touch” to are bad for us. They e the rest of the tim the menu! are very negative and to en classes are op ce en ri You've also started up boring messages and, pe ex anyone; no ” some cooking classes as far as children are y. ar ss is nece for locals. Where do concerned, they go in one you been offering these ear and out the other. They classes? don't really change the way Last year I approached the children eat. The cooking classes Anglican Church with the idea of providing are about promoting pleasure through cooking classes using their facilities, and they flavour and texture, and encourage children approved. The idea was to offer affordable to talk and think about food in ways that employ “hands on” classes where people would learn all the senses. basic skills and knowledge that they will be able What other local organisations have you to use every day for the rest of their life. lent your cooking skills to recently? I started the kids’ classes during the summer During the last school holidays, I did two pasta school holidays and was amazed by the positive workshops for the kids in Port Central, where response. Now I try to organise kids’ classes they got to colour their pasta dough with differduring every school holidays, but the rest of the ent natural ingredients. Port Central is getting a time classes are open to anyone; no experience pop-up kitchen custom-made for their activity is necessary. The minimum age requirement is 8 hub and hopefully we will soon have classes on a years old, but I don't have any upper limit! weekly basis. What do you aim to teach anyone who I also recently had a class with a group of attends your classes? people from the Mid North Coast Brain Injury The objective of the cooking classes is to Rehabilitation Service and had some very positive provide a set of skills and knowledge to people feedback. We are trying to organise a cooking who are not familiar with cooking fresh and group and hopefully make it a regular event. healthy food. The classes provide fundamental What do you most love about cooking? food education and a little bit of mentoring on In 2010, UNESCO added French cuisine to the how to shop, how to save money and how to list of cultural objects that are called “intan-

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gible cultural heritage”. The long history of French gastronomy leading up to this honour is influenced not only by centuries of French kings and queens, but also surrounding and faraway cultures. I really enjoy finding anecdotes about recipes and products while preparing my classes and sharing them with the students. Another aspect I really enjoy is explaining the science behind the food. The way we are cooking has evolved a lot in the last 30 years; chefs are not just following recipes anymore. They want to understand what is happening and how we can use that knowledge to be more efficient. You can cook better if you do understand what is going on. Understanding what is happening on a molecular level when you are making a mayonnaise can help you to never fail one again! What are your dreams/goals? I would love to have access to a professional kitchen so I could run classes more often! In my opinion, there is a real need for more food education and basic food skills in the community. With the takeaways and pre-prepared food available, we now live in a world where it is possible to avoid cooking regularly, or at all, regardless of our income or lifestyle. It is an issue, as we are losing control of what we are actually eating and creating problems like obesity and diet-related diseases. Learning how to cook and understanding where the food comes from can educate, empower and inspire people to love and enjoy good food. Where can people find out more about you, or register for one of you classes? They can check the website: www.bonapp. yolasite.com, go on the Facebook page www. Facebook.com/nickscookingclasses or they can contact me directly by email: nickscookingclass@ gmail.com or on my mobile 0406 664 586. Thanks Nick. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Meet sarah and nathan Sarah and I purchased Bonny Hills Garden Café 18 months ago. We are both qualified chefs who own and operate the café. We are highly passionate and enthusiastic, which reflects in our business. We employ local people who are equally passionate about our café. Our qualified baristas love making quality fresh coffee, with customer service to match. Sarah studied and completed her trade in Sydney and has been a chef for 21 years. I (Nathan) completed my studies and trade in Port Macquarie, and have been a chef for 17 years. My passion is for all things savoury, and combined with Sarah’s talent for sweets, we are a great combination. When our valued customers visit our café, they can expect impeccable service, fresh local produce, absolutely perfectly maintained gardens to walk through down to our beautiful café.

We use locally sourced coffee from Holy Goat and fresh loose leaf potted tea from World ParTea. We produce freshly brewed iced teas, fresh fruit frappes and smoothies. We offer seasonal menus for breakfast and lunch, homemade scones for morning or afternoon tea and a wide variety of homemade cakes and gluten free goodies. We have recently renovated, which brings a new relaxed vibe and a new seasonal menu to tempt any taste buds. Our aim is to continue with our personalised excellent cutomer service, always changing seasonal menus and continuing to meet our terrific and supportive customers. We look forward to showcasing our new “All ORGANIC JUICE BAR”, which is coming shortly, as we know it will complement our unique café and fit well with our fresh produce and seasonal menu.

greater port macquarie focus. 33

Are you a Baby boomer? Are you a Baby Boomer? Born after WWII and before Woodstock? Don’t miss Baby Boomers Blast From The Past! Club North Haven, Saturday 25th June from 6pm. It’s comedy - it’s music - it’s the internationally acclaimed ultimate Baby Boomer generation experience featured on TV shows including 60 Minutes. “That was fantastic” - Charles Wooley. Now hostessed by VIP role model “Mrs Browne”, incredible performers serve you all the music you grew up with in a feast of laughter. You won’t believe your ears or your eyes! All those voices really are LIVE! No star is sacred! Baby Boomer icons featured and lampooned vary thanks to number one comedy singing impersonator, Kevin A. Legend. (Rod Stewart, Elvis Presley, Pavarotti, Bee Gees, Dean Martin, John Lennon, Mick

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Jagger, Meatloaf, Sir Sean Connery and a host of others). The legendary ladies can include Kate Bush, Dolly Parton, Grace Slick, Chrissie Hynde, Cher, Dusty Springfield, Maria Callas plus more. Baby Boomers Blast From The Past has been described internationally as what would happen if science could combine Mrs Brown, Barry Humphries, Kenny Everett, Danny Gans and Christina Bianco. Their performances are enjoyed by corporations to royal families around the world and as one critic noted, “This is no ‘tribute’ show. This is pure entertainment at its satirical best, now unleashed on the public”. Tickets are on sale now at Club North Haven or online https://www.trybooking. com/193394 Come along for the show only, or contact the club and book in for the full experience with dinner and a two course meal.

Wauchope Country club Exciting Times at Wauchope Country Club.

mum feel properly spoilt!

There’s never been a better time to be a member at Wauchope Country Club. Our new Head Chef, Michael Schubert, is transforming our restaurant, and you can now enjoy a delicious selection of new dishes as well as lots of old favourites, still at great value for money and with even bigger discounts for members. Families are always welcome; come and enjoy our new kids’ area and receive a free drink and soft serve ice cream with every kids’ meal.

Foxtel is now screening at the club, and there are lots of comfy spots to watch all the sport you can handle, with every game of NRL, AFL and Super Rugby live and ad free on our big screens! We are also really excited to announce that our new, extensive and up to date TAB facilities are just weeks away …

Mother’s Day will be a special day at the club. Michael will be creating an amazing Table D ‘Hote lunch menu: two courses, with four mains and four desserts to choose from, and a complimentary glass of bubbles will make

There are more exciting promotions, giveaways and events than ever before, including raffles, members’ draws, putt for dough, spin to win and more. Happy hours start at 3:30pm daily, and don’t forget you can play golf and bowls seven days a week. Join us now and get two months’ free membership. Wauchope Country Club really is fun for everyone!

Kate WOOD-FOYE

from Rydges Port Macquarie and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Left. L-R Astra O’Brien, Kristina Clark, Beka Jay & Gabriella Staunton at Mad Hatters High Tea

Right. Monique Suitor and family celebrating at Zebu

Below. Dana and Laura Malligan, Kylie and Mark Lyons celebrating Laura’s 21st

Photo Credit Fab Photos

Left. Laura Threlfall, Brooke Smith and Hannah Reed celebrating Monique’s fab and 40 bash.

SOCIAL/SCENE

Above. Gabriella Staunton at the Mad Hatters High Tea at Sails

AMONGST THE CRAZINESS OF IT ALL, THIS TECHNOLOGICAL WORLD OF MODERN MADNESS, DEADLINES, WORKLOADS AND FAMILY LIFE - TRYING NOT TO GET SWALLOWED UP AND SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF CAN BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF THEM ALL. LEARNING TO CHERISH EVERY MOMENT AND TREASURE EACH SMALL THING REALLY IS LIFE’S GREAT JOURNEY ...

ctually appreciating the simple things in each of us and in every day can often be lost in the hustle. This month has taught me that every moment is precious - we have had great celebration and great sadness - I have come to witness that Port Macquarie is a special community who come together and lift each other up when we are at our lowest of lows and celebrate with each other when times are good. Perspective is often served to us when we least expect it or want it, reminding us that our time here is too ludicrously short to sweat the silly small stuff and not celebrate living itself. One such celebration was the 21st birthday of Laura Malligan, who brought in this special milestone with family and friends at Zebu in April. Our self-nominated adopted god daughters, Laura and her sister Dana, are our Port Macquarie family, and we couldn’t have been happier to toast this occasion with these gorgeous girls and beautiful mum Kylie and husband Mark. Guests enjoyed canapes and scrummy Thai noodle boxes followed by a gorgeous chocolate mud cake with frangipanis and some special speeches by Laura, good friend Leonie and of course, Mum Kylie. Congrats, Laura - wishing fabulous new things ahead for you this year! Guests travelled from far and wide, from

Best Kept Secrets

Young, Grafton, Caloundra, Sydney and Bathurst to celebrate the fabulous and forty soiree for gorgeous birthday girl Monique Suitor, who toasted the occasion with a cracking cocktail party for 65 family and friends at Zebu in April. Special guests included Nicky and Damian Lewis, Ali and Rob Bear, Linvana and Danny Hanlon, Alisa and Matt Ross, Toni and Chris Wright, Andrea and Michael Huxley, Kelly and Scott Strahorn, Gayleen and Damien Burley, Sam and Laurence Barlow, Elaine and Matt Hempsell and Beth May and Scott Jones. Guests enjoyed a range of scrummy canapes from Exec Chef Adam Tait and the team, followed by a divine dessert in the form of a signature birthday cake made by none other than Lance at Bittersweet (surely this man could turn Sarah Wilson the anti-sweet and Pete Evans the Paleo back onto sugar with his creations!) Super special guests and possibly the biggest VIPs were Monique’s beautiful boys, Lachlan, Tobey and Jesse, who were all their to support their beautiful mum with a precious speech written and delivered in front of the party by 13 year old son Lachlan. Happy birthday Monique - a fitting night for a special lady - wishing you a spectacular year ahead! Another local lovely, Noleen Turner, celebrated a special birthday with a dozen gal pals at an afternoon High Tea also at Zebu, with guests

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I LY

ell us about yourself and your family ... My name is Deb O’Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that “home” was a pretty awesome place and made the decision to move back. I would describe myself as a unique blend of quirky and earthy, and I believe Wayward Jerseys Farmstay reflects that. Wayward Jerseys would not be, without the love and support of my husband, Lauri Pulkkinen. Lauri is the type of man who not only supports his wife to follow her crazy dreams, but also says, “Fine, you want to buy a milking cow … Well, let me build you a dairy”. We also have three beautiful little girls, ranging in ages from six to eleven, who love their way of life and love sharing it with other people. I have always loved animals and am passionate about the New England area. I truly believe I have the best job in the world! What prompted the beginning of Wayward Jerseys? The name “The Home for Wayward Jerseys” (shortened to Wayward Jerseys for convenience) was initially a term that my husband jokingly used to describe my penchant for Jersey cows. It also alludes to what we see as their unique personalities. Simply, we wanted to share with

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

others what we consider to be fortunate to Pop as well. I find our guests often come from have. At Wayward Jerseys we believe in the either Sydney or Brisbane, or both in a lot of philosophies of free range kids, natural produce cases, as it is a good place to meet in between and being surrounded by lots of animals, and (we are exactly half way between Sydney and we wanted to give people the opportunity to Brisbane). We also get a lot of overseas guests experience this too. who are interested in getting off the beaten What can visitors experience at track and seeing what Australia Wayward Jerseys? is like outside the cities. Basically, a visit to Wayward As to what “type” of Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favourite things is being a petting zoo … On pleasant surprise child at introduced to a stay steroids! We are extremely has been how nice a the beginning of interactive, so expect to all our visitors down who has their head get up close and personal have been - kids their and focused on to the animals. We are and adults alike. game, and favourite video stay famous for our “morning I have thought a by the end of their tell you routine”, which includes lot about why this they couldn’t even device learning how to milk one is, and this is what where their gaming of our Jersey cows, feeding I have come up with. is. ” our baby animals and collecting The types of people eggs. For our day tour people, who visit a Farmstay are added to this is a country style, home the types of people that are cooked morning tea and marshmallows to engaged with their children and toast on the fire. Our overnighters get all of this family, interested in how others live, complimentary to their stay, as well as other love animals and they’re prepared to try inclusions such as an optional ghost tour at something new. All in all, this makes for pretty night. amazing people, on the whole. What type of demographic visit the farm? Tell us about some of the reactions you get I must say the majority of our visitors are from visitors? families with children. We accommodate up to “Milk comes from where?” Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

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comes from a supermarket, and a wonderful part of my job is educating them otherwise. Our guests are a pretty open minded lot and even if incredulous at the beginning, it is not long before they get into the spirit of things and are milking cows like a professional. Actually, one of my favourite things is being introduced to a child at the beginning of a stay who has their head down and focused on their favourite video game, and by the end of their stay they couldn’t even tell you where their gaming device is. Do you think locals like us take for granted what’s in our own back yard in regards to primary produce? Yes and no. Yes, because I think we are truly spoilt here in regards to our primary produce. But just because we are spoilt, doesn’t mean that most people don’t know they are on a good thing by living here. It’s like this area is a wonderful secret, and all us locals are in on it. There is a lot of buzz around local food and produce at the moment - justifiably so - and there are also a lot of amazing and dynamic people starting to really do some incredible things. I would have to say that it is pretty exciting times here in New England. Plans for the future? Yes, yes and yes. At the moment my lips are sealed, but think tourism and think local produce, and watch this space! Thanks Deb. f

ONLINE FLIP BOOK 36 greater port macquarie focus.

including the gorgeous Christine Sheen, Jenna Coombes, Tracey Pascoe and Belinda Hadfield, to name but a few of the gal pals on hand to toast Noleen’s special day. The ladies enjoyed high tea towers filled to the brim with treats and plenty of sparkles and fun and a decadent surprise birthday cake to top off the afternoon. Happy birthday, Noleen! High Teas are clearly on trend, with a huge turnout for the Sails Resort Mad Hatters High Tea Party - 100 guests were on hand to celebrate an afternoon for the ladies and raise awareness for children’s charity Bravehearts. Special thanks to the boundless energy and talent of Carole Beros of Le Dãin Designs - major partner and fashion director for the millinery and fine jewellery. Guests were treated to a showcase of stunning hats and fascinators from top milliners across the country, with showstoppers from local designer Carol Watson of The Hat Room, who continues to amaze and delight with her classically cool designs. Ridiculously clever Jeremy Bate of Creative Vibe set the scene with amazing Alice in Wonderland inspired props and theming, bringing to life the wacky and whimsical afternoon. Thanks to gorgeous models Astra O’Brien, Kristina Clark, Beka Jay and Gabriella Staunton of Australia’s Next Top Model fame for strutting the delicious designs on the catwalk, with hair design by the talented

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG The mini-mags are a compilation of our best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download... Now Online + Free

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Danielle Herdegen of D Hair. Andy and Robyn Blackmore of Suavé provided the soundtrack to the afternoon of teapot cocktails and fun, with Karen Flood and the Sails Resort chefs turning out some deliciously wacky and wonderful Mad Hatter treats. Phil, Lauren and Dylan kept the ladies happily bubbled and cocktailed throughout the afternoon, ensuring that nobody slipped down a rabbit hole whilst playing croquet on the waterfront lawns. Cheers to bubbles and fun! So in the spirit of cherishing the small things in life this month, I recently became an official soccer mum, along with a dozen other proud parents, as we watched our little boys run onto the field in their first real game with their teeny fellow team mates ... Sure, their shirts were so long they almost looked like dresses, and yep … They stopped to watch a few low flying planes as they zoomed overhead and may have occasionally ran the wrong way and very nearly scored a few wayward home goals - but what an awesome thing to see their little faces as they worked as busy team getting the job done. Super special to have a legion of proud parents and grandparents looking on as part of the sideline paparazzi. Loving and looking forward to more of the simple things. Kate xxx

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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THERE’S A NEW BAND IN TOWN

CONVEX DRAWS ITS INSPIRATION FROM MELODIC AND HARD ROCK, METALCORE AND HARDCORE, AND THEIR UNIQUE SOUND HAS ALREADY ATTRACTED AIRPLAY ON TRIPLE J. THE GUYS HAVE JUST RELEASED THEIR DEBUT EP, LAST MAN STANDING, WHICH THEY DESCRIBE AS A TALE OF STRUGGLE AND REBIRTH … e Recently we wer J’s le aired on Trip r the host Ra ‘The cket’ af te usic on m r discovered ou . He ed th ar ne Triple J U th y at he went as far to sa from us , gs expects big thin m bl ed by and we were hu ” n. io pt this rece

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ntroduce us to Convex - who are the band's members, and what instruments do they play? We’re a melodic metalcore band from Port Macquarie. Our members are Chris Dunn on vocals, Nigel Barnes on guitars and Andrew Morrow, also on guitars. We’re currently seeking dedicated, passionate musicians to become our bass player and drummer. How was Convex formed - how did you get together as a band? All three of us have been passionate about music our whole lives. We started jamming around two years ago and have recently made the leap into a more professional direction and found our sound. Andrew: I’ve played guitar since I was thirteen and after being in a few garage bands in my teenage years, I was lucky enough to have opportunity to form a more serious project. Nigel: I’ve always been a passionate fan of music, especially the local scene over the years. I’m stoked to finally be a part of my own project, creating the music I enjoy with some close mates. Chris: I’ve grown up my whole life loving music in a family that has always encouraged me to chase my interests. Andrew and I started off with punk roots and grew to love the metal scene. Describe the band's sound … We draw influence from a number of genres, including metalcore, hardcore, melodic and hard rock. We certainly don’t fit into any one genre. Having musical influences from bands like Parkway Drive, Architects and as far back as Black Sabbath, it’s allowed us to create something we feel is entirely unique.

You've recently released your first EP, Last Man Standing. Tell us about the inspiration behind some of the tracks, and describe the process of putting this EP together … We view Last Man Standing as a journey; it’s an EP of struggle and rebirth. The first track, Harbinger, represents a coming crisis. This is followed by Survive, the story of fighting to overcome. The third track, Diurnus, is about building confidence and strengthening yourself. The final track, LMS, is a celebration of making it through and being ready to take on the world. We would hope that people can relate, with all of us facing our own demons, that our message is one of the human condition. We’d be honoured if people took something more from our EP, but in the least that they enjoyed the music. What recognition/airplay have you received so far? Recently we were aired on triple j’s The Racket after the host discovered our music on triple j Unearthed. He went as far to say that he expects big things from us, and we were humbled by this reception. At the time of going to print with this interview, we were up to #9 on the triple j Unearthed Metal Charts. Unearthed have also requested us to record a 30 second artist minibio to be played alongside our music, which is now officially on regular rotation on triple j Unearthed radio. We’ve had over nine hundred plays of the EP since it’s gone online. How would you describe the hardcore/metal

music vibe locally at the moment ... Anything noteworthy happening? Over the past few years, the scene has been pretty quiet. During the mid 2000s the scene was picking up and going large with bands like Sulo, Pink Stick and Killcare Beach. Towards the end of the 2000s and early 2010s, the scene picked up once more after a quiet period, with bands like Abel Tasman and Hands Of Ruin getting shows up and going again. After yet another dormant period, bands like Solemnly Swear, Diamond Construct, Within Arms Reach and Last Days Here have got the Mid North Coast metal scene happening again. There’s an upcoming show literally entitled “The Return of the Scene” coming up in May [Port Youth Hub, 28th May at 6pm]. What is Convex's credo or motto? At the end of the day, none of us could picture life without music; it’s such a big part of who we are. It’s a natural extension of who we are as mates. If we can make music that people can enjoy while we hang out, that’s ticking an item off the bucket list. Where can readers download your music or come to listen to you play? You can check us out on Facebook, Bandcamp and Unearthed. (Hopefully on the radio again soon ha ha.) Once we’ve completed our line up, we intend to play shows as soon as possible. If anyone’s interested in applying for the band, you can contact us via Facebook or email (convex@musician.org) Thanks guys. Interview by Jo Atkins. Photo by Dillon Gibbs. greater port macquarie focus. 37

Our expertise and backgrounds in varied sectors of the hospitality industry have converged to power the new Quay Lime Bar & Grill complex, offering everything from drinks on the deck, to fine dining in our waterfront restaurant, or the perfect venue for your next special occasion. Travis has spent eight years as Licensee and Restaurant Manager in Sydney his training as head chef, front of house manager, and accredited food safety ensures we uphold the highest standard in service and quality throughout. Travis manages the restaurant and oversees the operation to ensure your experience is unforgettable. Port Macquarie born and bred, Jonathan comes to the restaurant business after 20 years running corporate events. Jonathan works together with Travis and our head chef to customise a food and beverage menu to your specific catering requirements and create that signature experience to remember.

Pancakes with cinnamon butter, pumpkin jam and maple syrup

HEAD CHEF KERRIE Our new head chef Kerrie Capper started her apprenticeship in a Greek restaurant in Cronulla, has worked throughout Sydney in cafes and bars, and most recently spent five years as chef at NSW Parliament House working across all areas of the kitchen, with two of those years assigned as the dessert chef.

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Crispy skin chicken breast with grilled polenta, fresh beans and peperonata sauce

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CELEBRATE Our new QL Terrace Bar offers the perfect venue for birthdays, engagement parties, or the ultimate one stop intimate wedding venue. Hold your ceremony on the terrace overlooking the marina before hosting your guests in our QL Terrace Bar while you have your waterfront photography, then transition to our restaurant to treat your guests to a fine dining experience and celebrate your special day. We also cater to corporate events, either

Ocean Treasure; Duo of oysters, school prawns, smoked salmon, salt & pepper squid, char grilled barramundi served with beer battered chips and salad

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cocktail or seminar style, with dedicated team members assigned to service your function.

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focusinterview.

COLE L I O N E L

Big Band Blast turns up the Motown Funk Lionel is the son of legendary Grammy nominated signer/pianist Freddy Cole,

the nephew of the late, great Nat King Cole and the cousin of multiple Grammy award winner Natalie Cole.

ionel, you’ve had an incredible music career so far. What have been the highlights? One of my proudest moments was arranging the Star Spangled Banner for Mariah Carey and the Boston Pops Orchestra for the 2002 Superbowl following 9/11. It was an amazing experience to be able to do something that really touched so many people - it was watched and heard by 85 million people in the USA alone. I’m lucky that I’ve had the rare opportunity to meet so many cool people - Randy Jackson, Robert Downey Jr, Bruce Willis, Stevie Wonder, and more. You’ve lived in Sydney since 2010. What’s your favourite music venue? Sydney is so full of amazing places to play and listen to live music. I’m really into Venue 505 in Surry Hills, which is a great supporter of internationally renowned artists and local musicians. Some of my other favourites are The Bourbon and the White Horse Hotel. How does the Australian music scene differ from your American roots? Around the world there are a shrinking number of venues featuring live, quality music. But here in Australia, the rock pub mentality is going strong and plenty of people head out on a Saturday night to see a band give it their best. Chicago is my favourite American city. But then I hit Sydney. Wow - beaches like Hawaii, a city like San Fransicso, the attitude of LA, and all the power of the Asia Pacific. The Sydney Conservatorium of Music is pumping out some great young musicians, and this is a country that really supports the arts. It’s great to be a

40 greater port macquarie focus.

part of it and contribute winning or losing; it’s about how John Morrison where I can. you connect with people. I can’t e and I ar How old were think of a better platform for of t lis t se a g compilin d you when you young creatives to stand up and an ul so B, R& killer s ne tu first picked up an claim who they are. nk Fu n ow Mot y up instrument, and What are you listening to right to get everybod wait!” what was it? now? dancing. I can’ t My mum says before There’s so much great music out I could walk or talk, there. On my playlist right now is Boy shy of one year old, I was & Bear, Leon Bridges, Bill Evans and banging away on the piano. Kendrick Lamar. I’m also loving my Dad’s And it wasn’t long before I picked new album, He Was The King, a tribute to his up some drumsticks. brother, Nat. You grew up as part of a musical And for the past year I’ve had my head buried in family. Did you ever consider doing original tracks from my new record - Outside In anything else, or was music always your which should be out by Christmas. passion? What’s coming up next for you? I’ve done quite a few things over the years, but I’m super stoked to be heading up to Port I’ve never not done music. Macquarie for the Big Band Blast in May! I was born in New York City, and my first I also work as a guest entertainer on cruise ships professional gig as an actor was at the age of and have just done 30 trips in the last 15 months six, and I co-hosted my first TV show aged 12. I travelling to Tokyo, Mumbai and right across the had a stint programming computers for the State South Pacific. It’s an amazing journey, and I get to Department of Georgia, and then went on to work play for crowds of 1,500 people in the onboard as a television producer, advertising copywriter, theatres. music composer and editor, radio DJ, singer/ So I’m on ships until June, then doing the 4th July songwriter, band leader and vocalist. for the US Consulate, before I head to the US to I’ve always felt that anything I can dream of I can spend some time with my kids and writing partners. be a part of. You’ll be headlining the Motown Funk free Are shows like The Voice a good platform to concert in Port Macquarie on Saturday 28 May launch a career in the music industry? with the 3B Horns. What have you got in store Being on The Voice in 2014 and working with for us? Ricky Martin and Kylie Minogue was an awesome John Morrison and I are compiling a set list of experience. killer R&B, soul and Motown Funk tunes to get It provides amazing publicity to showcase your everybody up dancing. I can’t wait! wares to a broad audience. The Voice isn’t about Thanks Lionel.

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THE BEST OF THE eagles The Eagles are one of the world’s best-selling bands of all time, having sold more than 150 million records worldwide. With six Grammy Awards, six number one albums and five number one singles, they are one of the most successful bands of all time. The Best of the Eagles is a concert production that will take you on a journey through the band’s staggering catalogue of hits. Part I - Hotel California Celebrating 40 years since the release of the iconic album Hotel California, part one will see the classic album performed in its entirety. The album featured the hit singles Hotel California, New Kid in Town and Life in the Fast Lane. Hotel California was the fifth studio album and became their biggest studio album, selling over 32 million copies worldwide. Hotel California (the single) ranked number 49 on the Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time”. Part II - The Greatest Hits The second part of the show will conjure up the Eagles’ rock classics, including Take it Easy, Take It to the Limit, Desperado, Heartache Tonight, Tequila Sunrise, Best of My Love and so many more. Timeless songs that are all part of the 20th Century musical landscape. The Best of the Eagles is a show not to be missed by fans of the band, young and old alike.

Saturday 28th May Glasshouse - Port Macquarie www.glasshouse.org.au / 02 6581 8888 www.thebestoftheeagles.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 41

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Mind fullness in MILLION PawsWalk SUNDAY 15TH MAY Walk to fight animal cruelty! On Sunday 15th May, the 23rd RSPCA Million Paws Walk will be taking place at Oxley Oval, Port Macquarie. Gates open at 8:45am, with the official start of the walk by Lisa Intemann, Deputy Mayor, at 9:45am. Local RSPCA Volunteer Branch president Jackianne Wright and secretary Suzanne Stringer tell us more about the event and invite you to show your SUPpawt for thefundraiser.

hy is the Million Paws Walk an important fundraising initiative for the RSPCA? The Million Paws Walk is an Australia-wide event which not only unites animal lovers in a common cause, but also raises much needed funds to help fund all animal welfare issues, including the Inspectorate. Funds raised in our area are used exclusively to help heal and re-home abandoned animals in the Port MacquarieHastings area. Why does the RSPCA need our help? Apart from a very small grant from Government which only partially funds the Inspectorate, RSPCA activities are entirely funded by generous donations and bequests from the public. In recent years, funds raised have helped modernise part of our local shelter, as well as funding three major programmes where the Volunteer Branch have paid for the desexing and microchipping of over 375 animals. Our local branch also helps fund programmes for subsidised and last litter desexing, emergency veterinary treatment, and medical or surgical treatment for RSPCA animals who have found their furever home through the local shelter. What resources are used to help thousands of neglected, injured and abused animals every year? RSPCA's 10 shelters throughout NSW help more than 38,000 injured, neglected, sick, surrendered and unwanted animals every year. In addition, we have 32 inspectors in NSW who investigate more than 12,000 complaints of cruelty or neglect every year. Why is the Million Paws Walk a fantastic day out for all pooches and their humans? With the beautiful setting of Oxley Oval, we 42 greater port macquarie focus.

will also have the New Notes Band playing for festive flavour. In addition to the opportunity to mingle with like minded animal lovers, we offer a sausage sizzle (for humans as well as dogs), Peak barista coffee, great cakes and slices will be available, as well as a home-made lemonade stand, games for the children and prizes for the pooches, dog grooming facilities, RSPCA merchandise and beautiful bespoke dog coats for sale, and stalls/information booths manned by Council Rangers and various local veterinary practices, including East Port, Dr Paws and Greencross. Australian Pet Cremations will also be offering compassionate advice on your pet's final journey. We should emphasise MPW is for humans and DOGS ONLY; no other pets please. You don't even need a dog to attend - we've had "invisible" dogs before! - so come along to support a great cause. If you haven't attended before, here are some guidelines: dogs must be on a leash; no "in-season" dogs; feed a light breakfast, as some dogs may become over-excited; bring a poop bag! How can people register online and start fundraising? You can register online at www.rspcansw. org.au - just look for the link to Million Paws Walk. You can also create a fundraising page and tell all your friends and colleagues. Alternatively, you can register on the day by being at Oxley Oval at 8:45am. What other events are held throughout the year to raise funds for the RSPCA? The Port Macquarie Volunteer Branch raises funds by holding regular seasonal raffles (especially Easter and Christmas) and, of course, runs the Opportunity Shop at 15 Short Street. There is also Cup Cake Day held in August every year. Thanks Jackianne and Suzanne.

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Mindfulness In May Peace Walk - Saturday 14th May 2016. We will meet at 8:30am, Shelly Beach car park, and we will walk mindfully, in silence, to Miners Beach, where we will make our wishes for peace in the sand for our homes and communities.

ll participants will be invited to write, sketch, take photos of their experience and thoughts on peace during the walk, and we will share them here in this Facebook group. If you can’t make it to the walk - can you arrange to do one near you ... walking for approximately 20-30 minutes, then pausing to make your mark somewhere re: your wishes for peace and record it through writing, sketching or photos to share. Mindful walking is where we walk in silence, focusing on what we can see, what we can hear and on what we can

feel under our feet. Often after 15 minutes being focused on the present moment, it is possible to feel an inner sense of peace and wellbeing. If we walk reflecting silently on peace, then this feeling will grow ... As Thich Nhat Hanh said, “To have peace in the world, we must first have peace within ourselves”. This walk is facilitated by Sara Phillips from Mindfulness & Life Coaching, a life coach and mindfulness facilitator. For more info: www.mindfulnessandlifecoaching.com Sara Phillips - Life Coach & Parent Educator, Tues, Wed and Thurs: 0458 231 968.

Macular Disease Awareness Week 22 - 28 May 2016. 1.2 million¹ Australians over 50 are affected by macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is Australia’s leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness. Over 50% of all vision loss and blindness is due to macular degeneration.

acular degeneration is a chronic disease requiring early detection and diagnosis, so testing is essential. In Macular Degeneration Awareness Week, the Foundation is urging all Australians over 50 to have an eye test and ensure their macula is checked. Risk factors for macular degeneration include age, smoking, and those with a direct family history resulting in a higher risk of developing the disease. “Whilst general awareness of macular disease has increased over recent years, more than 80%² of Australians over 50 are unaware of the symptoms of macular degeneration,” says Julie Heraghty, Macular Disease Foundation’s CEO. Symptoms of macular degeneration may include one or more of the following (4Ds): • Difficulty with reading or any other activity with fine vision • Distortion where straight lines appear wavy or

bent • Distinguishing faces becomes a problem • Dark patches or empty spaces appear in the centre of your vision. Along with having an eye test and macula check, Australians over 50 should incorporate the good eye health practices of diet and lifestyle into their everyday health routines. Eat dark green leafy vegetables, fresh fruit and fish. Quitting smoking is also critical, as smoking can lead to blindness. For information and advice about macular degeneration, contact the Foundation on 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au • Eyes on the future - “A clear outlook on age-related macular degeneration”. Report by Deloitte Access Economics & Macular Degeneration Foundation, 2011 • Consumer survey conducted by Galaxy Research from 18 - 20 March 2016. N = 1,100. Survey developed in conjunction with the Macular Disease Foundation Australia.

Bridal event OF THE YEAR IS HERE

WOW, THIS EXPO IS GOING OFF LIKE A BRIDE WITH PRE WEDDING JITTERS... BRIDES, GROOMS, BRIDESMAIDS, MOTHER OF THE BRIDE, MOTHER OF THE GROOM AND ANYONE AND EVERYONE WITH “BRIDE” IN THEIR TITLE OR “WEDDINGS” ON THEIR MIND SHOULD DEFINITELY ATTEND THIS PREMIER EVENT. alling all brides - get your customise to what you are looking for, with diaries out and enter this event personalised design of your dress down to the in BIG capital letters ... “DON’T very last intricate detail. This on trend fashion MISS IT”! Sunday 12th June feast will put a sparkle in your eye bigger than 2016, Rydges Port Macquarie. the rock on your finger! There is so much going on, it’s Discover divine decorating ideas ridiculous! So much so, we will have vendors available for hire right there on the spot. exhibiting at the Rydges hotel entrance to lure Also find sought after wedding accessories all you lovely ladies in. We can’t wait to see all for sale. our great industry providers in action Delicious canapés, bubbly, a luscious and our brides going gaga. lolly buffet, chocolate fountain and It sounds too good to drinks station are all part of our be true, but you better offerings. Need we say more! at y ad re e believe us; it’s all Held on Sunday, They ar h uc m ry ve , going on! June 12th of the long hand w no d an ow kn Check out weekend for your in the at lp he to y pp ha the best of local convenience. This and . What any opportunity t suppliers and date gives you a rare ar better place to st experience their chance to indulge in our ng di ed w ur with yo friendliness and treats and still have the at an preparations th professionalism following day for you, the t! ” the Bridal Even in person. They are Queen, and your King to ready at hand, very relax and wind down. much in the know and First dance demonstrations now, and happy to help at any start with a traditional Bridal Waltz. opportunity. What better place to start Our performers will then bust some with your wedding preparations than at serious dance moves on the Rydges dance the Bridal Event! floor. This is jaw dropping entertainment that Matthew J and Pose it Photo Booth will have you signing up for lessons pronto. will be onsite to professionally capture your All you need to do is then convince your shy personal images on “Save the Date” photo fiancé it’s a great idea. strips. Show bags will be available at the door Save the Date photographs are a great way for our beautiful brides to take home and to secure your date with your special guests. will even include a Kit Kat for a well earned Alternatively, you may prefer a private coffee break later on. photo shoot for your romantic engagement This is a fabulous bridal event without a pictures. shadow of doubt! Rain, hail or shine, it is all “The Dress” - The Big One Divine Bridal happening. and Formal wear will be bringing us a Thank you to Sassy Lane Photography for beautiful Bridal Fashion Show. Beth Murphy our flyers and Matthew J Photography for the has procured some incredible dresses for gorgeous pics on our editorial. Port Macquarie clients. The best part is if you See you all there with Bridal Flair! don’t like what you see, Beth can order and - Amanda and Jill xx

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focusinterview.

BlackDog Ink. A FEW MATES SITTING AROUND ENJOYING A FEW COLD ONES LISTENING TO PENNYWISE ... WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THAT 12 YEARS ON, THIS WOULD HAVE DEVELOPED INTO A PROSPEROUS AND GRATIFYING BUSINESS! FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH CHRIS MERRELL (MEZ) ABOUT HIS LOVE FOR THE ARTFORM OF SCREEN PRINTING ...

i Chris. When and how were the bones of BlackDog Ink formed? BlackDog Ink has been in the making for around 12 years now. I had a background in textile screen printing, so a couple of friends and I started playing around with a few ideas and designs for T-shirts. Initially we had dreams of creating our own brand … Throw in a few beers, some inspiration from It and a Pennywise track, and the Psycho Clown was born. The first line of Psycho Clown went to press, a few mates supported the cause, and sticker slapping ensued - some of which have stood the test of time and can still be seen around LHB. From there, I started printing for a few local businesses/clubs, and humble beginnings soon grew into something more than a hobby, and the time had come for the concept to mature. We turned to our little black shadow, shed companion and silent business partner “Tiger” for inspiration - BlackDog Ink was V2.0. What skills did you bring to the table in terms of training and studying? I always had an interest in drawing and art. After leaving school, an opportunity arose to work with a local sportswear

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company (Soft Edges/Seabird), where I began being in control of each layer of ink that goes work as a textile screen printer, printing down. It still gives me a buzz every time I lift performance wear and swimwear for sports the screen and see the image come to life. teams, including The Australian Opals and You’re the go-to for branding T-shirts Hockeyroos. and accessories for most of our local Most of my training was festivals and have also serviced on the job, but I have also major city festivals too; tell complete a number of us about that. graphic arts courses. We have built a great og kD ac With a profession that relationship with Bl , In 2014 ok to ly al er is as old as screen FOTSUN and have lit Ink the ith w s et re printing, talking with been taking care of st e it to th reen Sc ve Li of people who have their merchandise for ch laun first been in the trade a number of years. Printing for our .” time at FOTSUN for a long time is We also work with Fat invaluable, but you also Apple Events, taking care have to keep up to date of merch for Meatstock with current advancements. (Sydney) and Blues & BBQ You can guarantee there is Festival. Big Band Blast is our next always something new to learn, no big event (in May), which is always a matter how long you have been doing it! fun design to print. We are also looking What is the difference between forward to being part of the Ekam Yoga what BlackDog Ink does and other Festival at the Glasshouse again in October. commercial printing you find in most We produce the majority of items in house, clothing stores? and can provide a team of sellers to move the In essence, it’s all done by the same process merch at events. - silk screen printing - however, we do it In 2014, BlackDog Ink literally took it to the all manually as opposed to large automatic streets with the launch of Live Screen Printing presses. I love the hands on factor of my work, for our first time at FOTSUN. Live screen

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printing has been a huge hit. It creates an interactive atmosphere for the buyer, where they basically get to create their own shirt and we print it for them right in front of their eyes, so they can walk out wearing it fresh [and still warm] from the press. Live Printing isn’t necessarily limited to tees either; we’ve also live printed tote bags at Slice of Haven and Beer Coolers at the Port Macquarie Beer & Cider Festival and Drop Kick Arts Squiggle Off Finale. For those who didn’t attend FOTSUN in 2015, what was the “Live Printing” you offered at the festival? We did it a little different last year. In 2014 we ran a competition for the FOTSUN punters to have a chance at getting their winning design on an official FOTSUN merch shirt. Last year we worked with local artist (and allround legend) Simon “Sigh” Luxton, who was FOTSUN’S resident artist. We pulled elements from his work and basically offered three different prints to choose from. It was a huge success. It was encouraging to see people are really appreciative of good art. FOTSUN is always a fun event, and we are pretty lucky that our set up has a perfect view of the stage too, so we can’t say it’s all hard work!

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Apart from the merchandise side of things, you have a strong connection with the local community. Who are some of the local businesses etc. who are donning BlackDog printed apparel as uniforms and also selling in their store? We’ve printed apparel for quite a different range of businesses now, ranging from staff tees for Milkbar Town Beach through to training gear for Crossfit Hijacked. Jimbos Barber Shop, MJR Presents and Death Do us Art have all been big supporters of BlackDog Ink. The opening of Pretty Rad Store last year was exciting; we met Matt through a mutual friend, and we have been helping out with their in-house range of apparel. Matt has also been running a new line of artist collab apparel, which we are stoked to be a part of, because it’s another great opportunity for some of the super talented artists out there to showcase their work. Not to mention, it gives us the chance to spread our wings and try different techniques, which is what keeps us keen. We’re also one of the sponsors for the Port Macquarie Surf Board Riders and Point Plomer Malibu Club. Working with artists, transforming their works into clothing must be a thrill in itself … Yeah, this is our niche. The process of deconstructing an artist’s work and transferring it to an alternate medium can be an art in itself. So far we have had the pleasure of working closely with the likes of Ash Benson, Hendo, Adam Murray and Sigh Luxton, all of whom have very different styles and are all definitely establishing a presence for themselves around our local area.

Helping artists like these guys to replicate the amazing colours and details of their work and transforming it into a walking canvas is our goal, and it’s been a lot of fun. Over the last few years Port has definitely had a shift in culture, and with the support of many local artists and the Squiggle Off Crew backed by the Place Making and YAK teams, we are seeing a lot more of their stuff pop up. What are your plans moving through the second half of the year? We have an I love the hand s expanding art scene on factor of my and music hub in nt rol work, being in co our local area, k in of r ye of each la which has fired still It n. w do es that go ery up our passion ev gives me a buzz en re for pushing the sc e time I lift th e boundaries and and see the im ag ” e. lif experimenting with to come new techniques, trialling speciality inks and live printing, whilst maintaining a respect for the traditional art of manual silk screening. The rest of 2016 will see us keeping busy, exploring new trends, hitting a few events, and hopefully expanding our crew and work space as the brand grows. You can keep up to date with our current projects and live printing events via our Instagram @blackdog_ink Thanks Chris.

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Celebrate Motherâ€™s Day Spend some quality time with Mum this Motherâ€™s Day with a two course luncheon at Port Macquarie Golf Club.

OR housemade sticky date pudding with butterscotch sauce, salted caramel ice cream and caramelised popcorn ... mmmmmm!

Talented chefs Kieran English and Alex Hallam have a delicious menu on offer.

Don't be disappointed! Make your booking today. $33 per person includes a free champagne for Mum!

Crispy skin Atlantic Salmon fillet, chat potatoes, green beans, rocket, slow roast truss tomato and caper butter OR coq au vin chicken braised with red wine, chat potatoes, green beans, eschallots and mushrooms. Followed by these delicious desserts: coconut and passionfruit panna cotta with lime, meringue, pineapple and mint salad

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Sunday 8th May from noon! Raffle tickets on sale from 12:30pm. Raffle to commence at 1pm. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Saturday 7th May with Chill Factor from 5:30pm. Great Golf, Great Food, Great Fun!

focusinterview. Sandra Eadie - Midwifery Unit Manager, Port Macquarie Base Hospital

Sandra Eadie - Midwifery Unit Manager, Port Macquarie Base Hospital

Sandra Eadie SANDRA EADIE HAS BEEN A NURSE FOR 46 YEARS AND A MIDWIFE FOR 44 OF THOSE; FOCUS SPEAKS TO SANDRA ABOUT HER CAREER AND ROLE AS “MUM” AT PORT MACQUARIE BASE HOSPITAL.

hen and where did you do your nurse training? I commenced my nurse training on the 27th April 1969 at Concord Repatriation Hospital. It was during the Vietnam War and very different times. I then commenced my Midwifery Training in January 1973 at Hornsby Hospital. Why did you choose nursing as a career? It was the only thing that I wanted to do as a little girl. My dolls were always sick with something, so that I could nurse them better. As I grew older and ready to leave school, it seemed a natural progression to enter into nursing, so that I could nurse real people instead of dolls. What was your first job/role? Once I finished general nurse training, I worked for an agency whilst waiting to commence midwifery. After finishing midwifery training, I started working at the Sydney Adventist Hospital (SAN) in the maternity unit, where I continued to work for 28 years before coming to Port Macquarie. In my time at the SAN, I spent 16 years in the birthing unit and the remaining years as the Nursing Unit Manager of the antenatal and postnatal ward. Your Current Role is a “MUM” Midwifery Unit Manager - what does that role entail, and what does an “average” day look like? The midwifery unit consists of the antenatal clinic, early pregnancy assessment service, antenatal classes, antenatal, postnatal and gynaecological ward, birthing unit, special care nursery and early discharge and mother craft

extended care programme. I am responsible wellbeing. for all areas to make sure that women and For the midwifery unit as a whole in Port their families receive the best care from Macquarie, a great progression has been our appropriately skilled staff. The maternity unit partnering with three universities - Charles has approximately 60 staff consisting Sturt University (Post graduate midwifery of some direct entry registered course) and Southern Cross midwives and some who are University and University registered nurses as well of Newcastle in the as registered midwives. direct entry threeNursing and Rostering to the year programme for midwifery are appropriate skill mix midwifery. Working in o great careers. N in all areas can be partnership with these er two days are ev challenging at times. universities has helped is e the same; ther An average day us grow our own ng hi et m always so would be arriving at workforce. This has ” new happening. work at 6:30am and seen us develop from a checking that there is no unit that in the past faced sick leave for the day, and challenges in recruiting staff handover of patients from the and often relied on short term night staff to the morning staff. agency staff to having a wellThe day is then quickly filled with doctors’ staffed, well-educated and enthusiastic rounds, working with the unit clinical midwifery workforce. There has also been a support officer to order any supplies that great cultural shift over the years, with all staff we may need, covering any sick leave, making embracing the changes which then equates to sure staffing is correct for the day, checking improved patient care. all areas of Maternity to make sure that all is Nursing/midwifery is a great career path OK, attending scheduled meetings and helping why would you suggest someone pursue with any situations that may occur at any given it? time. Nursing and midwifery are great careers. No What have been the biggest changes/ two days are ever the same; there is always advances in technology that have helped something new happening. Working together you with your role over the last few as a team with other colleagues brings great decades? comradery. Helping patients to get well and This is difficult to answer, but I would say go home is very satisfying and for Midwifery, advances in ultrasound technology have made educating women and their families in a significant difference in monitoring at risk pregnancy, labour and care of their newborn is pregnancies. Another major advance is foetal always rewarding to know that you may have scalp blood sampling in labour for foetal assisted in some small way.

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It is also a career that you can maintain when you have a family, as the shift work and the option of working part-time can help with this. You’ve no doubt shared hundreds of special moments with new families; is there any particular moments that have stayed in your mind? There have been many special moments over the years; seeing any birth always brings a wave of emotion. I had the privilege of looking after my brother’s boys when they were born and many other friends and family - great memories. Many years ago before ultrasound was commonplace, I was at the birth of what we thought was a single pregnancy. When the baby was born, the doctor all of a sudden said: “Oh, wait a moment; there’s another baby there.” I will never forget the look on the father’s face. I do not think he quite knew what to do. They were two boys, and those boys are now married with children of their own. I have enjoyed every moment of my career. I have been very privileged to do the work that I do and work with the people that I work with. So to them, I say a very big “thank you”. This Mother’s Day we celebrate all new mums. Do you have anything special planned at work or home? At the hospital we usually give a small gift to any mothers who are in hospital on the day. I am not sure what I will be doing. I may go to Sydney to be with my two daughters, their partners and my two beautiful grandchildren, and I am sure that my son will call me from Cairns, where he lives. Thanks Sandra. Happy Mother’s Day.

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Mother’s Day Classic

BYPASS THE SLIPPERS AND SOGGY TOAST - MAKE MOTHER’S DAY MEMORABLE, MEANINGFUL AND A FUN FAMILY DAY FOR MUM IN THE SUPER MOTHER’S DAY CLASSIC, MAY 8, 2016.

ark Sunday May 8 on your calendar - and give Mum the gift of registration in the Mother’s Day Classic, the fun way for family and friends to kickstart a “feel good” Mother’s Day. What started in 1998 as a way to honour those affected by breast cancer and to support research into the disease has grown into Australia’s largest breast cancer fundraiser, involving more than 130,000 participants around the nation, raising money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Increasingly, the colourful event has become a way for groups of families and friends to participate in a healthy, fun activity to kick off their Mother’s Day. Breast cancer research supported by Mother’s Day Classic For 2016, Australia’s biggest national Mother’s Day event is setting participants a special challenge. According to Mother’s Day Classic CEO Sharon Morris, the event is no average fun run. “The more we raise, the faster a cure can be found - this year if every participant raises just $50, we’ll reach our target of $4 million to fund research,” Ms Morris said. “Our support helps NBCF with the ultimate goal of no more deaths from breast cancer. NBCF funds life-changing research including better diagnosis and treatment options and improved quality of life. “It is a powerful day for families and friends to support breast cancer survivors and those who have lost loved ones to the disease. “Mother’s Day Classic participants can be confident that 100 percent of fundraising from the event goes straight to NBCF there’s not many charity events that can say that.” Overall, the Mother’s Day Classic community has raised $27.4 million and funded more than 30 projects, making us the largest fundraiser for breast cancer research in Australia. “NBCF projects have been internationally recognised for their impact on health outcomes and quality of life for women with breast cancer. This research has outcomes which can be applied to all cancers, not just breast cancer,” Ms Morris said. A 5 km walk will be held at Westport Park from 9am, following along the foreshore to Town Beach and return. $20/adult and $10/child; family packages available. 100% of donations go to the cause. We will also be selling tu-tus and holding a raffle on the day to raise funds for our local Cancer Institute and assist them with the purchase of a new Chemotherapy chair. Registrations on the day from 8am, or check out all the details at www.facebook.com/PORT.MDC To donate, go to www.mothersdayclassic.com.au

Golf Ladies First Swing Fit is Australia’s national programme to encourage female participation in golf, and it is available right here in Port Macquarie. Swing Fit it is an innovative health, fitness and skill development programme, which has socialisation, conditioning and games based learning at its core. Participants learn and experience the basic golf swing and putting action, with opportunities to have fun and get their whole body moving through golf specific conditioning and movement activities. It is for women of all ages and abilities, with programmes for new and existing golfers. Why not purchase a lesson or two for Mum this Mother’s Day? Info and Registration at www.golfladiesfirst.com.au

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Ultimate luxury With Ziera shoes Everyday comfort is the ultimate luxury with Ziera shoes. Transform your look from the ground up with texture, print or a touch of metallic. Ziera puts leather through its paces, with at least 13 different stress tests to ensure its quality, softness and durability. This season’s winter boots come in stylish leather with comfort and cushioning to ensure long-term love! Ziera’s unique footbeds are contoured to cup your heel and support your arch, with soft natural leather on top, and multiple layers of premium comfort underfoot. Light flexible soles absorb step shock, relieving stress on your body.

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Styles now instore at Colonial Cobbler: Ziera LANA - Ziera CRYSTAL - Ziera CLAUDIA. Ziera is Australasia’s most recommended footwear brand by podiatrists and other medical professionals, as we have a wide range of orthotic shoes. A major focus for Ziera is the wide range of orthotic friendly shoes with styles to suit any lifestyle. From women’s casual shoes to dress shoes, walking shoes to corporate classics; Ziera orthotic-friendly shoes have extra depth and a removable inlay to accommodate your custom orthotic. Check out the Ziera Winter range at Colonial Cobbler today - where comfort never goes out of style!

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Janette Hyde from Port Macquarie Tourism Association

tourism UPDATE

BMW DEMOS AT ROCK MOTORCYCLES

TOURISM IN MAY APRIL WAS AN INTERESTING MONTH FOR TOURISM IN GREATER PORT MACQUARIE. THE EASTER BREAK WAS VERY BUSY, AND ALL ACCOMMODATION, RETAIL AND HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES ENJOYED OUR VISITORS. THE SEPARATION OF EASTER AND SCHOOL HOLIDAY CERTAINLY IMPACTED ON OUR POTENTIAL VISITOR NUMBERS.

he BBQ and Blues Festival, Heritage Festival and ANZAC Day were some of the highlights. ANZAC Day in particular this year, whilst experiencing intermittent rain, was proudly supported by thousands of people at the Dawn and Mid-Morning Services. It was wonderful to see how many schools marched this year - a true testament to the future of this powerful day in our calendar. Ironman time has arrived again, with over 2,000 competitors taking to the field on the 1st May. Thanks to the many volunteers who commit their time to ensure that competitors really feel welcome. This year the 70.3 and full Ironman have been combined. Over 5,000 athletes and their families, friends and supporters will be in our region for the event. Established in 1985, IRONMAN Australia remains an iconic global event. Many local volunteers will be needed, so please register at www.ironman.com or portmacquarie@ironman.volunteers.com The Women’s Bowls NSW BCiB State Carnival returns to Port Macquarie-Hastings this month. Over 1,000 competitors will take part in the carnival, as it celebrates its 87th year. Slice of Haven is on the 29th May; this is not to be missed. Entertainment and great food is the order for the day. It is worth a trip to the Camden Haven for this one. It’s set to be the biggest party of the year at the 2016 Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival in Laurieton - a feast for all the senses! The Big Band Blast is happening 29th to 31st May. The Blast starts with a free concert in the Glasshouse Forecourt from 5pm on the 29th May. Lots of concerts happening over the weekend, culminating with a concert on 31st May starting at 10:30am in the Glasshouse Forecourt, featuring the Traxion Band. Sometimes we are looking for something to do at the weekends, and it is good to recap on the myriad of activities just waiting for us to enjoy.

Koala Hospital - it’s the world’s only hospital solely dedicated to the care, protection and conservation of koalas. Horse Riding - join Bellrowan Horse Riding for a half day ride around the homestead, or Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre at Cassegrain Winery. Why not try a horse ride on the beach? Billabong Koala & Wildlife Park - pat a koala and a dingo, hand feed the kangaroos and see over 50 species of Australian wildlife at Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park. Experience once in a lifetime behind-the-scenes tours with these unique animals. Whale Watching - Port Macquarie offers some of the best opportunities for whale watching in Australia from May to November. Deep Sea Fishing - Port Macquarie is a fisherman’s playground. Join a deep sea fishing experience or one that specialises in calm water lure fishing. Camel Riding - hop aboard an Australian camel and gently meander along the golden sands of the iconic Lighthouse Beach. River Cruises - many opportunities to experience the beauty of the Hastings and Camden Haven Rivers. ACTIVITIES HAPPENING IN MAY 1 May - Ironman Australia www.Australia.ironman.com 8 May - Jazz in the Bago Vineyards with Reds Quintet www.bago.com.au 15 May - RSPCA Million Paws Walk www.ibarton.rspcavic.org.au 21 May - Suck it up Buttercup + Mini Mudder www.centauroutdoorevents.com.au 22 May - Jazz Cruise www.cruiseterminal.com.au 27 - 29 May - Big Band Blast Music Festival www.bigbandblast.com.au 29 May - Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival www.sliceofhaven.com.au/2016-slice-haven

Rock Motorcycles is your premier destination for all your motorcycles needs. Come in store to see the huge BMW demo fleet available to ride now. If you’re after a great price, check out the range of demos now for sale at discounted prices. Adventure riding is what the Mid North Coast is all about, and BMW do it better than anybody with their GS Range. Whether you are looking for an entry level G 650 GS or the mighty R 1200 GS Adventure, you will be able to experience why BMW GS models continue to dominate the adventure bike world. BMW off road rider training: BMW Motorrad Off-Road Training Courses started back in 2005. The BMW Motorrad Off-Road Skills Training

Courses have been specifically designed to give GS riders the skills to get the most from their GS bikes. The courses are a lot of fun, and customers are always amazed at how much their riding improves over the two day course. Recently added to the line-up is a ladies only course, that was hugely successful. BMW 3asy ride lease: BMW Full Circle by 3asy Ride guarantees the future value of your BMW motorcycle. It is now even easier to ride the bike of your dreams, with BMW Financial Services’ 3asy Ride programme. BMW Full Circle offers better value and the freedom to appreciate every moment. For more details, visit https:// mybmwdreambike.bmwmotorrad.com.au. Come and experience a ride you won’t forget at Rock Motorcycles today!

With a wide range of models in stock, we’ve got the BMW for you. We’re clearing out our demo’s, so see the friendly staff at Rock Motorcycles for a test ride today. Rock Motorcycles 175 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie Tel 02 65836655 1800 00ROCK sales@rockmotorcycles.com.au rockmotorcycles.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 51

WELLBEING S U N D I A L D E N TA L

MCCALLUM GOLF

Orthodontic TREATMENT

Ladies

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IS THE AREA OF DENTISTRY THAT INVOLVES MOVING THE JAWS AND TEETH IF THEY ARE INCORRECTLY POSITIONED TO IMPROVE HOW THE PATIENT SMILES AND ALSO HOW WELL THEIR TEETH FUNCTION.

he benefits are: better aesthetics, it’s easier to clean and care for the teeth and gums and also a more ideal bite, which can help with function and in some cases relieve dental and jaw pain. Orthodontics use either fixed or removable appliances to gradually move the teeth. Fixed appliances are generally the traditional metal brackets and wires, but another great option, particularly for adults, is Invisalign. Invisalign

uses clear removable plastic aligners which are changed every two weeks to gradually move your teeth in the same way as traditional braces. As our population is living longer, there is a huge shift towards adults seeking out orthodontic treatment. Every smile is important, and misaligned teeth can contribute to oral and systemic health problems. As long as you have teeth in healthy bone, it’s never too late to improve your smile.

BREASTSCREEN NSW

PRO SHOP

“GOLFERS WHO KNOW BUY FROM THEIR PRO” - SO RAN THE PGA'S POPULAR MARKETING SLOGAN IN THE 1970S. IT IS A SLOGAN THAT P.G.A. PROFESSIONALS GORDON AND CHANTALE MCCALLUM, WHO OWN THE "GOLF LADIES FIRST" PRO SHOP AT PORT MACQUARIE GOLF CLUB, STILL BELIEVE IN.

T mammograms ONE IN EIGHT WOMEN IN NSW WILL DEVELOP BREAST CANCER IN THEIR LIFETIME. THE BEST TIME TO TREAT BREAST CANCER IS WHEN IT IS STILL VERY SMALL. SCREENING MAMMOGRAMS ARE THE BEST WAY OF FINDING BREAST CANCER EARLY.

hat is a screening mammogram? A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts for women who have not noticed any symptoms or changes in their breasts. Screening mammograms usually involve two X-ray pictures of each breast. The X-ray pictures can find cancers as small as a grain of rice before you or your doctor can feel any changes in your breasts. Why have a screening mammogram? The best time to treat breast cancer is when it is still very small. When breast cancer is found early, most women will get better and get back to their 52 greater port macquarie focus.

normal lives with their families and loved ones. This is because breast cancer treatment works best when the cancer is still small and has not spread outside the breast to other parts of the body. A screening mammogram is the best method to detect breast cancer early for women over the age of 50. Information courtesy of www.breastscreen.nsw. gov.au BreastScreen NSW North Coast North Coast Cancer Institute Building Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Lower Ground Floor, Wrights Road, Port Macquarie. Phone 13 20 50 Opening hours 7:50am - 4:50pm Mon - Thu.

he unique concept of Golf Ladies First was formed in October 2015, with a part of the main Pro Shop at Port Macquarie Golf Club being transformed into an area exclusively for ladies’ golfing needs. With over 30 years’ experience in Scotland, Germany and Australia, they felt the need to give women in a male dominated environment a friendly, comfortable atmosphere in which to involve themselves in golf and the Pro Shop - to give women golfers the opportunity to ask questions, discuss their thoughts and experiences from the golf course, with a team willing to be involved and understanding their needs. Their goals are to get more women playing golf on a regular basis, for women to enjoy golf on and around the golf course, and to improve their game. Lastly and most importantly, for women to look outstanding and play impressive golf looking and feeling great is the key to great golf! The result is a Ladies Pro Shop, which has everything from the latest equipment through to the most exciting fashion outfits for all ages and sizes. Their recent "Trade in, Trade Up" Campaign has resulted in an array of second hand clubs being available, to go with the selection of package sets and the

newest clubs from all the leading manufacturers. To complement the Pro Shop, an online shop and website is being set up: www. golfladiesfirst.com.au - giving ladies the chance to shop 24/7. Another benefit of Golf Ladies First is the Swing Fit Programme run by Chantale in conjunction with the P.G.A. Australia and Golf Australia: www.swingfit.com.au The best thing about Swing Fit is that you do not have to be good at golf to get involved, or have even picked up a club before! If you would like to improve your fitness, and learn a little bit about golf at the same time, Swing Fit is for you! The Swing Fit Beginner Programme is about participants learning the very basics of the game through games based activities, while at the same time engaging in conditioning exercises to ensure that some fitness is achieved, as well as social activities to ensure a relaxed environment! If you do have some knowledge of golf, or even a great deal of knowledge of golf, the Swing Fit Intermediate programme is perfect for you. Golf Ladies First - the Pro Shop with everything for ladies' golfing needs! Tel: 0431 248 847 or 0401 726 598. Email: info@golfladiesfirst.com.au www.golfladiesfirst.com.au

Tai Chi

No. 1 cause of blindness by Tony Hanks. “Macular Degeneration Awareness Week” is occurring this month, so what can we really do to be more aware? The most important things are that this is now the main cause of blindness in Australia; and once the damage has occurred, the lost vision is unlikely to be recovered. It’s Serious: Of all the Australians over 50 years of age, 1 in 7 have signs of macular degeneration. That’s a serious statistic. Like cancer, all of us will know someone who is affected. The effects of macular degeneration are devastating. The disease affects the central vision, so affected patients lose the ability to read, drive, watch TV and recognise faces. Once again, that’s a serious result. Symptoms: Among the first symptoms of macular degeneration is difficulty reading small print. Others include shadows or distortions when looking at a grid or drawing. Prevention: The first and most important step is to have your eyes examined and have the macula area in both eyes checked. Don’t ignore any symptoms and make the best possible diet and lifestyle choices. Call in to Eyecare Plus to receive a free booklet summarising our recommendations for the best diet and lifestyle options to minimise your risk of macular degeneration.

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 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. 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. World Tai Chi Day: Demonstration and tutorial at the Girl Guide Hall on Hollingworth St on Saturday 30th April at 10am.

massagE At Port Macquarie It’s all about people, and no two people are exactly the same. Each and every person attending a massage therapist is seeking help for their own individual issues, and they want to know that they are in the hands of a professional who cares. He ling Ying (Ling), the hugely popular principal of Massage at Port Macquarie, is undoubtedly one such person. Highly qualified in Australia, as well as in her native China, Ling’s skills are quite unique, as she successfully combines today’s recognised contemporary techniques with time-honoured Chinese modalities to provide real assistance to those with physical discomfort, sport, health or occupational mobility issues, insomnia or even common fatigue. In fact, Ling’s loyal long-term clients are an ongoing testimony to her outstanding level of care. Fully accredited by the Australian Association of Massage Therapists, Ling practices from her air-conditioned home clinic in the Lighthouse Beach/Shelly Beach area, where parking is just a few paces from the door. Approved treatments are recognised by most major health funds, with HICAPS providing instant rebates. Warm, considerate and surprisingly strong, Ling cares for her clients - male, female, young and not-so-young - with compassion, respect and always with traditional Chinese courtesy and values.

TWICE THE FUN SECOND PAIR FREE! For a limited time, receive a second pair of prescription glasses free with your purchase*

PORT MACQUARIE: 95 William St - 6583 7333 | 29 Horton St - 6584 3948 WAUCHOPE: 6 Bransdon St - 6585 2393 www.eyecareplus.com.au/portmacquarie

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focus_interview

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

Glen Marshall

BUSINESS minds

P O R T M A C Q U A R I E X - R AY

len, you have recently joined Port Macquarie X-Ray as Chief Executive Officer. Firstly, can you tell us a bit about Port Macquarie X-Ray? Port Macquarie X-Ray is a locally owned business offering boutique radiological procedures across MRI, CT Scans, Ultrasounds and X-Rays. The company was started almost four years ago to break the monopoly that was held by the only other X-Ray business in town. It started with just eight employees and has now grown to more than 21 and has a new purpose built facility on Lord Street. As a locally owned private radiological practice, Port X-Ray offers patients and doctors a specialised, premium service, focused on the specific needs of the Port Macquarie medical sector. Can you tell us a little about your background; in particular, the career trajectory that has led you to this position? I joined the Army through RMC Duntroon and concluded my military career 15 years later as the unit commander of a surveillance organisation, whom I sent to Iraq. I was headhunted from the military to an IT company in order to win and implement a Federal Government maritime surveillance programme. I then entered the services industry, running two Australian divisions of ISS Facility Services, including Flick Pest Control. I then headed to Saudi Arabia as the CEO of a water treatment company. I later moved to Phoenix, Arizona, as the North American CEO of a waste water treatment company servicing the oil and gas industry. The severe drop in the oil price foreshadowed the demise of the waste water market in the USA, and I returned home to Port Macquarie.

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business that offers something special and Last September I accepted the role of CEO unique in the market place. I sought their Port Macquarie X-Ray. ideas, comments and concerns. Over the You’ve worked in major cities within next few weeks, I had many staff telling Australia and in the US. What are some me that they awoke at 2am with of the global issues that you new innovations and ideas have identified that can they would like to try. affect organisations, rt Po at us Emails came flooding in. regardless of their For ie ar qu ac Change was beginning geographical M t ou ab l al is it y and was being fuelled locations? X-Ra s meeting the ne ed from the grassroots. Strong leadership. and of our patients The culture was We look to and the referring GPs e transforming… government to ar Specialists . They Critical to our t provide stability Withou our customers. e w current success is and consistency ers satisfied custom le that the staff know so that as business ab do not have a vi the strategic plan and leaders we can business .” understand the reasons develop strategic plans behind the changes as they to minimise the impact or occur. They live the strategic plan leverage the opportunities of each day in every interaction they the changing economic landscape. have with patients, suppliers and doctors. Without good leadership, we are left What do you think is the single most with indecisiveness and disorder. important factor in running a successful, In your role as CEO, you are regionally based business? responsible for steering the organisation For us at Port Macquarie X-Ray it is all and to implement short and long term about meeting the needs of our patients and plans. How do you engender a culture the referring GPs and Specialists. They are our of strong leadership to ensure your staff customers. Without satisfied customers - we work with you to help you execute these do not have a viable business. plans? What is the most rewarding part about Open communications and creating the your role with Port Macquarie X-Ray? right company culture. At Port X-Ray the It is extremely rewarding working with staff are included in the monthly review of consummate professionals. This is the first the company Profit and Loss sheet - line by organisation I have been involved with since line. By opening the books of our accounts, the Military where everyone loves what they staff can see how money is flowing into and do. The staff know that patients have a out of the business. This makes decisions choice where to take their business, and it is affecting the business easier for everyone to very rewarding knowing the staff are striving comprehend. to offer the best service possible to their I presented the staff a draft business patients. strategy to transition the company from What are some of the common being just another radiology practice to a

“

challenges that you face in your role at Port Macquarie X-Ray? Effective targeted marketing to patients and doctors keeps me awake at night. My biggest challenge is attempting to change the habits of patients and doctors. As an example, we have purchased the very best MRI in the world and it is bulkbilled; however, patients continue to go to the Base Hospital for medical procedures out of habit. What are some of the biggest challenges you have personally faced throughout your career? I have continually been perplexed by the lack of trust and authority leaders place in their subordinates, thus creating red tape. This is the greatest challenge to new ideas coming to fruition. In my experience, middle managers will not commit to try something new for fear of retribution should it fail. A company that allows its managers to take risks and to make mistakes will be more successful, because it can move quickly and decisively to meet changing market needs. And finally, if you could invite any three business people to lunch, who would they be and why would you invite them? Jack Welch - 20 year CEO of General Electric. He allowed his managers to make mistakes and try new ideas growing the company exponentially. His leadership, vision and ability to engender an innovative culture is inspirational. Donald Trump - what a character! That would be a good lunch. He has made more mistakes than most business leaders, and I believe in learning from others’ mistakes. Elle Macpherson - two reasons: she is an exceptional business woman, and who wouldn’t want to have lunch with Elle! Thanks for your time, Glen.

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Tammy Moses is an international traveller and activitist at heart, having travelled 25 countries and lived in Nepal and India for almost two years working for Asian Aid. Tammy tells us more about her travels and her role as Project Manager at Asian Aid.

i Tammy. Where are you from initially, and what first sparked the "travel bug" in you? Originally I’m from Adelaide, South Australia. I was born in Auckland, New Zealand and came to Australia when I was four with my parents and three siblings. When I was 19, a friend invited me to join her church group on a service trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, where we ran a kids’ vocational programme for two weeks, coupled with the fit-out of a homeless shelter for child runaways and at-risk pregnant teens. Before that point, I hadn’t really had the means to travel independently, but after visiting South Africa and seeing an “alternative” purpose for travelling abroad, I decided there was something in it - perhaps even a career pathway. I come from a family of avid travellers; my parents between them have visited in excess of 60 countries, and my siblings a minimum of 15 countries each - the “bug” is certainly there! What are some of the many countries you've travelled to ... and of these, which ones hold the fondest place in your memories? Post high-school I chose the gap-year option of working full-time as a waitress/domestic cleaner, saving every penny and then spending it all on a three-month trip abroad through Europe and Hong Kong. As far as fondest memories, more recently my partner and I enjoyed a short-trip through the stunning landscape of Iceland in a camper van for a very belated honeymoon (again a lot of penny saving!) And of course, some of my strongest memories were made in Bangladesh and Nepal while working for Asian Aid. Tell us a little about the organisation you work for: Asian Aid. What are its aims, and what is your role there? Asian Aid is a locally based charity that supports rights-based programmes for disadvantaged women and children in 56 greater port macquarie focus.

Southern Asia, and has been doing so now for very challenging to get to and require either 50 years. hiking or a very capable 4WD, and this was Our aim as an organisation is to see the humbling to see the extent of effort required disadvantaged children and young people we by the locals just to get seen by a doctor, and fundraise for grow, play and learn in safe and the commitment of the medical staff to travel nurturing environments with adequate care out that far to see them. and protection from exploitation, neglect In India, being able to witness post-rescue and/or abuse. Behind that aim, is discussions between our Fighting the understanding that every Human Trafficking team and child’s identity is founded victims who had been in their family and trafficked through l Post high-schoo community - which is brothels in South I chose the gapwhere we place our India was definitely ng ki or year option of w ess/ focus - building the a highlight. It’s a tr ai full-time as a w strength of families chilling experience r, ne ea domestic cl y and communities nn to be amongst such pe y er saving ev it all ng di to ensure the a tragic occurrence en sp en th and th tr ip on m wellbeing of their that is human ere th a on Europe children, much the trafficking, but abro ad through .” same as we do here I’m glad that 1) the and Hong Kong in Australia. work we do facilitates My professional redemption and 2) that training is in International we can see the journey of Relations and Community change in their lives as a result. Development, and is the support to my What were some of the role at Asian Aid as Project Manager for challenges/difficulties you faced while CFCD - a fancy way of describing our living in Nepal and India, and how did you “child-focused” projects. I, along with a overcome these? team of five others, collectively oversee all One of the most significant challenges was projects supported by Asian Aid, and have the (is) working as a young female in communities brilliant responsibility of getting to choose and where male dominance is commonplace. work directly with the communities supported In the first two years of my employment by donations provided to Asian Aid. particularly, I often felt ignored in meetings, Although you are back in Australia disregarded because of my gender and age now, you formerly lived and worked in (regardless of my position/experience/prior Nepal and India for almost two years, training), and sometimes only given-ear overseeing many projects for Asian because I represented “foreign money” - a Aid. What were some of these projects hard stereotype still to overcome. - and what were the highlights of this The strategy I took on was to continue experience for you? to ask myself why I was there, what value I Asian Aid supports a variety of projects in offered to the project as a young woman and India and Nepal. During my time there I was how I could best communicate common goals. able to spend time travelling into the rural It’s been four years with Asian Aid and though highlands and foothills of the Himalayas, I’m still learning, I’m much more confident sharing meals and conducting post-operative now than when I started. interviews with women from remote Nepali What new projects/responsibilities are communities, who had suffered from and you working on currently? survived uterine prolapse. These locations are Right now Asian Aid is preparing for the

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launch of our first child-focused community development projects (commencing January 2017). Our new projects will be designed and measured to see positive changes in the wellbeing of children. The voices of the children will be central in gauging the success of each project, and the children themselves will be part of measuring (collecting data) the positive changes that have occurred in their communities through the projects. What is it about your job that keeps you most motivated and inspired? Honestly, I think it’s about a deep-seated want for justice. Our world is brimming with the resources we need to not only survive but thrive, together! But unfortunately, our nature as humans includes the terrible tendency to squander those same resources and oftentimes fail to share/protect them where and when needed most - the groups affected most by these self-focused actions are sadly the world’s most vulnerable. I know I’m guilty of the same - to think for myself (ourselves) rather than to think community-minded. Working for Asian Aid challenges me to focus my energy on what being “community-minded” looks like. I figure if I can take that challenge and apply it fruitfully overseas, what more could I (we) achieve on my (our) home soil? The potential of what that thought keeps me engaged in the work - absolutely! How can readers find out more about Asian Aid and the various projects it organises? If anyone is keen to learn more about Asian Aid, you can visit our website: www.asianaid. org.au or grab updates from our social media platforms: Facebook - facebook.com/AsianAid Twitter - twitter.com/asianaid Instagram - instagram.com/asianaidaus/ YouTube - youtube.com/user/AsianAidAU Feel free to ask any questions you may have about the work we do; our team will be quick to respond! Thanks Tammy.

focusinterview.

LOCAL AID AGENCY CELEBRATES 50 YEARS Based in Wauchope for the past 28 years of its 50-year history, Asian Aid has been playing an important part in the larger story of global development and poverty alleviation.

hat began with limited resources, local volunteers and compassionate donors has grown into an active and life-changing organisation that impacts over 44,300 people in six Asian countries each year. Since 1966, Asian Aid has helped thousands of children and women regain confidence, begin to earn a living, and improve conditions for their families and their children. Asian Aid has shown how a little generosity can go a long way. Jalmaya’s story gives evidence to the direct impact Asian Aid’s women’s health work in Nepal has had for women suffering in silence with uterine prolapse. The women’s ward in a Kathmandu hospital was quiet. Women sat peacefully

on their beds, mostly alone. This ward was dedicated to uterine prolapse patients - a debilitating condition that over 400,000 women in Nepal live with. As an Asian Aid staff member approached one of the women on her bed, their eyes met, and together their heads bowed in greeting. Jalmaya’s face lit with a friendly smile. Through a translator, 60-year-old Jalmaya was introduced to Asian Aid’s visiting staff. Only days earlier, Jalmaya had received an operation that changed her life. Jalmaya’s husband was sitting next to her, beaming from ear to ear. Jalmaya began sharing her story. For nearly 40 years, she had dreamed to be free from suffering and regain her dignity as a woman. Her eyes were bright, as

she recounted how she finally received help and healing. Jalmaya had suffered for 34 years from second degree uterine prolapse, and six years from third degree prolapse. “I had complications after giving birth. In total I had six children, and two were still-born. But about three days after giving birth, I went back to work to look after cattle and carry heavy loads. There was no one else to do the work.” It wasn’t until Jalmaya heard about a health camp for women, being run by Asian Aid’s partner in Nepal, that she discovered help. Together with her husband and a small group of other women, Jalmaya made the journey to Kathmandu from Ghorka, where she received her life-changing operation.

A few beds away sat Chinimaya, awaiting an operation that would end her 23 years of suffering: “I heard about the medical camp and free operation, so I came,” said Chinimaya. Despite uncertainty of what the outcome would be, Chinimaya was determined to receive the operation. “I will tell others to have the operation and not hide the problem.” As Asian Aid celebrates 50 years of giving hope to thousands of children, women and communities in Asia, we invite you to join our story of empowerment and transformation. Become a part of our hope-story today by donating to Asian Aid at www.asianaid.org. au, calling (02) 6586 4250, or visiting our office at 132 Cameron Street, Wauchope.

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focusinterview.

SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD TATE DURES ATTENDS HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, AND HAS RECENTLY ACHIEVED SOME TREMENDOUS SUCCESS PLAYING TOUCH FOOTBALL;HE’S BEEN SELECTED TO PLAY FOR THE CSSA STATE TEAM AT THE UPCOMING COMBINED INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS (CIS) STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS IN SYDNEY ON MAY 31ST. TATE TELLS US A BIT ABOUT HIMSELF AND HIS SPORTING ASPIRATIONS ...

i Tate. Tell us a bit about yourself … How old are you, where do you go to school, and what’s your family background? My name is Tate Dures. I am sixteen and am currently in Year 10. I attend Heritage Christian School and have done since Kindergarten. My family consists of an older brother who is married, an older sister recently engaged, and I live at home with Mum and Dad, who spend a lot of time running me around to my varies sporting commitments - for which I am grateful. How did you first become interested in Touch Football, and how long have you been playing for now? I first became interested in Touch Football when my mate at school wanted to put together a team back in Year 3. I have played every season since then, but had never really thought about playing at a higher level than the local Port Touch competition in the soccer off-season. You recently represented your school in the Christian Schools Sports Association (CSSA) North Coast Zone Touch Football team in Coffs Harbour. How did your team fare, and what was the experience like? We are having some new opportunities to attend various sporting events with school, which is really great. I travelled up to Coffs Harbour with our Sports Coordinator, Mr Baldwin, and six other Heritage students, who played across the various age divisions.

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There was only myself and one other schoolmate in I can and contribute to the team as much as possible. the Open team. Being in Year 10 and having to play against Year 11 I was pretty nervous, as I hadn’t done anything like and 12 players, I am concentrating on proving myself this before. Most of the boys in the team where in and playing up to their level. Year 11 or 12 and they had been selected in previous Why have you chosen Touch Footy as the code years, so knew one another well. They were all really you play - what do you most like about the welcoming, helpful and gave positive, sport? constructive direction to help me Soccer and basketball are actually my play the best I could. main sports. I’ve played soccer since Our team ended up winning I was six and recently taken up Over the last the whole competition on the basketball in the last couple of s th couple of mon day, which made it an even years, which I’m really in to. Over a h uc To I have enjoyed better overall experience. the last couple of months I have d ha ve ha lot more, as I ay As a result of the enjoyed Touch a lot more, as I pl to ity un the opport nno competition, you’ve have had the opportunity to play e th e lik I it more. pects as d been selected to play for it more. I like the non-stop, fast ce pa st fa , stop .” the CSSA State Team at paced aspects the sport offers. the sport offers the upcoming Combined What do you like to do in your Independent Schools (CIS) spare time (outside of school and State Championships in Sydney footy)? on May 31st. What preparation are Outside of school I play soccer, basketball, you doing for this event? skateboard, bodyboard and spend time with the I was super stoked, but also surprised that I family or mates. made the next squad. What are your goals and aspirations for the I am not trying to think about the state future? championships too much at the moment, so that the I would like to travel quite a bit when I finish school. nerves don’t get to me. I’m just keeping myself fit I also want to push myself as much as possible in my in readiness for the competition. We will only have chosen sports. Career wise, I’m thinking something the opportunity to train as a team when we arrive in along the lines of Sports Journalism or Sports Science, Sydney before the championships. but some of my mates think I should be a lawyer, as I What do you hope to achieve on the day - and always come out on top when we argue! how much are you looking forward to the event? Thanks Tate. On the day I am hoping to just play the best Touch Interview by Jo Atkins.

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SERVICES

The Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) provides an array of health services to our community members, with some very specific programmes that target women’s health. Jane Newman and Mandy Lindsay run us through some of the services available …

Clinical Nurse Consultant Jane Newman discussing women’s health issues

hat is your job/ title within the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), and what responsibilities are involved with this role? Jane Newman is the Women’s Health Clinical Nurse Consultant and Mandy Lindsay is the Women’s Health Nurse working with the Family Planning Service. What are some of the general health services provided to women by the MNCLHD locally (i.e. in Port Macquarie and surrounds)? There are two main services provided by our team; firstly, the Women’s Health Service, which operates five days a week. This service is based in Port Macquarie and outreaches to the Camden Haven and Wauchope communities.This a service providing women’s health information and clinical services to all women. Some of those services include: pap tests, breast checks, information 62 greater port macquarie focus.

A group session, which is among the Women’s Health services offered at Port Macquarie Community Health Centre

and advice about a range of women’s health issues. Sometimes women want to ask questions about a topic before they make a decision. We can provide information and reading material to assist ’s en with this. Our focus is om W e th th Bo ily about relationships, on working alongside Health and Fam es offer ic rv contraception, Se the women to ng ni an Pl services; pregnancy and help them find the not only clinical e id menopause. we can also prov vice outcome that is d ad information an In addition, we most appropriate for women’s about a range of have several school them. Many of our health issues .” programmes for primary patients just want to schools and high schools. discuss their symptoms; We also have a Family for example, hot flushes, Planning service that operates and to find out if this a normal one day per week with a female doctor symptom for them. for women under 25 years of age and Typically, what are the most wellwomen with health care cards. This clinic utilised or popular services accessed by provides services for women by women and women locally? also covers areas of sexual and reproductive Historically there has been a trend towards health such as all types of contraception, contraception, pap tests and breast checks, pregnancy testing, some screening tests and but we also are seeing an increase in women referrals if required to specialists and other attending as they want information about services. a range of women’s health; for example, Tell us in more detail about the “Well women wanting to be in optimal health Women’s Programme”, and how this can before trying to get pregnant. help women … As well, we have seen an increase in Both the Women’s Health and Family information about the new longer acting Planning Services offer not only clinical contraceptives, such as the rod and Intrauterine device. Our post-natal depression services; we can also provide information

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programme is also well utilised. How do women access your services in Port Macquarie ... are referrals necessary? Women can access our services by contacting the Port Macquarie Community Health Centre on 6588 2882. If schools and groups would like to ask for either Jane or Mandy to speak at their schools or groups regarding women’s health, they can contact us on the same number. Women’s Health Services also extend to delivering education in schools via programmes and sessions from puberty, nutrition, relationships, pregnancy prevention and the Lovebites Programme. No referral is required to either service, but referrals from GPs are welcomed. How do you cater for people in the community who may be in unfortunate circumstances, or struggling financially - are they still able to benefit from MNCLHD’s services? There is no cost to women coming to the service, and we are also able to make home visits under certain circumstances. Where can readers find out more information? Please contact us at Port Macquarie Community Health Centre on the above telephone number. Thanks Jane and Mandy. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Jodie, Louise, Lucy, Maria and Graham

JK Healthcare Whisper of Lace After many years of helping the women of the ManningGreat Lakes and beyond with their post breast surgery bra and prosthesis fittings, Jennifer Presland has retired and Fiona Jude from Whisper of Lace will now be taking on the role. Fiona has owned and operated Whisper of Lace in Tuncurry for three years. Fiona is currently undergoing training and courses to ensure that she can guide and correctly look after women who are in need of prosthesis bras. This is not something that Fiona is taking lightly, and she would like to ensure her customers that once she has completed her course, she will be fully equipped with the knowledge to help all women when it comes to this type of bra requreiment, whether it be for a proper fitting for a brand new bra or for customers wanting or needing to update their exsiting forms. The Medicare rebate of $400 will still exist for each breast form needed and for customers every two years. Fiona is looking forward to helping women in need during a difficult time in their lives; donâ€™t be uncomfortable, and donâ€™t drive to Newscastle or Sydney. Call in and speak with Fiona for an appiontment in a caring and confidential environment.

JK Healthcare is owned by local Jodie Kennett, Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE). Working in the industry for over 20 years, she now has over 12,000 clients! We welcome Lucy Johnston (APD) to the team. Jodie and Lucy will provide clear and realistic education regarding your dietary needs. Lucy can advise on all areas, including heart disease, cancer, bowel disorders, food allergies and weight management. As a CDE, Jodie can tailor advice for conditions such as Diabetes, Impaired Glucose Tolerance or Insulin Resistance, and offer advice regarding glucose monitors. With offices in Port Macquarie, Lake Cathie and Wauchope, we conduct regular clinics. Why not drop in and check out our range of books? For a FREE newsletter, subscribe by emailing admin@jkhealthcare.com.au and look for JK Healthcare on Facebook to get weekly recipes! What Is Happening In 2016? Jodie will be conducting clinics for Insulin Pump Therapy to manage Type 1 Diabetes, or for those with Type 2 Diabetes having multiple insulin injections each day. It is the only private Pump Service between Newcastle and Coffs Harbour! We can facilitate the purchase or upgrade of a pump and educate regarding its use. For more information or to make an appointment, contact JK Healthcare on 6583 7717.

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Jack BODICOACH

I’m sure you’ve seen the signs, drove past the location and heard about Jack Lipman’s new fitness and health studio. BodiCoach is now open, and we catch up with owner Jack to find out more about this great studio.

i Jack, can you tell us about BodiCoach and how the business got started? BodiCoach - established in early 2016 by a professional trainer/fitness and nutritional expert (Jack Lipman). At BodiCoach, our main priority is the client, and we make sure our clients always get the desired results to reach their goals in mind - whether it’s weight loss, weight gain, injury rehabilitation or even that photo shoot they have always dreamed about. We have the firsthand experience and knowledge to bypass the confusion and get you into AWESOME shape at affordable/flexible prices. What experience do you have in the industry, and when did you first start doing personal training? I have been in the fitness industry for 10 years now - I first started training with free weights in my early teens to strengthen my core after a serious back injury through a competitive sporting background and being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. I soon realised a healthy lifestyle through nutrition and strength training was the only way I was ever going to overcome my health concerns. Starting out as a customer, I soon progressed working in gyms around Cairns and studying through Far North Queensland TAFE. At first it was a hobby helping clients with all aspects of their life - not just the training side of things. I soon become well known for developing a strong relationship with my clients and taking the time with each client in order to reach their health and fitness goals with a realistic and holis-

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tic approach. I know exactly how daunting it can be walking into a gym for the first time. This made me realise the customer deserves a quality service - in order to keep that client and to reach the desired results for the client, so it’s a win-win for everyone. What goals do you have for the business, and how can BodiCoach help the everyday person with their heath and fitness? I’m all about the client - I make sure all my clients get results - building friendships and awesome bodies with a whole lot of fun along the way! A holistic approach with realistic, achievable goals - I want to make people feel good about themselves and to be confident to take their shirt off at the beach or get back into their favourite jeans! Some days we can get caught in a moment and become frustrated with day to day life - I'm here to help the client through the crap days and turn them into awesome days with a new powerful mindset. A balanced life starts with a balanced diet and making sure we are eating the right foods at the right time in order to maximise our workouts and speed up recovery and results. The hidden health benefits behind strength and conditioning are endless for young and old - there really are NO excuses, and I’m not joking! What is the best advice you can offer someone who is looking at starting the health and fitness journey? Best advice: be true to your diet nutrition is everything! I’m hesitant to train people if their diet isn't on par and balanced for their body type. What types of services do you offer

with BodiCoach? We offer: • one-to-one hands on personal training. • Tailored month to month meal programming. • A grade supplements to give you the edge. • Gym memberships (no lock in; no sign up fee). Can you tell is about some of the products you sell and how they can help the body by using them correctly? Fuel your body with sound nutrition advice and training supplements - BodiCoach are not only personal trainers, but also nutrition specialists. We are able to work with you to establish an appropriate nutritional plan to complement your training objectives. Our services include nutrition consultations and meal plans. Within our shopfront in Gordon Street is BodiCoach’s Port Macquarie training supplement store. We are stockists of many sports nutritional products, including proteins, amino acids, diet and weight loss, sports performance, and health and wellness. All our products are competitively priced and come with the advice you need to give you the knowledge about what you are putting into your body. How can our readers get in touch with you? You can find BodiCoach at 163 Gordon Street - next door to Gordon Street Cycles, or jump online and check us out at: www.bodicoach.com Be sure to like us on Facebok and follow us on Instagram to keep up to date with what BodiCoach has to offer and how we can help you keep on track. Thanks Jack.

B dy mind and

INNOVATE STUDIO

PUSH UP Step 1: Face forward with your palms on the floor and you feet shoulder width apart. Step 2: Bring your nose to the floor making sure elbows are tucked in and hands are facing forward.

2. DOWNWARD FACING DOG - ADHO MUKHA SVANASANA

SQUAT

Step 1: Stand with one leg behind with hands on hips, making sure your hips are parallel and your back foot is raised. Step 2: Squat down, bringing your back knee to the floor, keeping your hips parallel and shoulders square.

Step 1:: Press into the hands and lift the hips up towards the ceiling. Step 2:: Spread the fingers and palms shoulder width apart. Step 3:: Using straight (but not locked) arms, press the hips up and back, reaching the chest towards the thighs. Lift up through the tailbone to keep the spine straight and long. Step 4:: Feet are hipâ€™s width apart, with the toes facing forward. Press the heels into the floor, feeling a stretch in the back of the legs. Step 5:: Let the head and neck hang freely.

TREE POSE - VRIKSHASANA Step 1:: Bend one knee, shifting all the weight into the other leg. Turn the bent knee to the side and rest foot against the standing leg, either above or below the knee. Step 2:: When you are balanced, slowly bring the palms together in prayer position in front of the heart and extend them above. Step 3:: The shoulders are down and back and the chest are open.

STUDIO NOW OPEN! BELLBOWRIE PARK, PORT MACQUARIE www.innovatebodymind.com.au for more information. greater port macquarie focus. 65

women’s Health with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

MAY 2016

with Terri

Port Macquarie Personal Training PMPT New Year’s Success Stories 2016 ... The girls have had an amazing start to the year here at PMPT! Take a look at just a few of our clients’ achievements so far this year: Sue lost 7.8 kg in eight weeks for her son’s wedding. Jordan reached her goal weight a month early, and lost 4.4 kg IN ONE WEEK following one of our “fat attack” plans. Kursty lost 6.8 kg since January and went on a shopping spree for all the new clothes she can fit into now! Glenys added our services into her training and just came back from the national dragon boat titles with FOUR gold medals! PMPT is for you if you want to: have a private and friendly place to exercise where you feel 100% comfortable; have workouts tailored to your mood and energy levels on the day, so you leave every session feeling great; have a coach and a friend who cares, keeps you accountable, and wants you to succeed as much as you do; get the best personal training service in town at a small fraction of the cost of PT anywhere else. Just ask our clients! Join the fun! It’s not too late to achieve your New Year’s Resolution - join PMPT, and become our next success story!

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Opportunity to enjoy your heart-felt connections will satisfy a yearning in your being. Don’t be afraid of commitment; instead, nurture the love you feel and enjoy its rewards. Citrine shatters frustrations.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Don’t lose sight of your dreams; they give you opportunity to reconnect with that feeling of life’s purpose and joy. Use your restless energy to benefit you. An inner contentment will soon fill your being. Citrine is great for change and empowerment.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 You may be vulnerable at taking life too seriously at present, leaving you feeling trapped instead of creating it. Lighten up your energy by using your prankster and laugh as much as you can. Ruby shatters fears great for adventure.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Use your clever, freethinking mind to heal cycles that have repeated in your past. Think outside the square and see things laterally, to avoid being stuck by not obsessing the small things, and thank yourself for being the change you previously wanted to become. Citrine is great for clearing.

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GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

You are a wise old soul, but at times life challenges your beliefs. Try not to become arrogant in your opinions; remain headstrong with respect, as this will release much torment from your being. Rose Quartz is great for self- love.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Relationships are providing you with perfect opportunity to see how nurturing, loving and compassionate you can be. Try looking inward at the gifts and talents you chose to incarnate with, and thank yourself for these attributes. Citrine attracts abundance.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 Time for change is fast approaching, and you will find yourself extremely restless and feeling frustrated if you have no newfound direction. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to proceed without fear. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Although change can be a challenge, it is also a very rewarding part of life. Set some fresh goals and try giving yourself permission to succeed. If fear overwhelms you at the time of getting ready to step forward, try visualising yourself walking the walk. Selenite shatters negative thoughts.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Your wisdom attracts other people’s problems to you. You are a natural born counsellor, and others sense this. Hear your wise words that catch your attention when you are helping someone through a tough time. This is how you too are being guided. Citrine shatters self doubt.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Undigested emotions are surfacing at present, to give you another opportunity to release the effects they have on you. This is why you may be feeling suspended. Identify your insecurity and become the divine answer. Turquoise is great for self-worth.

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

Relationships may feel like hard work at present, as they are presenting challenges to your old belief systems. Practice patience with yourself and others and try debating your beliefs. Amethyst reconnects us to our personal journey.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Expect the unexpected! Your leadership qualities and communication will be given opportunity to sparkle. You have an innate sense of justice and fairness and like to strive for win-win situations, so trust in your ability and allow yourself to be heard confidently. Turquoise is great for self-confidence.

with Nutritionist, Personal Trainer, Educator Lisa Michele

women’s Health

A different kindof fat FINDING THE BALANCE

Finding the perfect balance of exercise and nutrition for optimal health is no easy task. Each person’s body is different, and there is no clear cut amount of exercise or food that is perfect for everyone - variations exist in metabolism, gender, hormones, past history ... and the list goes on.

s female participation in sport has increased, many have seen numerous health benefits such as increased fitness and improved cardiovascular health. However, a unique set of medical problems has emerged around the concept Female Athlete Triad (FAT), now termed Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) to recognise that the syndrome also affects males. In the FAT, low energy availability (with or without eating disorder), amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) and osteoporosis (compromised bone strength and increased risk of fracture) may be evident individually or in combination and can significantly influence an individual’s health. The FAT may occur when, for a sustained period, the dietary energy intake of the individual does not match energy expenditure - in other words, when you regularly don’t eat enough to compensate for the level of activity you are doing. It sounds like the opposite of every piece of weight loss advice you ever heard. Reducing calories and increasing physical activity is, after all, one of the basic principles of weight loss. However, in certain circumstances, such as where the body does not have excess fat reserves to burn, this can be detrimental for the individual. For those suffering from FAT, the deficient calorie intake means the amount of energy remaining for other bodily functions is insufficient and may lead to irregularities in cellular maintenance, growth, reproduction and body temperature regulation. You see in many ways FAT occurs at the other end of the scale to obesity and is equally reflective of a loss of balance. Anyone may be affected by FAT, not just athletes. The body has no mechanism for automatically accommodating energy intake to energy expenditure. However, females

engaging in activities that emphasise leanness or endurance are at greater risk. While the prevalence of all three components is generally low, one component of the FAT may be present in a significant proportion of females. Potential risk factors may include overtraining, a competitive nature, life stressors, restricting intake or food groups, and food doctrines such as vegetarianism or veganism. Energy deficiency is a serious health concern. It can have long term consequences if not identified and treated as early as possible. Prevention rather than treatment is a priority, and education has an important role to play. With the help of a multidisciplinary team, treatment focuses on increasing energy intake and/or decreasing energy expenditure (i.e. less exercise and more food), sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake, incorporating rest days and also psychological management if appropriate. Tips for achieving balance: • Don’t just live on the treadmill; incorporate strength, stamina and suppleness into your training. Do not neglect stretching and gentler forms of exercise such as beach walks and yoga. • If you are stressed and/or tired, let your body rest and don’t force a workout. Don’t be afraid to take a couple of weeks off exercise every now or then. • Nourish your body - include non-processed sources of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats in your diet. If possible, avoid removing whole food groups. • Eat regularly, and especially before and after a workout to fuel and replenish your energy stores. • Do more of what you enjoy - find ways to de-stress. Note: if you are concerned you may be showing signs of the FAT, consult your general medical practitioner for individual advice. greater port macquarie focus. 67

focus _Travel

with Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

TRAVEL EDITOR SUSIE BOSWELL TOOK A WEEK OFF IN 2016’S PICK ESTINATION, THE COOK ISLANDS. SHE’S STILL OVERWHELMED (AND TANNED).

ike a line of stout-bottomed bumblebees, a convoy of bright yellow dune buggies burbles into view, wide-set headlamps resembling big round bug eyes. The throbbing exposed engines grumble with low growls and occasional burps as the squat squadron rumbles on thick tyres along the roadway lining the Rarotonga beachfront. The sound and colour are remarkable against the peaceful oh-so-blue lagoon stretching 100 metres and more to spume breaking on the reef and the slow-mo poetry of paddleboarders, windsurfers and kite-surfers weaving to and fro across the clear shallow waters. Yet the buggies, driven by pairs of thrillseeking tourists, are just as much an integral part of the Cook Islands’ visitor scene. For despite the ineffable beauty of “the Cooks”, as they’re known, and the glorious omnipresent lagoon encircling its main island ... the weather on this mere speck floating in the South Pacific Ocean can, of course, sometimes be wet. While it’s usually still warm enough to snorkel and play about in the lagoon in the rain it’s at times when the sunshine takes a holiday that the buggies, and a diversity of other non-water attractions, come into their own. And, unlike some of its Oceania

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neighbours, Raratonga has plenty little geography: the islands are flung of variety, and all within easy wider across the ocean than striking distance of any and any nation on earth, over all accommodation on the 2 million sq km. Yet in Rarotonga Cooks’ main island. The total their population’s combines all buggies don’t operate well under 15,000, her the best of the ot as traditional “beach” at least two-thirds of lands: South Pacific is buggies - that would them resident on the e bl equa sophistication, s be an affront to the rock, way fewer than es lin nd climate, the fr ie most beautiful, gentle, 2000 on secondof ty of Fiji, the be au e or m necklace of beaches biggest Aitutaki, the s it’ Bora Bora , and anywhere in the world. rest sparsely scattered affordable .” Instead, led by a pilot and about. New Zealand backed up by a second guide has four times as many riding shotgun, a string of them Kukis, as they call themselves. strikes out on safari onto challenging (“Depopulation” is perhaps the hinterland trails on a three and a half hour country’s biggest talking point and “Encounter, Explore, Experience” historical concern). Aitutaki’s 45 minutes away by and environmental odyssey. “Don’t come daily air, yet, as one of the “southern group”, to me with your dry cleaning issues!” the is one of the closer islands to the capital: pilot tells the group, with a wink, in a prereaching the northern islands by (infrequent) tour briefing. And indeed, on return, none air can take four hours. of the mud-splattered posse – in swimmers, Rarotonga, it seems, combines all the best shorts and old Ts - has any complaints; the aspects of the array of other South Pacific party wears just wide grins and the woozy destinations; among them: sophistication, weariness that sets in from sheer exhilaration. derived from its unique bond with New Raro Buggy sets out from the Muri Beach Zealand and that many in the tourism industry Club Hotel, my first hosts in a week “on (the islands’ biggest industry) were educated the rock”, as the locals refer to Rarotonga, at secondary level in NZ; the year-round by far the biggest of the 15-island Cooks equable tropical climate; the friendliness of Fiji; group, gateway for international flights. A the beauty of Bora Bora – which lies, after all,

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just Sydney-Brisbane distance away to the east ... without the heavy freight. And it’s much closer than the Maldives, far more affordable in times of a declining A$, and – though topographically different - equally pretty, and more varied (that is, less uniform than the Indian Ocean nation). For good measure add in ease of language and currency (English; and the New Zealand dollar, near enough to the same value as our own); familiarity of driving on the left, no special licence needed (and you will drive or ride a scooter here); airlines we’re accustomed to (Virgin, Jetstar and Air New Zealand); no land snakes, no visas, no bargaining, no tipping, no departure tax. No other Pacific Island holiday destination can boast all these attributes. While traditional getaways such as Fiji and Vanuatu are not only recovering from devastating cyclones, they also suffer an “ennui factor” to an extent, meaning a massive marketing program by Cook Islands Tourism – in Australia - in 2016 is likely to strike a chord, including with couples planning weddings and honeymoons. (Channel 10 weatherman and character Tim Bailey has been appointed the Cooks’ first Aussie “Ambassador”). Numerous adults only (18+, sometimes 15+) resorts and accommodation options exist on Raro, as well as a few on Aitutaki. I wouldn’t

Photo: Pacific Resort Aitutaki.

hesitate to book again the two adult havens I stayed at: Muri Beach Club mentioned above, and Little Polynesian, just down the road. Fly out of Sydney on a Saturday night and return a week later and you have six nights on Raro: I spent three at each and it was perfect. The Beach Club is a white stucco-ish resort hotel reminiscent of the Moorish style of the Tunisian Mediterranean, perfectly positioned on the most popular lagoon, yet with plenty of privacy for guests on its own reserved stretch of sand. Just 30 guest rooms are modern yet casual, all with lovely views: my deluxe beachfront marvellously spacious, with a double-size shower, cascading hot water,

welcoming and comfy enough to spend a day in, making ... whatever mischief you want. The dining room sits between the bougainvilleadecked deep blue pool and the glorious pale blue lagoon, itself perfect for using the resort’s free stand-up paddleboards, snorkelling gear and kayaks, located right at your door, two steps from the water. On a drizzly day, curling up in my cossie and reading didn’t feel like being cooped up, just beautifully relaxing. I rated my complimentary facial – not normally my favourite pastime - by Kritika in the hotel’s day spa equal best-ever with one I enjoyed in the Maldives (and that was spectacular: a treatment room on the ocean bed, in an

The variety of tours and experiences is immense and, r its confounding fo n, tio la pu small po in an th r te ea far gr cific Pa er gg bi r he ot destinations .”

“

underwater aquarium, tropical fish gliding by the sheer glass walls!) Little Poly, as it’s affectionately known, boasts numerous Luxury Hotel awards. A haven of just 14 “ares” (as in: thatched beach bungalows, bures, fales) each secluded among pretty tropical shrubs and pathways – mine not, as described, “over beach” as much as near sitting in the lagoon. At high tide, it takes just a single stride to slip from my open veranda daybed into the embrace of the clear sandy shallows. It. Is. Sheer. Heaven. My giant bed’s impossibly romantic in allwhite magnificence under a soaring ceiling, the massive luxe bathroom invites intimate frolics, and the open-air spa and shower in a walled garden sanctuary beckon, an irresistible sensory delight. But there’s so much more calling me. As I’ve found, the variety of tours and experiences is immense and, confounding for its small population, far greater than in other bigger Pacific destinations. There are cultural tours and “Island Nights”, the equivalent of luaus; the local “lei” is known as an “ei” and the hula becomes an “ura”. Charming church choirs, the female congregation dressed without exception in outstanding flowerdecked hats. And craft and food markets (markets schmarkets, for me). But also there’s a progressive dinner experience in Kukis’ homes, a warm, endearing and privileged evening out; top notch reef fishing and ocean diving tours; glass-bottom boat cruises; learnto-sail; kiteboarding; beach volleyball; tennis; serious hiking across the mountainous volcanic interior; many restaurants and serendipitous cafes - in lush gardens, set in the lagoon shallows, in a half shipping container on a grassy point. The highlight is Air Rarotonga’s day trip to astoundingly magnificent Aitutaki – quite possibly the best day of your life.

You must hire an economical little car (many also hire scooters, helmets not mandatory). My tip’s to pick it up at the airport: you cannot get lost, you’ll be touring and calling out “Kia Orana” immediately, the speed limit’s low and traffic observance excellent (seniors, take note). Immediately striking is the neat slim sealed roadway circling the island (a mere 30km circuit), paralleling the ever-there – and really, truly, sensational! lagoon. Houses and properties next to the road boast metre-high “picket” fencing in the form of a green-topped native shrub with slim militarily-erect trunks; kids sell cropped coconuts from stalls. What to fault? Ah, my decision to stay only a week. Definitely make it two. So much to do. Cooks, I’m in love with you!

the plug! Susie was a guest of Little Polynesian, Muri Beach Club Hotel, Cook Islands Tourism and Air Rarotonga, travelling Business Class with Air New Zealand ex Sydney on Saturday night (flight 5 hours 45) returning the following Saturday night (6 hours 45). Virgin and Jetstar have good-priced services via Auckland. See: www.littlepolynesian.com and www.muribeachclubhotel.com Both host weddings. Budget options also, across a range of accommodation styles. Research and packages: Cook Islands Tourism at www.sales.cookislands.travel and Lonely Planet’s Rarotonga, Samoa and Tonga RRP $23.95.

greater port macquarie focus. 69

focus_business

Hadyn Oriti with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

MINDING YOUR

business LOCAL ISSUES LOCAL SOLUTIONS LOCAL ISSUES DESERVE LOCAL SOLUTIONS … AND ACCOUNTABILITY. THE DEBATE ABOUT THE STATES EXERCISING INCOME TAX IN POWER CAME AND WENT TOO QUICKLY. THERE WERE LESSONS TO BE DRAWN FOR OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY OUT OF THAT DEBATE.

70 greater port macquarie focus.

n my view, there is real merit in the argument that those charged with responsibility for spending our money, should also be tasked with the responsibility of raising the funds and not begging for it from some distant bureaucracy. Only then can we start to ensure there is some accountability to the tax payer, because those who are seeking to raise tax should be expected to justify that to their electors. While we locally and as a nation always expect better services, it is only when we are asked to pay for our demands that we may appreciate that the tax dollar only goes so far and there are other issues deserving of funds. We can then weigh up whether we, as a community, want to pay more in tax, or curtail our expectations. The Commonwealth raises more money than it needs, whereas the States, which spend the money on many services we receive, don’t raise enough. The current state of affairs in Federal and State relations is called “vertical fiscal imbalance”. An interesting accounting term, that means we have perennial demands from the states for more funding from the Federal Government. If hospitals are failing, blame the Feds and ask for more money. If schools aren’t meeting education targets, blame the Feds and ask for more money. And so it goes. There must be a better way. However, in this political climate, the recent brouhaha shows that there is no political will to force a mature, rational debate on the issue. That’s why I was saddened to see the debate about states taking responsibility for funding their expenditures cut short. So what is the lesson for us locally? Well, in my

view, the thinking that led to the current imbalance in state and federal funding is the same thing that is holding back the implementation of our own foreshore vision. The centralisation of power in Canberra is mimicked by the centralisation at a state level in Macquarie Street. Power is taken away from local decision makers, because funding is allocated from Sydney for local projects. Our foreshore is Crown Land; in reality, the land of the community. But that is not how the state sees it. Any decision to implement our community’s vision for the foreshore must first be signed off by a bureaucrat. The decision maker does not live in Port. Then there is the question of funding. The foreshore could in fact pay for itself, but for the fact that all revenue from Port Macquarie’s foreshore goes to the Crown Land Department for use anywhere in New South Wales. We don’t think that is right. Money generated by our foreshore should be kept here and applied here for this community’s benefit. The Chamber proposed a solution that was, in effect, the same as that offered by Mr Turnbull to the states. Permit a Port Macquarie based authority to collect the revenue and to spend it implementing our foreshore vision. The State Minister, Niall Blair, said no, but in June 2015 committed to giving us a funding structure to implement the foreshore vision. We are still waiting. We’ve been talking too long. It is about time the State Government stopped mucking the community around and got out of the way. Mr Blair has got to either put up the funding or discuss adopting Chamber’s proposal.

New Zealand

There’s a reason the sun shines on New Zealand before anywhere else - every new day is something to cherish ... A tangible wonderland offering one of the most varied and spectacular series of landscapes with a rich and dynamic culture.

IS MAGICAL BY COACH

hether you are marvelling at the spectacular glaciers, picturesque fiords or simply relaxing in a thermal pool, New Zealand is magical on a Grand Pacific Tours coach holiday. Relax in armchair comfort as you travel through each region, feeling secure in the hands of a professional Coach Captain. A New Zealand must do is the subtropical Northland region, stretching upwards from Auckland to the top of the North Island. Northland is synonymous with striking coastline, boating and Kauri forests. In the beautiful Bay of Islands, cruise the turquoise

waters of the bay to the famous Hole in the Rock, keeping an eye out for dolphins. Visit cosmopolitan Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. With world-class shopping, buzzing waterfront precincts lined with restaurants, a vibrant arts and culture scene and harbour adventures are right on your doorstep. Couple this with a plethora of activities to enjoy in Rotorua - the hot spot of fascinating Maori culture, thermal springs and boiling mud pools, this region is one of the most well known Kiwi attractions. Try a delicious hangi feast cooked in the steaming ground while you’re there!

In contrast, the South Island provides a dramatic landscape where towering landscapes meet peaceful sounds. Your holiday is not complete without a visit to one of the most stunning locations on earth - Milford Sound. Described as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, this magnificent fiord was carved by glaciers during the ice ages, its cliffs rising vertically with waterfalls cascading from mountain peaks. Other Southern highlights include Queenstown, a town set on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu. The rugged West Coast, a place of rainforests and glaciers and the garden city of Christchurch, New Zealand’s oldest city and the starting point for the world famous TranzAlpine, which traverses the mighty Southern Alps through a sequence of alpine gorges, taking your breath away at every turn.

As you witness all of this spectacular scenery you can also experience Maori culture and tradition, an integral part of kiwi life. Learn about fascinating myths and legends, displays of visual arts and enjoy specialty cuisine. Food lovers won’t be disappointed by the local kiwi food and wine on tour. Renowned for a distinct Pacific Rim cuisine, coach touring throughout New Zealand is all about discovering this. With most meals included and free time to dine at exciting local restaurants, your appetite will most definitely be satisfied. It’s a wonderful thought that you can have these experiences and share it with like minded people. Join us on an incredible holiday and make lifelong friendships upon return to Australia. There is no better way to visit New Zealand!

HELLO NEW ZEALAND

TASTE OF THE SOUTH ISLAND

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5,894* twin share

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All tours include airfares, taxes, hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing and attractions. Shop 32, Settlement City Cnr Bay & Park Streets, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444

SETTLEMENT CITY

02 6584 4018

portmacquarie@htg.com.au

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*Conditions apply. Prices valid ex SYD and include pre paid taxes (subject to change). Single Supplement available. **Saving ($200 per person) based on tours departing in September 2016 and has already been deducted from the advertised prices. All other departures will receive $125pp saving. Not valid on special group departures. ^20 Day tour: Saving has been deducted from advertised price. Extra night (room only) is already incorporated in to the advertised tour. Jacket is per person. Travel Guide is per household. Coach will pick up passengers from a designated coach stop in the area. No other special offers or discounts apply. Special offer applies to new bookings only until 31 May 2016. Hunter Travel Group Pty Ltd. ABN 39 183 096 957. A11468. greater port macquarie focus. 71

focusinterview.

take T I

SEA W

TIM IS CO-FOUNDER OF THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION TAKE 3 THAT ASKS EVERYONE TO SIMPLY TAKE 3 PIECES OF RUBBISH WITH THEM WHEN THEY LEAVE THE BEACH, WATERWAY OR … ANYWHERE. WHAT BEGAN AS A GRASSROOTS PROJECT TO CLEAN LOCAL BEACHES HAS DEVELOPED INTO A GLOBAL MOVEMENT TO “CHANGE THE FACE OF TRASH”.

im’s story is entertaining and inspiring, reminding us that anyone and everyone can be a change-maker. A specialist in waste and its impact on the natural environment, Tim has built a successful career in addressing the urgent need to transform the way we make, purpose and think about “stuff”. Tim will be presenting at the annual Luminosity Youth Summit in July. FOCUS caught up with Tim about his initiatives. Tell us about yourself and how you became involved in environmental studies? When I was in high school, I took a real interest in subjects like Geography, where the big wide world was being opened up before my eyes. I developed a real interest in sustainability - seeing the results of human impact on the environment. So when it came time to choose my studies, I chose a Bachelor of Science - Sustainable Resource Management. Through these studies I began to get a real picture of how we needed more people to take an active role in conservation. It was travels around the world as a young man that made me realise the scale of the problem with pollution. You are the co-founder of Take 3 what is the main concept behind what you do? We wanted to introduce the issue of plastic pollution to a large audience, but at

72 greater port macquarie focus.

the same time inspire every person to take simple actions that would make a positive difference. So that is where “Take 3 for the Sea” action comes in - anyone at anytime can pick up plastic trash off the ground. But more importantly, have a decent large conversation around the problem and create solutions. Port Macquarie is one of the most beautiful places in the world. What do we need to know about protecting our waterways and beaches here? We know now that when plastic gets into the environment - that plastic bottle top or coffee cup or bottle that you walk past is going to outlive you - and we know it is responsible for killing over a million innocent sea creatures every year. We all have a responsibility to protect our waterways. It’s not just about wildlife; it is also about our own health, because without a healthy ocean there is no healthy us. You say anyone can be a change maker - where do we start? I think it really comes down to a philosophy that has always compelled me - this notion that we have an intergenerational equality and that we have a role and responsibility to pass on our planet in a equal or better shape than when we found it. It is pretty evident that we have an unsustainable relationship with our planet at the moment, so it is imperative that more young people decide to be a change-maker and set us on a pathway where we can co-exist

with our planet in a sustainable way. You will be speaking to 300 young adults at the Luminosity Youth Summit in July - what three things do you hope they take away from your presentation? First of all is to acknowledge the scale of the problem that we face; I think that a big part of my presentation is to provide a wake up call. At the same time, it is to interpret that information and decipher in a way that results in a positive action. I want them to walk away feeling inspired. And thirdly, we may see more young people as a result consider a career path in sustainability and in helping get ourselves in a pathway to a better relationship with our planet. How can we find out more? Check out TimSilverwood.com or Take3. org - take3forthesea online or just Tim Silverwood.

the plug! Luminosity Youth Summit is on 15 - 17 July 2016. Open to all 15 - 25 year olds. Register now online at luminosityyouthsummit.com.au Visit them at Mid Coast Careers Market on May 10 at the Race Course. www.midcoastconnect.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 73

with Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

focus_interview

Brooke CLOUD CONCEPTS

ome of us spend our days management and more. with our heads in the “There are a whole raft of new clouds. This is certainly applications that can run seamlessly true of Ollie Brooke of between the office and the smartphone, Cloud Concepts. which delivers a significantly valuable This Irish born techno edge for businesses.” wiz has long held a passion for Ollie works at the forefront of programing and software, and has built technological development and says it up a successful business showing others can be challenging to keep up with the how they can embrace cloud computing dizzying array of solutions that exist to to improve efficiency and profitability. streamline business processes. Ollie has been into computers He says he’s naturally inquisitive and since he was 12 years old, has an “almost unhealthy started a software interest” in technology development degree and what’s coming e th in Ireland and at next. A firm believer ly al We’re re is th of went on to teach g in the concept of in beginn am I d an himself how a “beginner’s n, revolutio able be to d te to program mind”, Ollie ci ex very ess itn w ly on t software both approaches every no to ion professionally day and every the transformat t also in our world , bu and for fun. challenge as an of the be a small part For Ollie, opportunity to es this force that push computers are an learn more. ” change forward. exciting extension “I am constantly of the mind. “Much doing online courses, in the same way as reading and listening to physical tools extend the new material, building and physical capability of the average testing prototypes and generally human (when was the last time you just surrounding myself with as much tried to push a nail into a piece of information and insight as I can.” wood with your bare hands?) computers Ollie uses cloud technology and extend the intellectual capacity.” clever systems in his own business, Cloud computing is really the next enabling him to spend a lot of time wave of business computing software. It with his young daughters. And when can automate marketing and customer he has some spare time, he produces relationship management, project and electronic music, runs a music podcast task management, field service work PureHouseMusic.net and still DJs for the

“

74 greater port macquarie focus.

odd party or gig. Audible is his secret weapon, enabling him to listen to inspiring audio books, like Michael Gerber’s The E-Myth Revisited, by making incredibly effective use of “drive time” between meetings or picking his kids up from school. “It’s a really easy way to appreciate the true power of cloud computing and mobile technology and fundamentally shift the way you do business.” The best bits of Ollie’s day are seeing clients have an “ah-ha” moment when they realise there’s a simple solution, or being able to help people out of a bind. Ollie is keen to share his knowledge with others via some upcoming talks for the NSW Business Chamber and will be running a workshop at the upcoming Digital Marketing Day Out. “We’re really at the beginning of this revolution, and I am very excited to be able to not only witness the transformation in our world, but also be a small part of the force that pushes this change forward.” Visit cloudconcepts.com.au

My Day 5:30am

Half an hour in the office before getting kids ready for daycare/school

9:00am

Writing code, researching new programs, testing functionalities to suit clients’ needs

11:00am

Meet with clients in Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Wauchope or Taree to help them automate their business systems and look at website integration, automated email marketing and more

1:00pm

Build new integration solution for client or evolve custom cloud base software

2:00pm

Blog writing - this is taking self-discipline, but the results are worth it

3:00pm

Work on further automating my own business processes

4:30pm

Because of how I’ve set up my business, I’m able to pick up my girls from daycare/school and get them fed and ready for bed by (hopefully) 7:30pm

8:00pm

Either working on projects, watching Netflix, or producing music in my studio

Opportunity Knocks At a time when so much is happening in a young person’s life, the move from Primary School to Secondary School can be both challenging and rewarding.

t Columba Anglican School (SCAS) is a K-12 campus located in the growing Innes Peninsula area of Port Macquarie. SCAS prides itself on delivering a liberal education which develops the whole student in a caring Christian environment. Our hope is that our graduates are confident young men and women, equipped with the skills to take on the Twenty First Century world as capable and compassionate contributors and life-long learners. Across the breadth of schooling offered at SCAS are a number of key transition points. Possibly one of the most eagerly anticipated transitions is that from Primary School to High School. Each year SCAS transitions from three Primary classes in Year 6 to four Secondary classes in Year 7. As a result, a number of places become available for new students to the school. New students opting to attend SCAS for their Secondary Schooling are encouraged to apply early to ensure a place is available. New families are interviewed

and invited to tour the school and/or attend a “taster day” to see the school in action. A limited number of scholarships are offered each year for entry into Year 7, with applicants being assessed on their capacity to contribute to the life of the school across the range of academic, spiritual, cultural, service and sporting contexts. The transition to High School can be challenging, as students at this age face a number of cognitive, physical, social and emotional challenges. To alleviate some of these challenges, SCAS invites students entering Year 7 to an Orientation Day in the year prior to entry into Year 7. Here they get to mingle with other students (including their Year 11 Peer Support Leaders), meet key staff like their Year Patron and Head of School and attend some mock classes to see what lies ahead. This orientation is then reinforced when Year 7 start school a day earlier than their older peers in the year they start Year 7. Parents are also invited to a meet and greet with key staff from the school community prior to their children starting, and a “Meet the Teacher”

evening is run early in Term 1 to help us get to know each other. At SCAS, teachers have a strong commitment to the pastoral care of students and spend considerable time creating a safe, challenging and supportive environment where students feel a sense of belonging. Students at SCAS are given opportunities to develop sound work habits, positive relationships, independence, resilience and an awareness of community issues both locally and abroad through a balanced involvement in a range of academic, pastoral, outdoor, sporting and cultural pursuits. Teaching at SCAS is contemporary and fresh, utilising technology as a medium to create, not just consume. Students are encouraged

to learn to collaborate to solve problems, communicate effectively in front of their peers and adults and become critical thinkers who can adapt to an ever changing world. SCAS is an early adopter of proven pedagogical approaches and at various times incorporates problem based learning approaches, direct instruction and independent research. Class sizes are optimised to suit specific subject requirements, and students have access to modern, state of the art facilities. At a time when we are all looking to optimise the opportunities open to our children in regards their education, SCAS really does offer a World of Opportunities. Come knock on our door and see for yourself.

greater port macquarie focus. 75

2016 creative industries forum.

Cathy Young My Bearded Pigeon

BEING CREATIVE. People who run a creative business or are thinking of starting one on the Mid North Coast are encouraged to attend the Creative Industries Forum to be held at the new Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey on Tuesday 24 May.

vent organiser, ETC Business Advisor Marilyn Breen, said the inaugural forum, The Business of Being Creative, was designed to help people turn their creative endeavours into a profitable

business. “The Mid North Coast is home to a vibrant and diverse creative industries sector,” Ms Breen said. “We are aware that many people start creative businesses because they’re passionate about their creative product or service and not because they’re passionate about business. Many of these people are sole traders or work from home, so it’s difficult to reach out to them to offer business support. “We are looking forward to bringing creative practitioners from throughout the region together to learn from creative industry experts and to participate in peer panel discussions and business

Russell Way and Helene Rosanove Art Tank

presentations.” Ms Breen said the one day event featured a great line-up of speakers, networking opportunities and a showcase of local creative products and services. Creative industries expert Monica Davidson from Creative Plus Business will talk about the future of the creative industries in her keynote address. “The creative industries sector is rapidly emerging as an economic force to be reckoned with,” Ms Davidson said. “This event is really important, because it brings creative people together and provides a forum for us to talk about ourselves as a collective industry, and not just a bunch of individual artisans. Creativity can be a lonely pursuit, and sometimes it's hard to juggle all the aspects of trying to make money from your craft, and the Business of Being

Monica Davidson Creative Business Plus Creative is going to be the perfect antidote!” Artists Russell Way and Helene Rosanove from Art Tank will be sharing their story of how they have grown from small commissions to now running workshops, selling DIY kits and operating an online store and mobile studio. “It’s hard enough to make money out of art, but it’s every artist’s nightmare to make art into a business. Our aim is simple - to share our story of two artists married with three young daughters balancing art and business,” Russell Way and Helene Rosanove said. Cath Young from My Bearded Pigeon will be talking about her experience in designing, printing and sewing fabric into cushions and wall hangings and selling them from home in Bellingen to people across the world through Etsy. "Etsy is ideal for anyone wanting to start a business; the outlay is tiny, and your shop can

grow with you. You can add items at your leisure and if you are going on holidays, you can put your shop in vacation mode. Etsy charges a very small commission of 3.5% and only if you sell something; they don't make money unless we do,” Ms Young said. Ms Breen said there had been overwhelming support for the event. “It’s really exciting to see all the local Councils throughout the Mid North Coast get on board as supporters of the event, as well as Arts Mid North Coast and North Coast TAFE,” Ms Breen said. For more information, contact Marilyn Breen in Kempsey on 0417 201 794 or Kevin Riddell in Coffs Harbour on 0408 128 496. Tickets cost $69 early bird - ends 30 April; $79 full price and $59 for concession holders. To book, visit etcltd.com.au/ creativeindustriesforum

PRESENTS

2016 CREATIVE INDUSTRIES FORUM

Learn from indus be ins try ex pired perts a n d netw enter ork w taine produ i d cers a th other c r nd ar tisan eative s

24TH MAY

9am - 6pm SLIM DUSTY CENTRE, KEMPSEY etcltd.com.au/creativeindustriesforum

76 greater port macquarie focus.

0417 201 794

2016 creative industries forum.

OFFICIAL programme.

SessionONE. 9:00am

Arrival, registration and browse Creative Showcase

9:40am

Introduction MC Annabel Lines

9:45am 9:50am 9:55am

10:00am 10:05am

10:40am

11:00am

Welcome to Country by Aunty Esther Quinlin Introduction by Mayor Liz Campbell Welcome by The Hon Melinda Pavey MP Member for Oxley

Sessiontwo. 11:20am

Keynote Speaker: Monica Davidson, CEO Creative Plus Business

11:55am

Economics of Creative Industries: Kevin Williams, Arts MNC

12:05pm

Innovative Funding: Stephanie Ney, Sawtell Cinema

12:25pm

Sessionfour. 2:35pm

Panel Discussion and Q&A: 6 x local government senior representatives

Lunch

3:15pm

Creative Marketing: DXN Solutions Lee & Anya Dixon

SessionThree.

3:35pm

Being Qualified: NC TAFE Lorrae O’Brien 3:45pm

3:45pm

Summation: Where to from here? Hosted by Annabel Lines with Guest Speakers and audience Q&A

4:15pm

Speed Networking Session: Speakers interact with participants

4:45pm

Entertainment: Drumming Sheilas

1:20pm

Learning from your Peers: Panel Discussion and Q&A Wingham Akoostik Festival: Donna Ballard

Setting the Scene: Marilyn Breen, ETC Event Coordinator

Coffs Harbour Writers’ Group: Lorraine Penn Out

Keynote Speakers: Russell Way & Helene Rosanove, Art Tank

There Design & Mosaic: Francessca O’Donnell My Bearded Pigeon: Cath Young Indigenous Interiors: Alison Williams

Selling to the Global Market Place through ETSY: Cath Young, My Bearded Pigeon

2:00pm

Setting Your Selling Price: Fiona Barden, Coffs Harbour City Council

Morning tea

2:20pm

Entertainment: Teaki Hoops (Hula Hoops)

Sessionfive. 5:15pm

Networking and cocktail session a chance to mingle, network and share

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

PROUD TO SUPPORT

courses for

creatives...

THE BUSINESS OF BEING CREATIVE

Achieve your potential with a wide range of exciting creative courses at North Coast TAFE. For more info or to enrol, call 1300 628 233 or go to www.northcoasttafe.edu.au

c o pies d el i v er ed fr ee - e v ery m o n t h

All gloss all free guide to local living

www.focusmag.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

RTO: 90010.

greater port macquarie focus. 77

focusindustries interview. forum. 2016 creative

BELLINGEN LOCAL CATH YOUNG, THE BRAINS BEHIND POPULAR ONLINE STORE “MY BEARDED PIGEON”, CHATS TO FOCUS ABOUT HER OWN JOURNEY TO SUCCESS AND HOW SHE INSPIRES OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THEIR ONLINE BUSINESS GOALS … i Cath. Where and how did the cleverly named venture “My Bearded Pigeon” begin? I began making and selling online in 2007 with my first business, Chunky Chooky, when I was on maternity leave with my first child. I couldn’t find any clothes or toys I liked for my daughter, so I started sewing and then started selling what I made online. I started with toys and children's clothing, and they did pretty well. As my daughter got older, I became less interested in baby things and I decided I wanted to start selling homewares; surely after years of poring over interiors magazines, I could work out how to do this? I just wanted a name that didn’t fence me into a particular thing and something a little unique, so “My Bearded Pigeon” was born (hatched!) With no formal training or design experience, how did you develop your skills and knowledge? I am completely self taught, and this has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Everything I needed to know was found via library books, YouTube videos or blog tutorials, and there was a LOT of trial and error. This is frustrating at times, as my ideas are sometimes slowed by what I can do, as I am teaching myself how to do it as I'm doing it, so there is often a gap where I am trying to get something to look like how it does on my sketch pad or in my head. This little venture has now evolved into a sustainable business. How did you mould your business into the success it is today? I was eventually able to have the ideas I had commercially printed onto fabric that would be exclusive to us. I launched my second business, My Bearded Pigeon in late 2010, and things expanded very quickly thanks to some very high profile features 78 greater port macquarie focus.

online. I sell a variety of homewares with a vintage feel. I started with Vintage map cushions, and then expanded to a variety of cushions and then small wall hangings and more recently education charts that look like old chalkboards. I have always ensured my products are well made, high quality and ethically The handmade produced, and I take customer community is ortive, service very seriously. incredibly supp in ly Tell us about some of the particular think it collaborations and features Australia , and I ghlight hi you’ve been involved with. is important to maternity leave and not only t ea gr g others doin I have had my work featured really enjoyed it, but it has ve all ha work so we can on lots of blogs both here and become a business. It is frustrating .” es ss stronger busine overseas. Shaynna Blaze used when others don't see selling what some of my cushions in a Taubmans you produce at home online as a ad campaign a few years ago, and legitimate business; it can be minimised the photos were in paint brochures as "that little sewing thing you do", and in Bunnings across Australia; this happened that is frustrating when people are starting out. just from a conversation I had with Shaynna on Part of mentoring is supporting people through this Twitter. Real Living magazine stylist Sarah Ellison time. was also incredibly kind in featuring our wares multiple You’re one of the speakers at the ETC 2016 times, and this really gave us great exposure. I am Creative Industries Forum. What will you be active on social media and I regularly feature other talking about on the day? people’s work. The handmade community is incredibly I am looking forward to telling my story and to supportive, particularly in Australia, and I think it is encourage others to start selling what they are already important to highlight others doing great work, so we making. A start up is not just a tech company; it's any can all have stronger businesses. business you start from the ground up. Working from You’ve worked as a mentor to encourage other home and being your own boss is incredibly rewarding, people to succeed as you have; can you give some and selling online is not nearly as complicated as people examples of positive outcomes you’ve had in may think. helping others? Lastly, where can we purchase your goods and Seeing people who are nervous but incredibly follow your journey online? creative dip their toe into selling online and then have visit mybeardedpigeon.com for links to my online huge success is incredibly rewarding. I work with a shop and social media. lot of women who have started creating at home on Thanks Cath.

“

ILLUSION TIME. ALYSON GAINSFORD

AS A CHILD, I WAS FASCINATED BY MAGICIANS WEAVING THEIR MAGIC, MAKING THE BEAUTIFUL WOMAN DISAPPEAR FROM A LOCKED BOX ONLY FOR HER TO APPEAR LATER WITH A FLICK OF THE WAND AND A PUFF OF SMOKE.

he experience was so powerful, analysing, more collecting, more analysing, so real, and for many years I stressing and drawing out the process. There wondered how the magician was no doubt in my mind that I was busy; did it. Now of course, a magiin fact, I was so busy, this mammoth task I cian never reveals his tricks but created consumed all my time and energy, over time, I discovered it was all an illusion. with little left to focus on anything else. On These days, I often hear people in business reflection, it was definitely a case of lazy say things like, “Where did the time go?” and thinking and indiscriminate action; half the like the magician that made the woman disapinformation I collected I didn’t even use - talk pear from the box, time seems to disappear. It about information overload! Collecting and started me thinking about the illusion of time analysing so much information to fill time and and common beliefs around time, such as: “I look busy was ineffective and unhealthy. On need more time”; “I don’t have the time”; another occasion I left an assignment to the “I’m busy”; “I work hard”; “Not enough last minute, requesting an extension, hours in the day”; “Have to work which was firmly denied by my long hours to get ahead” ... lecturer. I was forced to foNot to mention the obsessed cus on the bare essentials colleague or boss who is These days , I of the task and pull an le often hear peop a time watcher, tracking all-nighter, handing things your every move during in my assignment in business say e th your day to ensure you minutes before it like, ‘Where di d e the have done your time was due. It turned time go?’ and lik e the ad or you’re not wasting out to be one of my magician that m from r time, even rewarding best assignments, woman disappea s to em working hard according receiving a high disthe box, time se r.” ea pp to the number of extra tinction. So why is this disa hours you might work, with so? Well, it’s the magic little regard to productivity, of an imminent deadline, outcomes and results. forcing me to focus on the Why is it that we all have the same bare essentials to get the job done amount of this precious resource called and disregard everything else. This is time, yet some people achieve amazing also the case when a pending deadline things in the same amount of time others pops out of nowhere and requires urgent acachieve little? What about the illusion of the tion; we are forced to focus on the critical task 9 - 5 working day! It’s interesting that most and complete it in a short timeframe given its OECD countries require eight hour working urgency. You may recall what happens a few days to accomplish their work? Is it real or days before you go on a two week holiday, just an illusion; have we been conditioned to churning through the work like Superman on believe this to be true? Do we fill eight hours a mission. Nothing like a deadline to create because we have eight hours to fill? If we focus and action! had 15 hours, would we fill 15? Are we being So next time you hear yourself saying, “I’m productive, or just active? busy”; “I work hard”; “I don’t have the time”; So does time elude us, or have we bought “Where has the time gone” ... You might into the illusion about time? Parkinson’s Law want to stop and consider questioning your helps to explain our use of time. It dictates that beliefs around time. a task will swell in perceived importance and For more information on the illusion of time, complexity in relation to the time allocated for fantastic questions to ask yourself and tips on its completion. This makes sense, as I recalled productive planning and time management, my experience studying at uni. I was given an visit www.dynamichrmsolutions.com.au/freereassignment to complete in three weeks. I spent sources three weeks collecting, analysing, collecting, By Alyson Gainsford.

Do you want to Be a teacher? No need to wait until 2017 - you now have the opportunity to start a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) (Honours) at the University of Newcastle (UON)’s Port Macquarie campus in July. Primary teachers instil a lifelong passion for learning in their students, and good teachers can have a profound effect on a young person’s outlook on education, their career aspirations and life in general. At UON, we are dedicated to training great teachers to become leaders that make a difference. When you study a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) (Honours) through UON, you will graduate with a high quality honours degree that will set you apart from the rest. Prospective employers view honours degrees favourably, and consider it to be a distinct advantage within the graduate pool.

The degree has been developed with a range of entry pathways to cater for students from a variety of educational backgrounds, and all UON teaching degrees are accredited with the Board of Studies, Teaching and Education Standards (BOSTES). Graduates of the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) (Honours) degree are able to seek employment as K-6 (Primary) teachers in the New South Wales (NSW) Government, Catholic, and Independent school sectors and beyond. UON’s Port Macquarie campus allows you the chance to study without having to travel too far from home and without the pressures of living in a bigger city. The campus also provides you with support through the close-knit community of staff and students. If you want to be a great teacher, start your degree this July at UON. Apply today: newcastle.edu.au/portmacteaching

“

greater port macquarie focus. 79

meet the EXPERTS

360 FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE 360 Financial Advantage is here to assist you establish a personalised and appropriate financial strategy to meet your financial objectives, needs and goals.

qualifications and skills to assess and enhance your financial position and future by focusing on the key issues of wealth creation, protection and distribution.

Some people have fairly simple financial needs, while others may require more comprehensive advice to suit their complex business, financial or family circumstances. Whatever your financial needs or objectives, planning for your financial future is important, and it does require time and effort.

We can assist you with advice regarding superannuation (including self-managed super funds), tax effective investment strategies, retirement planning, wealth creation, risk protection, aged care, social security and estate planning.

It is also important to regularly review your financial strategy and position due to your changing requirements over time and the ever changing tax, superannuation, aged care and social security environment.

Receiving appropriate financial advice is the first step you can take to ensure you are making the right decisions for your circumstances. Our professional advisers at 360 Financial Advantage are available to discuss your requirements and offer an obligation free initial meeting at no cost.

The motto at 360 Financial Advantage is “Right Strategy - Right Structure - Right Investments”. Our Financial Advisers have the experience,

Planning your financial future is very important, so contact 360 Financial Advantage for your free initial appointment.

Seeking Seeking financial financial advice? See Seea aprofessional professional adviser adviser -whenexperience experience&&qualifications qualifications count. when count.

Strategy advice, investment advice & review, superannuation & retirement advice including self-managed super funds, personal insurances, Centrelink planning Strategy advice, investment advice & review, superannuation & retirement advice including self-managed super funds, personal insurances, Centrelink planning

 6651 5999  coffs@360fa.com.au facebook.com/360fa 6583 5377  Sally Curtis CFP MFinServ LRS port@360fa.com.au facebook.com/360fa Authorised Representative - Count Wealth Accountants Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Principal - Financial Adviser

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CMYK / .ai

360fa.com.au

® Sally Curtis CFP ® MFinServ LRS 8 Dalley Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Authorised Representative - Count Wealth Accountants 35 Princess Street, Macksville NSW 2447 Principal - Financial Adviser Level 1, 147 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Level 1, Gordon Macquarie Count and Count Wealth Accountants are147 trading names Street, of Count Port Financial Limited ABN NSW 19 0012444 974 625 Australian Financial Services Licence Holder Street, Number 227232 a wholly-owned, non-guaranteed 8 Dalley Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 subsidiary of Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. Count is a Professional Partner of the Financial Planning 35 Princess Street, Macksville NSW 2447 Association of Australia Ltd.

360fa.com.au

Count ® and Count Wealth Accountants ® are trading names of Count Financial Limited ABN 19 001 974 625 Australian Financial Services Licence Holder Number 227232 a wholly-owned, non-guaranteed subsidiary of Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. Count is a Professional Partner of the Financial Planning Association of Australia Ltd.

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FUJI xerox BUSINESS CENTRE MID NORTH COAST

THE FUJI XEROX BUSINESS CENTRE MID NORTH COAST IS A LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND MANAGED BUSINESS ESTABLISHED IN 1982 WHICH EMPLOYS ALMOST 20 LOCALS. FUJI XEROX IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST SUPPLIERS OF COPIERS AND PRINTERS.

hey proudly support and invest Fuji Xerox now offer a document scanning in the community through program, where they use a high speed scanner sponsorships such as the Port with built in fail safes to scan and store all Macquarie Junior Rugby Union, the of your paper documents. This includes Memory Walk, the District Family removing staples, separating bound papers and History Society, Port SLSC, Sailability and repairing creased documents. Their software many more. enhancement includes capturing meta They are known and loved data such as client codes, naming for their high service and sorting files. You are then e standards, including delivered with your files They have som their fully qualified via the cloud or portable of the most rprises service team who have hardware. This creates important ente stomer extensive knowledge more space in your office among their cu Human of Fuji Xerox devices. and increases document base including and Services , Ro ads Their devices have security and makes it es Maritime Servic many outstanding easier to find information. t of and D epartmen features that come Fuji Xerox is known for Education.” standard, such as a its innovation in regards to program to control printing, sustainability. They developed self-meter reads and auto self their own Eco-manufacturing toner ordering. Centre, which has won one of the They have some of the most important world’s highest honours, election to the enterprises among their customer base, UN500 Roll of Honour for environmental including Human Services, Roads and leadership. This centre was created so Fuji Xerox Maritime Services and Department of Education. would have a closed loop cycle to remanufacture They were also successful in the tender for the recover and reuse end of life parts. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. This solution Locally the team take the time to listen to reduced print waste and improved security, as you and learn about your business to create a well as enabled performance reporting for every tailor made solution for your workplace. This device. A Council employee said: “Fuji Xerox not only includes your printers and copiers, Business Centre Mid North Coast provides a but your current business workflows. It might one-stop-shop solution with a single invoice for sound corny, but they know the copier industry all devices, remote monitoring of the devices, backwards, forwards, duplexed, stapled, folded automatic alerts for toner, service and meter and scanned … You will be so happy you spoke readings - providing a seamless service that with them. So call Kris on 0407 996 135 and for integrates into Council’s IT support services to every machine purchased, you go into the draw save on time and cost.” to win six months of free printing.

“

MEET THE EXPERTS

meet the EXPERTS

What is your

BRAND

STORY Do people understand your story?

MEET HAYLEY MCGRATH. SHE IS A BRANDING EXPERT AND THE FOUNDER OF NEOPITCH. Neopitch offers a blend of traditional marketing, digital marketing and software solutions, to help your brand deliver a consistent story at every touch point. Over the last 20 years Hayley has worked alongside start ups, events and large enterprises to help brands keep their stories straight.

We house hunt & negotiate great deals for buyers Fuji Xerox Business Centre Mid North Coast Every business is trying to save money and be more efficient, right? The Fuji Xerox Business Centre see businesses every day that don’t know how much they are actually spending on their office printing and what features they actually need for an efficient workflow in their office. They offer a free service where they ask a few simple questions to show you how much you are actually spending on your printing and what features are essential for your business to work more efficiently and effectively. And for every copier purchased this month, you go into the draw to win six months of free printing Call Kris on 0407 996 135. Fuji Xerox is famous for their efficient photocopiers; however, did you know they offer a whole print service solution? They have desktop printers ranging from mono to colour and multi-function devices for your small or home office. Their graphic design team can create templates for you so you can then print custom items from your copier, such as promotional flyers and posters, presentation folders, envelopes, even wrist bands. Get a print assessment with us & we will shout you lunch!

We have helped more than 350 people buy over $200 Million Dollars of property Australia wide. 2016 has started off with a bang for Smarter Property and its professional team of buyers’ agents! We are very excited and look forward to helping more and more buyers achieve their property dreams throughout 2016. We have been working hard with clients all over Australia securing properties from Perth to Port Macquarie, from Melbourne to Maroochydore. Our clients often comment how happy they are after engaging our services, as you don’t know what you don’t know when it comes to property. Often people will ask that essential elevator question, “What do you do?”, so this month we would like to summarise just some of the services we offer to our happy clients. WHAT WE DO: WE HOUSE HUNT and NEGOTIATE FOR BUYERS • Reduce the risk and stress of buying your dream home or investment property • Keep you safe • Save you valuable time and money • Use professional research to determine a property’s real market value • Negotiate contract terms for the best deal • Access to property not advertised to the general public • Access to qualified Property Investment Advisors So if you too want your happy ever after ... Then give us a call and let us show you how it’s possible to have your home and investment properties too.

Visit www.neopitch.com.au for her story

or call Hayley on 0402 0402 15

BRANDINGWEBSITESMARKETING DIGITAL SOLUTIONS DYNAMIC CREATIVE ADVERTISING EMAIL MARKETING

greater port macquarie focus. 81

Financial Focus with Ursula Boorman

meet the EXPERTS

ANDREW GRIFFITHS

TIME TO GIVE YOUR FINANCES A CHECK-UP URSULA BOORMAN OF DIRECT ADVISERS BRINGS FINANCE INTO FOCUS TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR WAY THROUGH THE MONEY MAZE.

ow healthy are your my grandmother always bemoaned that one day finances? bread would cost a dollar! We all know money can have To build your asset allocation, we blend these a positive or negative impact growth assets with safe investments like cash and on our stress levels. That’s why term deposits. If you are considering a transition I consider focusing on the financial health of my to retirement pension and will use some of the clients a critical part of our relationship. money soon, you might place some of your Your financial health is impacted by similar money where there is less volatility and less risk. habits and emotional responses So get into the habit of reviewing as in other parts of your life. and understanding your Taking small steps to change asset allocation and its your money habits - no Taking small appropriateness! matter your stage of life steps to change What are the insurance bits - can have a significant your money ha levels in your super stage no matter your positive impact on your fund or SMSF? a of life - can have financial future. e tiv Do they reflect your significant posi Making mindful ur yo current salary and debt on ct pa im .” decisions about how levels? Are they too high or financial future you spend and save too low? your money, and why, is If yes, do something about empowering. It can also lead to it! financial freedom. Do you have a nomination on your So invest some time in giving your super super fund or SMSF? fund a check-up each year when you This determines who receives your super on receive your statement! your death and the tax that will need to be paid. Is your super fund or SMSF invested Is your current nomination still appropriate? appropriately? Are you in a new relationship or are your children When a super fund talks about “risky” or no longer financially dependent? Should your will “growth” assets, these are usually investments look after this issue rather than the trustee of the like property and shares either in Australia or company you use for your super? overseas. They will tend to go up and down in Focusing on your financial habits will lead to value (volatility) over time and may be subject to a much healthier financial future. And a happier currency risk. you! However, in the long run the values grow. As Ursula Boorman is an authorised representative of Direct Advisers Pty Ltd, AFSL Licence No 236855. The information is general in nature long as you have the right timeframe, this can and does not take into account your personal situation. You should be a great way to ensure money put away for consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and retirement keeps up with inflation. I remember where appropriate, seek professional advice.

“

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DIGITAL MARKETING

DAY OUT 2016

ADAM FRANKLIN

ith a line-up of presentations from three leading marketing masterminds, interactive digital marketing workshops, an insightful Q&A session and so much more, it will be a business event not to be missed. Last year’s inaugural DMDO event was met with an abundance of gratitude and enthusiasm expressed by business owners and marketing professionals alike. In fact, our post event survey indicated that 94% of our survey respondents planned to attend the event again in 2016. John Carrol from Meals on Wheels Mid North Coast came to the Digital Marketing Day Out to find innovative ways to reach their clients. He said by attending the DMDO he had discovered new ways to more effectively communicate his organisation’s story to his varied customer segments. Port Macquarie small business owner Lindsay Moller was amazed at some of the key digital marketing statistics that were shared throughout the day - in particular, the number of consumers who are consuming digital content via mobile phones. This year we’ve packed the event with powerful presentations that will be delivered by industry leaders. These presentations aim to inspire and inform attendees with strategic marketing and business considerations which are imperative to work through, to help guide organisations in decisions around how to best deploy digital marketing tactics that will generate results. Adam Franklin from Bluewire Media will guide us through a practical, interactive and jargonfree session that will deliver proven tactics and easy-to-follow digital marketing strategies. His presentation will look at developing effective web strategies, boosting your Google rankings,

JOIN US FOR THE DIGITAL MARKETING DAY OUT ON THURSDAY 5 MAY FROM 9AM UNTIL 4PM AT THE GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE. how to produce powerful content and the importance of email marketing. Paul Greenberg, founder of online e-commerce success story DealsDirect and also the National Online Retail Association (NORA), will explore the convergence of physical and digital retail, as well as a technology led, customer centric and increasingly global/ borderless retail. He argues that our customers engage with a brand, not a channel and that Australian retailers, in an attempt to deal with unprecedented change, have often engaged in channel definitions of their business models. Inevitably, Paul argues that it will all become “retail” once more - the sooner the better. Andrew Griffiths is the author of several best-selling small business books and will share with us some of the insight he has garnered over his 30 years in small business. Andrew will demonstrate how in a world that places so much emphasis on branding, we can build a bulletproof personal brand. Over 84% of attendees from our 2015 event indicated that they would like to participate in some further interactive workshops at future events. So to help some of the big thinking addressed in our keynote presentations sink in, we’ve also included a variety of interactive digital marketing workshops that aim to arm businesses with the ammunition needed to execute their organisation’s digital marketing strategy. These workshops will take a further deep dive into social media marketing for professional services, the potential online retail opportunities and how your website can further monetise your business. This is one business event that you will definitely want to add to your calendars. Tickets are $295 (for members of Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce or HBEN) and can be purchased online at dmdo.com.au.

greater port macquarie focus. 83

focus_editorial

with Robyn Buttler

Creepy or customised? These days Google knows you better than anyone! I never grow tired of working within my field. Particularly when all the digital marketing channels are all becoming so clever! My latest marvel comes in the form of remarketing - which has been around for several years now but is just now becoming much more widely used and accessible to all business sizes. I’m sure most of you have noticed by now that the clever people at Facebook and Google have worked out how to track your activity online. For example, if you visit a website such as Country Road, all of a sudden every time you go online, display ads for Country Road will start popping onto your screen. A happy coincidence? No way! Companies can now place code on their website to track anyone that has visited their website so they can then communicate with them further online. The fact that you have visited their site indicates that you have a level of interest in the brand or the products they sell, so it makes sense to target you with an ad campaign in the future.

84 greater port macquarie focus.

And it gets better. In some cases, the tracking code can monitor your behaviour on the company’s website and respond with different online ad messages, depending on how you interacted on their website. So in the example of visiting Country Road online - if you perused through their women’s fashion but then abandoned the site, the next online ad you will see from Country Road will be for women’s fashion with perhaps a discount incentive to buy. Now to many this may seem a bit creepy, but to us marketers - it’s pure genius! Even as a consumer - I can’t help think that I’d much prefer to see ads from companies that interest me, rather than ads from brands that I couldn’t care less about!

I SAY IT EVERY MONTH ... But where did April go? We have been in our new abode for just on a month … a month with no computer, no landline and a mobile that people laugh at when seen in public …

ell, I threatened to visit the CEO of Telstra and sit on his lap if something wasn’t done NOW, as I have been more than patient … IT WORKED! Internet on the next day. Ha! In their defence, Telstra made allowance for the inconvenience and apologised profusely. My columns of late have been more about me than interesting, informative matters, but I have to share with you a weekend in the life of “Riley” - me. At the time, it wasn’t funny, but looking back it pays to have a sense of humour - then I can share some of my comedy of errors with you. SWEET SMELLING HOLIDAY Once upon a time … Arriving at the airport to travel to Sydney for our grandson’s Christening, my husband and I were waiting in the lounge. I decided to make a quick trip to the ladies’; hanging my bag on the door and doing what comes naturally, I realised I had only hung one band up instead of two, and a bottle of White Diamonds perfume was teetering on the edge, ready to tumble … I jumped up to save it, at the moment someone came into the main door, which rattled my door. This was followed by a crash, bang, whallop, and glass everywhere! Before picking up the glass and informing airport staff of my misdemeanour, I salvaged the half inch of perfume still in the smashed bottle and poured it over me; wouldn’t you? Let me tell you, Port Macquarie was the best smelling airport ladies’ room you could ask for … As for the plane … I think my presence could be felt - sorry - smelt in the cabin. Arriving at the motel, my husband and I met up with the families and before you knew it, it was time to go out for dinner. We opened our bag (one between us), and the brand new bottle of very expensive hair mousse’s pump had burst, and all our clothes were wet, wet, wet ... Wet, but smelt bloody beautiful, and didn’t need ironing! It was pouring with rain, but what a great night we

had, even though our friends couldn’t understand why we were “sweating” so much. To finish off the weekend, I lost my glasses, my son lost his wallet, the plane was late, and someone took our taxi that was booked, and my seven year old granddaughter proclaimed as we went into the church, “It’s boring talking to God” - don’t forget she is only seven - to the amusement of those in an earshot. But you know what? It was a fantastic couple of days, with a few hiccups that added to our rather eventful weekend with my very special and loving family. Footnote: Glasses and wallet found after Dog Squad was called in! SNIPPETS 1. Mini Jumbuk doonas are now completely made in Australia and from the ABC show it was featured on, they look amazing. I had some wonderful statistics about the product but you wouldn’t believe it, my internet has “gone”, and I can’t access anything I wanted to tell you. 2. Looking forward to the new labelling of products, but not enough info for my liking … 3. I have decided not to buy anything low fat any more. I have had a study of many products and found the sugar and salt content much higher in most low fat products. The secret is, just have less of the “good stuff”. As I am writing an article on ANZAC Day, I would like to mention my favourite uncle, who passed away last week aged 97. He was one of, if not the last, surviving member of the 2/18th Battalion and spent nearly four years in Changi Prison. After the war he was told he may not be able to have children due to the duress he had experienced in prison. He has seven beautiful children and was loved by many. RIP, Uncle Merv (Blyth). I promise I will not mention myself, relative or even a friend in next month’s column … That’s if I have a column! Keep smiling, Robbie x

focuseditorial

MID COAST

Careers

market TUESDAY 10 MAY

Are you the parent of a high school student? Would you like more information to help your child with their career and study choices?

he aim of Mid Coast Careers Market is to provide awareness of local employment and training opportunities, vocational pathways and post school options. Through a fun and interactive showcase, the day provides an opportunity to gather useful information about a range of career options, assisting them in making an informed decision about their career path. Last year over 1,000 students from across the Mid North Coast discovered new and traditional pathways towards reaching their career and study goals at the Mid Coast Careers Market. This year’s event, which is to be held at the Port Macquarie Race Club on Tuesday10th May, promises to deliver further opportunities for students to interact and learn about local career choices. Year 9 to 12 students, parents and those seeking career and study guidance are invited to attend and engage with North

Coast TAFE, Universities, industry Partner, North Coast TAFE have seen numrepresentatives and support bers in both exhibitors and students services to help plan their steadily increase each year. future and access updated “We credit the success of id The aim of M information on any the event to the diverse s er Co ast Care recent changes within e range of information availid ov pr Market is to l ca industry, education able and the high level of lo of s awarenes d and vocational training student interaction. We’re an t employmen , es iti un rt po sectors. The event will looking forward to buildop training ways and continue to maintain ing on past achievements vocational path ns .” tio op ol ho sc st a strong focus on and continuing to bring an po interactive exhibitions to engaging and informative make the experience fun, as event to local students, parents well as informative. Exhibitors and the wider community,” said are encouraged to engage students Meredith Evans, Project Officer. with “hands on” activities and share proWhy attend? fessional testimonies to complement the Discover training opportunities; flyers and brochures and provide personal Seek career advice from experts; insight into work within their field. The Mid Participate in hands-on interactive activities; Coast Careers Market was established in 2008. Speak to potential employers; Organisers, Mid Coast Connect and Education Details on locally available job opportunities;

“

Over 60 local Education and Industry Exhibitors. The Mid Coast Careers Market is on Tuesday 10 May at Port Macquarie Race Club and will open to schools and public from 10am until 2pm. There will be no charge for entry to the event. Contact Mid Coast Connect on 6583 5910 or www.midcoastconnect.com.au for more information.

the plug! Mid Coast Careers Market When Tuesday 10 May, 10am - 2pm, Port Macquarie Race Club, Oxley Highway, Port Macquarie. FREE EVENT Call 6583 5910 or www.midcoastconnect.com.au for more information.

Port Macquarie Community College RTO 90315

Considering a gap year? Looking for skills for work? Let us help you.... Visit us at the Midcoast Careers Market Port Macquarie Race Course - Tuesday, 10 May 2016 This training is subsidised by the NSW Governmentt

Concessions apply for eligible students in selected short courses including: First Aid, CPR, RSA, RCG, Food Hygiene & Safety, White Card, Manual Handling Find full details for these and all of our courses on our website or call the college for more information.

skillslinktraining.com.au

ph: 6583 7288

77 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie

admin@skillslinktraining.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 85

g r e at e r - p o r t m ac q u a r i e

property guide

Camilleri Homes YOUR QUALITY DREAM HOME FOR A LIFETIME

86 greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode.

THE MAY FOCUS HOME OF THE MONTH HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED BY DAVID CAMILLERI OF CAMILLERI HOMES ... A TOP QUALITY RENOVATION, WITH A DRAMATICALLY DIFFERENT BEFORE AND AFTER RESULT. CHRISSY JONES HAD THE PLEASURE OF VIEWING THE HOME, APTLY NAMED “HIDDEN GEM”.

lear communication and teamwork played a key role in the overall success of the project. It seems “do it right the first time” was the mantra for everyone involved, and this was achieved by David being on site each and every day to oversee his hand-picked tradesmen. The nine month renovation has taken full

advantage of its footprint. Additions on the ¾ acre block include a guest pavilion and carport space with secure storage. The exterior of the home has been given a new look, with the original tiled roof and bullnose verandah replaced by attractive and durable Colorbond roof sheeting and an attached skillion roofline on the extended verandah.

Entry to the home is via a stunning 1.3 m wide, Merbau pivot entry wave door, into the foyer. A doorway, once leading to a lounge area, has been filled in to create an artwork niche with recessed LED lighting. Cream Luna Durastone rectified porcelain tile, a multipurpose tile with a variety of finishes, has been utilised throughout the living areas. Inside - a

stylish matt finish, polished as a wall tile in the wet areas, and a brushed finished outdoors. Home Office Left of the foyer is the home office. Shortened to accomodate a pantry in the kitchen beyond, it has purpose built cabinetry comprising a desk area with drawers either side, as well as a storage cupboard.

greater port macquarie focus. 87

focusabode.

The roof was altered to a ing ra high ke , allow to s ew vi unimpeded e rv se re the nearby en rd ga al ic op and tr surrounds.”

“ Kitchen/Living/Dining Previously a yellow and blue theme, the kitchen has been totally transformed. New Miele appliances, including a steam oven, pyrolytic moisture oven, induction 4 zone cooktop, gourmet warming drawer and a glass range-hood have all been incorporated into the cabinetry. Caesarstone bench-tops and Polytec Ashgrain door fronts enhance the work area, along with feature shelving, cupboards and wine storage in Cocoa Spruce. A walk-in pantry, easily accessible through an opaque glass sliding cavity door, adds to the storage along with the many soft close drawers in the main cabinetry. Velux skylights above the work area lets in an abundance of natural light. Doubling as a breakfast bar, a large island

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bench with waterfall ends and pendant lighting above, has both a stainless steel double sink and an Asko dishwasher integrated. The island separates the kitchen from the living/ dining area, whilst the bulkhead ceiling line does so from above. By raising the roof of the living/dining giving a raked ceiling line, plus the incorporation of highlight windows, a spacious feel has been created. All opens out through a twin set of triple stacker glass sliding doors to an outdoor alfresco. Media Room/Guest Bedrooms/Laundry New double cavity sliding door units lead you into a revamped media room with surround sound wiring and curtain bulkheads added,

Camilleri Homes YOUR QUALITY DREAM HOME FOR A LIFETIME

which also incorporate the new ducted airconditioning system. The guest bedrooms, one of which has been reconfigured to make way for a larger master bedroom, have new built in robes and 100% loop pile Everest carpeting. A new laundry room, with external access, has wide bench-tops, overhead and under bench cabinetry with a space for the washing machine built-in, plus polished vertical tiling as a splash-back behind the in-bench tub. Guest Bathroom Beautifully fitted out, the guest bathroom is divided into three sections. The separate shower room has Tasmanian Walnut timber look tiling in the shower recess that is screened by a floor to

ceiling glass shower blade. A purpose built Jarrah timber bench seat and wall shelving for towelling are provided. A floating vanity has twin above bench hand basins, Tasmanian Walnut timber look tiling as the splash-back and a vanity mirror installed to ceiling height. The separate WC also provides easy access outside via an external doorway. Master Bedroom/Ensuite/Private Courtyard Evolving from Allan and Jan’s travels, the master suite is exquisite. Enlarged by the removal of a built-in wardrobe which was replaced with a custom designed his and hers walk-in robe, the master bedroom has been revitalised with new carpet, fresh paint and the replacement of a window with glass French doors with inset windows. Through the French doors you find a

focusabode.

timber screened, glass roofed courtyard - a relax space for Allan and Jan in total privacy. The ensuite is luxuriously appointed. Previously being the fourth bedroom, it has been transformed into an oasis. A Clearwater Formosa free standing bath fitted with waterfall spout is perfectly positioned below window height, allowing unimpeded views through white shutters to the rear yard whilst enjoying the luxury of the deep bath. A jade glass mosaic wall is a feature of the shower area and a beautiful contrast to the white floor to ceiling tiling. As in the guest bathroom, a floating vanity with twin hand basins and a stainless steel heated towel rail add to the resort feel.

Alfresco Entertainment Area Taking the renovation to the next level is the outdoor alfresco. Incorporating a fabulous outdoor kitchen, spending time outdoors or entertaining friends and family has now become an experience to embrace and a place where memories will be made. Renovation work here was extensive; the existing meals and verandah areas were demolished, the floor itself lifted so the home is all on one level, enabling the indoors and outdoors to blend smoothly. The roof was altered to a high rake, allowing unimpeded views to the nearby reserve and tropical garden surrounds. Estatuario Neolith bench-tops and Rhino ply cabinetry house the outdoor kitchens amenities, which include: Electrolux BBQ and range-hood,

stainless steel square set sink, under bench combination Bosch microwave/convection oven, soft close drawers and storage cupboards. Jarrah timber seating, a rain curtain water feature, ceiling fans and downlighting all combine expertly. Travel Link - Covered Walkway/Pool Pavilion Step down from the alfresco onto the Blackbutt timber walkway, that leisurely takes you through the landscaped garden to the pool pavilion. The pavilion was originally built Balinese style; it has been transformed resort style! The round posts have been encased in Blackbutt; the existing mixed hardwood flooring has been stripped back, sanded and recoated, rejuvenating the space. Thatched grass roofing has been replaced with Colorbond, and the

metal pool fencing is no more, replaced with glass balustrade. To complete the pool pavilion, a powder coated artwork with LED strip lighting - “Pandanus Wetlands”, leads the eye from the travel link to the pavilion; it’s reminiscent of walking toward a sunset. Guest Pavilion As the home was reduced from four bedrooms to three, a guest pavilion has been constructed separate to the main dwelling. The guest accomodation is very comfortable. Having a floating timber floor, it comprises an open plan kitchen/dining and bedroom with adjoining ensuite. A small courtyard gives guests a quiet spot to relax outdoors; the guest pavilion ticks all the boxes.

greater port macquarie focus. 89

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We were given a single printout of a picture that en seur haedyo neler av theItow will th ld toing at d el anre e,es linns onse look YOUR QUALITY DREAM HOME FOR A LIFETIME e ds that was is ur ste bu tath andthyo r.” te af e re er eytewd! To ensu thus exha transplanted numerous palms the desired height and comment on how clean and tidy our sites are, pletely ni the ght is com be that were in the construction correct clearance from which makes a safer work environment for everyill w e rounded, ther es in w ed zone. the ground, while providing one. It also allows everyone to do their jobs more ch at African m Did you have any major hurdles to an d be ers, hand ” adequate storm water drainage. efficiently and accurately. Our aim is to make the

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From the Builder Tell us a bit more about you and what’s behind your success? The feedback from clients suggests there are two things that set us apart: exceptional quality and attention to detail. My first employer taught me the importance of not just meeting, but exceeding expectations. Customer service and communication are equally important too. Did the owners have any specific requirements when they first commissioned you to renovate their home? The main requirements were to fully refurbish the interior of the home to a high quality finish, add a new outdoor alfresco area and link the home to the pool area. We reduced the house from a four bed to a three bed, but extra space was wanted, so a guest pavilion was added as well as a new carport with lockable storage. There were extensive, well established gardens that had to be preserved while building, and we

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over come during the renovation? The travel link roof frame was particularly difficult and was an unusual structure. There was virtually no detail on plan other than size and position. We were given a single printout of a picture that the owner had seen online, and told that this was the look that they were after. We then went about designing the structure. It was constructed from Blackbutt hardwood and had pre-lined metal roofing over the centre, covering the walkway. The new deck height had to match in with the existing concrete patio, which was transformed into the alfresco area. To achieve this, we had to excavate down to allow for a timber deck frame. We constructed a concrete trough along the entire length of the walkway, which kept the hardwood frame at

Camilleri Homes

Quality finishes are obviously important to you … Yes, these days quality is a word that is used very loosely by people who don’t have the skill or expertise to deliver it. I will not tolerate any shortcuts. Near enough is never good enough. You can’t rush a quality finish; quick and quality do not go together. We allow our trades the time they require to finish their job to our high quality standards, and we set realistic deadlines. I hear you may be the neatest builder in Port Macquarie too? We clean up every day to minimise the mess and inconvenience. For any project to run efficiently, a clean and tidy work environment is a must. Owners and contractors continually

building or renovating journey as rewarding and enjoyable as possible. Going that extra mile is an important part of that approach. How do we go about commissioning you to build for us? What is the process? Give us a call. You can contact David on 0427 069 322 to arrange a meeting or an obligation-free quote. Additional information, images and testimonials are also available from our website: www.camillerihomes.com.au. Thanks David and Kate. From the Owners You chose Camilleri Homes for your renovation project. How was it working with David and his team? We first came across David’s work in a renovation project feature in FOCUS in 2012. From

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what we read, we knew David was someone to approach when we were ready for our own project to commence. For us, it was wonderful that David was available to commence just as we were finalising architectural plans and interior design work with design studio 22, Coffs Harbour. David’s quote was thorough and after several pre-build meetings, we knew we had confidence that David could bring our home renovation vision to life. From the beginning to the end of the nine month project, David was on site, meticulously co-ordinating his building team and the various trades required to complete the job. He ensured the site was clean and unimpeded for a good work flow. We valued the regular communication from David during the process. Did you have any specific requirements when you first decided to renovate? We had “shared” this beautiful home with five wonderful sets of tenants over the time since we had bought it. Once we had completed our trav-

els and work responsibilities we wanted to stamp our own mark and make the home something that reflected our tastes. Raising the roof line in the living area to capture the natural bush setting behind was on our agenda. We also wanted to have a better link between the house and pool. This is where the beautiful covered walkway to the pool pavilion came into reality. David and his team were able to take a picture inspiration and turn it into a beautiful, functional reality. From our travels we wanted to make our master bedroom and ensuite like a luxurious hotel suite. This required taking the space of a fourth bedroom/study. The solution to retain this fourth bedroom on the property was to build a self-contained one bedroom guest house in the front garden. What are some of the design elements of your project that you love? Redesigning the living space with high ceilings,

Velux sky lights and large sliding doors to the exterior alfresco area has completely opened up the living area. This makes for an easy transition from inside to outside. Having an indoor and outdoor kitchen along one wall space creates a wonderful area for entertaining. With David’s foresight and experience along with Keena Kitchen’s expertise, they helped us to bring our inspirations to life, even creating custom pieces such as Jarrah seating beside the outdoor BBQ and waterfall feature. Through ongoing discussions, we incorporated a lot of David’s ideas with small changes to the plans along the way. This has definitely enhanced the quality of the finished project. We reoriented the lounge/media room entry, which now has access via double cavity slide doors directly from the living space. This made a huge difference to the air flow across the home. Our bathroom renovations have achieved exactly the purpose we envisaged. Our large ensuite has a luxe spa feel with feature mosaic

tiles, large open shower and free standing bath. Our guest bathroom, accessed directly via the covered walkway from the pool, was designed to cater to visitors. The shower’s timber look floor and timber shelving and seating provide our guests with comfort and easy access to supplies they may need. Would you recommend David to other prospective home builders/renovators? We would have no hesitation in recommending David. His attention to detail was faultless and co-ordination of a handpicked crew of trades gave us peace of mind. We felt it was a good partnership in bringing our inspirations to reality. At all times David was honest and reliable, with the project running on time and on budget, which was very important to us. We are delighted with the transformation of our home. Thank you Allan and Jan.

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Camilleri Homes YOUR QUALITY DREAM HOME FOR A LIFETIME

Tell us about design studio 22 - what do you offer clients? design studio 22 is a holistic design practice incorporating sustainable philosophies in Architectural, Interior, Landscape, and Graphic Design plus Access and Mobility Planning focusing on large residential, multi residential and commercial clients throughout New South Wales and Queensland. Our philosophy is one of holistic eco friendly environmental design offering creative options. Architecture defines your spatial, zoning and internal living or working spaces including passive solar and thermal comfort requirements. Interior Design introduces colour, texture and fittings to enhance both the internal and external features of the design while adding an individual component to your home or business. Disability Access Design + Planning focuses on architectural accessibility within the built environment relating to disability, safety and ageing issues, rehabilitation planning and design. Landscape Design unifies your internal/external areas giving pleasant vistas, creating exterior living spaces and edible planting zones. Graphic Design provides targeted marketing packages, logo and website design plus professional business branding to promote your business.

You were involved in the renovation of our featured home. Take us through that process. is Our philosophy o ec Tony Ross, Building Designer/ tic lis one of ho l ta en Director and Jayne Chudzik, nm ro vi friendly en e tiv ea Senior Interior Designer, were design offering cr first inspired by the vision of these .” ns tio op clients early in 2013. The dynamics between designers and clients was immediately apparent and the journey began for the transformation of this quality, allowing the creation of a luxuriyet dated home and grounds, into a modern ous master suite with a sunny north coastal paradise and entertainers dream. facing courtyard; a separate lounge What were the specific requirements from became a media room; the indoor meals the Owners that you needed to incorporate space was used to expand the kitchen, enlarge into the overall design of the renovation? the alfresco area and include an outdoor kitchen. Updating master bedroom, walk in robe, A delightful pool house/gazebo has been linked ensuite, main bathroom, kitchen and outdoor to the main house via a covered path accessentertaining areas were the main focus with coming bathroom facilities from the pool area. The fortable separate accommodation to be created location of the granny flat/guest accommodation, for use as a granny flat or accommodation for totally separate to main house, has also enhanced friends and family.

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How did you achieve this? design studio 22 took a holistic approach, working with the client to expand the priority areas by reappropriating and redefining the existing/ available space. This included relocation of the study into the little used separate dining space,

design and site was best utilised to meet their needs. 2) Full interior design, selection and documentation service to enhance the design with colours and finishes which reflect the client’s vision for their home and ensure the client’s requirements were communicated accurately during construction. 3) Submission and liaison through council to gain favourable development and construction approval for the complete project.

the privacy on this rambling 2300 m² piece of

How does the renovation improve the quality

paradise.

of life for its occupants?

What was the full extent of design studio 22 services used for this project?

The owners have created their own resort style oasis which they can now enjoy and share with

1) Complete evaluation of the site and in depth consultation with the clients to ensure the spatial

family and friends in the comfort of their own environment.

Coffs Harbour 02 6651 4104 1/16 Edgar St, Coffs Harbour Br isban e 1300 657 662

COMMERCIAL DESIGN

MULTI-UNIT DEVELOPMENT

what

we do

• Architectural & Drafting services • Single & multi residential design • Commercial design • Residential & commercial renovation • Pre purchase development reports - Residential or commercial • Environmental impact statements • Architectural trade specification

CUSTOM HOMES DESIGN

services • Landscape design services • Interior design services – residential or

SIX UNI

SOLD

commercial

THE PLA

• On site waste water management designs • Multi-residential development capacity assessments • Council applications & liaison

designstudio22.com.au 92 greater port macquarie focus.

• Contract administration services • Access and mobility design

P E R C I VA L P R O P E R T Y

OFFERS WELCOME PRIOR

Prestige

AWARD WINNING - SHELLY BEACH LOCATION - OCEAN OUTLOOK A haven of space, light & contemporary luxury, this custom crafted home maximises a coveted Pacific Ocean outlook... Showcasing stunning finishes and effortless living - its north facing aspect provided the inspiration for a tri-level design where vast interiors extend to expansive alfresco areas. Multiple living zones, a Caesarstone and Miele kitchen, home office, master suite with panoramic views of Point Plomer, dressing room and luxury ensuite, self cleaning salt water inground pool... A stylish contemporary coastal home with dynamic appeal.

AUCTION ON SITE SATURDAY 14TH MAY - 2PM

21 Regent Street, PORT MACQUARIE Michelle Percival 0404 466 500

OFFERS WELCOME PRIOR

Prestige

PR PRIVATE HOME OF DISTINCTION IN AN EXCLUSIVE ESTATE Eleme of design combine to create living spaces of vast proportions and a quality of lifestyle often sought but seldom found... Occupying Elements im an impressive 1,875m2 (0.46 acres) is a premium property, north facing with light filled interiors. A generous living zone with access to multip outdoor entertaining terraces incorporates a dining pavilion, family room, substantial granite kitchen, living room PLUS rumpus multiple room. Features are profuse; 15m inground pool with water feature, solar panels, zoned heating and cooling, third toilet, outdoor shower...

Visit our Sales office 106 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 8606

percival.com.au

AUCTION ON SITE SATURDAY 21ST MAY - 10AM

1 Elkhorn Grove, PORT MACQUARIE Michelle Percival 0404 466 500

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Estelle Gough from Port Macquarie Landcare

UPDATE

MERINDA RESERVE MERINDA RESERVE IS A NEIGHBOURHOOD BUSHLAND REGENERATION PROJECT SITE FOR THE PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE GROUP. IT IS A VEGETATED KOALA CORRIDOR AREA ON COUNCIL LAND BETWEEN MERINDA DVE, BUNDALEER CRES AND CALWALLA CRES IN THE SHELLY BEACH AREA.

he isolated pocket of native vegetation is close to Calwalla Reserve, on the west of the Wrights Creek catchment. Residents have been involved in regular maintenance of the reserve for many years. Council occasionally come on site to slash the stormwater easement or clear the APZ (Asset Protection Zone), but mainly volunteer hours were spent removing lantana and bitou bush in the early years. The Koala Preservation Society were also instrumental in having a lot of koala food trees planted throughout the reserve. Over the next three decades many more volunteer hours were spent removing tobacco bush, senna, ochna and asparagus fern - and a few garden escapees, dispersed with a few plantings of native trees from the Port Macquarie Landcare Community Nursery. Some neighbours decided to formalise the work in the reserve in August 2007, by having the site adopted as a Port Macquarie Landcare project. Working more closely with Council and utilising Landcareâ€™s best practice weeding techniques, the reserve moved ahead in leaps and bounds. This was evident in the Bushland Ecological Assessment done by the Council Ecologist in 2009 and 2012 - where a very low health score of 671 was boosted to a very high score of 5364 in only three years. Regular weeding, mowing and tree planting (all funded by the volunteers) helps to conserve habitat for the abundance of birds, small mammals, reptiles, frogs and insects. Without regular fire in the eucalypt vegetation, the understorey has been

94 greater port macquarie focus.

altered to accommodate more rainforest species - enhanced by the tree planting selection too. Koalas are the most regularly sighted wildlife in the reserve, and a real showcase for anyone hosting visitors from interstate or overseas. Ringtail and Brushtail Possums are often seen and heard too; however, the only Sugar Gliders ever found were two recently deceased (on the ground). Two nest boxes have been installed, but nothing to report as to their inhabitants. Many birds are constantly spotted in the canopy or on the ground. Pairs of Tawny Frogmouths are apparent all year round, often perched silently with offspring on low branches. Attractive King Parrots, Rosellas, Lorikeets and Galahs are always seen and heard - and like nesting in hollows. Kookaburras, Grey Butcherbirds and Magpies seem to follow the mower every time - collecting exposed grubs and insects. Strangest sightings have included Brush Turkeys, and a White-faced Heron that hangs around neighbourhood swimming pools for a few weeks each November. Most annoying include: Noisy Miners, whose pack mentality upsets other birds, Magpie Larks that poo on back decks, and the Koel with its never-ending calls. A few reptiles are occasionally sighted, such as a Diamond Python and Red-bellied Black Snake. Garden skinks are common, but not many large lizards - just an occasional Blue-tongue Lizard. No doubt they are there somewhere, camouflaged in the sedgy undergrowth. Janet Watson - project manager.

Most Outstanding over 50’s Estate in Australasia 2015

NO STAMP DUTY, NO BODY CORP FEES, NO EXIT FEES •••

Laurieton Residential Resort

Raising the bar ON RETIREMENT IT IS NOT JUST THE NATURAL TREES AND LOCATION THAT MAKES THIS RETIREMENT COMMUNITY A ONE-OF-A-KIND DESTINATION; IT IS ALSO THE CARE THAT HAS BEEN TAKEN TO CREATE ONE OF THE BEST RESIDENTIAL RESORTS POSSIBLE. LAURIETON RESIDENTIAL RESORT IS THE RECIPIENT OF SEVERAL ACCOLADES, INCLUDING THE MOST OUTSTANDING OVER 50S ESTATE IN AUSTRALASIA IN 2015.

Affordable

luxury

• Stunning clubhouse • 5 star amenities • Designer homes

for the over 55’s

• Quality slab-on-ground, steel frame construction • Sublime location on Queens Lake

he quality, designer homes are the completely sold out. Local residents have hallmark of this superb retirement been joined by out of towners, and out of community. state homeowners, who are drawn to the There are seven unique floor tall timbers and nature within the property, plans to select from that are complemented by all the services that are spacious and feature quality finishes and conveniently located nearby. designer flair. The list of standard inclusions Making the move has never been easier ... is impressive, and there is a modern range of Did you know Laurieton Residential Resort optional, high-end selections to has a fantastic range of brandchoose from as well. The new stock homes nearing homes are competitively completion? This is a great priced, and the sidential Resort Re option for downsizers who community features t living is all abou want to transition with no Exit Fees, no aintedownsizing on m on only one move. One of Stamp Duty and zing nance and upsi g in the key factors that make no General Council tyle , while shar

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t years these move-in ready rates - making it a your retiremen in ded, m elik r he ot homes so attractive is the ith true winner from a w s.” ee tir re e tiv ac financial standpoint. ability to put your home on Residential Resort the market with confidence, living is all about knowing that when you secure downsizing on maintenance a buyer you have a seamless and upsizing on lifestyle, while transition. sharing your retirement years with other We have a great variety of homes near like-minded, active retirees. Whether completion, offering a range of colours, floor you are seeking peace and quiet, plans, and internal finishes. This wide offering companionship or a full-time social calendar, ensures that there is a solution available when the Resort has incredible amenities and a you need it. strong social community. From the onsite This is a simple and easy process requiring fitness centre, luxury clubhouse and swimming a minimal deposit to lock in your new home, pools to the waterways, beaches and golf and there are flexible financial solutions so courses located in The Camden Haven region, you won’t have to wonder how to fill your day. The Resort opened to homeowners eighteen months ago, and has quickly gained approval in the market place, with Stage 1 nearly

25 minutes to Port Macquarie Kew Country Club

Queens Lake

Dooragan National Park

Bonny Hills North Haven

11 Resort Rd, Laurieton NSW visit us online www.laurietonresort.com.au

the balance of funds is not required until settlement of your current property. Call 1300 55 70 75 today or visit our website at http://www.laurietonresort.com.au

Call today to arrange your personal sales consultation

P: 1300 55 70 75 greater port macquarie focus. 95

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M I T S U B I S H I

P A J E R O

THIS MONTH THE SMUG TEST DRIVES THE 2016 MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT 2.4 L TURBO DIESEL GLX (AUTO), COURTESY OF JOHN OXLEY MOTORS ON HASTINGS RIVER DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE.

“The Smug”

his month the boss lady from FOCUS requested the Smug test out the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and report back asap. I was onto it. No sweat. The first impressions are that the new Pajero Sport looks and feels like a classy high-end four-wheel-drive with good ground clearance and sturdy yet sleek chasis, built for the off-road. The new Pajero has some size, bulk and in turn, stature about itself from the outside but once you take your seat inside, it’s a comfortable and spacious interior and presents more like a family sedan than a rugged off-roader. Formerly known as the Challenger, the 2016 Pajero Sport has some new and key features that warrant a new name, including the impressive 8 speed Auto, paddle shift gear selector on the steering wheel and a range of off road settings to deal with any surface or conditions. Making it very easy for the driver, the turn-dial four-wheel-drive selector located politely in the centre console allows twowheel drive, 4WD high and low as well as specific options for driving on gravel, mud, snow and rock. Researching other reviews on the Pajero Sport, there is general consensus that this new edition is a genuine performer off-road. My drive consisted of mainly the bumps 96 greater port macquarie focus.

and pot holes around Port Macquarie, which 3,100 kg or 750 kg unbraked, anywhere you on its day can warrant the use of a fourwant to go. wheel-drive. But I digress. The drive was In the technology department we have excellent around town and was really quite nothing less than cruise control, push button smooth, grippy and responsive. Again, it start, smart key, smartphone connectivity, drove more like a large family car rather rear view and overhead view cameras than a large off-roader. displaying a crisp image on a The turning circle on the very tidy 7 inch touchscreen new Pajero Sport is, from in dash display. what I can see, a top It’s hard to believe, The 133 kW and of its class 11.2 mebut the fuel effi0 42 very strong tres, which is really ciency of the Sport e or Nm engine is m r quite impressive for is a measly 8.0 L fo te than adequa , ng di in this type of vehicle per 100 km. This gr d pulling an ga lu n ca t as and is just one of a solid performance be is and th or 750 number of standis a good indication braked 3, 100 kg here yw an , out features. of both the overall kg unbraked Clearly, safety was re-design and best you want to go.” a key concern and use of modern technolfocus for Mitsubishi, with ogy that Mitsubishi has multiple airbags on board employed to deliver this crisp including curtain, dash and even new offering. driver’s knee bags. To go with, the McFor me, there wasn’t anything that Massive list of safety technology across I immediately saw that I could say “Oh, the whole vehicle including but not limthey should have included that in the mix”, ited to - ABS, EBD, ASC, ATC, TSA, HSA, RISE as even the base model GLX has more bells (body), ELR and ESS. I just saved you three and whistles than most new cars getting paragraphs of reading by summarising those around these days. little beauties - you’re welcome. Overall, a very tidy offering from MitsubThe 133 kW and very strong 420 Nm ishi, and I’m sure this model will be quite engine is more than adequate for pulling and popular with a wide audience for both on grinding, and this beast can lug a braked and off road excursions.

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SNAPSHOT ENGINE & GEARS - 2.4 L Turbo Diesel (Auto) BODY - 4X4 Wagon, 5 seats, large boot storage area suitable for two more seats. SAFETY - 5 Star ANCAP Safety Rating. FUEL - 2.4 L Turbo Diesel with combined 8.0 litres per 100 km. RANGE - GLX (Very Nice), GLS (Fancy Pants) and EXCEED (even Fancier).

FAST FACTS Replaces the earlier model Mitsubishi Challenger Has an impressive 11.2 m turning circle Includes upgraded popular and sturdy Triton engine Multiple off-road drive options to suit any conditions Massive boot space to fit the camping gear including the barbecue 8 Speed Auto transmission

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MARKET-LEADING RESULTS THERE ARE TWO SIGNIFICANT REASONS WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE TO SELL OR TO RENT THEIR HOMES THROUGH MCGRATH, AND THOSE REASONS CAN BE SUMMED UP IN TWO SIMPLE WORDS, “TRUST” AND “CONFIDENCE”; CLIENTS RESPECT MCGRATH’S CULTURE OF ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY, AND THEY HAVE TOTAL CONFIDENCE IN THE BRAND’S ABILITY TO CONSISTENTLY DELIVER MARKET-LEADING RESULTS, SOONER.

cGrath clients benefit from what has been widely acclaimed as “the finest marketing infrastructure in Australian real estate;” award winning concepts which are exclusive to the brand. Strategies such as McGrath’s unique central database (which currently exceeds 311,000 qualified buyers) certainly produce more enquiries but, as with every business, the core strength of McGrath is in its committed, energetic and highly professional team. From the Chief Executive, to management, local offices and the most humble trainee, the McGrath team is focussed upon success. And success comes about from an unrelenting commitment to training, effort, industry knowledge and genuine six-star service. All

things which benefit the client ultimately Olsen, Corrine Cunningham, Dayne Molony, benefit the business. Tony Rathbone and more; experienced and In Port Macquarie, Principal Todd Bates successful agents, each with a wealth of is justifiably proud of the many local knowledge and all committed achievements and of the to providing the finest real excellent reputation afforded estate service, available It simply to his local McGrath anywhere. makes office. An exceptional In Port Macquarie, good sense to selling agent in his own McGrath Property e speak with on right, Todd has enjoyed Management is entrusted ly of the friend innumerable successes over to manage a substantial at s al on professi the years, but he’s first to number of residential McGrath .” acknowledge his immense dwellings, houses and admiration for his skilled and apartments, and at McGrath supportive McGrath team: this trust receives the honest In Sales, regional experts such as respect it deserves. Managed by longTodd’s brother, Greg Bates, who manages term local rentals professional, Vanessa to establish new selling benchmarks month Alderton, together with Katie McMiles, after month, such as Steve Newman, Keith Katrina Bates and staff, and fully supported by

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purpose-built operating systems, landlords can rest assured that their investments are in safe and reliable hands, with McGrath. So, when the time comes to sell or if you need to place your rental property in secure and experienced hands, it simply makes good sense to speak with one of the friendly professionals at McGrath. The advice you receive will be openly honest, totally without obligation and completely relevant to the current marketplace. There are two significant reasons why people choose to sell or to rent their homes through McGrath and if you are in the market for a selling or management agent, there’s really no reason at all why you shouldn’t to give them a call. Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter www.copywritingandcolumns.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 97

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MITCHELL DESIGNER // ARTIST

Kylie Mitchell is a multiple award winning building designer and artist, well renowned in the New England area. Kylie has spread her wings and made the sea change to coastal Port Macquarie. Kylie travels between the two areas regularly and hopes her exposure to coastal design again will enhance the already considerable design skills she already offers to her clients.

ow did you get involved in the building and design industry? I had always been interested in housing - I had a box of magazine pictures of housing under the bed even in high school - and my mum was a constant renovator; there was always something changing when I was growing up. Then around 17 years ago, I was talking to a friend about my dissatisfaction job wise. She asked me a lot of questions about work, and then out of the blue asked me why I wasn’t an Architect. All of a sudden, it became perfectly clear to me which industry I needed to be in. After some research, I decided on Building Design instead, because Designers also studied construction specification which was important to me. I felt I needed to know how the building went together in order to make the design process for feasable for the clientHow would you describe what you specialise in? I specialise in residential building design. New homes, renovations and extensions. But not just any types. My focus is people wanting homes that are unique to them. Homes with personality and style, while still being wonderfully functional and practical. I also work with environmental homes, compact design, and economical builds, while doing everything I can to fulfil the clients’ needs. Why did you decide to make the sea change from Armidale to Port Macquarie? I grew up in Armidale, but then spent 13 years in Brisbane from my early twenties. I moved back to Armidale 10 years ago. So I started on sub-tropical design and then moved into an area

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with cold climate design. After 10 years, it was time to get some warmer climate design back into my business. During my time in Brisbane, I also discovered I much preferred a warm climate. What are Art Houses, and how did you come up with the concept? Art Houses are compact, sustainable art works that you can live in. I came up with the concept about seven years ago, while wondering how to combine the technical aspects of building design, my passion for sustainable compact design and the freedom of visual arts. I wanted to create something that was a true left/ right brain combination that not only challenged all of my passions and skills, but also created something that would benefit, educate and delight others. What makes these compact and sustainable designs so unique? They are so unique, because they allow people to live inside an art work. Every aspect of the building reflects a single abstract visual arts theme that I have also developed. And I mean everything - from the building façade to hand painted murals on the internal walls, to tile murals in the bathrooms, to the linen, landscaping, furniture and even crockery. It’s a complete immersion, while still remaining highly liveable. Add to this the economical compact design and environmental aspect, and you get a unique living experience that is not available in other buildings. What new ideas will you bring to the building design scene in Port Macquarie? Having worked both sub-tropical inner city and rural cold climate areas, I bring a range of design experience to the table. Combine that with being a mother and grandmother, I understand

how houses need to operate for a range of purposes. Then add in my experience as an exhibiting artist and the fact that I’m also a qualified Interior Designer and Permaculture Designer, and it puts me in a unique position to offer a complete package of experience and creative, out of the box thinking. Tell us about some of your current projects. I’m working on a number of projects at the moment; most are in Armidale at this point. A very interesting new home is about to go to council for final approvals. This home will be run on solar power and have in-slab hydronic heating, so it’s very green. I am also about to start two projects here on the coast - both exciting, modern new homes. One very interesting project that is about to go to council is another Art House in Armidale. This one is based on shipping containers and will be followed through construction on my Facebook page at Kylie Mitchell Designs. How do you make the process easy for clients through the design process? The building process can be stressful enough, so I try to make the design phase interesting, fun and educational. I do this by starting the process with two preliminaries instead of one. Both fulfil the brief, but allow the client to see two different ways of fulfilling their goals. I find this process results in a more satisfying and well rounded process as opposed to presenting only one solution that can lock people into a single way of thinking. And because I have a range of services I can offer, I also allow the client to choose just how much they want me involved. Thanks Kylie.

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The robustness of the Port Macquarie real estate market continues and the signs remain positive moving forward.

he current median price for a stand72 days to sell. With the market this strong I alone home, according to corelogic. believe it should not take any more than 40 days com.au, is now $498,500 compared to generally sell a Port Macquarie property. Sellers to $434,000 for the same period last and their agents must work together to ensure year. This statistic is strong evidence the property does not become ‘old stock’ and that our local real estate market continues end up selling for less than what they deserve. to grow. Sellers and agents need to be still We are seeing 79 per cent of realistic and strategic in selling a all stand-alone homes being home to ensure they achieve the We are sold for above $400,000. maximum sale price. ng seei It’s becoming more and My tip: Some buyers are still of nt se 79 per more difficult for buyers e on under the false impression al dan st all to find a home under this g in that ‘gazumping’ is illegal. be es m ho figure in Port Macquarie Gazumping occurs when sold for above that doesn’t require work vendors verbally accept a $400,000.” on it. price with a buyer and end up Investors are still plentiful selling it to another buyer at a with many coming from outside higher price before an exchange of the town. These investors appear to contracts occurs with the original buyer. be gravitating towards properties that are If you are not purchasing with a ‘five day well presented, detailed and ready to rent. cooling off’ period, buyers need to act quickly to At the end of the day they want a quick, no ensure an exchange takes place before another fuss-no stress transaction. If you have a property offer comes forward. Remember agents are to sell that could suit an investor, I strongly advise legally obliged to present every offer from a buyer you to prepare the property for sale rather than until an exchange of contracts occurs and the placing it on the market quickly. By doing this sellers not the agents make the final decision. could make you an extra $10,000 to $20,000 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 plus. information contained in this article and readers should make and rely The average days on market for houses in Port on their own enquiries as to the correctness of such information. Macquarie is now 62 days, while units are taking Source: corelogic.com.au

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