Greater Port Macquarie Focus i129

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

August // issue 129

Feature Story

Back Yard - Nigel Gillespie

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focus Greater Port Macquarie

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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 August issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR: Jo Robinson 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 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.

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his month’s front cover features our local Men in Business; with Ollie Brooke from Cloud Concepts, Andrew Bourke from Social Grounds, Anthony Shipway from Shipway Constructions and Vlademir Milevski from Rydges. The feature is a showcase of the many talented business men who live, work and play in the Greater Port Macquarie region.

A big thank you to Port Central Shopping Centre, Tarocash and Connor. Vlademir wears own suit, and Morandi Berry Shirt from Tarocash; Anthony wears Reeve stretch print shirt and Baxter midnight suit jacket from Tarocash, Jackson straight jean and Hartigan boots from Connor; Andrew wears Rory slim shirt from Connor; Ollie wears Ewarts stretch slim shirt, Aintree pant and Hoxton shoe from Connor.

Another thank you goes to Sharon from Beacon Lighting, who was kind enough to add to our setup with the stunning La Chapelle Camera Floor Lamp pictured on the cover.

Susie’s “Out To Lunch” guest this month is local Commonwealth Games boxing gold medallist Shelley Watts, who right now is aiming for Australia’s first-ever Olympics boxing gold in Rio. Go well Shelley!

Good luck to all local businesses in the upcoming business awards. Follow us on Instagram to keep up to date!

Interviews this month include local artists Nigel Gillespie, Patricia Philp, and Angela Marr-Grogan; mother and chef Kate Mitchell, web designer and photographer Jeremy Rogers, and farrier Bertrand Sonneville showcase their respective skills; while mum extraordinaire, Marg Lohan, who was

recently named Barnardos NSW Mother of the year, shares her inspiring story.

Get your tastebuds watering with the FOCUS Signature Dish Competition! View the enticing array of dishes from local restaurants on pages 26 and 27 and vote for your favourite on the Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS Facebook page. You could win a $250 dinner voucher for yourself and three friends to enjoy at the winning establishment.

We are proud to support our local producers, farmers and artisans this month with our Locally Made and Manufactured feature. Starting on page 44, check out the talented businesses behind many of our local products.

FINAL SAY "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."

- Winston Churchill.

WHAT’S ON

GLASSHOUSE 02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE

Share the Magic 2016

OPERA AUSTRALIA

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

THE GREATS OF COUNTRY MUSIC DANIEL THOMPSON

Saturday 13 August, 7.30pm

Saturday 20 August, 8pm

Mozart’s masterpiece is the Downtown Abbey of opera, but a whole lot more fun - starring our local children’s chorus!

This brilliant new concert experience will showcase the 1970’s hits of some of the biggest country music artists of all time.

IN THE GALLERY

IN THE GALLERY

Gallery entry is free

THE ITALIAN TENORS

VIVA LA VITA

NIGEL GILLESPIE

MEET THE ARTIST

TODD FULLER

INSIDE THE LINE

Wednesday 31 August, 8pm

Saturday 6 August, 11am

15 July - 28 August

Direct from Italy - experience a night of vocal passion with this trio of tenors.

Meet local artist Nigel Gillespie as he talks about his exhibition and art practice.

You will be inspired by Fuller’s unique hand-drawn animations. A Glasshouse Regional Gallery project.

Nigel Gillespie, Birdrock (Oxley Beach), 2015, oil and bees wax on canvas (detail).

Courtesy of the artist.

Todd Fuller, Adrift, 2012, hand drawn film, 5:45mins, edition of 8 (detail).

Courtesy of the Artist and Brenda May Gallery, Sydney.

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LOCAL ARTIST NIGEL GILLESPIE IS INSPIRED BY HIS OWN SURROUNDINGS, OR “BACK YARD” … THE LINES, GEOMETRIC SHAPES, THE RELATIONSHIP OF OBJECTS TO ONE ANOTHER, AND THE MEMORIES ASSOCIATED WITH A LANDSCAPE MAY ALL BE VIEWED IN HIS WORK. NIGEL CURRENTLY HAS AN EXHIBITION, ENTITLED BACK YARD, WHICH MAY BE VIEWED AT THE GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 4 …

N I G E L

i Nigel. What’s your background … What led to you living in your own “back yard”, the Port Macquarie area?

I grew up in Melbourne.

Moved to Canberra with my parents in 1965.

Dad was a cartographer with the Bureau of Mineral Resources.

After finishing the HSC, I enrolled in the Canberra School of Art (tin sheds behind the Kingston bus depot - similar to the art buildings next to Kenny Little’s here in Port).

In my first year I was fortunate enough to have John Coburn as a teacher.

I completed the Fine Art Diploma at East Sydney Tech and at the GIAE Churchill, Victoria (1973).

After marrying my wife, Shelley, in 1988 (Canberra) we moved to Uralla in 1995. We then followed the kids down here from Uralla in 2005. Checked it out. Found work as a house painter and stayed.

When and how did you first discover you enjoyed painting?

Probably using my brother’s gouache paints in primary school, until he discovered the paint diminishing from the tube.

At high school, art and sport were places of refuge. Double periods of art and cross country running were places where I could “escape”.

I vividly remember reading some of Van Gogh’s letters to his brother, Theo, in the old Canberra library at the age of 15. I decided then I wanted to be a painter.

Before beginning art school, I was awarded a book prize by John Coburn in my HSC year. It gave me great encouragement to head in that direction.

Your father was a cartographer. How much of an influence did growing up with 4 greater port macquarie focus.

your dad’s career ultimately have on you and your art?

Certainly looking at maps was a fascinating experience as a child (pre computers, pen and ink). Dad once took me up in a DC3 aircraft to photograph/survey the land around the Dubbo area. Later on in life I was required to examine topographical and survey maps for Uralla Shire Council (a project known as Rural Addressing) in which I would have to pore over every “square inch” of the rural landscape (properties, land parcels) in the shire with the aid of maps. Exposure to surveyors’/ engineering drawings of roads was also fascinating.

I think Dad taking me to footy to see Carlton play at Princes Park was probably more influential than cartography as a boy. The oval and goal posts have been reoccurring themes in my painting.

What are some of your favourite materials/supplies to work with (and why?)

Road marking paint in conjunction with oil paint (tubes and house enamels) mixed with beeswax. The road marking paint gives a durable base on which layers of impasto can be applied. Sgraffiti can then be applied, adding or erasing as the work “emerges” from its layers. I like to use sticks and paint encrusted old brushes to scratch into the surface. In this digital age I find this process quite amusing - a paradox.

Which other artists’ works do you particularly admire? What is it about their work that inspires you?

Many and varied are the painters, sculptors and musicians who have “influenced” me; however, “home grown” painters Arthur Streeton, Roland Wakelin, John Firth Smith, Ian Fairweather (freedom and delicate control of

brushwork) and Liz Cummings have all had an impact on me.

Working at NERAM Armidale I was able to handle the Howard Hinton Collection.

I find a great strength of quietness, calm, power and sincerity in the naive marine paintings of Alfred Wallis. For the same reasons of quietness and strength, I think I’ll never go beyond Vermeer’s Girl with a pearl earring.

Describe your exhibition, Back Yard, which is currently on display at the Glasshouse.

Roughly how many pieces and what types of art is the exhibition comprised of?

The back yard has always been an affectionate vernacular to Australian way of life (at least when I grew up). Footy, cricket, high jumps, scramble tracks, chooks, the lemon tree etc. (suburban Melbourne.)

The back yard in Port Macquarie is a tsunami of rainforest hovering over our house, hence the close proximity of subject matter for paintings.

The more “general” back yard of our environs casts up a wealth of subject matter: from a branch, to grasses circumscribing the sand, flotsam washed up on the beach, bluebottles, periwinkles, the mountain ranges and river, container ships, roadworks (I love roadworks, the systematic approach of surveyors, engineers, heavy equipment, truck drivers and labourers all working in unison like ants - very sculptural).

I did a series of paintings on roadworks around the Johns River area and also works based on the Kempsey bypass.

I also did many paintings relating to the Hibbard Street ferry.

What is it about our local area that inspires you to paint … i.e. what do you most enjoy about our local surrounds?

Drawing is important - a thumbnail jotting

G I L L E S P I E

of subject matter on a scrap of paper or an envelope develops into a painting (e.g. the geometric shapes found in clouds, foliage, trees).

After making a mark on paper or canvas, the response comes from within; the external “inspiration” has to a large degree been jettisoned to let an “inner” well of creativity flow forth. I still keep in “touch” with the hand that fed me (i.e. the subject matter - initial inspiration; however, it’s only a catalyst).

You’ll also be present at the gallery on August 6th for an informal chat. What do you hope to share with visitors to the gallery?

Methods and materials. Some of the better qualities in my work are “gifts”, rewards, elements that align themselves without effort, the accidental.

I would like to encourage high school students. Use your art lessons wisely; attitude is important. I would also like to extend a hand of encouragement to students who maybe have a desire to be artists, but feel a lack of skill. Desire will get you there.

Where can people see more samples of your art, or find out more about you?

I can be contacted on 0412 093 177.

Email: nigel@nigelgillespie.com Web: nigelgillespie.com Thanks Nigel.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

the plug!

See Back Yard at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from 15th July - 4th September. Meet Nigel Gillespie on 6th August at 11am.

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A U G U S T

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MICK SHEPPARD.

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

Reverting back to nostalgic photography methods, long time local Mick Sheppard shares with FOCUS his love for the art of photography …

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JESS CERRO.

“…The Taste of Winter was a spectacular night. Not sure what was the best part – the wine, the food or the company. It was all just perfect! Many thanks, we will be back.”

– Kim & Peter Whipps

SU N DAY 4T H SEP T E M BER • 12PM $ 8 5 . 5 0 C LU B M E M B E R S | $ 9 5 NON - M E M B E R S

5 C OU R S E D E G U S T A T I ON W I T H M AT C H I N G N E W R E L E A S E W I N E S P l u s E XC L U S I V E T A N K & B A R R E L S A M PL I N G OF C U R R E N T V I N T AG E W I N E S

Jess Cerro, aka Montaigne, will be taking the audience captive with her spellbinding voice and story telling lyrics at the Wildwood Festival. FOCUS chats to Montaigne pending her arrival to the shores of Port Macquarie …

Bookings essential • Call 6582 8320 • restaurant@cassegrainwines.com.au

KATE MITCHELL.

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Who would have thought a “healthy cake” could taste so good? Kate Mitchell has mastered the craft of taking natural, local ingredients and turning them into something delectable for the eyes and the tastebuds.

FOCUS caught up with the mother and chef this month over a piece of Turkish Love Cake ...

A SPECIAL FATHER’S DAY LUNCHEON

UPCOMING EVENTS

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ARTIST MARKETS IN THE VINES Sunday 28th August • 9AM-2PM TASTE OF SPRING Sunday 4th September • 12PM WILDWOOD MUSIC FESTIVAL Sunday 2nd October • 12PM

R EGU L A R S 14. what’s on for August 22. eat local restaurants 25. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 28. out to lunch with Susie Boswell 37. robyn’s spot with Robyn Butler 39. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 51. tourism with Janette Hyde 63. starguide with Terri Hall 97. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 108. landcare with Estelle Gough

PHONE 6582 8324 PACIFIC HIGHWAY, PORT MACQUARIE

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greater port macquarie focus. 5

focusinterview.

Patricia’s mixed media collages and mosaic work shows intricate detail and an eye for beauty and colour. You may have seen Patricia’s work on the special koala, Koala Lumpa, at the Observatory Park. Now, Patricia is holding an exhibition entitled Flora Papier at the Sunset Gallery throughout August, with works including flower still life, mixed media collages, hand coloured lino and carved wood block prints … i Patricia. Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Port Macquarie?

I grew up in Perth and my husband and I raised our family in Yanchep, which is 80 km north on the coast. The last four years we spent in WA; we lived in Geraldton at Point Moore near the Lighthouse, which is very beautiful, but our time was spent there during the worst drought in decades.

One of our long held desires was to do a road trip exploring NSW and with all of the children grown, we packed up our pop top van and headed east. It was just amazing to see all the high hills and so much greenery. What was a surfing, pie shop tour rapidly turned into a search for a new home, and six and a half years later we are still amazed at how green and beautiful it is here and how lucky we are.

What study have you done in the field of arts/visual arts?

I have a Bachelor of Visual Arts degree from Edith Cowan Uni in Perth and a Diploma in Education in Middle Years, so that I could teach in both primary and high schools. I was very fortunate to have had great teachers in painting and printmaking at Edith Cowan in Elizabeth Ford and Clive Bastow. Their wonderful skills inspired me to study teaching myself.

I did a range of subjects at uni so that I could have a broad range of expertise. I studied art history and theory, painting, drawing, textiles, printmaking and installation. My favourite was hand coloured wood block printing; the fabulous printing press I preferred to use was from the 1800s.

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You often use mixed media to create your art, working with acrylics, oils, watercolours and mosaics. What materials do you most enjoy working with?

As far as favourite processes go, it is a toss up between mosaics and mixed media collage.

Mosaics have all that lovely tactile craft and tool skills involved, especially when you make your own tiles, and collage has the intriguing processes of layering, painting and glazing in which you can build up the look and texture into something that is truly your own.

The collage works that I am creating now are an amalgamation of art and craft using my favourite methods from each, collaging, layering, glazing, painting and arranging to achieve the harmony in the picture I am looking to achieve.

You also share your passion for art with others through teaching. What do you find most rewarding about this process?

I enjoy teaching art, especially seeing the creative processes giving students confidence through doing, and the finished pieces give them a taste of success that nothing else but creating something entirely their own can give.

Teaching art also makes you quite disciplined in getting your skills up to a good standard in many areas, so that you can teach those methods properly.

I remember some pretty big gaffs when I first started teaching and did not have the expertise to produce a good example and run the class at the same time. I had to quickly learn how to work and read upside down, so that I could demonstrate. One new teacher boo boo that sticks in my mind was the time I was demonstrating to Year 9 girls how to mix papier mache in a food processor and had not

put the top on properly by the time I started the machine. The class and I ended up with soggy mushed up egg carton porridge all over us. My only come back to a stunned audience was, "Would you believe I meant to do that?"

What inspires/motivates you?

What motivates me the most is going to see the work and looking through the catalogues of my favourite artists, such as Vincent van Gogh, Vassily Kandinsky and Georgia O'Keeffe and seeing how their passion, expertise and dedication brought such inspirational works into being. Seeing the actual works is a revelation. I love to read about their lives, with all their challenges and the philosophies that came from those challenges and how today their hard work gives us all so much.

I try to have their examples and words in my head while I am working, especially when I am lacking in confidence and looking for the right pathway. I especially hold onto Vincent's tenacity and lovely generosity, Georgia's rule of using only high quality equipment and love of nature, and Kandinsky's freedom and use of a motif that has a corresponding vibration in the soul.

What art projects have you been involved with locally?

Two wonderful art projects I have been involved with locally are the Hello Koalas Project and helping with the mosaic work done to decorate the Meeting Place outside the Wauchope Arts Hall. My mosaic Koala Lumpa is placed outside the Observatory in Rotary Park, overlooking Town Beach. I love to see how much pleasure he gives, and he certainly has the best view in Port.

You have an upcoming exhibition at Sunset Gallery. What are the exhibition

dates?

My exhibition, Flora Papier, in August is at the Sunset Gallery in Murray Street. It opens on Saturday 20th in the evening and is on display ‘til Friday 2nd September. The gallery times are Mon to Fri, 9:30am ‘til 4pm, and Sat 9am to 4pm.

On opening night, I will also be talking about Helping Orphans Worldwide, which is a charity based in Vietnam that looks after children who suffer from the effects of Agent Orange. We have two small statues called Billy and Bess (see Facebook) who are travelling the world promoting the charity.

Describe the works in this exhibition ...

The works I will be displaying in the exhibition are flower still life, mixed media collages and hand coloured lino and carved wood block prints. My influences for these works have come from the Japanese Shibui artistic style, in which the viewer is drawn out through observation to feel the quiet beauty of the piece.

Vincent van Gogh was very much influenced by this discipline, and I am very drawn to his works from his time in Paris on, where he became a great enthusiast of the “Japanese Style” that was then in fashion.

Where can readers see more samples of your work or contact you?

After the exhibition, I will have works available to view at the Sunset Gallery and in the Willow Boutique in Clarence Street. Interested people can contact me on 0435 020 296 or on my Facebook page, Patricia Philp.

Thanks Patricia.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

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MOZART’S COMIC OPERA, THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO, PRESENTS THE CRAZY ANTICS OF ONE HOUSEHOLD OVER THE COURSE OF A DAY. FEATURING SERVANTS AND TITLED ARISTOCRATS, ROMANCE GONE AWRY, DISGUISES AND STUNNING PERIOD COSTUMES, THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO IS FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT AT ITS BEST.

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his production will be staged in Port Macquarie courtesy of a special partnership between Opera Australia, the Glasshouse and the Conservatorium Mid North Coast (CMNC) and will feature a talented group of 23 local youngsters in the Children’s Chorus. Denise Begnell is the Choir Leader for Conservatorium Mid North Coast’s Children’s Chorus, and she tells us the children have been working exceptionally hard ahead of their August 13 performance!

Hi Denise. Introduce us to the Children’s Chorus who’ll be performing on stage at the Glasshouse with Opera Australia’s The Marriage of Figaro production …

The Conservatorium Mid North Coast Children’s Chorus is made up of the following talented children: Seanna Hosking, Ted Strong, Bridgette Chilvers, Jacob Mills, Oliver Cole, Thomas Stanley, William Game, Jasmine Gallery, Emma Highlands, Ella Sorensen, Bayden McGuinness, Jessica Ismay, Nicola Awad, Tahlia Nadine, Laura Stewart, Ivy Moore, Francesca Plentinger, Stephanie Nelson, Teoni Nelson, Keeley Hall, Kate Foy, Nicola Dibona and Georgia Hamilton.

Tell us a little about your history as a singing teacher in Port Macquarie ...

I am really passionate about teaching. I’ve been teaching for just over thirty years, the last twenty being in Port Macquarie. I love to see students grow not only vocally, but in confidence. I have seen a number of students

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go on to further vocal studies both in classical My job was and music theatre, lt extremely difficu , making a career in us or ch e th ng in choosi 40 t performing and/or ou as there were ab an d we teaching. d, ne tio di au ho w f the of t How did your cu also had to who e os th singing group come of number How many songs/ ” d. ne to be involved with tio audi pieces do the children Opera Australia's need to learn for The production of The Marriage of Figaro?

Marriage of Figaro?

The children have learnt five The Conservatorium Mid North pieces for the performance.

Coast Children’s Chorus was actually How often have you all been formed for the production of Opera rehearsing ahead of the big performance?

Australia’s The Marriage of Figaro. There We have only been rehearsing each Friday were only 24 positions in the Chorus, and we afternoon for a couple of hours, but this will were inundated with children who wanted to soon be increased to three hour rehearsals with be a part of this wonderful opportunity. the chorus master of the opera. The children My job was extremely difficult in choosing have worked very hard, not just at rehearsals, the chorus, as there were about 40 who but at home as well. auditioned, and we also had to cut off the What has been the feedback from the number of those who auditioned. Following children about the story behind The the performance of The Marriage of Figaro, the Marriage of Figaro, and actually learning intention is to continue with the chorus and the songs? invite others to join us, so that we have a local The children have been having a wonderful Children’s Chorus. time learning their pieces and enjoy the fact How many children will play a role in this that they have light-hearted songs that break production ... and what is their average the tension in this wonderful work. age?

What piece of music from the production We have 23 children in the production. has become a favourite for your group Opera Australia specifically asked that the (and why do you think this is the case)?

Chorus be made up of children between the It’s funny you should ask that; we were ages of 9 and 14; the average age of our only discussing this at our last rehearsal. The chorus is about 12.

“

Bridesmaids’ Chorus in Act 3 is a particular favourite of the group, including myself. It’s a sweet piece which flows beautifully. The other favourite is the finale of the opera, as it has been a challenge to conquer.

How do readers find out more about your singing classes/chorus?

For those wanting to join this exciting new chorus, you can contact Angela or Greg at the Conservatorium Mid North Coast on 6583 9199.

I also teach privately from my studio at home, and I can be contacted on 0409 812 514 or 6581 4333.

Thanks Denise. Interview by Jo Robinson.

the plug!

See Opera Australia’s The Marriage of Figaro at the Glasshouse on August 13 at 7:30pm.

Tickets: general $69.90, conc./group 8+ $64.90, under 25s $39.90.

Visit: www.glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office 6581 8888.

COMPLIMENTARY ON-ROAD COSTS AND SERVICING

Step into a Lexus CT or IS now to enjoy complimentary on-road costs^ and servicing* for the first 3 years or 60,000kms.

Visit your Lexus dealer before 31 August for a test drive. This is the new Lexus.

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LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE 181 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie PH: 6583 9122 lexusofportmacquarie.com.au ^Complimentary on-road costs include stamp duty, dealer delivery, 12 months’ CTP and 12 months’ registration. *Standard scheduled servicing expires 3 years from first delivery or 60,000kms, whichever occurs first. Available on CT & IS range, purchased from 1/7/16 and delivered by 31/8/16. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with the Lexus Corporate Programme. Lexus reserves the right to vary or extend the offer. greater port macquarie focus. 9

focusinterview.

Mick

SHEPPARD ( S H E P P O )

REVERTING BACK TO NOSTALGIC PHOTOGRAPHY METHODS, LONG TIME LOCAL MICK SHEPPARD SHARES WITH FOCUS HIS LOVE FOR THE ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY …

“

OLD LENSES FROM THE FILM DAYS ARE WHAT I LOVE ON MY DIGITAL CAMERA.

YOU CAN GET SOME CRAZY OUT OF FOCUS BACKGROUNDS, CREAMY SMOOTH COLOURING OR CIRCULAR HIGHLIGHTS THAT CAN BE MAGICAL.”

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i Mick. What is your connection to the Greater Port Macquarie region?

I moved to Port at the end of 1986 from Tumut, NSW, due to my most excellent father Tom Sheppard landing the Principal’s position at St Joseph’s Primary School. I started high school at Regional in ‘87. It was quite the change in climate and also surroundings; I spent all my high school life living on the North Shore, which is an absolutely wonderful place to be. We would go fishing, spearfishing, had direct access to the river and North Beach, lots of off road for riding motorbikes and generally loved life in my teen years. My interest in photography at this time was usually restricted to school camps and such for record shots. I never really thought to take a camera with me in the every day; there was too much fun to be had.

I worked at Big W, like a lot of high school kids back then (those were the days ha ha) then started an Auto Electrical Apprenticeship in 1993. I've worked in the auto industry in Port Macquarie since then, with a short stint of a little over two years working at an auto elec in Taree.

Port is definitely my home though, and I'm loving capturing scenes around this area more and more.

Take us back to your first encounter behind a camera …

1979, Christmas. I was gifted a Hanimex instamatic camera - a little plastic rectangle that took a cartridge film and was a fixed focus type.

I was five at the time, so my memory of photos I took with it has long left the noggin.

You’re quite experimental with lenses. Tell us about some of the effects you achieve from doing this, and how you discovered this skill …

Old lenses from the film days are what I love on my digital camera. You can get some awesome out of focus backgrounds, creamy smooth colouring or circular highlights that can be magical. I tinker a bit with disassembly of the older ones, usually to clean for use, but have had some crazy results from simply inverting a glass element. I saw photos from a photographer on a lens forum who had done this and thought, “I have one of those lenses; why not?”

Infrared photography is something else

you’re passionate about. Can you please the why. And that is worth capturing. explain what this is?

How do you feel you’ve grown as a Oh yes! This is amazing! A filter is fitted before photographer over the past few years? What the sensor of the camera that only allows infrared has experience and knowledge taught you? wavelength to pass through. This gives a false I feel I’ve grown the most as a photographer colour image, but also an awesome amount of in the last year alone. Through learning from detail, especially with clouds, water and foliage my elders in the photographic club, viewing the where there is sun, direct or reflection. I urge work of other amazing photographers and artists people getting into the craft to definitely try from this area and the world and going out to infrared; it blows my mind. the world for a click as often as I can, I now see You’ve also reverted back to film in some so much in the world around me that I never had instances … noticed before: amazing places, other beings Actually, that we share this world first instance with, and the good I RECOMMEND was today of people. There is PHOTOGRAPHY TO ANY so much goodness (24.7.16) with a couple of AND ALL, AS IT HAS BROUGHT that goes unseen. In like minded fact, I recommend blokes from the photography to any MY MIND OUT OF A DARKER Port Panthers and all, as it has TIME - YOU COULD SAY SET MY brought my mind out photographic club. I have of a darker time - you MIND FREE.” quite a few film could say set my mind camera bodies free. from collecting lenses, so I got some film and off What are your plans for the next 12 months? we go. Some say film is better, so why not give it I aim to learn as much as I can to produce a go? Plus, it's all manual and there's no delete images that WOW and am looking forward to and retake, so it's a bit of a challenge. Stay tuned meeting more local artists, watching their work to see if I keep using film ha! grow and finding a social group in which I fit.

Your images are captivating, to say the And I think the world may be calling? Not getting least. What is your favourite subject to younger, eh? photograph and why?

Where can we go to view your works and Thanks mate, you're too kind. I would have to perhaps purchase some of your images? say my minions (kids) are my favourite subject.

You can find me and images on Facebook @ They are constantly changing and growing. I’ve sheppopics, www.facebook.com/sheppopics and often in the past questioned my purpose on this my blog, micksheppo.wordpress.com world, and when I see them smile, I am handed Thanks Mick.

“

greater port macquarie focus. 11

focus_local recipe

Parsley PECORINO’S

P A S T A

Image of the month.

Title: A view of Whalebone Wharf Restaurant on the Hastings River.

Photo by: Michael Marchment.

Camera: Canon 5D Mk3, Canon 16 - 35mm f/2.8.

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

ORANGES

WH

AT ’ S I N

A quick and easy aromatic dish to create, that leaves little mess to clean and packs a punch of flavour.

A great all seasonal recipe that utilises fresh nutritious ingredients that we have sourced locally, and it looks amazing!

INGREDIENTS

Nothing beats a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice packed with vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants, it’s especially good to keep the winter bugs at bay.

This is peak orange season - we are squeezing fresh orange juice at home and it is so naturally sweet, the kids are coming back for seconds. Take them along for half time at the weekend soccer match - the team will love you!

And don’t let the kids be put off if the skin isn’t absolutely perfect! These are the usually the best oranges - locally grown, without the use of sprays, and they taste better than ever!

Select fruit that is firm and feels heavy for its size. Store oranges at room temperature or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Local oranges are readily available now at local farmers’ markets, greengrocers and specialty stores.

WHERE

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

12 greater port macquarie focus.

(Serves 4)

250 g spaghetti pasta (half a standard packet) 1 x Lake Innes Lettuce and Herbs parsley bunch 4 x cloves of local organic garlic, chopped or grated finely ½ cup of shredded pecorino or parmesan cheese 5 tablespoons of Wilmaria Olive Oil (locally produced and available at Foreshore Markets) Salt and pepper to season

Chef Rebecca Kirkman East Coast Gourmet Foods Phone 0402 220 591 www.eastcoastgourmetfoods.com.au

(Optional: 1 x whole medium chilli, chopped finely)

method Boil four cups of water in a large saucepan, add spaghetti, and cook for 8 10 minutes until al dente.

through olive oil to coat pasta evenly then add chopped garlic, chilli and parsley with salt and pepper to taste.

Finely chop or grate garlic (and chilli).

Roughly chop parsley and put a small portion aside for garnishing. Drain pasta and put back into warm saucepan. Stir

Serve into a fancy dish, and generously sprinkle with shredded parmesan and a little more pepper. Garnish with remaining parsley. Bellissimo!

The all new E-Class.

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As a masterpiece of intelligence, the all new E-Class stands alone. www.miedecke.com.au

Miedecke Motor Group 100 Hastings River Dr. 6583 8855 DL 8071 www.miedecke.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 13

25

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

MID NORTH COAST CARAVAN, CAMPING, 4WD, FISH & BOAT SHOW When 12, 13 and 14 August 2016. Venue Wauchope Showground, Wauchope. For all visitor information, go to our website: www.ruralscene.com.au

GERMAN FEST 2016

FAMILY FUN DAY HOSTED BY SCARAMOUCHE Jacqui from McDonald’s Settlement City was happy to offer their venue to help raise funds for Caleb, a local Port Macquarie boy who is bravely fighting brain cancer.

There will be entertainment for everyone! Face painting, balloon sculpting, glitter tattoos, Millie the Clown, Poppy Fairy and live music. Come and show your community support and have fun! Hosted by Scaramouche: www.scaramouchekids. com.au or call Kelly: 0412 197 557 When Saturday 6th August 11am - 3pm. Where McDonald’s Settlement City.

13

RYDGES MASQUERADE BALL

Proudly supporting Hope Shop. Featuring complimentary champagne on arrival, canapes, main and dessert, auction, lucky door and raffle prizes, live entertainment by Lyrical Soul.

When Saturday 13th August 2016 at 6:30pm; Rydges Ballroom.

Tickets $79pp. Contact Rydges reception on 6589 2888.

14 greater port macquarie focus.

CAMDEN HAVEN KING OF THE MOUNTAIN The annual Camden Haven King of the Mountain Fun Run/Walk is an infamous 5 km hill-climb in Laurieton, NSW. The event takes competitors from the North Brother turnoff at Ocean Drive in West Haven, along Captain Cook Bicentenary Road, and up to the top of North Brother Mountain at an elevation of 490 m above sea level. Sure it's a tough challenge, but the views from the top once you get there are unforgettable. Where North Brother Mountain, Laurieton, NSW. When Sunday 21st Aug 2016. Register @ www.chslsc.com

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The Seabreeze Beach Hotel in South West Rocks will be transformed into a Bavarian heaven once again for the hotel’s fourth annual German Fest. A celebration of all things Bavarian, including food, drink, and entertainment with a special menu and Bavarian style beer on tap, as well as live Bavarian music, The Seabreeze Beach Hotel will bring a taste of Bavaria to South West Rocks this winter. Where The Seabreeze Beach Hotel, South West Rocks. When Thursday 25 August to Sunday 4 September 2016. Accommodation Packages For those looking to make a winter getaway out of it, a special accommodation offer is available throughout German Fest only.

Book one night accommodation in a balcony or ocean view room, twin share for only $150, which includes two tickets to German Fest. Add an extra night for just $100. More Info call (02) 6566 6205, email events@seabreezebeachhotel.com.au or visit: www.seabreezebeachhotel.com.au

27

2016 AUSTRALIAN CERAMICS OPEN STUDIOS

TRIVIA NIGHT

Visit woodfiring potter Jann Kesby at her Kempsey studio.

When Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st August. Where Lily Lane (via Patterson’s Lane) South Kempsey. Contact Jann on 0417 678 589.

Rotary Youth Exchange Trivia Night - Hawaiian theme. When August 27th from 5pm ‘til late. Tickets $15 each or table of 7 for $100. Contact 0431 176 845. Hosted by Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club.

DAVE PITKIN AND JENNA REILLY GROW LETTUCE VARIETIES SUCH AS GREEN OAK AND COS, AND MICRO HERBS LOCALLY AT LAKE INNES AND ARE REGULARS AT THE FORESHORE MARKETS ON THE SECOND SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH.

D

o you have a horticultural background?

Dave: I have studied and worked in horticulture for most of my life. I've undertaken studies in horticulture, water quality and biology, and also recirculation technology at TAFE. I've previously worked for a local hydroponic vegetable producer growing about half a ton of capsicums a week.

Jenna and I have both been brought up by our families in the local area on farms with big veggie gardens. This has given us a passion for what we do and a passion for healthy food. I started Lake Innes Lettuce and Herbs six years ago after seeing a gap on the Mid North Coast for fresh lettuce and herbs that hadn't been treated with pesticides or spent a long time sitting in cool rooms, being transported from the wholesale markets in the city.

What types of wholesome lettuce varieties do you produce?

Currently we grow Green Oak, Red Oak and Cos varieties, but have had up to 10 different varieties growing at once.

We have focused on these three fancy varieties now due to their versatility, and they are higher in nutritional benefits than the others. The growing conditions and climate here on the Mid North Coast also suit these varieties perfectly.

What are micro herbs?

Jenna: As their name describes, Micro Herbs are simply the smaller version of the herb or vegetable. They are, however, up to 40% higher in vitamins, minerals and proteins than their grown up counterparts.

Their tender, succulent texture and sweet,

peppery or nutty flavours make them a focal point of any dish. So, they’re a lot more than just a garnish! They are quite sensitive to grow, requiring limited light, controlled humidity and warmth to have consistent growth and germination of seed. We supply them to many restaurants across the Mid North Coast and stock many different varieties depending on the season, including: amaranth, basil (purple and green) beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, carrot, celery, chervil, coriander, cress, dill, kale, mizuna (red and green), pak choy, parsley, radish, rocket, shiso, snowpea, sorrel, and tat soi.

What is the difference in flavour when grown without pesticides?

Because we eat our produce as well, we do not use nasty pesticides or fungicides to combat bugs. Instead, we take a preventative approach, which is focusing on the nutritional requirements of the plants to ensure they are strong enough to be resistant to insects and the damage they cause. This in turn, also means we have a higher quality product larger and more flavoursome.

How have you adapted your processes to maintain quality produce?

We grow a majority of our produce in hydroponic tables up off the ground.

We don't have any issues with slugs and snails, and it also means we don't suffer too much damage caused by weather, be it wind, frost, drought or flood.

We implement the use of “sacrificial planting”, which can be as simple as planting a few rocket or kale in amongst the lettuces to lure the caterpillar laying moths. The scent of these plants seems to be much more appealing to the pests.

Because we can grow produce on a smaller footprint, we can put a lot of care and attention into growing healthy plants.

What do you enjoy most about living in a region where local produce and locally made products are in abundance?

The quality and freshness of our local produce is second to none. We do a lot of our own grocery shopping at the markets, because the products not only last a great deal longer, but the nutrition and flavours are exceptional. Also, buying food with “low food miles” is not only incredibly beneficial for our local area, but for the environmental impact also.

With a stall at The Foreshore Market every month, where else can customers find Lake Innes Lettuce & Herbs?

We attend about three markets a week to make it easy for our customers, as we are not open to the public. We do the Real Food Market every Tuesday at the Port Central Glasshouse forecourt, The Secret Weekly Farmers’ Market at Mentges Meats in Taree, and some of the other great monthly markets such as Wauchope Farmers’ Market, Laurieton Riverwalk Market and Gladestone Quality Market.

Come and find us if you want fresh lettuce or herbs or want to start a garden of your own. We offer lots of advice on growing for yourself and would love to see more people being able to harvest their own produce from their own garden!

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ lakeinneslettuceandherbs/ Thanks Dave and Jenna. greater port macquarie focus. 15

focusinterview.

FOTSUN SIMON LUKE

G E T R E A DY, F OT S U N N E R S ; T H I S Y E A R I S S E T TO B E B I G G E R A N D BETTER THAN EVER, WITH NEW FAC E T S O F T H E E V E N T B E I N G R E L E A S E D. F O C U S CAU G H T U P WITH THE MAN BEHIND THE F E ST I VA L , S I M O N LU K E , F O R A Q U I C K P OW-WOW ...

F

estival of the Sun is now in its 11th year.

What is this year’s theme, and how was it developed?

Simon: "Our FOTSUN 2016 theme is ‘Deep Sea’, celebrating the connection that I think many of our crew, artists and fotsunners (thats our name for our punters!) have with the ocean and its inhabitants. There's no pressure to dress up on theme, but it’s always a laugh to see what some of our fotsunners come up with, and I’m picturing a few ragged mermaids with beards and possibly a friendly shark or two.

This year’s art has been once again created by the genius, which is my good mate Sigh Luxton - I was stoked when he said yes to getting on board again this year, as Sigh really is a fully born and bred fotsunner at heart, an absolute champion and of course, a phenomenal artist of all elements. Just stoked to have him on board again, and I felt like he had finished what he came to do with us in 2015 - so this is awesome!

In synergy with this year’s theme we are also delighted to announce our partnership with Port Central and the Gowings Whale Trust, who are raising $100K to purchase a new ridged Rigid Inflatable for the Sea Shepherd.

FOTSUN will be drawing backstage pass giveaways for punters who have purchased Sea Shepherd merch packs directly from Port Central for this wonderful cause. We will also be doing pop up FOTSUN sessions at Port and

16 greater port macquarie focus.

FOTSUN will be drawing back stage pass nters giveaways for pu d se ha rc who have pu ch er m rd he Sea Shep om fr ly ct re di pack s this Port Central for ” e. us wonderful ca

“

Coffs Central in October and November, with Street Art workshops with Sigh Luxton, Crafting Workshops with Rhiannon Simmonds and a mystery artist off the FOTSUN line up.

FOTSUN is ever evolving - what new experiences are on the agenda for this year?

FOTSUN Thursday ticket holders are increasing each year to celebrate a really fun and laid back pre festival night! This year we are kicking off our new Thursday comedy arena, and comedians will be announced along with the line up on August 15th on triple j. FOTSUN Thursday also has plenty of self made laughs, a few beverages, lots of backyard cricket and normally plenty of corn in the hole in each camping street! I think Thursday is awesome, as you really get to meet a lot of your new FOTSUN mates, you get to hit the town and enjoy meeting the locals, and there is always plenty going on at the local venues with lots of live music.

With the addition of the “FOTSUN Artist Village” this year, young artists will have the opportunity to paint live and work amongst resident artists, who will be mentoring them along the way…

FOTSUN and its mentoring artists are inviting young and upcoming artists of all types to express interest in becoming a part of our live FOTSUN artist village - this

space will give the opportunity for artists to create their live art in an area where punters can walk through, chat, look and generally get to see what normally happens behind closed door

and inside studios.The space will also have some private camping if you'd like to camp with your art overnight and keep it rolling all weekend.

There are limited spaces for artists, and we would really like to see people step outside of their comfort zone, so please email simon@fotsun.com if you are keen.

Mentors include Sigh Luxton, Rhiannon Simmonds, Muza and Melinda Casey, so feel free to chat to them if you have any questions.

This year will also see a new sponsor - Matty Dobson from Pretty Rad Store ...

Matty Dobson is a really inspiring young business operator, and it felt like the perfect fit when he jumped at the chance to work with FOTSUN. We are stoked to be able to launch a limited edition FOTSUN Pretty Rad long sleeve tee, that will be on sale through August, as well as customers going into a draw to win FOTSUN tix prior to being on sale.

Pretty Rad will also be hosting a stall space at FOTSUN, and I'm pretty excited to see what his next creations for summer will be as well.

Thanks Simon.

MATTY DOBSON PRETTY RAD STORE

H

i Matty. Tell us about your collaboration with FOTSUN this year…

Firstly, we are so, so stoked to be a part of the FOTSUN X PRETTY RAD STORE 2016 Festival! This year is going to be an amazing event and from what I have heard already, it looks to be the best one yet!

Our collaboration with FOTSUN ‘16 involves a lot of exciting pre activities, which are soon to be announced. Over the weekend of the festival we will be setting up our very own “Pop Up” Pretty Rad Store, which will be selling all our latest Men’s and Ladies’ Fashion and Apparel. We will be doing a heap of amazing giveaway/promotions, including our exciting major prize, that will see a few lucky winners win a VIP back stage pass to meet some of their favourite artist!

August 1st will see the launch of our first promotion of 25 limited edition PRETTY RAD STORE X FOTSUN long sleeve tees! We have used the festival’s underwater theme (drawn by FOTSUN artist Simon Luxton) to create an amazing one off run of tees. Each has been hand screen printed by Chris Merrell at Black Dog Ink, Port Macquarie. By purchasing one of these long sleeve tees from Pretty Rad Store throughout August, you will go in the draw to win a festival ticket prior to tickets sales!

Follow our Instagram @PRETTYRADSTORE to keep up to date with all of the latest announcements, or visit our online store at www.prettyrad.com.au Thanks Matty.

triple j, sand eve nts , music fee ds , focus , au review & the music prese nt

line up announced on triple j 15th august 2016

What’s neW

thursday comedy stand plus street art & merch crafting sessions! pre pitched tents for hire with concierge & private toilets early bird tickets for locals go to pretty rad store for more details! powered sites passes for caravans & rvs!

thur 8th , FRI 9TH & SAT 10TH DEC 2016

TICKETS ON SALE SEPTEMBER 1st FROM 10AM • WWW.FOTSUN.COM I N C L U D E S 2 N I G H T S F R E E C A M P I N G • u p g r a d e f o r t h u r s d ay c a m p i n g A C C O M M O D AT I O N a n d t e n t c i t y PA C K A G E S AVA I L A B L E f o r 2 0 1 6 • k i d s u n d e r 1 0 f r e e v e n u e - s u n d o w n e r t o u r i s t pa r k • t i c k e t i n g s u p p o r t e d b y o z t i x . c o m . a u

*S EE S I T E FO R F U L L T E R MS A N D CON DI T I ON S FOR OU R W H AT ’ S N E W OPT I O NS

greater port macquarie focus. 17

Advertisement.

PETA PINSON ON MONDAY 18TH JULY, PETA PINSON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LOCAL COMPANY STABILCORP, ANNOUNCED HER CAMPAIGN TO STAND AS A CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF PORT MACQUARIE-HASTINGS COUNCIL.

T

his announcement comes off the back of Council’s Community Forums, held on Thursday 14th July.

Ms Pinson is standing on a platform which opposes what she says are planned rate rises of a staggering 52.4% (as outlined in the IPART report - Assessment of Council Fit for the Future Proposal, October 2015).

“Mayor Peter Besseling has recently publicly denied on ABC radio that rate rises are planned,” Ms Pinson said, “but it is evident from Council’s own documents, a report by AEC Group consulting to Council, the General Manager’s late report to Council and IPART’s Assessment, that raising rates is the only way Council could be considered ‘Fit for the Future’. Years of Council waste and inefficient use of community’s funds have put us in this position. I want to put a halt to this and make Council examine alternative strategies to financial sustainability.”

18 greater port macquarie focus.

e To substantiate what Peta believes sh ce en ri pe ex e th she says, Ms Pinson has s ha to n io documented a litany and determinat munity’s m co e th re su of actions that point en e being best interests ar nds towards a strategy te in d an d protecte 2. Council adopts where the Council are uncil’s Co e th se po to op Fit for the Future addicted to ongoing s.” planned rate rise submission to IPART rate increases over and (17th June 2015). above IPART’s endorsed Motion agreed to by Mayor “Rate Pegging”, which Besseling and six Councillors. occurs every year.

Councillor Adam Roberts the only 1. AEC Group - Review of Fit for dissenting voice. the Future Strategies Port Macquarie3. IPART hands down Assessment Hastings Council (5th June 2015) Summary - Port Macquarie-Hastings “The risk for Council is that the Council (16th October 2015) proposed permanent SRVs (Special Rate “The council’s forecast financial position Variations) are yet to be considered by the relies in part, on the successful application community and formally assessed by IPART. for and adoption of a special variation from Should the community or IPART refuse or 2017-18 of 52.4% cumulative over 5 years reduce the extent of the SRV, then this will (38.6% above the rate peg). This includes the jeopardise Council’s Fit for the Future strategy continuation of an existing levy of 4.4%. It and its financial sustainability position.”

“

appears the council has not yet consulted its community on this proposal.”

4. Mayoral Minute recommends adopting Fit For the Future Action Plan (21st October 2015) “This means that Council will now be required to give consideration to implementing the action plan that was included in the FFF (Fit for the Future) submission.”

As the owner of the successful and innovative local road widening and repair company Stabilcorp, Peta believes she has the experience and determination to ensure the community’s best interests are being protected and intends to oppose the Council’s planned rate rises should she be elected.

Players Theatre ‘Allo, ‘Allo is coming to Players Theatre Port Macquarie.

home decor bootcamp 3 RIVERS 3 DISTANCES CHALLENGE 28 august 2016 Join the fun at The Rowing Club Reserve, Hibbard Drive.

A fun water event for all self propelled craft: row boat, surf boat, kayak, surf ski, dragon boat, ocean ski, outrigger, canoe and SUP. There are three race distances to choose from: the 5 km Splash and Dash, the 15 km Challenge and the original 25 km Legends and Heroes Mini Marathon. Depending on the distance, chosen entrants will race over sections of the Wilson, Maria and Hastings Rivers.

Come along and try a demo kayak, enjoy a complimentary post race massage, listen to the 20 piece Jazz band, grab some lunch from the Lions Club BBQ, join a tour of the Rowing Sheds, face painting for the kids, awesome prizes to be won in the raffle and much, much more.

What distance will you do?

The event is organised by the Port Macquarie Rowing Club and all raffle proceeds are for the support of local charity TAD Disability Services.

REGISTER NOW www.threeriversminimarathon.com

Take a creative class all about design, decorating and styling at home. Decorating is fun but to get it just right, you need a little know how. At Open House we have been conducting seasonal design workshops presented by popular local designer Lisa Christie from Visual Edge Interior design. (www. visualedge.com.au) Lisa reveals all on proportion, mood and style - and the attendees are loving it!

The next “Bootcamp” design workshop is a hands on: see some before and after projects, identify your own decorating style and learn how to decorate your home like a professional, with hands on activities and loads of group discussion and design chit chat. These popular, intimate sessions allow you to get up close to a professional designer and learn from her extensive experience in the design industry.

A light lunch and refreshments will be served and delicious coffee will be available from the “Coffee Cup” café on site.

Saturday 20th August 2016 Open House, 216 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie.

From 11:00 to around 2:00 (get there early to register and buy a coffee).

Cost: $50 per person.

Book now to avoid disappointment, as seats sell out fast.

T: 6584 2555 / info@openhouseportmacquarie.com

Based on the classic BBC TV Comedy ‘Allo, Allo and written by David Croft and Jeremy Lloyd who created so many wonderful comedy series such as “Are you being served” and “Dad’s Army”, comes the stage play to Players Theatre in September.

Featuring the characters that made the TV series so memorable, we join Rene at his Cafe in war torn France as he juggles the mixed allegiances of the German Army, French Resistance and battling his affections between his wife Edith and waitresses Mimi and Yvette.

The plot thickens when the valuable painting by Van Klomp, “The fallen Madonna with the big boobies” is hidden in Rene’s cellar by Colonel Von Strom. The Gestapo’s Herr Flick has also hidden the same painting in a Knockwurst sausage in the Rene’s cellar. But, it appears that Edith and Rene have a plan to keep the real painting while recruiting Le Clerc to create several fakes. Rene’s cellar proves a busy place as it is also hiding two British airmen by Michelle from the Resistance which Rene’s hopes to return to London with the help of a secret radio hidden in a parrot behind the bar.

Rene’s wife Edith tries to calm the frayed edges of Rene’s nerves with her “Cabaret” which has the whole cafe stuffing cheese in their ears to avoid the ear splitting din. Just as well there is Officer Crabtree on the beat with his appalling French accent wishing everyone “Good Moaning”.

Director Cameron Marshall has been blessed with an exceptionally talented cast which will have you in stiches as Rene runs from one crisis to another with hilarious results.

‘Allo ‘Allo opens on September 23 and runs until October 9 with performances on Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sunday afternoon at 2pm. Book now at playerstheatre.org.au or the Glasshouse.

greater port macquarie focus. 19

Marg Lohan

Marg Lohan has recently been awarded the honour of being named Barnardoes NSW Mother of the Year. Her story is both inspiring and moving ‌

20 greater port macquarie focus.

Marg Lohan has recently been awarded the honour of being named Barnardos NSW Mother of the Year. Her story is both inspiring and moving … i Marg. How did you come to live in Port Macquarie?

We moved to PMQ in 2003, to escape the rat race of Sydney, where I'd grown up, and I spent my working life as a hairdresser, then in various other industries from retail to numerous office positions. I retired at that time to concentrate on family life; my own, and for the last six years, looking after my mother, who's nearly 101, and lives nearby at Wauchope.

Describe your family …

My husband, Phil, and I have a son, Rob, and for the last four years have been blessed to have an adopted daughter, Kirsty, and her two boys, Bryce and Huntar, whom we are proud to call our grandsons. They live with us, work, and attend local schools, and are all very settled, while Rob has moved out to do his own thing.

You were nominated by your friend, JoAnne Willoughby, for the 2016 Barnardos Mother of the Year competition - and ultimately won the NSW title.

Congratulations! How does it feel to be the Barnardos 2016 NSW Mum of the Year?

Thank you! It was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. Even now, I still can't quite get my head around the enormity of it. Kirsty started the ball rolling with the nomination that she wrote, and asked for others to nominate me as well.

We were beyond thrilled when JoAnne phoned to say that her nomination had taken me through to one of six places; when the call came to say I'd advanced to the top three in NSW, we were beside ourselves.

Being named NSW Mother of the Year 2016 is undoubtedly an incredible honour. Barnardos does such amazing, important work with not just children, but also families in need of support and assistance. I'm very proud to be an ambassador for Barnardos, and humbled to have received an award for simply doing what has to be done as a parent.

Why do you feel you were nominated for this award?

As I said earlier, Kirsty is our adopted daughter. This is the story that best explains why I was nominated for the award. JoAnne provided a bare bones account to Barnardos, and obviously it touched the souls of the judges in some way.

When a Facebook acquaintance dropped off the radar, after what was then, unbeknownst to me, a drunken tirade when she found a friend who had committed suicide, I was added to a support group of sorts for people with numerous issues. There were those who were in addiction, as well as others who suffered mental illness, anxiety, and a plethora of other conditions; I was there purely as support, although some who know me may beg to differ.

After a couple weeks or so, there was a post from someone screaming out for help;

to her two young sons and her two closest someone who self-harmed and who, at that friends. point, had reached the end of her rope, having One of the first things she did when I arrived been "designer-cutting" (as she called it) free was ask for a hug. Being in her company was for so many days, but who was struggling everything I'd hoped it would be, and the day horribly with the urges to cut again, there and I was due to leave was one of the most painful then.

I've ever endured. I cried, literally sobbed, all There must have been something about the way home and went back just three weeks what she'd written that compelled me to later and stayed with her for a whole week. respond, and respond I did. That night, I All the while we became ever closer, and once experienced a great sense of relief that I I'd returned home this time, during one of our had managed to keep this person otherwise many messages and phone calls, she asked me distracted and occupied for almost an hour or to come get her and the boys and bring her more, and she added yet another day to her home for good, which was something we'd then cutting-free record. discussed at length, and after a girls' weekend To this day, I don't know what made her to Cairns for me, that was exactly what I did. post stand out from all the other cries for help.

Earlier in our friendship, as a result of the In the group we spoke a little more over the trauma she had endured and survived, she'd next few weeks, but then she disappeared, been diagnosed with Borderline Personality her account deactivated, although at the Disorder (BPD) which is also a form of PTSD, time, I didn't know that. My enquiries within so when I was with her I was privy and witness the group, as to whether anyone had heard to much of what that entails, and from her, or knew her, resulted in whilst none of it was pretty, it a private message from her, only confirmed my decision thanking me for caring to help her, and love and enough to notice her ld ... A mother shou st support her back to absence. A friend s be be her childre n' good health. With the request was made by cate , and fiercest advo help of a wonderful me, with the proviso em while allowing th the GP, and therapist, that she needn't be the freedom to and her own hard accept it, I wouldn't rsions best possible ve they work, I'm ecstatic to be offended if she at of themselves th e th ng say her mental health, didn't, and we could ri can be , and offe do so.” to t whilst not 100%, has just continue to talk encouragemen now improved beyond within the group, as and both our wildest dreams, if she needed. and though she still has her Over the following dark days, they're nothing on months her story emerged and what she was coping with earlier; touched something deep within me; she's living, not merely going through the again, I don't know what that was. The motions; she giggles, she laughs, she enjoys second eldest of four children, Kirsty was life, which is as it should be. She also currently subjected to domestic violence, and abuse works part-time. from an early age that had continued into her Four years down the track, and our home adulthood. It was during one of our many days has been blessed with three new members. and evenings of inboxes that I made a throw Family life with us has been the most real away remark about not trying to be a surrogate stability Kirsty and the boys have known. Both mum, despite a real mother being exactly what boys are happy in their schools and have made this poor kid not only needed, but what she nice friends both there and with the kids in was desperately wanting and searching for. our street (they're never home!); the youngest, We talked more and more over the weeks Huntar, has been playing soccer for the last two and months, mostly via inbox, but also on the years, and is off to a zone athletics carnival at phone, with our calls lasting anything up to the end of this month. The eldest, Bryce, wants seven hours and often into the small hours of to try his hand at archery, and is getting ready the morning. We spoke every day. She shared for his first year of high school next year. her secrets with me and I grew to love this Kirsty, herself, has enrolled in online study, girl, first as a friend, but then, as time went on given that her own mental health has improved and I got to know her even better, my feelings so dramatically, and that it continues to do so. turned more than affectionately maternal.

Huntar has mild Autism, so whilst he's very

By June of 2012, she was calling me Mum high functioning (you'd never pick it if you in correspondence, and we'd made tentative didn't know him, or know what to look for), his plans to meet face to face. mum has her work cut out for her. Both boys Being the impatient soul that I am, after are a credit to their mum, and make Phil and talking about our meeting taking place later in me proud to call them our grandsons; as proud the year, I brought it forward to the following as we are of Kirsty, herself. month, and I made the three hour trip over In the past four years, our relationship has the mountains to her home, although I stayed blossomed and grown aeons beyond that of in a motel. The visit only lasted two nights both friends and mother and daughter. We and three days, during which I was introduced

“

both believe that the familial bond couldn't be stronger even had I birthed her myself.

As part of the process of throwing off the shackles of an unhappy previous family life, and further entrenchment in *our* family, name change paperwork finally returned in February of 2015 from Births, Deaths & Marriages, to make our girl an official, legal family member, a real Lohan, and plans are afoot to change the surnames of both the boys in the not too distant future.

The universe was indeed smiling on both of us, and paved the way for our paths to cross.

Where/when did you go to accept your award - and what was the experience like?

The state award ceremony was held at Parliament House in Sydney in April, while the national ceremony, just prior to Mother's Day, covered four days in Sydney of pampering, shopping - we were taken to Leona Edmiston, in Double Bay, for dress selection and fitting, and Leona very generously donated our dresses for the event - a beautiful cocktail party, a tour of the Penrith Barnardos facility, photo shoots and makeup, all before the title announcement at The Museum of Contemporary Art. Lisa Wilkinson hosted the day, and there were various dignitaries from Barnardos, as well as media celebrity patrons of Barnardos, and numerous sponsors. It was a glittering event of cocktails and photographs. All of the nominees were equally deserving of the award; I certainly wouldn't have wanted the task of choosing just one.

What do you feel are some of the most important traits a mother can have?

A mother should be willing to teach; to listen; be supportive; to take the time to get to know her children, what makes them tick. It's imperative that the lines of communication be kept open; a mother should be her children's best and fiercest advocate, while allowing them the freedom to be the best possible versions of themselves that they can be, and offering the encouragement to do so.

When you're not busy with mum/ grandmum duties, what do you like to do?

Between OT appointments for Huntar, soccer practice and games, and various other family commitments, I like to read and keep my mind active playing word games. Of course, I also spend time with my own mum, who is in an assisted living facility.

Plans for the future ... What are your dreams/goals?

Along with Kirsty, I'd like to spend some time with Aboriginal disadvantaged families in the outback. It's a small way of "giving back". At some point I'd like to perhaps work with others who have been traumatised by DV and abuse, give them the support and encouragement that they lack within their families. That's the tip of the iceberg; who knows what exciting thing the universe will throw into my path?

Thanks Marg.

Interview by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 21

Lamb cutlets crusted with house made mint crumbs served with creamy mash, ,mushy peas and red wine jus. from The HAstings Hotel

22 greater port macquarie focus.

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

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.

Glazed Duck breast, Jerusalem artichoke & vanilla puree, Licensed beetroot gel, walnut crumb.

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.

Rangers Valley Wagyu Beef Fillet, Horseradish Crème Fraiche, Pernod Jus.

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

Change is as good as a holiday, right?

Zebu has a new look team, new menu and an exciting new range of cocktails to put the groove back into your favourite waterfront venue.

Breakfast has never been so good, with some exciting new dishes to explore on a lazy weekend or midweek business brekky.

If afternoon or evening vibes are your more your style, check out the exciting new tapas menu available from noon, featuring fun and funky share plates. Shae Glanville returns as our resident mixtress to tantalise your tastebuds with her exciting new range of cocktails, featuring some of her classic designs with a little twist … and if that wasn’t enough to tempt you, we have $1 oysters every Wednesday night from 5:30pm - 6:30pm!

Come and see our new look! The restaurant has been transformed with stunning mural Chef’s TABLE artwork by vibrant local artist Adam Murray, 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie 6583 1499 thewestportclub.com.au and timber accents by Mike Woof from Timberwoof are complemented by modern 7 days. Lunch 11:30am 2:30pm. Dinner 5pm - 8:30pm. furniture for you to enjoy.

The traditional Spanish menu has been reinvented, with hearty favourites for the winter season, including Black Tiger Prawns, Chardonnay, Garlic Butter Sauce. Pair with a Monteith Pale Ale tap beer, or the Doppelbock: a smooth, rich beer with a powerful aroma and fiery red hue that comes from the crafting of four premium malts, in true Bavarian style.

Bookings preferred.

Fully licensed (no BYO).

SPRING Sensations

Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm.

Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

zebu bar+grill

refined you are after, head to the grill for our degustation menu with five hand crafted courses from Executive Chef Adam Tait matched with fine wines sourced from across Australia. Still can’t decide? Be tempted by the King Fish Carpaccio with fingerlime, chorizo and radish paired with a crisp Andrew Thomas Six Degrees Semillon - simply irresistible!

Diary Date: New Year’s Eve - Bring in the New Year in Sin CityChef Style with a night in Vegas Executive Adam Tait. with dancing girls, blackjack and poker!

See page 21 for more info!

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

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

Owners Brendan Jennis Field.

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

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

6584 4559

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

Seared sea scallops with pumpkin puree, smoked chorizo and chive mascarpone.

6 nights: Tues - Sun from 6pm.

Executive Chef Adam Tait.

Dessert plate - Pear Frangipane Tart, Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie Located along PortFlourless Macquarie’s Town Green.

Orange Cake & Chocolate Panacotta 6589 2822 www.zebu.com.au 6584 1146 7 days, from 6:30am - late. Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

26

mi casa restaurant The Westport Club's

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841

Kingfish carpaccio, fingerlime, chorizo and radish

Chefs de Cuisine Chris & Luke

Bookings are recommended.

7 days, from 11am - late.

EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

greater port macquarie focus.

restaurant synergy

Quaylime bar+grill

Where food and service work in harmony.

WINTER MENU: ESCAPE THE WINTER BLUES & INDULGE IN WHOLESOME SOUL FOODS, NEW SUPERB WINE SELECTIONS, FROM OUR FLAVOURS OF THE CELLAR, SHARED WITH SOME GREAT COMPANY!

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 dining in our waterfront restaurant, or the perfect venue for your next special occasion.

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.

Overlooking the picturesque Port Marina, Quay Lime Bar + Grill provides the ultimate waterfront dining experience, with local produce, seafood and top shelf service our specialty.

Don’t forget to join us at “Happy Hour” every evening from 5pm - a refreshing 40% off all beverages - restaurant SYNERGY’S cocktail lounge.

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

Head Chef Kerrie Capper.

CALENDAR DATE: Sunday 4th September “Father’s Day” - Big steak and beer specials for Dad!

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.

Shop 9, Port Marina, 18 Park St Port Macquarie 6584 4039 www.quaylime.com.au Seven days, Mon 8am - 3pm, Tues 8am - 3pm, Wed - Sun 8am - 3pm and 5pm to late. greater port macquarie focus. 23

Sous Vide Wagyu Rib, Wattle Seed Jus and Native Lime.

Seared Canadian Scallops, celeriac puree, spicy capsicum relish, microgreens, crispy pancetta.

aqua at the westport club

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar

Winter sensations at Aqua.

Feel like a sneaky half dozen oysters, a glass of prosecco and a chilly beer?

Come and experience the best in relaxed coastal dining with the arrival of New Executive Chef Kit Foe, who has arrived in sunny Port Macquarie from Samoa and New Zealand. Kit brings a wealth of experience and some amazing new flavours and dishes, focusing on fresh seafood and signature local produce. Some hot picks from the new menu include the pan seared Canadian scallops with celeriac puree, crispy prosciutto, micro greens and spicy capsicum relish or Kit’s signature Head Chef Kit For oysters served three ways - Bloody Mary, Champagne and Salmon Caviar, Balsamic with seasalt and cracked pepper. For the land lovers, you literally can’t go past Kit’s signature dish of the venison wellington - with succulent venison wrapped in pastry, with pate and mushroom duxelle, baby beetroot, confit of garlic and watercress. Divine!

At AQUA Restaurant at The Westport Club, our love of all things delicious is showcased through rich and hearty flavours. Our talented chefs utilise both modern and traditional techniques to conjure dishes made from the freshest of produce.

Choose AQUA for your next special occasion, and enjoy one of Port Macquarie’s most spectacular waterfront dining views.

Chef de Cuisine Michael Finch.

Located inside Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges. Park St, Port Macquarie at the roundabout, opp Settlement City.

6589 5100

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

Dinner 7 days - 5pm - 8:30pm.

Breakfast: 7 days from 6:30am - 10:00am, Lunch: Friday - Sunday from noon.

Dinner: 7 days from 6:00pm.

Green Curry

Wauchope Country Club

kEnny’s thai kitchen

There’s never been a better time to book your special event at the

Enjoy a taste of Thailand!

Wauchope Country Club.

$11 Lunch Specials.

Talk to us about your next function, party, wedding or corporate event. We

Entrée and your choice of one main meal; entrée includes a spring roll and curry puff.

can comfortably cater for two or 200 in a choice of excellent function spaces, including the club’s auditorium, complete with full kitchen and bar services, and views overlooking the golf course.

Visit our website to download our current events and functions brochure.

Wauchope Country Club really is fun for everyone!

24 King Street, Wauchope 65853020 www.wauchopecountryclub.com.au 7 days.

24 greater port macquarie focus.

Head Chef Michael Schubert.

Choose from a range of delicious mains, including the popular crispy fried Angel Prawns with Thai herbs and coconut cream, stir fried crispy pork belly with phi king sauce and peanuts, deep fried sweet chilli Barramundi fillets, traditional Green Curry (chicken or prawn or beef), mango chicken, Pad Thai or Pad Mee Mao Drunken Noodles.

Club Forster, 19 Strand St, Forster 6591 6591 Open Wed - Sun, lunch and dinner. Lunch: noon until 2pm.

Dinner: 5:30pm until 8pm.

Head Chef Kenny.

focusinterview.

focus_eat

Lou Perri from the Stunned Mullet

Foe

S A I L S

R E S O R T

THERE’S A NEW VIBE AT SAILS RESORT, WITH THE ARRIVAL OF NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF KIT FOE FROM SAMOA. KIT IS BUSY IN THE KITCHEN CREATING NEW MENUS FOR WINTER AND SPRING. KIT HAS A STYLE AND UNIQUE FLAVOURS ALL HIS OWN AND ENJOYS GETTING OUT AND AMONGST HIS GUESTS AND SHARING HIS INFECTIOUS LOVE FOR FOOD AND LIFE.

J

uly saw the sumptuous Seafood Lunch Buffet creating a chilled Sunday afternoon atmosphere at Sails Resort. Live oyster shucking, interactive cooking stations and delicious desserts were all enjoyed in the restaurant and on the waterfront deck.

Kit recently spent three years at a Boutique Resort, the Aga Reef Resort in Samoa.

After Samoa he had a change of scene as a consultant for the Green Man, an Irish Bar in Wellington, where he created the new bistro menus.

Kit narrowly missed out on winning a culinary competition that would have taken him to the Ritz in London. We’re chuffed to have him in sunny Port Macquarie and invite you to join us to experience the exciting new menus Kit’s Kitchen creates.

What’s your first memory of your love for cooking? I started as a kitchen hand at West Plaza Hotel, Wellington. My parents sent me to New Zealand from Samoa when I was 18 to seek out a better future. I watched the chefs at work and always asked them, “Do you have a job for me to do?” I kept asking for more jobs, and that’s where it started. I love food and creating new ideas, and the owner offered me an apprenticeship.

Where did your career take you? I represented James Cook Central in the national chef competitions and went on to represent New Zealand in Japan at the 6 Star Osaka Plaza Hotel. At the time it was the only 6 Star Restaurant in the World. Japanese is my favourite food.

What’s your favourite dish to create? I love cooking with offal and created a night at St John’s Bar and Restaurant in New Zealand

called “An Offaly Good Dinner!” It was a real success. I love cooking with game meat and more unusual meals that you wouldn’t usually have.

What can we expect at Sails? I’m looking forward to trying new things to set Sails apart.

We have some exciting times ahead of us at the resort, and this includes the introduction of a whole new dining experience, bringing it back to the simple things that we all love - great dishes and relaxed genuine service.

The restaurant and bar is somewhere locals can come and enjoy our gorgeous back yard featuring delicious food and a relaxed waterfront vibe. The new menu has something for everyone. My favourites are seared Canadian scallops, venison wellington and apple tarte tatin. The crispy pork belly is always amazing and certainly a crowd pleaser.

Describe your style in three words: Fresh, light, and tasty with an emphasis on local produce.

What’s your most memorable moment?

1997 International Plaza Hotel Wellington - I was Sous Chef in fine dining when we met the Queen. I can’t remember what she said to me, but it’s a moment in time you can never forget.

If you could prepare a meal for anyone, who would it be and what would you make? I’m looking forward to my wife, Lusila and baby daughter, Charlotte arriving from Samoa. I’d make my wife a delicious beef fillet, as it’s very expensive in Samoa.

Thanks Kit! If you haven’t had a chance to meet Kit and try the new menu, head over to the resort for the annual Brewers Lunch on Sunday 21 August, with live tunes, four courses and four beers to match.

UNCOMMON COURTESY OFTEN A GRANDPARENTAL STYLE GRIPE - “KIDS THESE DAYS!” OR “BACK IN MY DAY!” WE MAY WELL HAVE PREVIOUSLY ROLLED OUR EYES TO THE INSISTENCE

BY OUR ELDERS UPON THE QUAINT WAYS OF A DIM AND DUSTY PAST.

C

hivalry and all that, the formal ways of addressing those older and wiser than us, the polite and proper “niceties” of society. In the midst of our flashy, trendy, drama filled young person lives, we would scoff at these museum relic ways of human interaction.

Who has the time? Who is so stiff and formal? We are chilled; we are laid back, man!

Open a door, or pull up a chair for a “lady”, and you may well be sued for harassment, or decked … Well, perhaps a slight exaggeration, but certainly in pretty much the majority of our social interactions, the casual approach is key.

Of course, the massive technological advancements of the internet age have had a huge impact on the way we communicate - after all, many “strangers” are no longer that strange, as we’ve emailed them or seen them pop up on Facebook.

This is all well and good and potentially time saving and a lot less awkward than typical Victorian era introductions, I would imagine, but could it be that many of us secretly hark back to a time when ladies were ladies, and gentlemen, were - ahem - actually gentlemen?

In the same way we crave an actual handwritten letter as opposed to the constant barrage of emails, this sentimental harking back to the ways of old is apparent when it comes to the kind of service people really appreciate in a restaurant.

It turns out that most absolutely love a little TLC and a bit of extra time taken. Those belonging to older generations than our own especially relish the rituals of polite society - a door opened for them, the elder person allowed to go first, a chair pulled out. Even,

being addressed as “sir” or “ma’am”.

All too often throughout the hectic lives that we lead, the constant rushing around and daily pressures leave us harried and distracted.

It is all too easy to forget to consider others, to be abrupt or brusque, or to simply push past someone when we are in a hurry.

The fact is, this eternal truth of life as a human remains constant - you never, ever know what sort of day someone else is having.

It could be one inconsiderate gesture, or one distracted lack of acknowledgement that someone else perceives as the most extreme rudeness, or worse still, it could be the thing that sends someone, just on the brink of despair - over the edge.

This is absolutely why it is really vitally important to respect our fellow human beings in these small ways, and to not lose the manners we learnt from our elders (as well as our grammar - another disappearing skill in this computer age - thank goodness for spell check!)

These conventions, archaic and unnecessary in the eyes of “youth of today”, are in fact the little touches that pepper our verbal and written interactions with a bit more care - a bit of respect for the person we are communicating with.

Without wanting to be seen as an “oldie” and whilst for the most part quite enjoying our free and effortless modern ways of interacting - I certainly am not advocating a return to the olden days, but more so an approach where the relaxed and informal way we live now is combined with a continued effort to maintain politeness and the convention of manners.

Simply because often it really is just the little touches that make the biggest impression! greater port macquarie focus. 25

ZEBU BAR+GRILL

MI CASA

Pan fried King Prawn with pumpkin, courgette, mushy peas and a saffron and mussel foam.

Chicken breast roulade with glazed radish, fennel puree, thyme jus.

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE DISH ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A $250 “DINNER FOR FOUR” VOUCHER AT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF YOUR CHOICE, SELECTED FROM RESTAURANTS IN THE AUGUST ISSUE OF FOCUS!

THE BAR RESTAURAMT AND CAFÉ 250 g eye fillet grilled to your liking drizzled with garlic cream reduction, topped with half a fresh Blue Swimmer Crab served with Cajun dusted potatoes, charred asparagus and crispy carrot crisps.

THE STUNNED MULLET Glacier 51 Toothfish with shitake suimono, zucchini, black rice wafer, dill, daikon, enoki crisp, gai lum.

RESTAURANT SYNERGY

FUSION 7

Sticky pork cutlet with white bean puree, zucchini pearls, chilli caramel and popcorn.

Grilled local King Prawn dashi, truffled prawn dumpling, yuzu pearls, lotus root, crumbed Mooral Creek Mushrooms.

26 greater port macquarie focus.

SETTLERS INN

SPINNAKERS RESTAURANT AND BAR

500 g in house crumbed chicken schnitzel on a bed of battered chips and stacked with waffle fries, onion rings and homemade pepper sauce.

Venison loin wrapped in pastry, pate, mushroom duxelle, parsnip puree, cauliflower, beetroot.

THE HASTINGS HOTEL

QUAYLIME RESTAURANT+BAR

Asian pork belly braised slowly, served with celeriac slaw and finish with pork reduction.

Ocean Treasure.

DRIFT - PORT CITY BOWLING CLUB

AQUA - WESTPORT CLUB

Lemon myrtle dusted Barramundi fillet with churmoula potato and wilted spinach.

Tomahawk Steak - 1 kg of rib eye on the bone.

focus

COMPETITION

vote to win VOTING OPEN FROM 1ST AUGUST TO 24TH AUGUST; WINNER ANNOUNCED 26TH AUGUST, 5PM.

1. SELECT THE DISH OF YOUR CHOICE FROM ABOVE. 2. JUMP ON TO WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PORTMACQUARIEFOCUS 3. CLICK ON THE “SIGNATURE DISH” ALBUM. 4. CLICK ON YOUR CHOSEN “SIGNATURE DISH”.

5. LIKE AND COMMENT IN 25 WORDS OR LESS WHY IT’S YOUR FAVOURITE DISH! greater port macquarie focus. 27

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

shellEy watts A L I F E-SI Z E I M AGE ON T H E M A I N ST R E ET W I N DOWS OF SPONSOR OP T US BI L L S H E R OU R “ LOC A L H E RO”, T H E H A ST I NG S ’ – AUST R A L I A’ S – SOL E F E M A L E BOX I NG CON T E N DE R I N R IO. SUSI E GR A BBE D A MOM E N T OF H E R T I M E .

S

helley Watts, boxer, has me on the canvas, uppercut delivered in the form of a texted guffawing emoji indicating it’s laughable I seek to appropriate 90 minutes of her day for a pre-Olympics interview. At the time she’s in final training for a gold medal in Rio this month; I’d not considered the intensity involved. She’s candid: a 2016 Olympics competitor has an immovable deadline. Watts and swimmer James Magnussen are Port’s hopes in Rio right now and, next month, wheelchair rugby gold medallist Ryley Batt and swim starlet Paige Leonhardt (born during the 2000 Sydney Olympics, who’ll turn 16 three days after the games) in the Paralympics.

On the day they buried Mohammed Ali seven weeks ago, Watts made a rare 24-hour midtraining dash home to visit family and friends and appear at Optus’s Horton Street store. She showed off her Commonwealth Games gold medal, won in Glasgow two years ago – our, and the Games’, first and only Commonwealth women’s boxing champion (women’s boxing included in the Games for the first time in 2014), awarded a unanimous decision. Later on, she does find time to explain: “To be ready for a fight I train 16 times a week. I wake up to an alarm every day, most days feeling I haven’t had enough sleep, with sore aching muscles from the hard session I pushed through the day before. I restrict my food intake, sometimes to extremes, to make the weight I need to

28 greater port macquarie focus.

be: no pizza, chocolate, ice cream, chips, birthday cake; no amazing extravagant meals full of fat and flavour. I travel more weeks of the year than not, missing birthdays, family events, nights out with friends, all the fun times people post on facebook, Twitter, Instagram.

I don’t get to watch my nieces and nephews grow ... thank God for technology and social media!” She might also have noted: tertiary studies so badly disrupted they’ve stretched over a decade. “All the things I miss [show] the discipline, perseverance and dedication needed to succeed at the highest levels. It’s hard, but when I get to represent our country, my family, friends and community it’s all worth it!”

It’s just six years since Watts took up boxing.

She’s been at the Australian Institute of Sport for the past 18 months, most recently in “an intense block of training; not boxing training as such but rather more cross-training sessions to get my body in peak physical fitness to start our boxing training [running up to] Rio.” She went on to Brisbane for a two-week training stint: “15 times a week, with a rest day on Sundays”, travelling with our two male Olympics boxers, Daniel Lewis and Jason Whateley, and the team’s coaches, Kevin Smith and Don Abnett.

The squad moved on to a training camp in the US before flying to Rio at the end of July. A gold medal would not only be a triumph but set another record: any of the three who win Olympic gold would become the first Australian boxer to do so, in any division, male or female.

Australia was permitted three female boxers

for Rio: only Watts made the grade to qualify.

(Women’s boxing was introduced at the London Olympics in 2012; Australia’s rep then lost her opening bout). “Boxing’s a sport where if you lose you’re out,” Watts tells me. “So each fight is crucial to making sure I can fight for the gold: to win I need to fight four times and win all four bouts. The official weigh-in is on Friday August 5, competition starts on August 6. My first fight will be on Sunday August 12.” Watts turns 29 two days beforehand. “The other dates of my bouts are August 15, 17 and 19.”

(Rio is 13 hours behind AEST).

Born in Port Macquarie, she’s spent her lifetime “in beautiful Laurieton, an amazing place to grow up: the ocean at your doorstep, a relaxed tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone and looks after everyone. I’m super-lucky and proud to have grown up there”. Laurieton Primary posts her achievements on their school sign; she went on to Camden Haven High and in 2007 began a double degree – in Law, and Human Movement – living in at SCU Lismore until 2010, when her interest in boxing took off.

She became an external student “after I won my first Australian title at the start of 2011 and was sent on my first international trip by Boxing Australia a week later. Since then I’ve been a gypsy, travelling and living wherever necessary to succeed and push my boxing to the next level. In the past 18 months I’ve travelled about 12 times to international training camps and competitions, so I haven’t officially been settled

since I left full-time uni in 2010: pretty much lived out of a suitcase for the past six years.

I’ve been lucky enough to have some amazing people help me out during that time, letting me stay in their spare room, caravan out the back, or on their couch.” Her list of thankyous is huge: from the Laurieton Hotel who’ve unstintingly given her casual work for nine years to other local townsfolk and organisations who support her. There’s mum, dad, brothers, sister-in- law, nieces and nephews, close friends galore, other rellies from Grandma Ina on down ... whether by “handmade signs, good luck messages, donating their time, effort or money to help me chase my dreams – it means the world to me!” Watts competes in the lightweight division, but is no lightweight herself. “Anything’s possible in life if you set yourself goals, believe in yourself and your ability to achieve them and work as hard as you can to get them.” With just two units of her degree to finish this year, she’ll graduate early 2017, aiming for the criminal Bar. “Boxing is not a violent or aggressive sport,” she insists. “It requires skill, technique and tactics. I never enter the ring to hurt my opponent with punches. I step through the ropes intending to show the judges I’m faster, stronger, sharper, smarter, more elusive and a better athlete than my opponent.”

All power to you, Shelley. Win or not, that Queensberry spirit, single-mindedness and grit will surely make a knock-out barrister fighting, next, for your clients.

greater port macquarie focus. 29

new menu at aspire Talented chefs Alex Hallam and Kieran

BINGO players are welcome to join in our

English who operate the award winning

friendly games every Monday from 10:30am

Aspire Restaurant at Port Macquarie Golf

and every Thursday from 6:30pm. Books are

Club have just released some new items to

$6 each, and there are many prize vouchers

the lunch and dinner menus.

to win from local businesses.

From trusted favourites like the home made sheperd’s pie for lunch, local seafood and to dinner pleasing pressed lamb shoulder, the menu has a variety to suit all tastes.

Celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday 4th

30 greater port macquarie focus.

If you are a braniac, you probably already know about our Wednesday Trivia, which gets underway from 5:30pm, so we won’t tell you any more about it.

September and bring the whole family for

Our illuminated practice putting green

lunch and dinner. The full menu is available,

which adjoins the clubhouse is lit up of an

and all dads will receive a free schooner of

evening, so if you’re a little bored at home

Toohey’s with any main meal purchased on

of an evening, get a group together and

the day.

come out for an evening putt off.

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Jesse Teh T H E

W H A L E B O N E

Janette Hyde from Port Macquarie Tourism Association

tourism

W H A R F

UPDATE

TOURISM IN AUGUST A GREAT NETWORK NIGHT WAS ATTENDED RECENTLY BY TOURISM INDUSTRY OPERATORS AT THE BILLABONG ZOO AND KOALA PARK. THE HIGHLIGHT WAS THE NIGHT WALK THROUGH THE ZOO.

WHALEBONE WHARF SEAFOOD RESTAURANT WELCOMES NEW HEAD CHEF JESSE TEH, BRINGING A FUSION OF ASIAN AND AUSTRALIAN CUISINE TO THE CLASSIC SEAFOOD MENU.

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esse, can you tell us about your background and how you came to be here in Port Macquarie?

I was born and bred in Sydney and come from a large family with a background in cooking and café businesses.

I started as an apprentice when I was 16 working for three years at est Restaurant in Sydney, under Peter Doyle. I learnt a lot there about classical French cooking and working with Australian produce.

From there, I wanted to try something different, so I moved out of the city and to the Northern Beaches (Sydney), where I started working at Jonah’s. I was there for two years, and I then decided that I wanted to explore my Asian roots - I moved to Hong Kong and went on to learn about Japanese and Chinese cookery.

I moved to Port Macquarie with my fiancée for the lifestyle change. We had just spent a lot of time in large cities and wanted to spend more time doing things like gardening, fishing and being outdoors.

Port Macquarie is an amazing place that is growing and changing rapidly - there are plenty of people who want to try new things when dining out, which means we can push the boundaries a little with our menu, whilst still offering that quintessential Australian seafood menu.

Tell us more about the menu changes.

The plan is to simplify the way we look at seafood and what we do with it.

We are going to recognise and utilise more of the seasonal produce around us - for example, our seafood. We have amazing local oysters growing right in front of us that will be supplied direct during summer. For fish

D we have these amazing pelagic fish from the ocean, and then in winter we rely more on the estuaries.

My background gives me the versatility to work with traditional French inspired and the Australian - which can bring in more herbs and spices, and that will be the direction we will head.

From the new menu, what are your favourite dishes?

I really like the octopus - it is a wintery dish with lots of textures - and is my favourite from the entree menu.

For the main, I am big fan of slow cooked lamb rump, and we are doing that with heirloom carrots, pearl barley and chimichurri.

From a seafood perspective, you can’t go past our live Mud Crabs and lobsters in the tank, and our famous seafood platter and fresh shucked oysters.

Your focus is now on local produce, so other than seafood, what are you utilising?

We are using Kenny Little, who is helping us source products from around the region. I have started working with Near River - we really like what Andrew is doing out there. We are also using Innes Lake Lettuce for a few things too.

Plus, we have a hobby garden out the back of the restaurant now, where we hope to grow a few things.

Thanks Jesse.

ee and Mark Stone hosted the night, and all were impressed by the potential of Night Tours at the Zoo. O ur tourists will just love the new addition of the Night Zoo Tours when all the planning is finally in place. We are so lucky to have such a great asset in our area, with new animals joining the Zoo on a regular basis; next to be welcomed to the Zoo are two lion cubs.

We have five finalists for the North Coast Network Regional Tourism Awards. The Awards are happening at Cassegrain Winery on the 30 July in Port Macquarie. The finalists from our region are Hello Koalas Sculpture, Port Macquarie Museum, Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, The Cruise Terminal and Vacation Village. Good luck to these worthy finalists.

So many activities happening in August Check out The Glasshouse, Laurieton Services Club, North Haven Bowling Club and Port Macquarie Panthers for an excellent variety of entertainment.

Really enjoyed the workshop held this month

by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. The Council were looking for comment from the community on a number of issues they were facing in 20162017. It was extremely informative and very well facilitated.

One of the aspect of the Council’s planning which supports locals and tourists alike, are the community parks. The improvement of the facilities currently on offer is really enjoyed by the kids.

Keep up the good work, as it is appreciated.

NSW Government have just announced that $43 million will be invested over four years in a major overhaul in the way regional and rural areas attract visitors, including the creation of six new Destination Networks throughout NSW. Currently the model for Destination North Coast is not dissimilar to the new path planned for the six NSW tourism regions. It is hoped that the vision and hard work achieved by North Coast Destination Network over the past years is not lost in the transition. We sincerely thank

Kathy Balodis, Cameron Arnold, Belinda Novicky and Sonia Fingleton for their exceptional efforts.

Due to the path, already in place, the domestic and international tourism overnight visitation is growing in our region; this in turn contributes to our local economy.

ACTIVITIES HAPPENING THIS MONTH 1 - 6 August - Art Exhibition Gloria Muddle www.sunsetgallery.com.au Through August - Alternate Rhythms Art Exhibition www.hastingsvalleyart.net.au 5 August - Go for Gold Trivia Night email:jenny.mead@pmhc.nsw.gov.au 6 August - Purple Sanctuary Music Event email: info@eclectictastytours.com.au 7 August - A Sweet Something Tour www.sunsetgallery.com.au 7 August - Show Your Colours for the Chopper email: choppermenw@rescuehelicopter.com.au 8 August - Show A Basic Photography Workshop email: info@eclectictastytours.com.au 8 - 20 August - Art Exhibition Yvonne Kiely www.sunsetgallery.com 13 August - Miniature Railway email: ron-morris@hotmail.com 14 August - Jazz in the Vineyards “BK Blue” www.bagovineyards.com.au 15 August - A Mystery Photography Workshop email: nfo@eclectictastytours.com.au 20 August - Flora Papier by Patricia Philp www.sunsetgallery.com 21 August - King of the Mountain - Laurieton’s fun run. www.chslsc.com 28 August - 3 Rivers 3 Races Challenges www.threeriversminimarathon.com 28 August - The Pirates of Bago Maze Facebook: Bago Vineyards 28 August - Artists Markets and Winery Tour email:info@eclectictastytours.com.au 4 Sep “Taste of Spring“ Food and Wine Lunch restaurant@cassegrains.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 31

32 greater port macquarie focus.

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t

HE VISION. will handle all things behind the scenes.

To create a casual, modern dining Running the kitchen is Head Chef, and space that embraces locally sourced, friend, Dom Smith. Another local boy, Smith seasonal, sustainable ingredients to has done his time abroad and gained a lot of produce simple and uncomplicated his experience working in “hatted” restaurants food. A space that boasts a buzzing with acclaimed chefs - Luke Mangan, to name vibe. A place for a casual evening drink, a one. Along with a wealth of experience and shared feast with friends, or a light bite after an innovative approach, Smith brings with him a beach day. Aimed to bring people together a big focus on local, sustainable produce - a over a mutual love of good food, good wine passion also shared by Chris and Leasa and and good times … this is BILLS Fishhouse. a key foundation for the direction of BILLS THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BRAND. Fishhouse.

You may know Chris and Leasa Harris from WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO FIND. their bustling Port Macquarie eatery, Salty Crew Primely positioned in the new Clarence Kiosk (and if that’s anything to go by, expect House development, BILLS Fishhouse will don a big things from their second installment). relaxed and welcoming coastal aesthetic with a The pair left Port Macquarie years ago after modern simplistic charm ... A simplicity they sold their then business, LUXE that is echoed right throughout Café and Catering, and have since the well-designed space, been globetrotting, gathering from the natural textures experience and inspiration Everything and polished concrete and working with renowned leading to decor finishes to the chefs and personalities. en this point has se produce driven menu.

Most recently the dynamic this trailblazing duo completed a stint If you’re thinking this team gearing up with Sir Richard Branson is just a sassed up fish for their biggest S LL on his privately owned BI t, and chip shop, you’re ye e ur nt ve r.”

Makepeace Island. about to be pleasantly Fishhouse + Ba Everything leading to this surprised. These guys point has seen this trailblazing mean business, and team gearing up for their biggest extreme care and precision venture yet, BILLS Fishhouse + Bar. has gone into crafting a beautiful So, armed with a life long dream, heads sea-to-plate menu that will blow your full of fresh ideas and a 12-month old baby socks off and send your taste-buds into in tow, the couple made the move back to orbit. where it all began. And so, BILLS Fishhouse Eats-wise, as the name suggests, BILLS was born. The name is derived from Chris’ Fishhouse is all about seafood. Expect offerings late father, Bill, who shared his son’s passion along the lines of Bellingen Smoked Fish and for simple seafood. Chris’ earliest memories Charred BBQ Jumbo Prawns, to larger dishes involve heading to the co-op with his mother to and share options such as Whole Baked scout the daily catches, then helping his father Snapper. At the bar, the standout cocktails sit create some culinary magic in their backyard somewhere between beach bar meets city chic. smokehouse. So it’s fair to say, this boy knows Together with a wine list sure to be the envy his seafood.

Between them, Chris and Leasa have decades of even the most developed palate, this new kid on the block certainly holds its own in the of industry experience and a mutual vision to drinks department. bring a unique offering to the Port Macquarie BILLS Fishhouse + Bar is swinging open its market. Chris, a chef of 20 plus years, will doors early September, and we dare say they’ll manage the restaurant and Leasa, whose experience lies in logistics and management, have you hook, line and sinker.

“

to our

(fish) HOUSE CHRIS & LEASA HARRIS

WHEN A FEW SAVVY LOCALS WITH TRUCKLOADS OF EXPERIENCE AND A DISTINCT VISION PUT THEIR HEADS TOGETHER TO CREATE SIMPLE, EFFORTLESS FOOD IN A SUSTAINABLE WAY, YOU GET ONE HELL OF A RESTAURANT AND A GOOD REASON TO NEVER EAT IN AGAIN.

greater port macquarie focus. 33

focusinterview.

JESS CERRO AKA MONTAIGNE WILL BE TAKING THE AUDIENCE CAPTIVE WITH HER SPELLBINDING VOICE AND STORY TELLING LYRICS AT THE WILDWOOD FESTIVAL, FOCUS CHATS TO MONTAIGNE PENDING HER ARRIVAL TO THE SHORES OF PORT MACQUARIE…

T

J E S S

C E R R O

ake us back to your childhood ... What was is that first inspired you musically?

One of the earliest things ... I grew up with the Disney Channel, we had Foxtel at home, so I listened to a lot of Disney Pop songs and I remember being really into Lizzie McGuire and when the Lizzie McGuire I love playing movie came out, I had the album, the s. festivals, alway full soundtrack. It wasn’t just Lizzie g in m or who was very ahead of his I just enjoy perf ivals McGuire singing, it was also a bunch st fe t time. He was self aware, in general, bu of things on there, but I remember rent very self analytical, and - they have a diffe e’s a er the song, What Dreams Are Made very Frack forthcoming; he vi be to a show. Th ...”

Of - that was such a big thing for me had no fear about setting all lot more energy at that time. My next door neighbour, of his neuroses, ideas, fears who was my best friend, used to come and happinesses and mundane up with dance routines and sing that song activities down on the page and he in a group together; I still remember that. wrote about himself a lot extensively.

You’ve been in the industry for a few years People resonate with it. now, only a 16 year old school kid when we first He was not a philosopher in a strict sense heard you on the radio as a finalist on triple J or in a terminological sense; he was more of an Unearthed. How has your style developed since accidental philosopher. I think he called himself an then? accidental philosopher; he’s someone who was very I suppose, I just listen to a lot of music. I don’t rest on inquisitive and inquired into himself and the things my laurels when it comes to music, I’m always exploring, around him a lot, and I kind of just resonated with so I think I’ve just exposed myself to a bunch of different him. I’m also quite honest in my lyrics, I’m not afraid genres, artists and sounds and have experienced different of showing people who I am, what I really feel; I don’t life experiences since I was 16, that are a little bit more really censor myself at all. He was notoriously open about serious and have changed the way I think and have things that ordinarily people would not be open about, changed me as a person. I think in a way things have like defecation and stomach bugs, and that kind of thing. evolved musically because, music is me, and naturally What are some of your biggest influences?

I’m just trying to paint a picture of me, so if I change Well, at the moment I suppose … there have been personally myself, then the music is going to change I a few different things lately, and then there are some guess … core artists I’m always really into and influenced by. I like Story behind stage name Montaigne?

Arcadefire, Byork, Bat for Lashes, Everything Everything, Montaigne ... The original Montaigne was a French Florence and the Machine, Owen Pallett. philosopher, Michel Eyquem de Montaigne. He was from The release of your debut album, Glorious Heights the 16th Century, and he’s actually known as someone will happen on 5th August; tell us about the

34 greater port macquarie focus.

“

creative process and inspiration behind the album.

I’d say it was quite therapeutic. I was writing at a time when my life was quite troubled; I got to be in the studio with Tony, my producer, and write songs with him. He listened to everything and responded creatively to what I was giving him - it was just very nice making this picture of my life. The height of it was quite ugly, and we made it something that is hopefully beautiful to people. It was great fun; Tony and I always have fun, and I got to record with my band as well, whom I’ve been with since the beginning. I had a bunch of cool friends help out too.

You’re playing at Wildwood; what are you look forward to about playing there?

I love playing festivals, always. I just enjoy performing in general, but festivals - they have a different vibe to a show. There’s a lot more energy, I’m not going to say a lot more good feeling, but there’s a lot more energy people are really psyched to be there.

Where can we follow your journey?

On instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Snapchat…

Thanks Jess.

the plug!

Wildwood Music Festival October 2nd 2016, Cassegrain Winery www.wildwoodmusic.com.au

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Woolgoolga Curryfest As if the lure of sun, sand and beautiful beaches wasn’t enough, there’s another reason the little coastal town of Woolgoolga is garnering more and more attention from residents all over Australia.

Just 15 minutes north of Coffs Harbour, a cultural extravaganza is brewing.

Woolgoolga Curryfest is celebrating 11 years of culture, cuisine and good community fun and as things heat up towards the September festival, organisers are promising one of the biggest and best events to date.

The event, which is one of Destination NSW’s celebrated flagship events, has seen as many as 13,000 people flock to the seaside village, and this year it is expected that more than 15,000 will come and help celebrate their 11th anniversary.

On the northern reaches of the Coffs Coast, the town of Woolgoolga is home to the biggest Australian Punjabi Sikh population outside

of capital cities. This year the fun begins with the “Flavours of Curryfest” restaurant experiences. Starting on Saturday the 3rd of September at the Seaview Tavern. The flavours event has grown from the original “Tastes of Woolgoolga” into a full calendar of dining events from Grafton to Coffs Harbour, for all the details on the Flavours, Bollywood Movies, and Festival events follow us on facebook @ Woolgoolga Curryfest. On September 24, the whole town celebrates its unique heritage with Curryfest, a food and cultural festival that has grown into a flagship event.

Curryfest features curries from all over the world, ethnic foods, Punjabi music, dancing and other cultural displays … a feast for the eyes, ears and for the stomach. We have two special guests joining us at Curryfest this year: the very popular Nidhi, from this season of MasterChef; and the incredibly talented Sukhjit, a crowd and judge favourite who wowed the country on Australia’s Got Talent.

Demo Model clearance Why not? That's the motto of the G 650 GS. Whether in town or on the gravel track: with this machine you have every terrain under control, and you get more than your money's worth when it comes to riding fun too. The G 650 GS is robust, powerful and yet still extremely light, weighing just 192 kg (with a full tank). Its slim, athletic stature in a youthful and typically enduro-style design stands for uncomplicated riding pleasure and pure fun.

The new F 700 GS is the ultimate all-rounder.

What was good has just got better: with ABS as standard and ESA, not to mention ASC as an option, the ride is not just safer but also offers especially high comfort. Low weight, reduced seat height and a lowering option make the F 700 GS a perfect all-round enduro bike, especially for female riders.

The revised F 800 GS (pictured above) is the sportiest member of the big GS family. The motorcycle continues its longstanding success story, providing impressive versatility both on and

off the road: the ultimate versatile enduro machine with sporty genes. F 800 GS: on and off-road have never been so close together. The front section of the body in particular has undergone significant transformation: the new fuel tank trim, intake snorkel, upper mudguard and a new windshield give the bike that extra dash of dynamic performance, reflecting the off-road side of the F 800 GS. BMW Motorrad is offering unbeatable value on ex-demonstrators across the model range. Like a brand new bike, but even better - an additional year’s warranty and roadside assistance is included for extra peace of mind. This opportunity is limited to dealer demonstrators registered before 1 July 2016, so see your BMW Motorrad dealer to find the motorcycle that best suits you. Be quick, as this offer is only valid 22 July - 17 September 2016!

Come and see Rory and the team at Rock Motorcycles for a test ride today!

THE JOURNEY IS YOUR DESTINATION.

MAKE LIFE A RIDE.

At Rock Motorcycles, we’ve got the BMW for you. Right now we’re clearing our G 650 GS, F 700 GS and F 800 GS demo’s, so don’t miss this opportunity.

Visit Rock Motorcycles today!

Rock Motorcycles 175 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie Tel 02 6583 6655 1800 00ROCK sales@rockmotorcycles.com.au rockmotorcycles.com.au

36 greater port macquarie focus.

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38 greater port macquarie focus.

Kate WOOD-FOYE Below. Jack Begbie, Ricky Pomroy, Andrew Morello at Luminosity launch.

from Rydges Port Macquarie and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Below. The Lighthouse crew enjoying the Seafood buffet at Sails Resort.

Photo Credit: Jack Begbie

Photo Credit: Jack Begbie

Below. Jarrod Wheatley of SAMA with Dr Muyesser Durur and CSU’s Sandra Wallace.

Above. Birthday lunch for Matthew Clarke and girlfriend Lisa Bryant at Sails.

Right. Bec Hickey & Amanda Hudson of Holiday Coast Credit Union at Luminosity Sponsors event at Zebu.

Above. Sue Reid, Ann Maree Crow, Peta Simmons, Rosalie & John Clarke at Bennett Steel.

Photo Credit: Jack Begbie

SOCIAL/SCENE

WALLS HAVE GROWN WINGS, PLANES HAVE FLOWN IN, AS HAVE BIG IDEAS AND BRIGHT STARS THAT HAVE SHONE FOR ALL TO SEE. YOUNG MINDS HAVE BEEN BLOWN WITH THE POWER OF POSSIBILITY, AND MANY DANGEROUS IDEAS HAVE BEEN SPROUTED RIGHT HERE IN OUR LITTLE SEASIDE CITY.

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his month has been a merry blur of inspiration, determination and gratitude, mixed with a healthy dose of insanity, all mixed up in a hectic three days otherwise known as Luminosity Youth Summit, dedicated to the young minds of beautiful Port Macquarie. From graffiti art, to blogging, to branding, unlocking creativity, cultural diversity, courage, mindfulness, money and our environment - it was all laid bare for the young leaders of our region to soak up and enjoy. Thanks to the amazing team of professionals and local sponsors behind the event, who dedicate their time to making Luminosity real, relevant and a ridiculous amount of fun!

Cocktails parties are on a roll, with the welcome event for Luminosity bringing together over fifty of the key sponsors and organising crew to mingle with the speakers from all over the globe at Zebu Bar + Grill, guests included Matt Purcell of the Green Room, Mariane Power, former Wallaby James Holbeck, Jarrod Wheatley of SAMA, Paddy McCann of McCann Media, Stacey Morgan of PMPA, Lee Wood of Placemaking Hastings, Amanda Hudson and Rebecca Hickey of Holiday Coast Credit Union, Lynn Lelean of MNCLHD, Nathan Wreck and Andrew Morello of Yellow Brick Road and Patron Dr Muyesser Durur of Monash University. Thanks

to Luminosity secretary Ricky Pomroy, who stepped in for me to host the event due to a late arriving plane and Jack Begbie, who did our snaps - a stellar job! A great start to a big week of inspiration for over 300 young regional minds!

Wauchope institution Bennett’s Steel celebrated their 25th anniversary on Saturday 9th July with over 200 special guests gathered in the “shed” to share stories and a drink around the fireplace. The old shed scrubbed up beautifully with the smell of roses and fresh white lilies filling the cool night air, with crisp white tablecloths adorning the tables. Guests were kept warm and entertained thanks to Kate and Al from Black Duck Brewery, who kept the kegs of beer coming, lots of bubbles from Bago Wines and the amazing voice of young local musician Blake O’Conner. As guests arrived, they walked under an arch that had the names of each staff member cut into steel that had worked for Bennett’s Steel in its 25 year history - a fitting tribute to the part each of the team have played in the Bennet Steel story. Congrats to Tanya, Shiree and Peta and the extended Bennet family on such a special milestone!

Out of Samoa and into Sails Resort, Executive Chef Kit Foe served a veritable feast at the recent seafood Sunday lunch at Sails Resort. Over 80 guests, including David and Trish Relf, Shayne and

Mark McGuire, Leonie and Matt Cutliffe, Pam and Terry Foye, Lisa and Summer Von Hartitzsch, Kelly and Casey Biddle, Pauline and Lisa Bryant and Matthew Clarke enjoyed the chilled tunes of Sheldon and Leanne from Connecting Souls, as they feasted on a bounty of mussels, king prawns, oysters, chilli crab, whole fish, chowder, abalone, Balmain bugs and a seriously divine dessert buffet with a sneaky chocolate fountain for the little and not so little ones! Live oyster shucking, grilled seafood on the BBQ and a chilled marina vibe ensured guests kicked back and relaxed and squeezed the most out of their Sunday afternoon. Stay tuned for Kit’s next installment, the Brewers Lunch on Sunday 21 August at noon, with four brewers matched with four courses, featuring Warwick Little of Wicked Elf Little Brewing Company, Al Owen of Black Duck Brewery, Sam and Tim of Bucket Brewery, and Keith Grice of Hunter Brewing Co. Cheers to another afternoon on the deck at Sails!

We enjoyed a deliciously good night at Fusion7 recently, with a fantastic four course dinner including edamame and olives on arrival, with house made bread, a haloumi entrée to die for, followed by duck breast, smoked pork belly and a cheeky banana pudding and pistachio icecream … It is possibly important to note that we shared six desserts on a table for just four … I am slightly

ashamed to admit that we all partook in a total dessert demolition that included crème brulée, honeycomb affogato and chocolate chip cookies.

Thanks, Lindsay and the team, for another cracker of a night!

Happy birthday to my sister Sarah Wood of Strata Professionals, who celebrated with a beach hut shindig at her Shelley Beach home - twenty five guests, including Nicole Small, Cathal and Allen Ladden, Kylie Morgan, Patrick and Brooke Wood, Matt and Bianca Adkins, Tenneayle Kinnear, Joel and Alla Freeman and Jodie Richards were just some of the awesome crew who kicked on for a fabulous night of Mexican food, old school R&B and huge laughs. Happy birthday, Sarah! Thanks for the hangover!

Famous faces continue to flock to Port Macquarie, with Celeb Chef Matt Golinksi jetting in for the launch of the Tastings on Hastings and local producer events. Diesel is also set to appear at the Loafer in September, with a ton of culinary talent coasting in again, including celeb chef Matt Wilkinson, for the Main Tastings on Hastings event in late October. Life is pretty good in our awesome little patch of paradise! I am absolutely hanging out for those warmer summer rays and longer days … Lock in lots of those piccolo lattes to warm the soul until spring! ‘til next month, Kate.

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KELLY BIDDLE Port Mac

Celebrating 10 years in Business this August!

Proud owner Kelly Biddle celebrates this exciting milestone as the owner of Scaramouche, a local mobile children’s entertainment service.

Guitars

WINS BEST ONLINE ENGAGEMENT

LOCAL MUSIC STORE PORT MAC GUITARS HAS WON BEST ONLINE ENGAGEMENT AT THE RECENT SUMMER NAMM SHOW IN NASHVILLE, TENNESEE.

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hey had recently been nominated as a TOP 100 Dealer by the NAMM Organisation (which is the Global Association of Musical Products Manufacturers and Retailers) for their outstanding Customer Focused Policies and Innovative Online Strategies.

CEO/Owner Rob Mestric and Sales CoOrdinator Mark Wilson travelled to the Awards Ceremony in Nashville, where they were surprised and elated to receive the award.

It is the first time an Australian retailer has won a Best In Class Dealer Award.

The independent panel of judges commented on the outstanding and innovative nature of Port Mac Guitars' online experience, their exceptional customer service standards in the online realm, as well as their willingness

to push the boundaries of traditional online retailing.

Port Mac Guitars are seen as trailblazers in Australia and now internationally in their approach in helping customers buy their first, next, or last guitar.

Their website was custom designed from the ground up to give Australian guitarists the ultimate online guitar buying experience.

Port Mac Guitars' online strategies are very unique to the musical instrument industry and are seen as a useful case study for retailers outside of this sector.

Backed by their passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable staff, Port Mac Guitars will use this recognition of their efforts to continue to be an industry leader not only in musical instrument sales, but online retailing in Australia and internationally.

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City Surf 2

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hey have provided the Mid North Coast with some of the most fun filled and amazing themed parties, face painting, balloon sculpting and corporate event entertainment.

From humble beginnings as a stay at home mum of two little girls under the age of three, Scaramouche became Kelly’s brainchild. Now nine staff strong and with a glowing reputation for delivering as promised, Kelly looks forward to another exciting 10 years in business. Kelly and her staff are well known for providing the highest level of customer service and satisfaction to their customers and have become recognised for their charity work and donations to the local charity events

and fundraisers in the community. “We are very excited to have reached this milestone,” Kelly said. “Starting a business from the ground up takes resilience and persistence. I’m so proud to be where we are today and extremely excited about the upcoming expansions we will be making.”

Scaramouche recently introduced a super hero themed party for the little ones and just purchased their first fairy floss machine, with more products to come. “We are always evolving and keen to meet the needs of our customers.” Celebrate with Scaramouche by enjoying 20% off your next booking for the month of September.

Visit www.scaramouchekids.com.au or call Kelly on 0412 197 557 and quote CODE #10YEARCELEBRATION.

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Paige Leonhardt CANDLES, COCKTAILS & CHOCOLATES FUNDRAISER

HERE IS THE PERFECT REASON FOR A FUN NIGHT OUT WHILST AT THE SAME TIME SUPPORTING AN AMAZING YOUNG ATHLETE WHO NEEDS OUR HELP TO GET TO RIO.

housands of runners will converge in Sydney this year, to take part in the 2016 Sun-Herald City2Surf event. A group of around 50 runners will be taking part with the aim of raising funds for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter. Some of these runners will be Port Macquarie locals, including Jim, Rachele and Isaac Sanderson, Mary Shelly, Michelle Butt, Drew Butt, Stella White and 40 greater port macquarie focus.

Suzanne White. This group’s ultimate goal is to raise 50,000, to help keep the helicopter in the air providing its valuable service. The City2Surf is a 14 km event that will take in some of the picturesque scenery along Bondi Beach.

For more information, visit: https://www. facebook.com/Teamyouthchoppers/ To donate to the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service: https://www. lifesaver.org.au

P

lease help us to support Paige Leonhardt, our local Rio Paralympian. Let us introduce this inspiring young girl to you at our Candles, Cocktails and Chocolates fundraiser, Saturday 6th August at the Westport Club’s Event Centre at 7:30pm.

Tickets are $50 per person and must be purchased before the night at The Westport Club reception.

Help us spread the word about Paige and this event by relaying this message to your

network of family, friends and colleagues; invite them to join you and embrace this amazing young girl as Port Macquarie’s own.

If you are unable to attend and would like to support Paige, please donate at: www.gofundme.com/paigeforrio For further information, please contact Jenny Edmunds on 0419 445 702 or jedmunds@thewestportclub.com.au

MORNING MELODIES Showcasing a range of local choirs, singers, big bands, pianists, dancers and more...

Panthers Audit ium

Panthers Audit ium Wednesday, 31st August 2016

Members - FREE Guests - $5 Doors 10.00am

I

Show 10.30am

1 BAY STREET PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 tel. (02) 6580 2300 www.panthers.com.au 1 BAY STREET PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 132 PIPER STREET BATHURST NSW 2795/PortMacquariePanthers tel.6330 (02)0600 6580 2300 tel. (02) Panthers Port Macquarie practices the responsible www.panthers.com.au /panthers.bathurst /PortMacquariePanthers www.panthers.com.au service of alcohol

Panthers Port Macquarie Panthers Bathurst practices the responsible practices the responsible service of alcohol service of alcohol

Saturday, 3rd September 2016

Members - FREE Guests - $5 Doors 1.30pm

I

Show 2.00pm

greater port macquarie focus. 41

focusinterview.

Photo by Fab Photos

focusinterview.

presents

port macquarie

T H E

M U S I C A L

T R A N S F O R M A T I O N

The Panthers transformation is already underway with the new auditorium reveal.

BRINGING THE COOL, REBELLIOUS, HIGH ENERGY VIBE OF A WORKING CLASS SUBURB FROM CHICAGO IN 1959 TO PLAYERS THEATRE, GREASE THE MUSICAL WILL WOW AUDIENCES! hat has been venue for major events and exhibitions. introduced to What exciting acts are on stage in the new modernise the space? auditorium this August/September?

We are excited with To celebrate the completion of our Auditorium the progress of our renovation - we have two FREE Member Shows transformation, with our Auditorium renovation planned. being completed well ahead of schedule.

The first show will be on Wednesday We have created a modern 21st August 2016 from 10:30am space with a contemporary and will showcase a variety of “look and feel”, providing local talent, including choirs, d te ea the perfect environment big bands, singers, dancers cr ve ha We for live entertainment, and a whole lot more. a modern space rary po em events and exhibitions.

The other show will nt co a ith w We have invested in be held on Saturday ‘look and feel’, rfec t a state of the art AV 3rd September at 2pm providing the pe e r liv system, provided our with Elton Out of The environment fo events entertainment, toilets and bar with Closet - a tribute to the .” and exhi bitions a makeover and have amazing work of Elton installed new carpet and John. new lighting.

Members need to ensure I am sure our members will they secure their tickets early be pleased with the changes we have through Club Reception. made, and we are pleased to be reopening With the auditorium complete, what the Auditorium at the beginning of August. space is next to be revealed?

Why will this be of benefit to club Work is currently underway on transforming patrons? our reception area, plus we are developing an The Auditorium renovation will not only exciting “new” alfresco gaming area, which will benefit our members, it will also assist in create an open space for our members to enjoy positioning Port Macquarie as a destination Port Macquarie’s perfect climate.

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42 greater port macquarie focus.

irector Hamish Keddie shares his excitement about this wonderful, colourful production, which will be staged at Players Theatre until August 14.

Hi Hamish. Why was Grease chosen as a musical production to showcase at Players?

Grease was chosen because I have always wanted to direct this iconic musical. I spoke to Lindsay Kaul and asked him if he wanted to musically direct this amazing show - it was a no brainer, really. The Players Theatre Inc. saw this musical as an excellent opportunity to showcase the incredible talent the Greater Port Macquarie area has on offer. This is the 1972 Musical, not the 1978 movie. There are differences.

Introduce us to some of the talented cast, and the roles they play ...

We have the Pink Ladies - talent abounds in Erin Kershaw as Marty, Cherie Kershaw as Jan, Kate Petrie as Frenchy, Simone Berry as Rizzo and Emily Holley as Sandy. Superb voices and excellent character roles. They are like a family now.

The Burger Palace Boys are newbie Stewart Heddles as Kenickie, talented experienced performer Matt Symons as Danny Zuko, multi-talented experienced performer Daniel Parleviet as Roger, Harley Lindley as Sonny and Billy Axford as Doody, who have been in a few shows in the last two years.

We also have fantastic talented Kate Simpson playing Patty Simcox, Shannon Beck playing Cha-Cha, Chris Philips as Johnny Casino, Jordan Frith as Vince Fontaine, Kirsten Keddie as Miss Lynch and Hudson McIndoe as Eugene. Our ensemble is full of some energetic, talented performers.

We hear your musical director is amazing.

Tell us a bit about him and also the songs we'll hear in the show ...

Lindsay Kaul is doing his HSC this year at Camden Haven High School, as well as being Musical Director for Grease. He is motivated, talented, loves music, and I have loved working

with him. When audiences hear the first bars of the music, they will know what I mean about how spectacular the band is. It has been a huge task for Lindsay, but he has pulled it off with style! It’s the songs we all know, as well as some that are not in the movie. We have the songs everyone knows, like Summer Lovin’, We Got Together, Hand Jive, Look at Me I’m Sandra Dee, Hopelessly Devoted to You, Sandy, There are Worse Things I Could Do and You’re The One That I Want.

And you've actually built a car from scratch for this production! What was this process like - sounds like hard work?

Two hard working, talented and gifted workers/designers, Tim Ronan and Jeff Walsh, have designed, built, sourced, shaped, sanded, grinded, painted and put together a car from scratch that drives! All I can say is, come and see the show to be blown away …

What's been the best part about directing this show for you, personally?

Working with this awesome team from the Players Theatre. I love this cast!

The cast has taken this iconic musical to a new level of energy. It’s exciting and a true show stopping spectacular. It has a crazy lovehate relationship which is the core of the show, but really it’s the story of these crazy Burger Palace Boys and kooky Pink Ladies. It is the story of teenagers in 1959 Chicago in a working class suburb - girls, making out, cars, drinking, smoking and being rebellious.

Thanks Hamish.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

the plug!

See Grease the Musical at Players Theatre from July 22nd to August 14. www.playerstheatre.org.au or www.glasshouse.org.au Players Theatre Box Office is also open one hour prior to every show.

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I LY

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

22

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

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 steroids! We are extremely has been how nice introduced to a stay 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 their by the end of 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

“

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.

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INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG ONLINE FLIP BOOK

Ken Little’s in August It is still winter time in August. May be time for some old fashioned soups, with pumpkin, sweet potato and leeks all reasonably priced.

Choose swedes for a deep flavour, or if you prefer something lighter, go for the turnip, followed by parsnips, celery, onions, and mushrooms. Throw in a couple of potatoes and some capsicums, and the flavour is just superb.

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...

Next time you are making the good old favourite pumpkin soup, trying roasting the vegies first before you blend - takes a bit of extra time, but well worth the effort. This gives a beautiful nutty flavour to your soup.

NOW ONLINE + FREE

In fruit we have local kiwi from Comboyne, and soon Queensland strawberries will be in plentiful supply and prices will once again be reasonable. Did you know that we have a great range of raw nuts, honey, muesli, porridge and quite a few other lines in stock too? Come and have a browse sometime. We would love to see you.

Also in the vegetables at present we have local broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and spinach. These will give plenty of body to your hearty winter meals.

As much as we enjoy winter for a short time, let’s all say come on summer! Will be good to see those long sunny days.

O

Ken.

VIEW THE MINIMAGS ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGPMQ

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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K A T E

C A T E R S

“

Who would have thought a "healthy cake" could taste so good? Kate Mitchell has mastered the craft of taking natural, local ingredients and turning them into something delectable for the eyes and the tastebuds. FOCUS caught up with the mother and chef this month over a piece of Turkish Love Cake ...”

ow long have you called Port Macquarie home, and what do you love most about this part of the world?

Hi. Well, I consider myself a pretty OG local. My family moved here from the Central coast in about 1988, and it's in my blood. I'm attached to the beaches here, the people, and the land. I love driving towards town and telling my son and nephew, "That's where I went to school, boys".

You’ve been in the hospitality industry for quite some time. Where has this industry taken you; what's your story?

Ahhhh ... hospitality; my lover and nemesis ha ha. My career had an accidental beginning and really just grew naturally from a teenagehood spent waitressing and washing dishes. I remember at about sixteen thinking to myself, "Those boys in the kitchen could do with a bit of organisation; the meals aren't coming up at the same time". So from then I took a few kitchen jobs, observing quietly while I chopped things up.

Throughout my whole BA degree at Macquarie Uni, I was busy making coffee and learning to bake bread, torn between the two. When I returned to Port, the opportunity arose for my family and I to purchase a café, and although I was super young and probably inexperienced, my heart sang! I really cut my teeth there - at Lighthouse Food Co., learning about business, staff management and an ethos of good simple local food. My over arching belief is: "Why buy anything you can make yourself?"

We baked sourdough, all the cakes and sweets.

Fresh pasta, sauces, condiments and meals. I had excellent chefs around me and really had 44 greater port macquarie focus.

my skills honed. I sold after nearly five years and took a well earned break.

The next adventure was Melbourne, where I worked in a big posh Mediterranean wedding function centre, then with Dimattina Coffee.

After pining for the coast and the warmth, I came home and spent a few years pottering about town, working at some of our excellent local venues such as Flavours.

My next big hospitality leap was taking a job to run the kitchen of one of two venues in Kakadu, in the NT. From there I took a job with Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corp as their chef and nutritional advisor to students. It was truly such a passion project for me, and never before has a "job" made my heart so full. I also learnt a lot of traditional food, cooking and culture. I never imagined myself decapitating magpie goose or putting wild boar in a fire pit. But working with the Bininj mob was an irreplaceable experience, and I miss those kids! I returned home to Port, when I fell pregnant with my son, Benji. The pull for home and family was too strong!

Recently, you’ve embarked on a new journey … Tell us about that.

Yes, the time had come for me to branch out into a passion project again. I'm an inherently creative person, and cooking has become my way to get my truth out into the world. So from very small beginnings - a few cakes here and there for friends and colleagues - Kate Caters started to take shape.

What inspired you to go down this path?

To be honest, I just wanted to make wholefoods, organics, and heath based food more available in town. I also thought there was a market for bespoke cakes.

You specialise not just in baking and

catering, but also occasion cakes. What is the process for making sure you make the perfect cake for your clients?

This part is my favourite! People often ask me for a product list, which I will provide semi begrudgingly. I like to make things up. I will wander around Kenny's with an open mind, see what tickles me. Gaze into my extensive dry store of ingredients, walk around some gardens looking for flowers that inspire. Every individual and each occasion deserves something special.

I'll chat with the client, find out out preferred flavours, colours and styles, then hopefully I create a vision that suits them.

Bone Broths are another specialty of yours.

What are the health benefits of taking bone broth?

Bone broth is amazingly restorative and gentle on the GIT. Getting all the beautiful minerals such as magnesium, potassium and calcium and amino acids like glycine, lysine and proline - these are are found deep in the bones and muscles of the meats, and a lot of the time the body would miss out on these because the digestion process of meat is too difficult. That's the biggest bonus: all the goodness and healing power that meats can bring, with quick and effective absorption.

Do you source your ingredients locally?

I do yes, almost exclusively. I do order some of my baking staples from Honest to Goodness, which is an excellent organic supplier based in Sydney. I'm very blessed to be part of a food cooperative with twelve other local women, and our combined buying power allows us to buy bulk organics. Otherwise I'm a Kenny's girl, I use a local butcher, and a lot of my specialty items come straight from the farm. I have two local

friends who farm, and I'm blessed that they love sharing ingredients with me. I'm a serial pest for texting friends, "Hey babe, how's that passion fruit vine of yours looking?" Or, "Hi, do you mind if I come dig some tumeric?"

What do you love about being a "Locally Made" producer?

I'm totally down with the #localssupportinglocals vibe we have going on in Port. We truly have such a strong network of small business people, and I work closely with many of them, including Mindful Herbs & Naturopathy (for nutritional advice), Drury Lane Eatery, Group Therapy Coffee, Blackdog Ink and MarketPlace Events. I also love that I have mates in other local cooks, and we can lean on each other for advice!

Where can we go locally to taste your creations?

You can visit The Hollow on Sunset Parade; I do a fresh drop every Tuesday and Thursday. I also sell creations through my Facebook page, so if you follow, you can holler, "Yes please!" At any time.

Do you have any plans for the next year?

I've actually got three big wedding cakes booked in, so I feel like I'm moving in that direction. I'm doing some collabs with local artists and crafters to get a line of alternative wedding toppers made, so looking forward to that! Also hoping to extend my healthy meal plans, wherein I help individuals maintain health by doing bi-weekly meal drops. For more on this, jump on my Insta, @katecaters Also, you guys deserve a shout out! Without FOCUS supporting small artisan businesses, we'd never get our word out! So cheers.

Thanks Kate.

Locally made F O C U S F E A T U R E

Artist Elwyn Toby

LONGPOINT V I N E Y A R D & G A L L E R Y .

Who are the artists that will be involved in the exhibition at Long Point Vineyard? Artists included in the exhibition are from the Dunghutti region and broader Mid North Coast area.

What are some of these works inspired by?

Artists draw their inspiration from their place of being and from their ancestors, where stories have been passed down.

They are also very connected to the land and its natural surrounds. The Dunghutti area covers a wide expansive area from the mountains to the sea, so artists draw inspiration from freshwater to saltwater, creating colourful artworks that are intricate, spontaneous and tell stores of flora, fauna, home and community. Many stories of ceremony, hunting, gathering and caring for the land are also evident in artworks. Each artist has their own unique style.

What mediums are seen throughout the exhibition?

Most artworks are acrylic on canvas; however, there are a few that explore mixed media options.

How can people view more works by these local artists?

For people wanting to view more Aboriginal artworks of the area they can visit the Dunghutti Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery, South Kempsey, or visit our website at: www.dnaag.com.au

BLACKDUCK B R E W E R Y .

At the Black Duck Brewery and Bar, we take pride in being unique to the area. We enjoy being one of only two Port Macquarie breweries able to offer our guests and visitors fresh, tasty and locally made beers. Black Duck Brewery and Bar is the only brewpub on the Mid North Coast.

We really enjoy having the only distillery in the region and we offer the area’s only locally made vodka, gin and coming soon, whiskey.

The best thing about being local is getting to know your customers well. With all the time and effort we need to put in producing our small 800 litre batches, it’s rewarding to get the positive feedback from you, our supportive customer.

We also embrace working with other businesses in our area.

We not only enjoy the higher profile dinner and product partnerships, but also enjoy the behind the scenes support helping people get their events together. Building local business relationships is what makes being a local business so satisfying.

In the local area it is amazing what is being made.

It’s important we support these local producers and manufacturers to establish a strong local economy. It may cost you a few more dollars to buy locally made now, but will ensure there are jobs and services available in your area for your future.

JANN KESBY C E R A M I C S A R T I S T .

AUSTRALIAN POTTERS OPEN THEIR STUDIOS TO THE NATION: Local Mid North Coast wood firing potter JANN KESBY will again take part in the Australian Ceramics Open Studio this August. Hundreds of potters and ceramic artists around the country will open their studios to the public for the fourth annual Australian Ceramics Open Studios. The event is hosted by The Australian Ceramics Association and shines a spotlight on the diverse practice of Australian artists working in clay. “Something quite magical happens when we visit a potter’s studio, and perhaps despite our insatiable appetite for technology, clay still has this tremendous power to captivate and inspire us.” Over the weekend visitors can see practical demonstrations, be inspired by artist talks, purchase original ceramics direct from the maker, or simply soak up the atmosphere of a working studio.

Jann’s workshop will be open Saturday 20 August 10am 4pm and Sunday 21 August 10am - 2pm. Entry to all studios is free. Go to www.australiancermics.com to see the full list and profiles of participating artists. Jann’s studio is situated at Lily Lane, Kempsey. Travel 1 km along the Crescent Head Road, turn right into Pattersons Lane and first left into Lily Lane. There will be flags out to assist you in finding her studio. You can contact Jann directly for further information on 0417 678 589.

greater port macquarie focus. 45

Locally made F O C U S F E A T U R E

COMPLETE SCREENING AND GLASS SOLUTIONS.

y

Craig & Belinda Lawrence are back in business! They are no strangers in local manufacturing, having operated a similar business to Complete Screening & Glass Solutions for many years in Port Macquarie.

Chrissy Jones chatted with Belinda …

ou took a break and are now back in business. What have you both been doing in that time?

Craig and I had a break for three years, where Craig pursued his knowledge in the security industry, fabricating and installing high grade security door and window screens. I entered the field of property management at a local real estate agency, where I learnt some very valuable techniques of office management. (We also extended our little family.)

How long have you been in the glass and aluminium manufacturing industry?

Craig has been in the industry for over 23 years - a young 15 year old boy off the land

46 greater port macquarie focus.

who was advised by his family to get a trade.

He completed an apprenticeship and has worked for himself ever since; he is a qualified glazier with knowledge of most trades in the building and construction industry. I have worked alongside Craig in business for eight years.

Why are you back? I am told from others that it is by popular demand ...

We have returned, yes, by popular demand; after being in the trade industry in Port Macquarie for so many years, you are in constant contact with people and grow trust of workmanship that they rely on.

I’ve also heard you offer extremely good customer service and backup. Why do you

think this is so important in business?

I have the role of communication within the office that I thrive on; it is so important to keep people up to date on the progress of work.

Craig is punctual and reliable, and our customers are continually commenting on his quality of work, which fuels him through the tough times in business.

What does Complete Screening & Glass Solution offer customers?

We offer a very wide range of products, from emergency glass replacement to security doors, shower screens, splash backs, glass and screened enclosures, maintenance to doors and windows. (Craig even welded an antenna on a wheelbarrow once, because that’s what the

customer wanted.) If it’s glass or aluminium, we have it covered.

What products do you specialise in?

It’s hard to say we specialise in any one product, as we put the same quality and knowledge in any job we do. We try to accommodate customers’ needs by offering a one stop shop where they can have a customised, packaged deal. Our knowledgeable staff can give you free quotes and advice, and you can always count on us to provide quality and affordable screening solutions.

Where is your business located, and how can we contact you?

We are back in our same convenient location 1/23 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie.

greater port macquarie focus. 47

Locally made F O C U S F E A T U R E

"TIMBER IS A PASSION THAT DRIVES US." TIMBERWOOF L O V E S T I M B E R .

Timber is a passion that drives us to find the beautiful, the strange and unusual pieces to enrich and colour your life. Whether it is an amazing slab of timber or something inspired by the Internet, Timberwoof will be able to craft an exquisite product that is guaranteed to fascinate and impress anybody.

If you have a special need or occasion Timberwoof can design and create something that is uniquely you. Gifts or decore for weddings, parties or funerals – we can create beautiful and useful products that will live for generations. We have made stools, dining tables and giant Blackbutt burl wall hangings; coffee tables, desks, side tables and Driftwood Art Need a Cafe or restaurant fit-out? Mi Casa is our latest project. We can not only fit out your space, we can also craft your hospitality products including signs and serving plates; bowls and platters; blackboards and chopping boards; towel racks and table tops-the list is endless.

48 greater port macquarie focus.

STEELINE Steeline Mid North Coast established its business with a strong focus on quality products and superior service; these core values remain today. We manufacture roofing, ridging, flashings and associated products, as well as manufacture and install fascia and gutter and leafguard to the surrounding areas. We stock a wide range of accessories, including insulation, roofing screws and translucent sheeting.

Equipped with state of the art equipment, including Hayes rollformers and folders operated by highly trained and experienced staff, and with turnaround times as short as a few hours if required, Steeline Mid North Coast is definitely dedicated to providing quality products and service.

This is why Steeline Mid North Coast only use quality BlueScope COLORBOND and ZINCALUME steel in the manufacture of their building products.

The Steeline motto “Service over and above” is the driving force behind the success of our business, as we continually strive to better our promise to our customers. Steeline Mid North Coast is locally owned and operated employing local people, and we are the only business of this type in the Port Macquarie area.

Locally made F O C U S F E A T U R E

PEAK COFFEE The team at Peak Coffee is understandably proud of their passion for the community. As the Mid North Coast’s first coffee roasting business, the Port Macquarie business uses a 60 lb cast iron traditional drum roaster to roast coffee for local, regional and interstate café owners, as well as wholesale accounts.

Peak’s commitment to the Australian made and manufactured ethos goes further, with the impressive range of products they exclusively distribute. Step onto the warehouse floor any given day, and you’ll likely find general manager Steve Foye lugging boxes of Perth’s Carton & Co Water, Blue Dinosaur Paleo Bars from Sydney or possibly with his arms stacked with MPM Castaway Cups.

“We have a more substantive story and connection to our community than our competitors,” he

ROASTERY. says. “And I’d really encourage locals not to be fooled by the packaging on other products out there, such as cups or carton water: we are proud to be exclusive distributors of Australian made and manufactured products.”

When Steve and the Peak team aren’t busy using their dedicated skills to bring you the best beans and Australian made products, they’re barracking at your game, presenting your business with an award or helping out at the neighbourhood centre’s community days. Steve is proud of Peak for being hall of famers in the local business awards, but he’s prouder still of the business’ recent partnership with the Mid North Coast Local Health District to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds access vital services. “We’re all proud and passionate locals, and that’ll never change.”

greater port macquarie focus. 49

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PROUD BIRPAI WOMAN AND ARTIST ANGELA MARR-GROGAN CHATS TO FOCUS ABOUT HER CONNECTION TO THE LAND AND HOW SHE REPRESENTS THIS THROUGH HER INTRICATELY BEAUTIFUL AND TRADITIONAL PAINTINGS …

W

hat is your connection to the Greater Port Macquarie region?

I am a Birpai woman born and raised in Port Macquarie, and now live west of Wauchope in the hinterland area of Huntingdon.

I love the Greater Port Macquarie region; her saltwater beaches, fresh rivers and beautiful hinterlands are all places that I have a strong connection to.

Share with us some of the stories behind your works …

The majority of my paintings tell stories of my connection to country, the land, rivers and the ocean, as well as the natural elements like the air, the stars and the moon. All of my paintings and works of art are a celebration of my culture, and Astral Dreaming is one of my favourites. I’ve always had a fascination with the night sky and have spent many hours sky watching, so depicting how I see stars on a star filled night was always going to be a piece that I would paint. It’s a bright and contemporary piece and also tells the story of how Aboriginal Australians are considered the world’s first astronomers, and that the night sky was studied to tell time, provide direction and to identify the seasons.

Describe the techniques you use and how you have have developed these as an artist …

I’m self taught and come from a family of talented artists. My style is evolving, however, 50 greater port macquarie focus.

tends to be bold, contemporary, symmetrical and features elaborate dot work, lines, circles and concentric rings.

I use the load and dab technique with a stick for my paintings, and my work is predominantly acrylic on canvas. I like challenging myself though, by developing new ideas and creating new pieces, so I enjoy working with different mediums like wood and glass, and more recently drawing with more traditional means such as charcoal on handmade lokta paper.

Paintings, however, are my preferred form of art, and some pieces can take up to 60 hours to complete. I refer to them as my “cultural creations”, as each one of them is special and a little piece of me goes into every artwork.

Where is your creative “space”, and what do you feel when you enter your studio?

My creative space these days is at Jacaranda House Creative Hub in Wauchope, an historic and stunning building owned by Lyn and Squeak McWhirter. Prior to setting up a studio/ art space at Jacaranda House, I worked from home on my property, where I connect with country and draw inspiration from it, as well as my family.

My creative space is more a spiritual space as opposed to a physical location, which is important to me as an artist, especially because I love to paint outdoors.

What have been some of your greatest achievements?

I have four of them: my children Tori, Tarran, Gideon and Harper. They are my greatest creations and have always been my inspiration

for everything I do, including painting. In terms stunning range of silk accessories and sterling of my artwork, an exciting achievement was silver jewellery featuring my cultural creations being selected as a finalist in the Max National and designs.

Indigenous Art Competition last month. My Vana and I are both very passionate about piece titled Ngurrabaa, meaning Meeting Place developing cultural connections though art, in Gathang language, was chosen along with and we will be incorporating my designs 19 other artists’ works to be exhibited at NSW with ancient block printing techniques from Parliament House for NAIDOC Jaipur in Rajasthan India, batik from Week.

Imogiri in Indonesia and stunning Tell us about your jewellery from Celuk in Bali. collaboration with We are also very passionate e ac sp e the brands Recycled about giving back to tiv ea cr y M al Mats and Global community, and we is more a spiritu d to a Kidz Oz … are working towards a space as oppose which n, My collaboration scholarship and funding physical locatio as me with Recycled Mats programme to assist is important to ally an artist, especi and Global Kidz Oz local disadvantaged and paint because I love to has been an exciting Aboriginal students with outdoors .” one. I joined the design creative potential. team last year after I was I also really enjoy painting approached by the owner, commissioned works of art for JJ Stranan, about releasing a individuals and creating custom new deluxe range of round recycled imagery and designs for Aboriginal mats. JJ loved my style and wanted to programmes and organisations, so I hope feature my designs on her mats, so I to find the time to continue to offer these was very excited, as I loved her ethos of services as well. “for the love of culture, for the love of the Where can our readers go to view your environment”. My Campfire and Reconciliation work? designed mats have been her most popular I have a small studio space at Jacaranda range yet and are celebrated designs Australia House Creative Hub in Wauchope, and my wide. works are also available to view online at What goals have you set for the next www.marrangart.com.au, on Facebook twelve months? at www.facebook.com/MarrangArt or I’m currently planning on working towards #marrangart on instagram. my first solo exhibition, as well as working with Marrumbu (thank you) Vana Ford from Vasnas Designs to launch a Thanks Angela.

“

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with Robyn Buttler

DID WINTER JUST PASS BY? Hello, did we bypass winter? As I write this column, it is about 24 degrees and humid ... I missed winter, or is it yet to come?

I

know the Federal Election is well and truly over and congratulations to Luke Hartsuyker on his re-election. One thing that really upset me was the dreadful posters that “graced” every polling booth in the electorate and in very prominent positions ... Why my protest? Because there was no party or independent candidate taking accountability for the slander. It happened to be Rob Oakeshott they were having a go at, but I would protest whoever it was they were degrading. I don’t mind what is said on posters at election time, as long as their name and who they represent are mentioned ... There was absolutely nothing at all to indicate the authorisation of these particular posters and billboards!

Waiting so long, you start talking to people, and around me there were all different age groups, obviously voting for different parties … But the general concensus was unanimous about the “billboards” and “posters”, even from people who had no intention of voting for Rob! How did they get away with it, and what precedent does it set for further elections?

DYING WITH DIGNITY … ANDREW DENTON “Why do I have to go through hell to get to heaven?”

When I saw this advertised, I knew it would be of interest to so many people. As I have previously written in my column about the “dreadful” final hours of my father passing, I can’t wait to attend this “debate and discussion” … The number of people with stories to tell made my hair curl after the article. Bill A, I did try to ring you ... Most Baby Boomers like myself certainly want to die with dignity. I am not scared of dying, but by George, I’m scared of the final run up the ramp - for a better choice of words.

Media personality Andrew Denton will explore the assisted dying debate during a Port Macquarie event at the Glasshouse.

Andrew has accepted the Dying with Dignity NSW Port Macquarie Group’s invitation to visit, so consequently they have hired the Glasshouse, and the cost is $45 per seat to attend.

Port Macquarie Mayor Peter Besseling has officially announced the release of tickets for the event, which will be held on Tuesday 22nd

November 2016, 7:30pm to 9:30pm with a 15 minute interval.

Andrew is a very articulate man and a very good speaker, not to mention how passionate he is about this topic after his own experience.

Tickets available now online or at the Glasshouse.

SNIPPETS 1. Hey Arnotts, what have you done to the taste of BBQ shapes? A national disgrace, voiced by many. Also, I can’t squeeze my Vegemite through Vita-Wheats any more …

What is going on? This is serious stuff - biscuits smaller, decrease in sizes of the packaging, and now this. Don’t be surprised to see a Royal Commission ordered to look into this very serious issue …

2. Bouquet for the month goes to Jason at Growers Market for his kindness and lovely smile. Once again, several people have said if you ask for something, he doesn’t just point to where it is, he takes you to the requested item.

Well done, Jason!

3. Thank you so much to the gentleman at Aldi’s last month who picked me up off the road after I ran back to my car to get my wallet, turned around suddenly and tripped on the concrete car barrier, down the gap and then ungracefully tripped on the gutter and fell ... (my first ever fall). He didn’t even park his car just left it running and came to my aid. Worried shoppers thought there was an earthquake, but their fears were put to rest when they saw the cause of the “slight tremor shaking the goods on the shelves”. I was fine and continued my shopping, though I wanted to cry, but the next day I felt pretty ordinary. Thanks again to the knight in shining armour - sorry, I didn’t get your name.

Something to make you smile: true story.

The Sunday school teacher asked the class, “Why did Mary and Joseph take Jesus to Jerusalem?” A little four year old put her hand up and said, “Because they couldn’t get a babysitter”.

Out of the mouths of babes ...

THOUGHT… Gardens need a lot of water mainly perspiration.

Keep smiling, Robbie x

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

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

Styles now in store include Daphne, Ditto and Doxie.

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

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

Ziera shoes feature adjustable straps, elastic gores or lacing systems that add to a personalised fit, and the underfoot comfort system is unparalleled, with cushioning and arch support that cocoons your whole foot resulting in shoes so luxuriously comfortable, you can wear them all day, every day. Slip resistant soles are designed to keep you stable and secure, allowing the body to have positive body alignment. At Ziera, comfort is measured and never compromised.

Come and see the new range of Ziera sandals at Colonial Cobbler today!

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WELLBEING B R E N DA F E R N A N D E Z F R O M E A S T C OA S T L A S E R

L I S A M I C H E L E ’ S E V E RY DAY N U T R I T I O N

SKIN

R E J U V E NAT ION

PUT

SIMPLY

NON SURGICAL COSMETIC MEDICINE IS A RAPIDLY GROWING INDUSTRY, AS SO MUCH CAN NOW BE ACHIEVED IN SKIN REJUVENATION, WITHOUT HAVING TO UNDERGO THE “ KNIFE “.

L

aser technology when used in the right hands (properly trained medical personnel) is a very safe option, with minimal discomfort, affordability and often quick

recovery.

Results can be remarkable!

More and more people are seeking skin rejuvenation, and these can range from younger, older, male, female, those “skintelligent” about treatment options or not!

Budgets, expectations along with different problems will prompt individuals to seek laser treatment. Many of these individuals, however, will typically share multiple skin issues and reflect multiple levels of skin damage.

Different conditions require different treatments, as most individuals present with more than one issue. The non surgical 3D approach allows us to take three separate procedures, each targeting different problems and depth of skin. Often individuals are aware of conditions that are superficial in nature,

such as sun spots or broken capillaries, as they are visible to the eye, but often these conditions have root causes that lie deeper in the dermis level.

By developing a treatment plan, tailored to each individual’s own needs and desires and having the choice of medical laser options, we have the ability to optimise outcomes.

It allows the flexibility to treat the skin’s surface layer, sub dermal or medium layer and the deep dermal layer at the same time. This ultimately boosts results, and individuals are greatly satisfied as more than one issue can be addressed in one visit, and skin rejuvenation is maximised!

The non surgical 3D approach covers concerns from tone, texture and tautness, colour changes in the skin such as pigmentation, flushing, redness and broken capillaries. Pore size, crepey skin, skin imperfections and scarring can be smoothed, collagen stimulation and improved skin laxity, skin tightening, eyebrow lifting, fine lines and deep lines diminish.

HAIR TREATMENT

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THE CONCEPT OF NUTRITION HAS CERTAINLY BECOME A CONFUSING ONE! THERE IS NUMEROUS CONFLICTING ADVICE AND CONTRADICTORY DIETS PUBLICLY AVAILABLE, AND IT CAN BE FRUSTRATING AS A CONSUMER TO KNOW WHAT TO EAT AND DO FOR YOUR HEALTH.

T

o put it simply, here are my top tips for eating well: Eat a variety of foods from each of the five food groups every day.

Eat more fruits and vegetables. Most Australians eat only half the recommended quantity of fruit and vegetables per day.

Choose wholegrain. Most Australians consume less than half the recommended quantity of wholegrain foods, and too much refined grains.

Nutrient density - select foods that

B

ecause it is comprised mainly of smaller medium-chain fatty acids, the oil of the coconut penetrates hair more deeply and faster than other conditioners. To use coconut oil as a leave-in treatment to repair split ends, moisturise your scalp, and add a healthy glow to your tresses, just follow these easy steps: First make sure you have at least an hour or two for this treatment. (The longer you leave coconut oil on your hair, the more effective it will be!)

Wash your hair and let it air dry while you prepare the next steps. Gather your materials: a comb or hair pick, shower cap or small towel to wrap your hair in, two small bowls of different sizes (one should fit inside the other), and of course your jar of organic virgin coconut oil. Scoop a small

provide the most nutrients for the least food energy (Kilojoules). Tip - primarily shop in the outside perimeters of the supermarket.

Limit discretionary foods i.e. those higher in added sugar, salt, saturated fat and alcohol. Tip - check your food labels.

At meal times, fill half your plate with non-starchy fruits and vegetables, a quarter of your plate with lean protein and a quarter with quality carbohydrates.

Eat regularly, plan ahead, and establish a morning routine that fits with your lifestyle.

amount of coconut oil into the smaller of the two bowls. Set the smaller bowl in the bottom of the larger one. Fill the larger bowl with hot water so the smaller bowl is partially submerged, but not floating or taking on water. Once your coconut oil comes to temperature and is completely melted, use your fingers to gently massage the oil into your hair, then work through with a comb or hair pick. After you’ve finished applying the oil, wrap your hair up in a shower cap or small towel and allow it to soak in for thirty minutes or longer.

Shampoo to remove oil. Optionally, you may reapply a small amount of coconut oil to the ends of your hair and/or work a small amount through all of your hair again - just enough to give it a healthy shine.

massagE At Port Macquarie

protect your eyes “How often do you have your eyes checked - and is this enough?” For the vast majority of people, the answer is “No”. When it comes to preventing eye problems, there are real dangers of not having a regular eye examination every two years.

In a report called the Eye Health Report Card by Vision 2020, it was highlighted that 86% of Australians rated sight as their most important sense. Despite this, according to the report, 4.1 million Australians had not had their eyes tested recently - and one million had never had an eye examination at all.

Approximately half the population in Australia now have longterm eye conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, astigmatism, long and short sightedness.

Local optometrist Tony Hanks said, “It is disappointing to see that so many in our community have a vision impairment, when 75% of vision loss is readily treatable or preventable.” These vision reductions also affect physical, functional and social wellbeing.

Hanks Optometrists want to help people to understand that committing 40 minutes to a thorough eye examination today can save a person’s sight tomorrow.

The reality is that many symptoms of eye disease are either invisible or not immediately obvious. So Australians of all ages should not wait for a problem before going to see their local optometrist.

Eyecare Plus YOUR VISION - OUR FOCUS

what can acupuncture do for you?

In a recent report by the World Health Organisation, Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Clinical Trials, 31 symptoms, diseases or conditions were listed that can be treated effectively with acupuncture. If you suffer from pain, injury, headaches, poor sleep, general poor health plus many other ailments, you may benefit from a course of acupuncture treatment.

Strategic placement of acupuncture needles is a form of meridian therapy that stimulates the body’s healing and restorative process naturally. Acupuncture really is an ancient solution for modern problems!

Even people who have already had good results with acupuncture are surprised at what else it can do. For example, one of my most long standing patients first presented with neck and lower back pain, which we were able to treat successfully over a period of about four weeks. She has continued to visit once a month since then, because she found her sleep is much better and she is less stressed with maintenance treatments.

To get you on the path of health and wellbeing, get in touch.

To read more on what I do, please visit www.christophernesbitt.com.au

He Ling Ying (Ling), the hugely popular principal of Massage at Port Macquarie, has returned from her recent trip to China.

She sincerely thanks those loyal clients who strongly supported her compassionate visit to see family and happily confirms that her clinic is fully operational once again.

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 health funds, with HICAPS providing instant rebates where applicable.

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.

Hanks Optometrists

95 William Street, Port Macquarie 6583 7333 29 Horton Street, Port Macquarie 6584 3948 6 Bransdon Street, Wauchope 6585 2393 www.eyecareplus.com.au ww

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focusinterview.

WHEN PEOPLE THINK OF DENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, MOST PEOPLE THINK OF THEIR DENTIST, BUT MANY PATIENTS STAND TO BENEFIT FROM SEEING A DENTAL HYGIENIST OR ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST.

D

ental hygienists and therapists are highly skilled, registered allied healthcare

calculus, treatment of gum diseases such as periodontitis and gingivitis, whitening and polishing of teeth, application of preventative agents such professionals, who work as fluoride and sealants, in collaboration with and patient advice and Our teeth form of an integral part your dentists, as part education on methods d our our face , jaw an of a multidisciplinary tailored to preventing ial skeletal ac of ill ax m team. They utilise decay, oral disease and timal structure, so op t preventative, maintaining oral health. an rt po im oral health is educational and Further to this, an oral tic he st from an ae as l el w therapeutic methods as health therapist provides , ce an appear ” to control and prevent restorations and extraction n. tio func decay, oral disease and of children's teeth, as well other conditions, as well as as education and counselling looking after our gingival health specifically tailored to children and AND OUR SMILE! They teach us to adolescents. The therapists’ training take care of our mouth specifically to our helps to provide a calming, welcoming and needs, health, diet and lifestyle, and they positive experience for children for their first are there to ensure overall optimal oral health introduction to the dental setting, and any is achieved and most importantly, maintained. visits to follow.

Our teeth form an integral part of our face, Finally, it is important to understand that jaw and our maxillofacial skeletal structure, your body is a complex system, and chronic so optimal oral health is important from an infections such as gum disease are linked to aesthetic appearance, as well as function. If more complex and chronic diseases such as you enjoy food, you should care about your arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and preterm teeth, because you need them. birth.

The range of services offered include oral We measure our success in your happy assessments such as periodontal analysis and smile! saliva testing, impressions, administration For further information, visit us at of local anaesthetic, removal of plaque/ www.sundialdental.com.au

“

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CALL

6583 8425

today for your Invisalign consultation

SMILE CONFIDENTLY

WITH INVISALIGN The Clear Alternative to Braces

The Invisalign System is the nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile – without braces. Invisalign treatment works through a series of clear, comfortable and removable aligners. Each aligner is slightly different, moving your teeth gradually into the desired position.

So if you want to show off your smile and not your braces, find out more about Invisalign – the nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth.

6583 8425 PORT MACQUARIE ORTHODONTICS 5/145 Horton Street Port Macquarie NSW 2444

greater port macquarie focus focus. 55

focusinterview.

IF YOU ENJOY YOGA, MEDITATION, THE SOUNDS OF GONGS AND SINGING BOWLS AND HEALTHY LIVING, A VISIT TO PORT MACQUARIE FOR EKAM YOGA FESTIVAL ON SUNDAY 18 SEPTEMBER AND EKAM OUT & ABOUT ON SATURDAY 17 SEPTEMBER IS A MUST.

SORAYA AND TERRY OLDFIELD SORAYA AND TERRY OLDFIELD WILL RETURN FROM THEIR EUROPEAN TOUR TO PERFORM SOULFUL SOUNDS

Y

NICKY KNOFF

FROM THEIR LATEST ALBUM RELEASE, NAMASTE.

ou have just returned from what is important, and this fills us up. your European tour, visiting Described as calming and meditative music, Spain, Sweden, Germany, how do you draw influence from nature Greece and Austria. What and other surroundings? were some of the highlights We draw much inspiration from the natural for you? beauty and since the 1980s, Terry has been Well, after nine weeks travelling to 10 incorporating natural sounds into his music. His countries and sharing 20 concerts and six Out of the Depths album features the haunting workshops, there are so many highlights. song of the Humpback Whales. While working Athens in Greece was a very interesting venue in with the BBC in the UK, he was involved in Plaka, where we had a private party with music composing many wildlife programmes with the for peace instead of the usual concert hall. We legendary David Attenborough. We still now also took time out to visit the Island of record the rainforest and other nature Hydra, where Terry first began sounds for use in our meditations playing the flute in the early and relaxation music.

‘70s.

How does the practice of We played in a Wasser music, meditation and g Mantra chantin Schloss or Water yoga play a big part in and singing is a Castle in Chemnitz, your lives? tice very joyful prac which used to be East I, (Soraya) began ga derived from yo ve Germany. We also practicing yoga in the lo e practice, and w ence played in a beautiful late ’70s and teaching in di au e to encourag .” re old church in the the ‘80s and have drawn he n io at particip fascinating city of Prague much inner calm and in the Czech Republic, strength from these ancient where we had the most practices. I now specialise extensive reverb, the church in mindfulness and meditation itself. incorporating the music to create a Why is it special to be able to bring calming and soothing balance. Mantra your music to many different countries chanting and singing is a very joyful practice through global workshops and retreats? derived from yoga practice, and we love to We love people, and we love to travel. Our encourage audience participation here. music is a fusion of different mantras and What are you looking forward to about ancient wisdom from many cultures. Being performing at the Ekam Yoga Festival in music for peace, it touches the hearts of people Port Macquarie on Sunday 18th September? in areas of the world that are feeling the stress We love being around yogis; they are always of modern society and the pressure in these fun, clean, positive and healthy open minded tumultuous political times. People tell us that groups. We also love their enthusiasm in they are able to drop into a very peaceful heart joining in with our songs and dropping into a space during the concerts, for which they are meditative state with the flute journeys. grateful. It reminds them of who they are and Thanks Soraya.

“

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SHARE FROM HER 40+ YEARS’ TEACHING EXPERIENCE.

Y

ou have many years of experience in many styles of yoga - where has this journey taken you throughout your life?

Physically , it has taken me from Japan, to NZ, to Australia, to USA, to Germany and Austria, to Malaysia and Indonesia, Qatar and Bahrain, and Taiwan. I go where I am invited, and usually the invitation is from someone who has trained with me and returned home and started a yoga school.

Spiritually, it has taken me from a “normal” person with a limited capacity to love, to exposing and opening me to a much wider range of humanity. Yoga has the capacity to accept everyone, from those who have just the slightest interest, all the way to someone hungry and questing for spiritual knowledge.

After opening your first yoga school in Auckland, when did you move to Australia to pursue your passion?

I open the first full-time yoga school in NZ in 1980 and moved with my family to Australia in 1984. However, I did not start teaching yoga in Australia until 1986, after my first trip to the Ramamani Iyengar Yoga Institute, in Pune, India. I had already studied with BKS lyengar and his daughter, Geeta, in Australia, prior to the first of my many trips to India.

You have developed the Knoff Yoga Training System and now teach yoga training courses in Australia and internationally. How would you describe the “Knoff Yoga” style?

Knoff Yoga evolved out of the anatomical alignment of lyengar Yoga, combined with the energetic aspects of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, viz. Bandha, Drishti, Ujjayi Pranayama,

and Vinyasa. Because these two styles of yoga (Iyengar and Ashtanga) have the same root (Krishnamacharya), they fit together beautifully.

Who/what have been some of the major influences towards your success?

Often you learn what not to do as much as you learn what to do. So some teachers have guided me unknowingly. However, teachers who have exemplified good behaviour and treated students with respect, have gained my respect. I thank them all.

As a guest presenter at the Ekam Yoga Festival in Port Macquarie on Sunday 18th September, what are you looking forward to about the event?

I love working with people who are open to new experiences, have questions about the how and why, and who are then are willing to replace old habits of practice with new insights, techniques and applications.

For example, I teach Right and Left days of practice. On a Right day we place the right index finger on top when interlacing the fingers, or bring in the right leg first in Easy Cross Legs or Lotus, and jump to the right for Standing Postures. On a Left day we do the opposite. We do this to bring balance into the body/mind and to awaken dormant parts of the brain.

Thanks Nicky.

the plug!

Tickets are $98 and available online now: www.ekamyogafestival.org.au - connect to the Ekam community on facebook/ ekamyogafestival

focusinterview.

Kerrie Gray, Ted Vogels, Adrian Cornale, Melissa Turner.

Robyn Cornale with her artwork Coastal Landscape.

AT EYEQ OPTOMETRISTS, OUR FOCUS IS TO PROVIDE THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF EYECARE, PERSONALISED TO EACH OF OUR PATIENTS.

A

t EyeQ Optometrists our focus is to provide the highest quality of eyecare personalised to each of our patients. Our ‘Eyes for Life’™ program helps ensure you receive top quality vision care at great value.

The program includes: • Free specialised eye tests scheduled every 5 years which assists in early detection of eye diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, pterygium and keratoconus. These are not covered by Medicare or private health funds so can often be financially out of reach for some people. The tests include Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Digital Retinal Imaging, Corneal Topography and Corneal Pachymetry.

• Access to affordable, quality eyewear including 50% off your second pair of complete frame and lenses or a free second pair or ‘No Gap’ spectacles from a large range with affiliated health funds cover.

• Complimentary lifetime eyewear servicing.

The EyeQ 6/6 Service™ is a thorough 6 point

service of your frames and lenses conducted every 6 months. Including free ultrasonic cleaning, frame adjustment, new cleaning cloth, new spray cleaner and new nose pads and case when needed. That’s because “healthy” glasses are vital for accurate vision.

• Direct billed consultations to Medicare Locals looking after locals: Adrian Cornale optometrist has been caring for the vision needs of locals for over 28 years and Melissa has worked beside him for 12 of those years. Ted has been caring for the eyewear needs of locals for over 41 years. Together with Kerrie Gray in reception the team collectively have over 100 years of experience in eyecare. Amazingly, almost 90 of those years have been caring for the vision and eye care needs of our local community.

Optometrist Adrian Cornale has ensured that people need not be concerned regarding access to their previous records. Any relevant information or retinal images or scans can be accessed freely by us at your request. This will allow us continue to look after and manage your vision needs as appropriate. THE ART OF

VISION- One of the exciting features about creating our own space was the ability to incorporate original art in the decor of the practice. Adrian’s wife, Robyn Cornale is a local artist who will be exhibiting her work in the practice. The practice features a work done

by Robyn specifically for the opening called ‘Coastal Landscape’. The painting explores the many elements and textures of our coastal environment. The artwork will be changed seasonally and a catalogue of her artwork for sale is available at the practice.

OUR STAFF: Melissa Turner – Optical Dispenser and practice administration – Melissa has worked in the Optical Industry for 18years. She started her career in Goulbourn and became a qualified Optical Dispenser in 2002.

She moved to Port Macquarie in 2004 and has worked with Adrian ever since.

Over those years Melissa has enjoyed helping many people with their vision needs. She particularly enjoys the privilege of caring for people over a long term and helping them with their changing vision needs as they change with

time.

Ted Vogels – Optical Dispenser. Ted has a real passion for his craft and specialises in the customisation of spectacle frames and lenses.

Ted loves the challenge of finding the ‘perfect fit’ for a comfortable pair of spectacles that provides an excellent vision outcome. The right outcome is achieved by accurate measurements, careful observation of the individual’s posture and discussion and understanding of the patient’s vision needs.

Kerrie Gray – Kerrie has over 8 years of optical experience locally and before that worked in a busy legal office in Sydney. She enjoys meeting and helping the many people who visit us.

The EyeQ team look forward to having the opportunity to care for your eyes and vision. We love what we do and we think it will show when you visit us. We welcome you to come in whether for a full comprehensive eye assessment or even if it’s just for a browse of the new fashion frame ranges, the art, or a complimentary spectacle adjustment and frame tune up.

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58 greater port macquarie focus.

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Jodie, Louise, Lucy, Maria and Graham

JK Healthcare

Exclusive to Saacks Orthodontics - SPEED Braces

Dr Eric Saacks has been trained in the USA in the latest orthodontic technique - SPEED Braces - which have revolutionised treatment times by eliminating the need for the elastics , traditional braces require to straighten teeth. SPEED Braces use an energy storing component called a Spring Clip which works like a computer chip inside your braces. The Spring Clip is ‘programmed’ when the braces are placed on your teeth which applies a continuous light force to gently move teeth to their correct position. SPEED Braces are typically 1/3 smaller than other braces and they look good. The result is greater comfort, speedier treatment and potentially fewer appointments. That should bring a smile to your face if you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your children.

60 greater port macquarie focus.

What are you waiting for? Take control of your health today! JK Healthcare conducts weight loss groups for those who enjoy a fun, relaxed learning environment, to help achieve their health goals. Groups involve six sessions covering a range of topics, including serving sizes, label reading, shopping tips, exercise and meal/snack ideas.

while, start slowly and build up

Learn what a suitable portion of food really is for YOU!

• Choose low fat dairy foods and lean meats like chicken, turkey and fish.

Our group room is also available to rent, and we can also travel to workplaces for staff health programmes.

Contact us on 6583 7717 for more information or to make an appointment with Jodie Kennett or Lucy Johnston at one of our offices in Wauchope, Lake Cathie or Port Macquarie. Why not just drop in and see our range of books!

Some Tips To Get You Started: • Get moving! If you haven’t exercised in a

• Watch your portion sizes. Choose small, regular meals and snacks • Learn to read food labels • Aim for two serves of fruit and 2 - 3 cups of vegetables each day. Try including two serves of legumes weekly

THE PHILOSOPHY

Dermal Clinic SKINDEEP DERMAL CLINIC IS A NEW LOCAL BUSINESS O F F E R I N G D E R M A L T H E R A P I E S S U C H A S : FAC I A L S M I C R O D E R M A B R A S I O N, S K I N N E E D L I N G , C H E M I C A L P E E L S , L E D L I G H T T H E R A P Y, I P L H A I R R E D U C T I O N, S K I N R E J U V E N AT I O N, VA S C U L A R A N D AC N E T R E AT M E N T S .

O

ur staff at SkinDeep are highly trained, experienced and passionate about skin and its rejuvenation. We offer professional advice on how to

care for your skin and a personal treatment plan designed to suit your individual needs. We are offering a refreshing new “Culture”, which you will experience as you walk through the door.

Our passion for Dermal Therapies and our attention to detail ensure we provide a high level of satisfaction and treatments that provide results.

Our Services Facials, Tinting, Waxing, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, LED Light Therapies, Skin Needling, IPL Hair Reduction, Skin Rejuvenation, ACNE and Vascular Treatments.

About the Team accredited IPL/ Laser Melissa is a Port Technician with 14 years Melissa is Macquarie local Beauty of IPL experience and passionate ents Therapist who is over 20 years in the about the treatm e studying a nationally beauty industry. and products sh provides , along accredited “Graduate Regina’s knowledge with Regina , who Diploma in Dermal and experience, am makes up the te al Science” through the coupled with her m at SkinD eep D er Australasian Academy passion for providing Clinic.” of Cosmetic Dermal great results, makes her a Science and has obtained a leader in this field.

Graduate Diploma in IPL/Laser Australian Made and Dermal Therapies. Melissa At SkinDeep Dermal Clinic we is passionate about the treatments and support Australian companies and products she provides, along with Regina, products. We stand behind our treatments who makes up the team at SkinDeep Dermal and products, as we use them ourselves. We Clinic. are proud stockists of Alpha-H, an Australian We are extremely excited to have Regina, Cosmeceutical company which has gained “Cult a qualified Beauty Therapist and nationally Status”, with award winning products sold

“

internationally.

Cosmetic Lab is an Australian boutique cosmetic range that uses pure mineral technology and the finest mineral ingredients in their purest form.

At SkinDeep Dermal Clinic all our equipment is Australian made and TGA approved. Our IPL machine offers the latest in hair reduction technology, “SHR” Super Hair Removal, a FAST AND PAINLESS solution to hair reduction. Our IPL machine has a thermo electric cooling system, which provides a high level of comfort while still producing outstanding results. Our experienced staff use advanced techniques to ensure client satisfaction.

At SkinDeep we use the Spectrum Lumiere machine, which is the latest generation in this technology. Spectrum Science and Beauty are the manufacturers in Queensland.

greater port macquarie focus. 61

focusinterview.

Dr Begbie wearing a Paxman Cold Cap in a chair that was also donated by the trust.

The Hastings Cancer Trust assists numerous people in the Hastings and Macleay areas who are affected by, or who are working with, cancer. Dr Steve Begbie shares some of the Trust’s latest achievements, plus he fills us in about an upcoming fundraiser - a Trivia Night on August 27 that promises some fun and frivolity!

W

hat have been some Describe the action that will take place of the Hastings at the fundraiser; how will the evening Cancer Trust's major unfold? achievements over the It’ll be a night of fun and frivolity; trivia mixed past 12 months? in with some fun and games, a little glimmer, Every year the Trust supports numerous live auctions, silent auctions, lucky door prizes, projects that supplement government funded raffles, a 100 club, and a few surprises. cancer services in our region. I believe that The trivia will see teams compete in a number the most exciting new venture has been of rounds from different genres for $1,000 in the Paxman Cold Cap machines, that cash prizes. are specialised equipment for the How will funds raised prevention of chemotherapy help benefit our local induced hair loss. We have community? t gh ni It’ll be a already treated numerous In August, we will be d an n of fu ed patients, and we are calling for applications ix m ia iv tr ; frivolity n starting to see some for grants from anyone fu e m so ith in w tle lit a , excellent results. who is involved in the es m ga d an ct ions , In addition, this year care of cancer in the glimmer, live au lucky has seen the rebuilding Hastings - Macleay silent auctions , es , of our fundraising, region. We are looking door prizes , raffl w a fe a 100 club an d through the newly for people with great surprises.” created Friends of the ideas to apply for funding Hastings Cancer Trust, as well from the Trustees. The as modernising our website and Hastings Cancer Trust raises working on improving the way we money locally, and all of it is spent inform the community about the role of the locally on the needs of our friends, family Hastings Cancer Trust. and colleagues battling cancer.

There's a fundraiser occurring in August, Where can readers find out more info, or to help support the trust. Where/when will purchase tickets to the event? this be held?

Anyone who wants to learn more about the The Friends of the Hastings Cancer Trust Hastings Cancer Trust, and especially anyone are hosting a trivia night as this year's major who wants to get involved, should look at our fundraising event. The event will be held on website: www.hastingscancertrust.org.au Saturday 27th of August from 7pm at the Iona Reserve your tickets for tables of eight on Centre, St Columba Anglican School, Port 0448 604 541 or email hcttrivianight16@gmail.

Macquarie. Tickets are $10 per person (over 16 com years only) with eight people per table. BYO Thanks Dr Begbie. drinks and nibbles, with an option to dress in Interview by Jo Robinson. any theme.

“

62 greater port macquarie focus.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone 0424 818 343.

AUGUST 2016

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Your higher awareness is waking, and this aligns you with reaching or striving for your highest potential. Set your sights on a gift or talent, and develop it as much as you can. Be kind to yourself in thought, and avoid worrying about what people think.

Selenite shatters negative thoughts.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Justice can be expected to settle any outstanding wrongs. You will benefit by being aware of your fears, so you can become the answer to them, thus avoid facing them for personal growth or evolution.

Amethyst reconnects us to our personal journey.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 You have carried a dream from a long time ago or for a long time, and you are aligning for another chance to access it. Be prepared and give yourself permission to try it; the confidence it will offer will heal any esteem issues.

Rose Quartz is great for self love.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Your thoughts have lately been focusing on cycles that repeated in your past, although when you reflect on these things, they don’t seem to have the same effect on you as before. You have healed or changed your views. Thank yourself for your growth, and watch what comes. Malachite brings past hurts to the surface for release.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

As your beliefs and foundations in life have recently been in question, it is a great time to establish new ones to cater for your future. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to achieve them. Enjoy!

Citrine attracts abundance.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Listen to your wise words when you are giving advice, as you will hear some wise words also meant for yourself. This is how your divine self talks to you. Avoid any selfdegrading thoughts or what you think other people think of you.

Turquoise is great for self-worth.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 You will benefit by practicing patience at the moment. The universe has the bigger picture in mind, and it’s easy to be caught up in impatience. Just relax and set some goals and try using some visualisation to see yourself walking the walk.

Citrine shatters frustrations.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 You may be feeling a little suspended at present.

This won’t last long. You are discovering what your role in the bigger scheme of things is.

Take some comfort, and free yourself from any undigested emotions from the last 12 months.

Citrine is great for clearing.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Self worth and self-approval are subjects that may benefit from a little empowering.

Life has been a bit challenging for you in these areas of late, and it is likely that these qualities need to be restored.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Prepare for the unexpected. The universe is aligning for you to reach full potential and to connect with the bigger purpose in life. Set some fresh goals and give yourself permission to succeed. Then have fun.

Ruby shatters fears great for adventure.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

You are aligning with reaching full potential where career is concerned. Expect a promotion or transfer, or even a new position. Set some fresh goals concentrating on how you wish to feel in the workplace.

Citrine shatters self doubt.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Self worth and self approval are subjects that may benefit from a little empowering. Be kind to yourself, and avoid sharing your personal mistakes or imperfections with others.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

greater port macquarie focus. 63

A L L A B I L I T I E S feature.

EBR • CEL

ATING 30 YEARS

•

Daffodil Day

Freedom of speech “My ability is stronger than my disability” Kerry Erle …

At Freedom of Speech, our goal is to help each and every person who sees us communicate to the best of their ability.

Whether it be helping a child talk for the first time, or helping an adult re-learn to talk after a stroke, we’re here to help.

Karen and Kylie both have extensive experience in helping people with a range of conditions, including childhood disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy or Down’s Syndrome; degenerative conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease and Parkinson’s; and all learning difficulties which can affect speech, reading and writing.

We teach children on the Autism Spectrum how to communicate their feelings and resolve conflict using their words, and those with unclear speech to be understood. For those who have trouble understanding the world around them, we help them find a way to comprehend it.

Our therapists can provide assessment, individual therapy, programmes for schools, recommendations for teachers and employers, and advice on a range of assistive communication tools. We are fully wheelchair accessible. Please contact us on 6584 4554 to discuss how we can help you or someone you love communicate better.

64 greater port macquarie focus.

DAFFODIL DAY CELEBRATES 30 YEARS ON FRIDAY 26 AUGUST. CANCER COUNCIL NSW ENCOURAGES PEOPLE TO WEAR A PIN THIS DAFFODIL DAY TO SUPPORT SOMEONE THEY KNOW.

D

affodil Day, a national day of hope, takes place on Friday 26 August this year.

Locals are encouraged to wear a daffodil pin to show support for someone they know who has been affected by cancer.

This year marks 30 years of Daffodil Day in NSW. As the largest national fundraising event in the southern hemisphere, this year Cancer Council hopes to raise $2.6 million in NSW. Since its inception, Daffodil Day has raised over $133 million for life-saving cancer research, support services and prevention programmes.

This year’s theme is “For Someone I Know” - by showing support for someone you know, you can help beat cancer and create a better future for all. In addition to buying and wearing a daffodil pin, you can support someone you know in the following ways: Sign up to volunteer on 26 August Purchase merchandise online, at select shops or at stalls on Daffodil Day Donate online Buy fuel from Coles Express on Daffodil Day* Text HOPE to 1999 8877 to donate $5/sms and dedicate a virtual daffodil to someone you know** Across Northern NSW, it is predicted that in 2016, 2,551 people will be diagnosed with cancer[1]. By supporting Cancer

Council this Daffodil Day, people will be helping to beat cancer by funding vital cancer research, support services and prevention and advocacy programmes.

For more information on how to get involved for Daffodil Day 2016, visit: www. daffodilday.com.au or contact your local Daffodil Day Coordinator 6639 1303 / sarahro@nswccorg.au How to get involved Buy a pin on 26 August 2016. Daffodil Day stalls near local shopping areas, train and bus stations and other major locations will be selling Daffodil Day pins and other merchandise. Find a location near you: www.daffodilday.com.au/get-involved/ where-to-buy/ Volunteer Volunteers can give their time to help set up Daffodil Day stalls on 26 August 2016 and sell Daffodil Day pins and merchandise in locations across Australia. To register as a volunteer, visit www.daffodilday.com.au/ volunteer Order a merchandise box Merchandise can be ordered by individuals, clubs, schools or workplaces.

To order, visit www.daffodilday.com.au/ get-involved/buy-merchandise Donate online To donate online, visit www.daffodilday. com.au/donate Buy merchandise Items from the Daffodil Day range can

be purchased in July and August from Coles Express sites, and on 26 August across stalls in NSW. Buy fuel from Coles Express on Daffodil Day* Fill up your vehicle at any Coles Express site across Australia on Daffodil Day (26 August 2016 only) and Coles Express will donate 2 cents from every litre of fuel sold to Cancer Council.

Text to donate and dedicate a daffodil** Text HOPE to 1999 8877 to donate $5/sms and dedicate a virtual daffodil to someone you know *For full terms and conditions, visit daffodilday.com.au. **$5 donation charge will appear on your mobile bill or usage history. Each donation cost $5 per sms.

Donations are available on eligible plans, except Optus prepaid. We may keep you updated by phone/email. To opt-out? Call 1300 65 65 85 or for more information, please visit daffodilday.com.au

the plug!

Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day Friday, 26 August 2016.

Open to everyone in NSW and Australia who wants to show support for someone they know who has been affected by cancer. daffodilday.com.au #DaffodilDay

A L L A B I L I T I E S feature.

returning to

THE WORKFORCE THIRTY-FOUR YEAR-OLD MICHELLE GRAHAM’S WORLD WAS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN AFTER A FREAK HORSE RIDING ACCIDENT LEFT HER WHEELCHAIR BOUND AND UNABLE TO WALK FOR 10 MONTHS.

A

fter two years of rehabilitation, Michelle was eager to return to work and approached Centrelink, who connected her to ETC’s Disability Employment Service (DES) programme.

“When I saw Ashley at ETC, he knew I was unable to return to my full-time employment as I couldn’t stand for long periods of time. So he sat down with me and worked out what my abilities were, helped me with my resume and suitable interview clothing,” Michelle said.

Identifying that Michelle needed a sedentary job, ETC’s DES Consultant Ashley McIntosh approached Designer Living Kitchens, who were recruiting.

“Ashley handed in my resume, and then I was offered a full-time position as the Showroom Hostess and Personal Assistant,” Michelle said.

“The service and support from Ashley and the

team at ETC has been absolutely fantastic.”

After breaking bones in his foot, George Lewis also found himself unemployed for about two years after a long road of physiotherapy, leg braces and crutches.

“I had to wear a moon boot for six months and wasn’t able to get around easily - it was so frustrating,” George said.

“I’m not the kind of person to just sit around; it wasn’t good for my self-esteem and mindset.

I loved to ride my bike and surf, but all that was put on hold.”

“Before my accident I was working in the aged care industry, but I didn’t feel comfortable returning to that line of work, as my foot is still healing to this day,” George said.

George commenced ETC’s DES programme in Port Macquarie and started seeing DES Consultant Jacqui Farrawell.

“I identified that George needed a confidence

LOOKING FOR A JOB?

(L-R) - ETC DES Consultant Ashley McIntosh, Michelle Graham, Designer Living Kitchens Showroom Manager Damon White. boost, so I booked him into our Retail and Hospitality WorkIT training courses. As part of the training he was placed into work placements, which he dedicated himself to brilliantly,” Ms Farrawell said.

With the support of both Jacqui and his trainer Belinda Dykes, George’s confidence began to grow, and he was more comfortable being put forward for jobs.

“ETC helped me to tweak my resume, write cover letters and work on some strategies to find me a suitable job,” George said.

Within a week of completing the WorkIT training courses, George received his first interview at Café 8 and was offered a job straight away.

“George seemed really keen, and I thought I’d give him a try. A lot of people his age are told to go away, but I could see some real potential in him,” said Café 8 Manager Tony Kukla.

“He is fitting in really well and is a good all-rounder - nothing’s too hard for him.”

Whether you’re born with disabilities or acquire a disability after an accident, ETC’s DES programme, available in Port Macquarie-Hastings, can help you find and sustain meaningful employment. If you’re an employer interested in employing people with disabilities, we would also love to hear from you.

For further information, contact ETC on 1800 007 400.

ETC CAN HELP FIND THE RIGHT JOB FOR YOU

ETC IS YOUR LOCAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROVIDER

ETC has been helping people find work for more than 27 years.

We can help by: •

Preparing you for work

•

Create and shape jobs suited to your skills and abilities

•

Organising any training required

•

Support you once you are in a job

1800 007 400 etcltd.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 65

A L L A B I L I T I E S feature.

TAD

Clever Ideas - Changing Lives JOHN BRUMBY IS A VOLUNTEER AND PORT MACQUARIE GROUP COORDINATOR FOR TAD DISABILITY SERVICES. THE ORGANISATION’S MOTTO IS “CLEVER IDEAS - CHANGING LIVES”, AND IN THIS

INTERVIEW JOHN WILL DESCRIBE JUST HOW REWARDING IT IS TO HELP THOSE WITH A DISABILITY THROUGH THE PROVISION OF TECHNOLOGY, EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES …

i John. What's your role with TAD in Port Macquarie?

I am a volunteer with TAD and the role I undertake in the Port Macquarie Group is that of Coordinator. I look after the paperwork and planning side of our activities, liaising with local therapists and the TAD Office in Sydney.

This involves planning assessment visits with each client and their therapist to review and understand their request, and then together with other volunteers in the Group, assist in designing a solution to meet the client’s needs.

I also assist with tasks such as painting or varnishing, and creating foam cushions for covering. On completion of a project there is always documentation and reporting to be transmitted to Sydney.

When was TAD Disability Services formed nationally?

TAD was formed in Sydney in 1975 by engineer George Winston OAM. He brought together a group of likeminded individuals with technical knowledge to make a help make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities From there, the charity Technical Aid for the Disabled was formed. This is the origin of the acronym TAD. The name has very recently changed from the more recent TAD Disability Services to just simply TAD. Over the past 41 years, TAD has spread to all Australian states and territories, albeit with different names, but the same function.

The organisation’s aim is to change the lives of people living with a disability by providing personalised equipment, technology and services.

TAD provides support to people in three ways.

Freedom Wheels bikes enabling children with disabilities to gain enjoyment, freedom and exercise from riding a bike. The bikes are fitted with outrigger wheels for stability, and other supports customised for the specific needs of the child.

66 greater port macquarie focus.

TAD’s Unique Solutions provides access to a wide range of innovative and custom made devices where commercial products are not available or suitable. Adaptable Solutions are adjustable supportive equipment which can be customised for individual needs.

In NSW, TAD achieves its objectives and services by having a group of approximately 100 dedicated volunteers located in various regions around the state, who freely give of their time, expertise and craft skills to design and fabricate a device or piece of equipment for a client.

When designing customised equipment, TAD volunteers confer with local therapists, who provide an invaluable link with our clients - thereby ensuring any item supplied is appropriate for the client’s capabilities.

The Port Macquarie Group of the organisation was re-formed in 2006. What have been some of this group's significant achievements?

Since our Group was reformed in 2006, there has been a steady demand for a variety of standing frames, adjustable table and chairs, and access platform, step and rail supports which have varied uses and applications - providing access to vanity units, toilets and school interactive whiteboards.

Several years ago we were asked to make a handle to fit onto a farm Gator vehicle so that the client, a paraplegic gentleman, could more easily transfer from his wheelchair into the driver’s seat and reduce the lifting stress imposed on his shoulder. The handle needed to be low enough that he could reach it from his wheelchair, and not be a safety risk as he bumped around the farm tracks, since it was located at head height adjacent to where he sat.

We designed and fabricated a folding handle, the base of which bolted onto the Gator roof frame, and which securely locked away into a safe position against the roof when driving, then could be swung down into a vertical position to

The handle needed to be he low enough that om fr it h could reac and his wheelchair, sk as ri ty fe sa a be not nd ou he bumped ar nce si , ks ac the farm tr at d te ca lo it was cent head height ad ja t.” sa to where he

“

facilitate his transfer back to his wheelchair. (Pictured above right.)

Recently a client having only one arm and seeking to be independent, wanted to apply a stump liner to his left thigh without assistance.

This is a task normally done with two hands. This was proving difficult, as his right arm could not adequately reach across his body.

Liners need to be securely and tightly fitted to a stump to enable it to function correctly and also fit properly into the prosthesis.

In response to our enquiries, his prosthetist said there was nothing available to use on the market, as other people would have assistance to do this job. After some thought, we made a simple applicator costing less than $30, which amazingly worked on its first try!

In the past few months the Group has had quite a number of requests for Access Platforms and Rails (AP&Rs) to assist young children with a disability increase their independence by easily accessing benchtops, smart boards at school and toilets. One of our recent clients, Ollie (pictured above left) uses his TAD designed and built AP&R at home.

What are some recent stories you can share about local people TAD has helped?

One of the joys of volunteering for TAD is that it you get to meet lovely families. Some of our clients have been with us from 2006 as young children, and it is marvellous to see them grow and develop. In those earlier times, we made customised standing frames, tables and chairs, which were inevitably outgrown, so it was back to the workshop to make the next size up. We feel like part of the family with these repeated visits.

One of these families required greater security for two girls in their beds. So we made surrounds attached to the normal sized single beds, with

one side which folded down. This enabled the girls to be placed onto their beds without the need to lift them over fixed bedrails, a feature which their mother greatly appreciated, as she previously found it quite a strain to lift them into bed over fixed rails. The surrounds were made quite tight fitting around the mattress, thus eliminating a common problem of limb entrapment. These bedrails are still in use and much appreciated.

TAD relies on the support and generosity of volunteers. What types of roles/duties can volunteers with the service perform?

Our Port Macquarie TAD Group is basically involved with Custom Designed Equipment activities. Volunteers with skills in wood and metal working are needed, since most of our equipment is made from these materials. Tasks requiring electrical work occasionally arise, and currently we do not have a volunteer able to do work of this nature.

We also need sewing skills within the Group, as we regularly make cushions to fit various types of customised chairs, as well as other items for clients. We provide support when the Freedom Wheels programme runs a clinic in Port Macquarie for children interested in having a bike.

If any FOCUS readers are interested in volunteering some time and energy in support of TAD, how do they go about getting involved?

By contacting John Brumby on 0428 840 744, or email PortMacquarie@tadnsw.org.au; or through the TAD Office in Sydney, 1300 663 243 or http://tadnsw.org.au/contact More info?

The TAD website:www.tadnsw.org.au Thanks John. Interview by Jo Robinson.

nursing agency

greater port macquarie focus. 67

Travel Writer Jasmin Johansson.

Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

AmaZEN p l a c e

A A H … BA L I S U N S E T S. T H E R E ’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE S I N K I N G BAC K O N A B E A N BAG WAT C H I N G T H E G L OW O F T H E A F T E R N O O N S U N S L OW LY D I SA P P E A R OV E R T H E B E AC H A N D H O R I Z O N. A F T E R A L M O S T A W E E K AT N UA L A R E T R E AT, I ’ V E A C L E A R M I N D AND RADIANT COMPLEXION A N D I T ’S H A R D T O R E M E M B E R W H AT S T R E S S F E E L S L I K E .

n our busy everyday lives, sleep deprivation, stress and occasional reckless over-indulgence are often the norm. Yet, do you find yourself returning home after a holiday with the feeling you already need another one? You plan your getaway, researching the destination and every possible sight to see, place to visit, and activity. Before you know it, your itinerary’s jam-packed and you’re running from one tourist attraction to the next, only to arrive home to reality with less energy and enthusiasm than you left with.

Instead, I recommend: take a fresh tack and engage in the smart travel trend by booking

in to an all-encompassing health retreat. My companion and I found the ideal escape for a well-deserved mind and body rejuvenation, achieving a calming inner peace and life rebalance - but not short on fun games either - at intimate Nuala Retreat, tucked away in splendid surrounds near Seminyak, Bali.

Well removed from the concentrated tourist hub of Kuta and 10 minutes on from the heart of dynamic Seminyak and picturesque Canggu, the retreat offers a relaxing, reinvigorating experience with fresh healthy menus, daily yoga, and massages. We’re greeted into its serene atmosphere by welcoming staff and shown around its cluster of just six modern

The team at Nuala aims to kick-start new habits and establish a healthy lifestyle... adjoining villas, all with poolside frontage and bright, cheery decor. The main dining area features an open living space with traditional Balinese architecture, dark wooden accents and that signature sophisticated Bali style.

We’re overcome instantly by a soothing sense of calmness, immediately immersed in a balmy tropical oasis far removed from everyday cares.

As a dedicated wine and carbs lover, though, I have to admit the idea of “detoxing” makes me apprehensive. Happily, Nuala’s menus can be adapted to suit individual dietary requirements - or preferences. We took the less rigorous approach and chose the full menu. Bali has abundant nutritious and flavoursome fruit, vegetables and fresh seafood, so we enjoyed fresh fruits for breakfast, power salads for lunch ... and by dinner any detox dread was entirely banished by delicious - and wholesome - fish

Organise a full body massage as part of your schedule. In the private bale surrounded by tranquil gardens, sink right into holiday mode and release any travel stress and muscle tension. A massage a day keeps the doctor away!

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tacos.

Guests keen to lose weight or do a serious detox can opt for a raw food menu or a weight loss, detox and cleanse program with an emphasis on vegie- and plant-based juices, soups and smoothies to fuel the body with superfoods. Charming Nuala host Varney imparts a wealth of knowledge on healthy eating ideas and creating delicious flavour combinations from the simplest of ingredients. We don’t feel at all deprived when we’re eating the right foods, and in fact find it a “snack” to enjoy mealtimes while effortlessly banishing toxins, re-energising from the inside out. The team at Nuala aims to kickstart new habits and establish a healthy lifestyle, so whether for a single day’s detox or a sustained weight-loss effort, it’s an ideal destination for individual travellers, girls’ getaways, couples, families or groups.

A great way to start the day is with an energising beach walk taking in the laid-back ambience of the Seminyak shoreline, followed by

a yoga session back at the retreat. Even those who aren't experienced “yogis” still enjoy a morning session with Nuala’s resident yoga guru, Rae, as she leads our group through a Hatha yoga session: a series of slow movements, stretches and poses said to open up the heart and inner recesses of the body. With each deep breath we become more acutely aware of our muscles and movement, and areas of pain or weakness, and naturally allow tightness, stress and tension to slip away. Overlooking the pool in the private bale (thatched roof pavilion) there’s an intense sense of calm as the group finishes with a short meditation, sensing the soft sounds of nature bringing us back to the present. Afterwards we’re rewarded with a vibrant breakfast: energising green smoothie, fresh colourful fruit and yoghurt and glutenfree lemon and blueberry pancakes prepared by our in-villa chefs.

It’s soothing to know the only thing on our agenda today is to find a sunny spot to soak up the peace and quiet. Officially on “Bali time”, we’re intoxicated by the heavenly scent of frangipani filling the air as we recline in the luxe poolside cabana. We don’t want to leave the cool inviting pool right now ... but one of the best things, we decide, is we can choose to do as much or as little as we like. There’s an abundance of - truly cool - activities on offer to keep us entertained, including aqua-spin (waterbased spin classes) and stand-up paddle boarding.

Wonderful, willing staff will organise our activities and transport: we don’t have to worry about a thing.

And so on Day 2 we prompt ourselves to venture out paddle boarding. A scenic 30-minute drive to the sands of Jimbaran brings us to an oasis of crystal blue water, the coastline stretching far into the distance. Rainbow-coloured fishing boats dot the scene and we quickly strike up a gentle rhythm on our boards, waving as we pass by the fishermen hauling in their catch. A deceptively energetic, effective, workout, stand-up paddling is great for improving stability and strengthening the body core. Afterwards we wind down on the beach, enjoying refreshing draughts from fresh-carved coconuts. Slightly more adventurous fellow guests have taken a day trip into the foothills to Ubud to visit the sacred Monkey Forest and browse the centre’s popular traditional markets in a hunt for gifts and souvenirs.

But we’re up for some pampering. Options include two venues that offer Nuala guests halfprice treatments: and the manicure and pedicure at Think Pink Nails comes with chocolates and champagne included. (After all, who’s to know?)

And then, there’s Cocoon - for luxury facials and treatments ...

COCOON M E D I C A L S PA

WAY TO GO Virgin Australia flies direct to Bali (Denpasar) daily ex Sydney.

Nuala Retreat is approximately a 40-minute drive from Ngurah Rai airport and transfers are provided.

STAY Nuala Retreat Seminyak, Bali Book your 4-night 5-day Nuala Retreat Yoga, Spa and Meditation package and bring a friend for free.

Corporate retreat packages: Stay in luxury 5-star beach front villas, with morning yoga, meditation, healthy meals and daily massages. Group rates start at $1500 for five nights.

Large groups: Stay in a luxury fivebedroom villa that sleeps 11. Create your own retreat programme focused on yoga, surf or health with in-villa chef catering. Rates from $60 a night per head based on 11 guests. nualaretreat.com

SPA & WELLNESS Cocoon Medical Spa cocoonmedicalspa.com Yoga at Desa Seni: Guests of Nuala Retreat can get a pass to experience a yoga class at this eco village resort. www.desaseni.com

ACTIVITIES Ocean Tribe Retreat, Canggu oceantribetretreat.com Priority SUP Rental Jimbaran Beach www.facebook.com/ suprentalinbali

EAT La Laguna tapas bar & restaurant www.facebook.com/lalagunabali Sardine Restaurant for superb seafood www.sardinebali.com

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APTLY NAMED FOR ITS NURTURING ATMOSPHERE, COCOON MEDICAL SPA IS SAID TO BE THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN INDONESIA, CENTRALLY LOCATED ON SUNSET PARADE IN SEMINYAK.

Luxury facial rejuvenation packages boasting intriguing names such as Vampire 2.0 and Cleopatra 24-carat Gold are promoted as innovations in non-surgical aesthetic treatments aimed at boosting skin health, resulting in a “younger, smoother, brighter” complexion. Cocoon’s founder, Australian Louise Cogan, has utilised more than ten years’ experience in medical tourism in Malaysia and Thailand to now create a calm, private beauty enclave here in Bali.

Efficient, experienced cosmetic therapists assess the client’s skin type and offer a complimentary consultation before treatments are begun. I selected a Snail Serum Facial with hopes of diminishing some of the fine lines and freckles I’ve been accumulating (and was glad to find no live snails were involved!) Snail serum, I was told, is in fact a nutritive product harvested and produced in Japan, reputed to be beneficial in firming and tightening skin, boosting collagen production and reducing discolouration.

First, needle-free warm and cool mesotherapy - a safe alternative to more invasive procedures - is performed. The

serum is applied and stimulated to penetrate the pores by low-current massaging with a gentle palm-sized pad. Warm heat first opens up pores, then the cooling process is used to calm the skin. Next, painless LED therapy is used to plump up fine lines, followed by a rich collagen-generating mask.

Finally, soothing layers of snail serum and then snail moisturiser are applied for a bright, glowing result. The service and attention were wonderful, with Nurse Elis carefully explaining each step of the process in detail, and its benefits. Afterwards, my skin felt smoother than ever and, on arriving home, the outcome was confirmed by equally glowing compliments from friends on my newly radiant appearance.

The spa also offers a range of therapeutic massage and body wraps, and detox and wellness treatments including intravenous vitamin therapy, infra-red sauna and fatblaster slimming packages. On my short sampling of its treatment, the effects are truly wonderful: restorative and re-energising, and a boost to the wellbeing and self-confidence as well.

Focus was a guest of Nuala Retreat and Cocoon Medical Spa.

focus__editorial Robyn Buttler Travel Editor Susie Boswell. focus Travel withwith Photo (c) Todd Smith

C H A NGI NG WOR L D PROM P TS N EW V I EWS

F

or many, a Scenic European cruise of two weeks meandering through multiple countries via the Continent’s network of grand river-boulevards is an enticing holiday or retirement dream. Perhaps the controlled cocoon of a cruise ship is alluring in these uncertain times, too. Currently, a rare opportunity worth jumping at cuts prices for some Scenic itineraries, offering cruise-only rates.

Until sold out a number of 2017 cruises, usually with flights included, are being offered exairfares: allowing travellers greater flexibility by taking advantage of booking flights separately, utilising their own or family frequent-flyer points or selecting their own carrier/s, class, route and time of travel from a competitive field, or adding a cruise into a longer sojourn when already landed in Europe.

At $9190 a couple (from $4595pp twin share) the 15-day Jewels of Europe explores waterways from Amsterdam to Budapest, discovering castles, vineyards, historic towns and charming villages along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. Gems of the Seine, an 11-day cruise (from $4195pp twin), is a round trip from Paris to the achingly picturesque harbour of Honfluer (adjacent to Le Havre and the Channel in the country’s north-west and a favourite locale of Claude Monet’s), taking in postcard scenes of rural France, historic wartime locations and architectural landmarks. Scenic tours, a solid Australian-based operator, features vessels with spacious suites, fine dining and a range of onshore excursions. “Leave the wallet at home” is their catchcry, all meals, complimentary beverages 24/7, activities like use of e-bicycles with GPS touring guides, and tips included. For this limited offer, available only until all sold, call Scenic on 138 128 (prices may differ on website).

NEW HORIZONS: Certainly the Western world traveller’s map is being redrawn, a revision that happens periodically for a range of reasons but especially so now as a consequence of random violent and terrorist incidents. France, perennially the most sought-after country with seven million visitors a month, is suffering not only the tragedy of the strikes but facing a downturn in its important tourism industry; the city of Nice, centre of the Cote d’Azur, is that nation’s most visited centre after Paris, the two the focus of most recent alarm. But while some prospective tourists postpone their plans, and many airlines and tour operators offer discounted packages to

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encourage trade, by far the majority of visitors to France are from neighbouring European states: the Germans will keep on driving to the French skifields, the Dutch and Belgians continue to use the economical high-speed train.

Nevertheless, travellers around the globe are reassessing their aspirations, the bonus the discovery of new horizons distinct and distant from conventional destinations. Other impetuses are a “wider world” to choose from thanks to expanded airline options; internet marketing offers; the fluctuating A-dollar and so on. Qantas’s partnership with Emirates saw its revised routes via Dubai rather than former hub, Singapore, alter passenger choices; this month’s Olympics have, over the past four years’ lead-up, heightened Rio de Janeiro and South America generally in the public awareness, destinations now being considered by a bigger market.

While flights to Central America (via LAX) are prohibitive as a single-purpose destination, travellers coincidentally in South or North America might consider an add-on adventure cruise in Costa Rica and Panama, including a sightseeing sector on the Panama Canal, from Pacific to Caribbean. An eight-day Uncharted Isthmus: Sloths, Moneys & Mangroves passage on 62-guest Safari Voyager offers abundant wildlife immersion: lush jungles with macaws and monkeys, a butterfly- and flower-filled tropical botanical reserve and the chance to explore by hiking, skiff, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling in crystalline waters. Luxury vessel, fitness equipment, individual air-con; singles accommodated.

Current discounts and incentives. See: www. adventuresmithexplorations.com TRAVEL BOOK OF THE MONTH: All This in 60 Minutes, by Nicholas Lee. The perfect traveller’s companion, in handy paperback.

Longtime 60 Minutes cameraman Nick Lee sees the world through not only his camera lens but the prism of a wry but generous-spirited personal perspective. Each self-contained chapter makes for a witty, uplifting delve into exotic locations, with candid authentic goss on lots of stars (but frequent four-letter word overload). I was a colleague of Lee’s for two years on the show’s production team, creating compelling original stories. Lee had 30 years there, with commensurately greater adventures.

Interestingly, written with a real journalistic discipline and flair. Allen & Unwin, $32.99.

4 Reasons why Cruising is the

1

. Zero fuss. Need a little break from the kids? Kids club is the answer! They’ll have so much fun, that they’ll never want to leave. Don’t want to make the bed?

Do the washing? Make dinner? YOU DON’T HAVE TO! Leave all of this behind you, as you board your next cruise, where you’ll only have to unpack once! That leaves plenty of time for you to get a massage, have your nails done, and then grab a mojito at the new Bionic Bar on Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas.

Cruising will literally have you feeling like the Queen or King you are!

2. 4 words: All-You-Can-Eat! The beauty of the all-you-can-eat-buffet on a cruise ship

Ultimate Holiday!

is that even if you’re a peckish eater, you’ll have plenty of choice! We’re talking nearly every cuisine you could possibly think of.

Plus, with restaurants inspired by World-Class chefs like Luke Nguyen, there is something for every taste bud out there! Also, did I mention they’re 24 HOURS? If your heart desires a sneaky midnight schnitty, then who is anyone to stop you! No one, that’s who!

3. The Onboard Entertainment. You can either get dressed up to the nines and slow dance to Frank Sinatra under a moonlight Paris night sky… or get down to the dancefloor in your sarong, because there ain’t no party like a cruise ship party, cos’ a cruise

ship party don’t stop! You can even party like you’re P-Diddy and it’s the glorious ‘90s again at P&O’s Bianco party. Or maybe you’d just like to go out and see one of the five star shows on offer; they don’t call it Broadway at Sea for nothing! For those wanting a little adventure, there are other activities to keep you busy, such as rock climbing, zip lines, fitness classes, bumper cars and mini-golf, just to name a few.

4. The Excursions. OK, so if everything above hasn’t already convinced you that you won’t want to leave the ship, then maybe you’re more into expanding your cultural knowledge! With dedicated programmes that

help you learn from the locals, teach you how to stand-up paddle board, and help you find Nemo and Dory, there’s an excursion out there for everyone!

Make your next holiday the ultimate holiday, and experience the wonders of a cruise. Discover for yourself just how relaxing, entertaining, and exciting they can really be! For the opportunity to grab unbeatable deals and advice, go and chat to the team at helloworld Settlement City during this year’s Cruise Sale Week! From Monday 8th Saturday 13th of August, in store only! Visit www.cruisesaleday.com for more information.

PORT MACQUARIE’S LARGEST

CRUISE SALE WEEK

ONE WEEK ON LY

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS & DEALS MONDAY 8th - SATURDAY 13th AUGUST, 2016 IN STORE

SETTLEMENT CITY

Shop 32, Settlement City Cnr Bay & Park Streets, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444 02 6584 4018 portmacquarie@htg.com.au

*Conditions apply. Hunter Travel Group Pty Ltd. ABN 39 83 096 957. A11468. Cruise Travel Centre Pty Ltd. ABN 68 125 942 985. A11469 greater port macquarie focus. 71

MIDNORTH NORTHCOAST COAST MID 12,13 13&&14 14August August2016 2016 12, WauchopeShowground ShowgroundWauchope Wauchope Wauchope

9am- -5pm 5pmFriday Friday&&Saturday Saturday/ /9am 9am- -4pm 4pmSunday Sunday 9am Adults$15 $15• •Aged AgedPensioners Pensioners$11 $11• •Kids KidsFree Freewith withAdults Adults Adults

THEMID MIDNORTH NORTH THE COAST’SNUMBER NUMBERONE ONE COAST’S OUTDOOREVENT EVENT OUTDOOR Over175 175Exhibitors Exhibitors • •Over CampOven OvenCooking CookingContest Contest • •Camp (SatOnly) Only) (Sat

FishingShow Show • •Fishing 4WDDemo DemoTrack Track • •4WD ReptileAwareness AwarenessShow Show • •Reptile FreestyleBike BikeShow Show(Sat (Sat&&Sun) Sun) • •Freestyle

Phone: (02) 6769 4132 Phone: (02) 6769 4132 Fax: (02) 6769 4140 Fax: (02) 6769 4140

www.ruralscene.com.au www.ruralscene.com.au facebook.com/RuralScenePromotions facebook.com/RuralScenePromotions

Valuedat at$9,000 $9,000 Valued from from

LTPS/16/04933 LTPS/16/04933

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1 2 - 1 4

A U G U S T

LOVETHEOUTDOORS The Mid North Coast Camping, Caravan, 4WD, Fish and Boat Show will be held at the Wauchope Showground, Wauchope, on Friday the 12th, Saturday the 13th and Sunday the 14th August 2016.

T

he show has evolved, and organiser Loretta Payne tells us more.

“When we first started the show we had about 100 sites; there are now over 188 sites. Our exhibitors are constantly evolving in themselves too, with what they offer - we are very inventive people. They’re adjusting and expanding their products, so that it is easier for people to enjoy the outdoors.

“Our attendance now is so much more diverse, and whereby you used to see more of the grey nomads attend, these days and over the last five years we have seen a large shift to the families market.

“Families with young children are choosing outdoors holidays, where they can play outside and interact with other kids.

“The 35 - 50 year old market are also choosing to look at the caravan style holiday and explore the outdoors.”

The Mid North Coast Outdoor Show offers plenty of great free entertainment for everyone.

Not only is it entertaining, but educational as well. Reptile Awareness Display do a fabulous show for young and old. The kids get a chance to get up close and personal with some of the reptiles. Alan Burnett, the principal of Reptile Awareness, gives you valuable information on what to do and what not to do if you have an unfortunate encounter with a reptile.

Brett Thompson, one of the principals of the Australian Travelling Fish Show, not only provides a great lure fishing show, but also provides wonderful tips on fishing, whether it’s on the beach, out at sea or in the local fishing hole.

Plus, you have World Champion bike rider Jack Field from Flair Action Sports. Jack has worked in several movies, at the present doing stunts for Vin Diesel’s new movie, plus travels around the world competing and doing shows.

We are incredibly lucky to have someone of Jack’s talent and ability doing shows for our local events.

The young and the young at heart all get a kick out of watching Flair Action Sport Bike riders doing their amazing stunts on Saturday and Sunday.

Too much to see and do in one day? Then purchase a second day pass for just $10 from either the site office or the entry/exit gates as you leave the Mid North Coast Outdoor Show.

Visitors to the event have the chance to win a wonderful prize that will be available just by attending the show. Mid Coast 4WD Centre and Ironman 4x4 have kindly donated a $9,000 4WD/Camping Package; every visitor receives an entry form.

The prize will be drawn at 4pm on Sunday August 14th, and you don’t have to be at the show when they are drawn to win.

Come along and see the Hastings Co-op and Hastings 4WD cook-off! A fun event with great sportsmanship where local identities will go head to head to bake their best scones! from 9am Saturday 11th August.

For all visitor information, go to our website: www.ruralscene.com.au where all up to date news, exhibitors and product listings will be posted, plus follows us on Facebook for a chance to win passes. greater port macquarie focus. 73

focus_finance

with Ursula Boorman

UNPACKING THE PROPOSED SUPER CHANGES URSULA BOORMAN OF DIRECT ADVISERS BRINGS FINANCE INTO FOCUS TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR WAY THROUGH THE MONEY MAZE.

O

ver coming months we can expect a lot of discussion around changes to Superannuation that were proposed in the May Budget.

Some of the language used can be complex and confusing, so let’s get back to basics: Superannuation is a tax environment, designed to help us save for our retirements.

Rules and limits cover three main areas: 1. Contributions - putting money into super 2. Withdrawals/Commutations/Rollovers getting money out 3. Investing your super Non-concessional contributions “undeducted contributions” and “the tax free component”.

This is your money that you place into super.

You will have paid tax on this money in the past (for example, when you earned it). Or you may have received it as an inheritance and the original owner had paid tax in their lifetime.

No one has received any tax concession when it has been paid into the super fund. NO tax is payable when it goes into super. This proportion will always be tax free when withdrawn, even when paid to your children on your death.

The Budget proposal would limit these contributions to $500,000 per person backdated to start from 2007.

Concessional Contributions - “deductible contributions” or “the taxable component”.

Includes Super Guarantee Charge (SGC) paid by your employer, Salary Sacrifice and

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contributions where you claim a tax deduction.

Self-employed people are eligible to claim a deduction if 90% of their income comes from their business. This money is taxed when it is paid to super (15% contributions tax).

It is called concessional, because someone received a tax concession when paying it to the super fund (usually your employer). This proportion is usually tax free to your partner when you die, but will be taxed if paid to non-dependent children. The limits on how much you can contribute have varied over the years and depended on your age ($25,000 and $35,000 total).

The Budget proposal would allow everyone to make contributions and claim a tax deduction. Another proposal is that if you did not use all of your limit ($25,000) in one year, you could accumulate five years of unused limits. Proposed to commence in 2017, this could be useful for mums and dads who sell an investment property - they could reduce their capital gains tax by making a contribution to super. This proposal also helps people who have had reduced work over several years and want to catch up on their contributions.

Our online resources offer more superannuation definition. www.directadvisers.com.au/resources Ursula Boorman is an authorised representative of Direct Advisers Pty Ltd, AFSL Licence No 236855 The information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.

Bank with Money Magazine’s 2016 Credit Union of the Year.

Home + investment lending

Savings + investments

Business banking

Student + kids banking

SMSF lending + deposits

Property development financing

Port Macquarie’s Best kept Banking Secret Personalised service |Great Products | Extensive Banking knowledge Sally

Mel

I love helping our members realise their dreams of owning and buying their next home.

Every member that has a home loan done with me establishes a relationship where I’m there for the journey – it’s not only about buying the home, it’s about the changes in life and how I can help my members make the most of those changes and manage the home loan or investment loan to their advantage. My members goals are my mission to achieve.

Passionate Port local and supporter. Keen on Yoga and keeping our amazing beaches and environment clean and sustained for future generations to enjoy.

A local business owner and proud BCU staff member.

I like getting to know my members and how I can help them make the best of their total banking, plus demonstrating the advantages of BCU over a Bank.

Due to being a family person and a local business owner I can really help members in similar circumstances – time is of the essence, saving on costs and building assets are important. I like to help my members increase their benefits in all these areas and make life simpler.

David

Karl

A local family man that’s dedicated to The Church Band, Salvation Army, his family here in Port and his Business Banking members.

I’m on hand, my members have my direct number and I love helping them make their banking easy so they can spend more time doing what they love – growing their business.

Recently joined BCU from a Big4 Senior Banking role. Karl now enjoys spending more time locally helping reach more people in the Hastings and learn about the benefits of banking with BCU. We are Money Magazines Credit Union of the Year for a very good reason. What we can offer existing members and new members is of a very high standard. From high quality member insurance solutions to very competitive investor and home finance to one of the best Self Managed Superannuation property buying solutions on the market – BCU really means strong potential member benefits over many other banking options out there and available.

I really challenge everyone in the Hastings – come in, compare and see what makes us ‘Port Macquarie’s best kept Banking secret!

Come and see what real personalised service experience and a dedicated Banker to help you reach your goals really can do for you.”

Home/Investment Lending Specialist

Business/Investment Lending Specialist

Come in and meet our team in the local branch, or alternatively, we can come to you.

We also have 24/7 online banking services via our website and mobile banking Great Investor and Home Owner rates with only a 5% minimum deposit Excellent Self-Managed Super Fund investment property finance solutions – we work with your accountant/financial planner and personalise to your needs Great parking and easy access to onsite Tellers and Specialists to assist your banking needs Lock in a winning rate - 3.80% fixed rate | 4.38% comparison

bcu.com.au | 1300 653 555 *Comparison rate warning

Store Manager

Area Manager

greater port macquarie focus. 75

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HASTINGS BUSINESS WOMEN’S NETWORK

Photo by Lindsay Moller

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION. T H E H BW N CO M M U N I T Y

The vision of the Hastings Business Women’s Network is to inspire members to achieve their goals

through growth and development, to provide a sense of belonging and to remain relevant to the needs of the members and the community.

Tanya Newman of Bennett’s Steel and Easy Burn, Wauchope.

The 2015 Women in Business award winner.

T

he HBWN has a proud time student members the opportunity legacy of empowering, to be inspired and challenged to become encouraging and tomorrow’s leaders! educating businesswomen • Port Macquarie Hastings Domestic and in the Hastings region.

Family Violence Specialist Service Our mission is to support Actively working to support the women as they strive for business success, programmes and physical environment the by providing a place for women to connect refuge provides to women and children with each other via networking, mentoring affected by domestic violence in our programmes and professional development community is a cause that is close to our opportunities. heart - The HBWN International The way we see it, Women’s Day event is the networks like the HBWN major fundraising initiative are integral to providing for this vital service. a bit extra to the Our mission is to • REAP Food Rescue as community. Each support women Port Macquarie ss ne si year the HBWN they strive for bu ing The HBWN id ov success, by pr Committee identify to en dedicates an event om w a place for organisations that r he ot ch ea ith each year to create w connect align with our toring en m , ng ki or tw awareness and raise via ne vision and mission; d programmes an funds to support t en velopm organisations that professional de the collection and add value to women opportunities .” repurposing of food to and girls, and we feed the people in need actively support them within our community. wherever we can, ensuring The launch of our July to women of all ages and career December Calendar of Events last stages receive support to chase their month highlighted the inclusion of these dreams. important community initiatives within our This is why the HBWN proudly events. sponsors and fundraises for the following If you would like to join us in our not for profit organisations and initiatives: commitment to supporting all women within • Woman In Business Award - Greater Port our community striving to be the best they Macquarie Business Awards can be, we invite you to become involved by Sponsoring this award celebrates women

“

who excel in their business and community contribution.

•Hastings Education Fund Our annual sponsorship financially supports students to achieve their further educational and career goals.

• Luminosity Youth Summit A full scholarship provides our full-

visiting our website or Facebook page to see how you can actively make a difference for yourself and others.

For further information, contact HBWN President Karen Archer E: hbwnpresident@gmail.com W: www.hbwn.com.au F: www.facebook.com/hbwn1 greater port macquarie focus. 77

focuseditorial.

L E V O R G

smug

THIS MONTH THE SMUG TEST DRIVES THE ALL-NEW SUBARU LEVORG 2.0L TURBOCHARGED GT-S (AUTO) COURTESY OF PORT MACQUARIE SUBARU, GORDON STREET, PORT MACQUARIE.

“The Smug”

T

he brilliant new offering from Subaru for 2016 is the 2.0 L GT Levorg, which has been built from the ground up and certainly packs a punch.

I had the pleasure of testing the 2.0 L GT-S 197 kW turbocharged model, and boy was I impressed.

To best describe the vehicle itself, it’s a perfect blend of wagon, sedan and also a sports car. The vehicle sits low, the body is slim in length and width, and the inside comfort and drive performance is nothing short of exciting.

Think WRX meets Liberty and spawns a naughty little kid who just wants to have some fun.

The 2.0 L engine is definitely the right size to weight ratio, and the added kick of the turbocharge makes this vehicle a game changer in the sportswagon marketplace.

To drive, you get a feeling that the Levorg GT-S is just sitting under your fingertips awaiting your command - a bit like a puppy sitting at attention waiting for you to throw the ball.

As soon as you put your foot down or turn into a corner, the response is immediate, and there’s no hesitation.

One of the most noticeable aspects of the test drive was indeed the responsiveness and the pickup of the Levorg. The turbo kicks in at the right time, but it’s not in your face

78 greater port macquarie focus.

every time you accelerate. If you wanted to offerings with the Levorg GT series. drive around town and drive like Miss Daisy, The Levorg has a 5 Star ANCAP Safety you can do that quite easily with gentle Rating and is packed with features such as application of the throttle but when you multiple airbags, which are a given these want to take the skirt off and give it a bit, the days, but also impressive gadgets such as transformation is instant.

EyeSight Driver Assist, which not only If you’re not familiar with the bings at you when it detects a Subaru engines, it’s worth dangerous situation, but also doing a bit of research, as can apply the brakes in you’ll find that they’re some dire situations if The 2.0 L engine as solid as anything you’re not fully in the e th is definitely on the road today moment. t gh right size to wei d de and it’s not all about The interior has a ad e ratio, and th e rg ha oc rb power and torque. bucket load of room tu e kick of th e cl hi ve The horizontally opthroughout and is inis th makes in r ge an ch posed boxer engine credibly comfortable e m ga a also promotes a very to sit in and drive. the sportswagon even weight distribuThe D shaped steering marketplace .” tion and ensures you’re wheel is light yet solid firmly planted on the under your grip, and the road, to give you excellent head and leg room is plenty to grip and handling. take all shapes and sizes, even my As with the Subarus generally, you’re 5’10” 100 kg+ chasis. well on top with so many tid-bits of As with any sports vehicle, the optional technology sprinkled throughout every accessories are plentiful, as are the colour aspect of the car, most of which are standard choices, to really put your stamp on the features and as such provide great value for finished product, and the options are there your dollar spend. for going with the standard GT model or the Dual Air Conditioning, 6.2 inch in-dash upgraded GT-S models to suit your budget. touchscreen, Bluetooth and wireless connecThe Levorg is a stand-out for me this year tivity, Rear View Camera, 18 inch alloys, push in the 2016 new models I’ve tested and well button start and much more are all standard worth you taking a closer look.

“

SNAPSHOT ENGINE & GEARS 2.0 L (Auto) 197 kW turbocharged Boxer engine

BODY AWD Sportswagon, 5 seats, large boot storage area

SAFETY 5 Star ANCAP Safety Rating.

FUEL 2.0 L Turbo Diesel with combined 8.7 litres per 100 km

RANGE 2.0 L GT, 2.0 L GT-S & 2.0 L GT-S Spec B.

FAST FACTS • Brand new vehicle in the Subaru range • 197 kW Turbo Boxer Engine • 5 Star Safety Rating • Technologically advanced • Perfect blend of sports car, wagon and sedan

pmsubaru.com.au

Levorg 2.0GT-S shown

something out of the box Levorg 2.0GT-S standard features: •

The new Levorg has arrived at Port Macquarie Subaru

2.0-litre Direct Injection turbocharged horizontally-opposed Boxer engine

•

Maximum power output – 197kW @ 5600rpm

•

Maximum torque – 350Nm @ 2400-5200rpm

A brilliant combination of performance and practicality it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen or driven before.

•

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

•

EyeSight® Driver Assist System

•

Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE)

•

Intuitive touchscreen infotainment

•

Leather seats1 and electric sunroof

•

Sleek, stylish and spacious

Book your free test drive today.

53,450

$

GT-S Driveaway

Levorg GT also available $47,260 Driveaway

Call 6588 2588 or visit us today.

Port Macquarie

104 GORDON STREET, PORT MACQUARIE 1. Some parts of the seating are not full natural leather. © 2016 HASBRO. All Rights Reserved. Rights acquisition by Born Licensing.

DL MD20174

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G R E A T E R

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

BRANDON CALDER - BRANDON CALDER HOMES -

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be a good leader? Honesty and being decisive.

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? No. Do what you do well and continue to try and improve. Word-of-mouth recommendations are the biggest opportunity and risk to any business … so, for Brandon Calder Homes, every building project has to be of the highest quality, delivered on time and on budget.

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? When we build a home, all the creative is contained in the initial designs and choice of material and finishes. That’s why Brandon Calder Homes engage the best local architects, building designers and interior designers. We are not creative when it comes to building - well proven, safe methods override any creative whims or short cuts.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? All businesses, local, regional or national face the same challenge - producing a high quality service at a price which the buyer agrees is good value. Undervaluing a quality service will be costly to everyone in the long run.

How has your business changed in the last three years? We are becoming more interactive with our clients in giving them more choice and assistance at the planning and design stage. Careful planning and detailed project management (plus low overheads) allow us to deliver custom built homes at project home prices. We believe it’s a winning formula.

Fortunately, so do our great clients.

Contact: Brandon Calder brandonkaren@bigpond.com 0403 348288

•

M E N

I N

B U S I N E S S

SHANE GLOBITS - CLUB NORTH HAVEN -

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? At times taking a risk is required; however, I believe in being a proactive manager rather than a reactive manager. If you prepare and plan, the risks are minimised, but none of us have that magic crystal ball.

How has your business changed in the last three years? Over the past three years our club has focused on creating more of a destination, than just another bowls club. We are a venue where you can bring your family for dinner, meet friends for a drink, enjoy live and varied entertainment, or just relax and enjoy a coffee.

We are situated in one of the best climates and most picturesque places in Australia, so why not utilise it to its fullest potential!

If you could be mentored by another business leader or person of influence for one day, who would you choose? If I had one

day I would like to spend it with David O’Neil, the Castle Hill Group CEO. The group he runs includes five clubs, 580 employees, 50,000 members and has a total of 175 million in annual turnover and assets. To pick his brain for a day would make me a better manager and in turn, benefit Club North Haven.

When it comes to creating (new ideas, products or processes) where do you get your inspiration? I have always been one to look outside the square for answers. There are times when you go with what works, and there are times when you need to take a step back and look at the alternatives, or even the extremes. I recently had the opportunity to tour a number venues throughout Asia and although they could not be more different to what we experience in Australia, there were a number of aspects I found would greatly benefit us as a club and a business.

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G R E A T E R

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

•

M E N

I N

B U S I N E S S

VLADEMIR - ZEBU BAR + GRILL -

Zebu Bar + Grill and The Beach House are set to be revitalised with the arrival of Food & Beverage Director Vlademir Milevski to Port Macquarie. Aussie born Vlad has already

made a splash in Port Macquarie with his signature style and some exciting new ideas for two of our most iconic waterfront venues. Drawing on his experience both here and abroad in organisations including the Le Meridien, The Chedi, The Hyatt, Sebel Pier One and The Sydney Intercontinental, Vlad takes time out with Kate Wood-Foye to share his culinary journey from Abu Dhabi to Port Macquarie ...

W

elcome to Port Macquarie, Vlad!

You bring an international flavour to Port Macquarie, with an extensive career celebrating food, wine and service across the world. Can you give us an idea of the countries you have worked in and the groups you have worked with?

I started my career like most, doing the dirty work in night clubs in Sydney. A couple of years into it, I decided to get a little more serious and added in some travel. Having worked in some of Sydney and Australia’s best hotels, I headed to the UAE in Abu Dhabi, it was a hot destination for both the weather and my career.

Running 13 restaurants and bars with the Le Meridien Hotel for a couple of years, I then went to Oman to a super deluxe property with eight restaurants and bars, looking after royalty and celebrities daily. Before heading back to Oz after four years in the Middle East, I did some training in Switzerland as a sommelier.

Back in Oz, I jumped in with the Rydges Group, launching a new restaurant concept in Rydges Cronulla. After that I moved onto an Arabic restaurant group (fitting, after being in the Middle East) launching 10 new restaurants with a number of different cuisines. From this I went to Sebel Pier One, to launch their new events facilities and restaurant concept. This was followed by a launch project for Rydges Airport, and now here I am in Port Macquarie.

Your speciality is food, wine and service with flair … Can you tell us about some of your food and beverage projects here in Australia?

My first launch project was with the Intercontinental Hotel - rolling out a cool,

All of our venues will ooze a little times to an luxe d style in om our fr be come; it may oduce, pr r ou s, furnishing staff. I or even our co ol emories want to create m lk ing ta le that keep peop e. ” or m g and wantin

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funky bar and dining venue with over 50 cocktails. Rydges Cronulla was also a really enjoyable project, creating a Spanish tapas bar serving tapas with a twist. Mexican Cantina in Surfers Paradise was a flavour packed little venue doing some exciting Mexican foods married with awesome cocktails. My largest project would have to be the Arabian restaurants, with a breakfast twist and some interesting Arabian street food, having launched 10 venues in just four years.

When did you first develop your passion for this crazy and exciting industry?

I became an engineer after uni and after three months of working in the field, I realised I love being amongst people, so I became a bar attendant - and somehow here I am today, still in this crazy industry and loving it.

You have opened 17 venues across the world - If you could name just one project that you are most proud of, what would that be?

Every new venue I launch gets bigger and better and more and more creative ... However, my proudest was a launch in the Middle East, where every staff member was Arabic. I had to learn to speak and communicate and train the entire team in a different language while talking about western cultures ... To this day, that venue only has a full team of Arabic staff.

Who is the person that inspires you most in the world of restaurants, bars, food and wine?

I don’t have one person who inspires me. I

get inspired by anyone who is pushing the rules of creativity and producing new and exciting experiences.

Sometimes I get inspired by the mum, who can make a kickass dinner within minutes when I visit without notice. The simplest things are the best.

You have a distinct style and love for all things luxe - can we expect to see a little of that style role out to the various venues?

All of our venues will ooze a little luxe and style in times to come; it may be from our furnishings, our produce, or even our cool staff.

I want to create memories that keep people talking and wanting more.

As a qualified sommelier, can you name your top five wines of all time?

If I was a father, I would answer this by saying, “I can’t pick my favourite child; however, I can pick my most desired aspects”...

Currently I’m loving old world wines being made by new and exciting winemakers here in Australia, especially from the Barossa Valley, with really earthy favours.

Cocktails are at the heart of Zebu’s success, with a new cocktail and bar menu being launched this month - any insider tips on some of the best creations?

My philosophy to great menus and drinks is to... KEEP IT SIMPLE. The new menu will reflect on classic cocktails with a twist.

Your extensive portfolio includes restaurant and bars that range from relaxed, casual dining, to fine dining and funky bars and tapas … What can we

expect to see in Zebu Bar + Grill?

My vision for Zebu Bar + Grill is all about good times. We want people from all walks of life to feel a connection through our food and drinks. Our menus will change regularly, focusing on great local seasonal produce, so you always feel like every visit to Zebu is your first - we’re all about creating memories.

You and GM Denny Keane have been sampling all that our region has to offer in the way of dining and local produce. What is your take on our local produce, and what would be the standout to date?

The local produce has been great! We have tried the local wines, beers and seafood caught that morning. The local oysters and crab have been a favourite to date, but we are still exploring and sampling produce.

You and new GM Denny Keane are somewhat of a dynamic duo, bringing in an exciting new style and dining experience to Rydges eateries and bars … What are the three most important elements to leading your teams and venues to success?

We love what we do; we encourage our staff to enjoy working within such a great environment and team. We encourage forward and creative thinking, to provide a memorable experience for our guests.

If you could create a dinner party for 10 guests from across the world - who would be the nine guests you would invite to share your table and why?

I would pick the nine best comedians from around the world, sitting back with a great glass of red wine and just laugh. Life is too short not to enjoy every moment with a smile.

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OLLIE BROOKE - CLOUD CONCEPTS -

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? A big challenge for local businesses is in keeping abreast of the amount of new software and tools that are now available. Finding the ones that are relevant to their respective sectors and finding the time and energy to evaluate these tools is a pretty big ask. To be fair, there’s a lot to take in, and knowing the difference between the ones that are just a flash in the pan versus those that are game changing is not always easy ...

My suggestion on how to tackle this is to take notice of how companies like Uber, Airbnb, Google and plenty of others are creating massive waves by leveraging technology effectively. Perhaps try to imagine how your competitive landscape might change if the next Uber entered your market place.

Mobile computing and cloud technology are continuing to have huge impacts on virtually every aspect of our lives - and the business sector is certainly not immune to these impacts.

If you could be mentored by another business leader or person of influence for one day, who would you choose?

Difficult to have to choose, but it would be between Seth Godin, Michael Gerber and Gary Vaynerchuk. I’m pretty sure I’d have to go with Seth Godin; I feel like I have a good understanding of what the other two have to say - Seth seems to keep delivering new ideas and thoughts every time I digest a new chunk of his work.

I love creative thinking and ideas and love being able to apply the knowledge I gather to my own business and my clients’ businesses.

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ANDREW BOURKE & CHRIS BRADTKE - SOCIAL GROUNDS -

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be good leader? To be a good leader, you have to lead by example.

There should be no job above or below the leader. If our floors need scrubbing, I’m down there with my staff. If your staff see you working hard, then they will too.

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? Yes, all business owners take risks, just by starting a business.

If you are not passionate about your product, then that is a huge risk, but if you believe in what you are doing, it is still a risk- but it’s a risk worth taking.

How has your business changed in the last three years? When Chris and I moved back to Port Macquarie two years ago, we wanted to start a café that we would enjoy working in every day. We let the business grow organically,

starting with no advertising and relying solely on word of mouth. We constantly changed our menu as we grew and by doing this, it has given us the time to develop and perfect our products. As we grew we were able to hire talented, creative locals as staff, and their influence has made us who we are today.

If you could be mentored by another business leader or person of influence for one day, who would you choose? A local guy, Chris Horwood from Doppio or Nothing.

And I am lucky to be influenced and mentored by him every day. We call him the Dalai Lama, as he always helps us see what is important at the end of the day - especially that we are not working for ourselves, but we are working together as a community to help the whole town grow as a collective.

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ALISTAIR FLOWER

BRENT RYAN

-SETTLERS INN -

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be a good leader? I think it’s important that you show true conviction - to have a strong vision, communicate this vision and lead people to a purpose. Be dynamic; see an issue, fix an issue or make change, not procrastinate. Take total accountability for the actions and results of the business.

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? I believe in more so taking calculated risks - decisions based on knowledge, experience and intuition. A great saying that I live by is: be known as a pioneer, not a historian.

How has your business changed in the last three years? Settlers was always a good business, but being one dimensional in its offering limited its earning potential. Since we took over six months ago, our core focus has been to grow Settlers’ appeal to a broader

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demographic through introducing the family market and by engaging the community. This has allowed us to diversify our revenue streams and create a more sustainable business for the future.

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? Good staff are sometimes hard to find. We think it’s important to invest in them and look at ways to provide training and development opportunities. Staff empowerment creates passion and drive not only for them to want to succeed, but they want this for the business.

When it comes to creating new ideas or processes, where do you get your inspiration? I’m constantly researching!

Everywhere I go, everyone I talk to, everything I see and read I’m digesting and considering how I can adapt to my business. I find inspiration is everywhere when you are actively looking for it.

- DRAGONFLY MARKETING What mindset or values do you carry

When it comes to creating (new ideas,

with you in order to be a good leader?

products or processes) where do you get

I believe being authentic, open and honest

your inspiration?

are good qualities to have as a leader.

I listen to a bunch of podcasts on

Everyone has something to offer, and we all

entrepreneurship, marketing and startups,

have our personal goals we want to achieve.

which are great for getting new ideas and

Empowering others to succeed and reach their

seeing how other successful entrepreneurs

potential is important to me.

have started small and grown their businesses.

Do you think businesses need to take risks

The foundr podcast by Nathan Chan is a good

in order to be successful? Yes. I think if you’re

one.

going to give it a red hot go, you’ll need to take

I also use social media, like Twitter and

some risks. But they can be calculated risks.

LinkedIn, to stay on top of new technologies

You can fly by the seat of your pants, and that

and product releases. There’s tonnes of helpful

can totally work for you. Alternatively you can

content, guides, ebooks and blog articles out

validate ideas, test, learn, plan and improve.

there that can give you some great tips on how

Business planning tools like “Lean Canvas” can

to change a process or implement something

help quickly and easily plan out new business

new in your business to help it improve and

ideas and set measures for success.

grow.

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DYLAN, KYLE & JOEY - TWO MINDS CREATIVE -

community? We have helped out by providing promotional collateral to charity events and foundations in the local area. Further to this we are a local business, and have great working relationships with st ju local signwriters, photographers ve ha We and illustrators. We sort of taken on bounce off each other, so we 3D architectural e rendering as on have a great little creative so of our services , community going. ra

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? We are lucky to be able to have fun every day working with clients from all over the country and seeing our work out in the real world.

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Business/personal goals for this financial year?

We want to keep working and growing the business in every way possible. This we can now offe year, we are looking to build e Best advice for someone complete packag relationships with local real t.” starting out in your ke ar m e th to estate agents and developers, industry? You have to love to help brand any developments what you do, and surround during this massive real estate boom yourself with talented people, as it’s we are having at the moment. We have truly the best way to learn. It’s very taxing just taken on 3D architectural rendering being a new designer; it will test your patience. as one of our services, so we can now offer a If you don’t take criticism well, it will stunt complete package to the market. your growth, so I suggest looking into a career How does your business give back to the

in insurance. Ha ha.

Shop 31 Settlement City Shopping Centre Cnr Park St and Bay St Port Macquarie NSW 2444 PH: 02 6583 2535

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DEAN LAWLER

- SPORTS AND SPINAL PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINICS What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be good leader?

Having a positive mental attitude fuels my passion, endurance and performance as a business owner. Also, being purposeful in everything we do, so we all lead by example. A little humility goes a long way, as does being able to communicate effectively. I’m a big believer in learning from my mistakes and continually improving. Being grateful is also very important.

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture?

Our practice is founded on strong ethics, honesty, professional excellence and dedication, warmth, caring and an endearing sense of fun. We have fun as a team. You have to really enjoy and be

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passionate about what you do. If you has certainly changed within the last three don’t, it shows. Our sole focus years. We have seen enormous is to achieve optimal and growth in our business, outstanding outcomes with the addition of that meet and exceed multiple locations Our sole focus is the expectations of and an increase al to achieve optim our patients within a in the number of g and outstandin friendly and caring d allied health staff an t ee outcomes that m ions environment. Also, at needed to service ct pe exceed the ex in having authenticity, ith w s the growing need nt tie of our pa ng ri ca really listening and d an for our professional ly a friend t.” being transparent in en nm services.

Our ro vi en our dealings is crucial physiotherapists, in developing lifelong occupational therapists, relationships and trust with exercise physiologists, our clients and their families. massage therapists and

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How has your business changed in the last three years?

Sports and Spinal Physiotherapy Clinics

dietitians are fully trained, qualified and accredited with years of practical experience. Our team has been invaluable

to the success of the business, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without them.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? It is important for local businesses to identify and create a key point of difference, which in turn will position favourable customer perception of your brand and/ or business in relation to your competitors. We understand that we have to be different to every other like business. One of the things we have implemented is our SSPC Pain to Performance Model, which provides a comprehensive foundation for effective treatment of an injury and then long term management and prevention to performing better than they have ever before.

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SCOTT BAILEY

- ANSCOT SAFETY SOLUTIONS AND TRAINING What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be a good leader? I come from a background of military discipline and integrity, as well as a service background from working in the funeral industry. I endeavour to provide customer specific safety solutions, rather than generic style answers. I focus on the needs of the individual business, as well as the requirements of the workers within it, to ensure a positive safety culture, rather than negativity.

How has your business changed in the last three years?

I started out in 2010 doing purely safety management systems and their supporting documents to assist small business meet their OH&S compliance requirements. Training is provided as part of my operations, as well as regular training for local RTOs like SkillsLink and Men at Work.

With ongoing involvement with my clients, my role has evolved to researching, sourcing and supplying of safety equipment and PPE. In the last 18 months I have also added onsite drug and alcohol screening to the business profile.

When it comes to creating (new ideas, products or processes) where do you get your inspiration? I have been a member of the Safety Institute of Australia for five years and with this membership comes exposure to the latest safety programmes, ideas and products, so I am constantly looking at ways of adding better systems or equipment to my clients’ businesses.

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DUSTIN PROSSER

JOHN MCNEIL

- KEW PRODUCE -

- NATIONWIDE PROPERTY BROKERS -

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? I believe that if you don’t take risks, how will you know whether you will achieve your goal or not? All people who own businesses take risks - buying or starting your own business is the biggest risk of all - but in the end it is all worth it.

The team at Nationwide Property Brokers are very excited to have John join the team. John brings extensive knowledge in coordinating house and land packages and thus helping people realise their dreams of building their own home. You will see John’s friendly face at our display centre for Orion on the Beach situated at 50 William St. It will be a tough place for John to spend time there. It will be a tough place for John to spend his working day, we hope those amazing view up the beautiful coastline towards Point Plomer won’t distract you too much!

Welcome aboard.

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture? I don’t know whether I’m creative, but I believe family is important. This is a family owned and operated business, so it’s important to make everyone feel welcome and treated the same. We also like to make sure our customer service is friendly and helpful 100% of the time.

If you could be mentored by another business leader or person of influence for one day, who would you choose?

Mmmm ... that’s a hard one. I’d have to say I have always admired Sir Richard Branson, from starting his own company at 16 and now owning 400; that is is a great achievement and would make for some good converstation over a beer or two.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled?

Online shopping by far. These days it’s just so easy to jump online and purchase whatever you need or want. It’s so important that people support local businesses and the communities they live in.

Johns thoughts on moving forward in business...

When it comes to creating (new ideas, products or processes) where do you get your inspiration? I pull a lot of inspiration from different countries around the world: “What they are doing, and how they are doing it?” then try and relate that to my situation to see how it can benefit what I am working on.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? I think one of the biggest challenges our local businesses are facing is the trend of online shopping and/or services. What do we do to keep the business local? I believe it’s about people and how you treat them; people will always see value in good service, and therefore the local person will always become the first option.

3 YOUR PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS 3 TRUSTED LOCALLY 3 KNOWN NATIONALLY

JOHN MCNEIL 1800 223 768 mobile: 0457 008 921 email: john@nationwidepropertybrokers.com web: www.nationwidepropertybrokers.com

All information contained herein is obtained from sources that we believe are reliable. We have no reason to doubt its accurateness and reliability, however, we cannot guarantee and do not warrant such to you. All interested parties should make reasonable enquiries and obtain professional financial and legal advice in relation to these enquiries. Interested parties should rely on these enquiries, and not the information proffered herein.

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PAUL TREVILLION - NEWSTATE FINANCE -

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? No. My business organises finance - loans for people and businesses to buy motor vehicles and equipment, so I strive to mitigate risk. This means finding the most appropriate terms, conditions and loan features and of course, locking in a low, low interest rate. Right now, our best interest rate for a new car loan is under 4.5%. A 4.5% interest rate certainly takes a lot of the risk out of financing a vehicle for my clients, and keeping them happy means they will likely return, which in the long run, also limits my business risk.

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture?

Often I have been able to secure a loan for someone who has struggled to get finance

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elsewhere by being a little more inventive and

allowed me to adapt my work to my lifestyle.

local business, and how do you think it

creative in my search for a solution.

I can now plug into the world of finance at

can be tackled? I know from my experience

Organising finance to buy a car, caravan,

any time and from anywhere. I love travelling

that time and trust have always been the

motorboat/bike or jet ski should be an easy

up and down the coast with my wife to visit

challenge of small business - that is having

and totally pleasant experience, and we try to

our three kids; we also go to lots of music

the time to find someone you trust to do the

create that for every client. Newstate Finance

festivals and occasionally I enjoy working from

job properly. The lion’s share of Newstate

has been doing this in Port Macquarie for 30

home, rather than in the Port office.

Finance’s commercial clients are repeat

years, and I attribute that longevity to the

When I first started this business, I employed

customers - buying a second delivery van, an

values that I bring to work every day. Treat

full-time typists and every application, every

additional truck or a replacement excavator.

people honestly, understand their needs

document, was sent back and forth via snail

I ensure that the time/trust challenge is met

and focus on building trust. It is a bit old

mail and approvals could easily take several

by prioritising their needs and maintaining

fashioned, but treating people as you would

weeks. These days applications are web based

their trust and loyalty by making the

want to be treated is the key. The most

and approvals are made by computers in just

borrowing process simple, efficient and

frequent feedback we get from our customers

seconds. Newstate Finance has been adapting

effective ... and as friendly as it can be.

is that ... “You made it all so easy”.

to change for decades and now operates with

The last 30 years have been productive and

How has your business changed in the

amazing efficiency.

enjoyable and have simply flown by ... so we

last three years? Modern technology has

What is one of the current challenges for

look forward to the next.

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STEVE NEWMAN - MCGRATH ESTATE AGENTS -

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LINDSAY MOLLER

JOHN VAN DER LEY

- PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO -

- ABUNDANCE LIFESTYLE & GARDEN -

Steve Newman is a highly-regarded real estate

How has your business changed in the last three years?

identity - a licensed selling agent and auctioneer who

Images have become more important than ever, and every business is unique. That’s why I provide quality, personalised and professional images that meet the individual needs of businesses and help them stand out from the crowd. I’m more than a photographer. I help businesses build their brand through visual storytelling, and work out the best way to use images to make an impact across websites, social media, printed materials and more. “Stock images” are fast becoming a thing of the past, as businesses realise that customers want the “real you”. If you want customers to listen to what you have to say, you need to build trust and credibility. There is no faster way to achieve this than through a combined use of still imagery and video.

When it comes to creating (new ideas, products or processes) where do you get your inspiration? We make our business our lifestyle and are constantly seeking new ideas and better ways to present our offer to the public. We travel a lot and subscribe to publications from leading designers and Garden Centres in the USA and Europe.

has played an active role in the local industry for well over 30 years.

What mindset do you carry with you in order to add value to your profession? I’ve always believed that if you look after the people, then the business will look after itself.

Often, I’m approached for advice, and I’m always happy to oblige.

Over the years I’ve accrued extensive experience across residential house and apartment sales, subdivisions, unit developments, property management, corporate real estate and many other aspects of the property industry, and I enjoy assisting buyers and sellers as much today as when I started.

How has your business changed over the last three years? There wouldn’t be many industries that evolve at the pace of the property market.

Three years ago, consumer confidence was shaky, home owners sat tight and buyers weren’t all that active.

Today the situation has totally reversed; interest rates are at record lows, the market is strong, buyer demand is high and prices are on the rise.

It’s a great time to be buying or selling real estate.

Lindsay, did you just say video? Yes, that’s right. After plenty of client requests, we have now expanded into film and video production. Video provides a great opportunity for businesses to capture the attention of their customers and create a connection with them - think interviews, testimonials, company and staff profiles and behind the scenes scenarios.

From real estate agency profiles to small business films, the opportunities are endless. The market is thriving on these short videos, and customers are eagerly eating them up. A creative 1-2 minute video can be used to great effect on websites, social media and all online marketing.

However, I do feel the business should express our individual creativity and as we progress, I believe this is what we are achieving, both in gardening and cuisine.

Through our subsidiary business - Vanderley Nursery growing wholesale plants, we gain continuous exposure to retail and landscaping businesses in NSW and Queensland.

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be a good leader? I believe leading by example is imperative.

I never expect a staff member to do something I wouldn’t do myself. Ours is a hands-on industry, and specific skills are required. Taking the time to train staff and giving them the opportunity to “own” their job and to share our goals is vital.

If you could be mentored by another business leader or person of influence for one day, who would you choose?

Graeme Ross (Better Homes and Gardens) has been an early mentor initially as a horticulture teacher and then a co-worker in my days teaching at Ryde TAFE. His passion and exuberance was infectious and has stayed with me to this day.

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TIM COPP

COPPY’S BUTCHER BLOCK What mindset or values do you carry

days of online shopping are being phased

with you to be a good leader? I was lucky

out, and people are starting to realise the

enough to work for another local business

importance of shopping local. At the end of

for 12 years before deciding to buy my own

the day, local businesses employ locals and

shop. It was there that I learnt a lot that has

also support other local businesses, as well as

helped me with my own business venture. I

supporting local sporting clubs.

am also lucky enough to work with a great

When it comes to creating (new ideas,

bunch of guys who also treat my business as

products or processes) where do you get

their own and go above and beyond with our

you inspiration? At Coppy’s Butcher Block

customers. I always have a happy and positive

we are lucky to have a great team of creative

outlook on my work, even when things don’t

people. We work well together and come up

go to plan.

with ideas independently and then put them

What is one of the current challenges for

together to create something amazing. We

local business, and how do you think it

also have a lot of creative customers who are

can be tackled? I think the biggest challenge

passionate about our business as well and

is getting locals to shop local. In Wauchope

give us lots of great ideas. Our customers

we are lucky enough to have a great range

love seeing something new in our window

of different shops and boutiques. I think the

displays.

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MICHAEL FOO

- FIRST NATIONAL PORT MACQUARIE What background experience do you bring Knowing they have entrusted me with the job of marketing and negotiating one of the to your current role? I have most important transactions they will had the opportunity to work decide on is a real privilege and such in sales/customer service For me, there a reward. across a broad range has always of industries. From How do you stay motivated? been such a rush international hotel chains As a father of five, I’d like to think t en m te of exci to the travel industry that the motivation is in built. re u’ yo n whe and manufacturing Certainly outside of my family handed a set of and distribution prior to though, my personal list of goals is keys to a client’s commencing my real estate always moving - one comes off, but home.” career in QLD in 2006, the one two always seem to replace it. constant has always been a focus If you could be mentored by another on high level of service to encourage business leader or person of influence for long term business relationships and the one day, who would you choose? Real estate ability to do this with a diverse client base. wise, definitely Tom Ferry. Tom has been voted #1

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Most rewarding part of your job? For me, there has always been such a rush of excitement when you’re handed a set of keys to a client’s home.

Real Estate Coach and is also a best selling author; he is a noted international speaker and really seems to speak my language!

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BOB KNUCKEY - MOISTURE CURE -

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? To stay alive and volatile, and especially to grow, a business must keep changing and adapting - and that generally poses some degree of risk, along with uncertainty and apprehension. Making no changes in your business is probably the greatest risk of all.

At Moisture Cure we seem to get out of our comfort zone at least once a month, forcing us to develop a whole new mindset. Just a few of those risks included: adding another sub-division to our company (FRAL Australasia); sourcing new suppliers; employing new staff with more knowledge than me; creating a new website; learning to do business outside Australia.

How has your business changed in the last three years? For many years Moisture Cure

focused on a domestic market and domestic products. Our decision in 2013 to consolidate our “niche” market ideology led to us taking on the Australasian distributorship with the Italian manufacturer FRAL. Then, witnessing a shift in customers’ buying habits and also detecting a change in our own market segment, we made another scary decision to enter a new market i.e. commercial/industrial grade dehumidifiers.

During this time our learning curve has been mammoth, as we are being forced to address unfamiliar issues, e.g. trading in different cultures, new technology, new banking systems, more complex logistics systems, international certification requirement and documentation etc. etc. Nevertheless, our core values remain the same, i.e. integrity, passion and a “can-do” attitude.

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CHUCK EDWARDS - BAOS AND BAGELS -

My business started because I’m passionate about and have an eye for different types of foods, especially that which is fashionable and on trend globally.

I plan to grow the business organically,

I was fortunate to grow up in a hospitality family and have travelled the world discovering amazing cuisine.

world to global levels, and I am sure I will

My business Baos and Bagels has got people talking and more importantly, it has been taken up fast - not least because I make products and there was zero competition in the area; it’s only some city locations in Australia where you can buy a good New York-style boiled bagel.

time fresh out of high school when I

I love the passion that is associated with food; thus, my hobby is my job, and it’s easy for me to go to work each day.

working, travelling and getting new ideas

as I am only 19 and have plenty of time to develop the business, and I know it will be a fun journey. I have watched my parents grow their businesses in the coffee probably do the same in my own time.

Other chefs inspire me, and I had a great moved to London to work at Kurobuta in Chelsea. After a few months, I had worked my way to head pastry chef, and I learnt quickly about life in a fast paced, high end restaurant kitchen. Right now I’m living my dream and I plan to continue my career by that I can pass on to my customers via their plate.

Grab a bagel today from your favourite local cafe, or rock on out to the factory on Fridays from 11am - 1pm @ baosand bageLs FACTORY: 30 Uralla Road, Port Macquarie Wholesale purchases contact: 02 6581 2677

www. baosand bagels .com.au

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PHILLIP BUTTERWORTH

- WRIGHTS -

- CARE SOLAR SOLUTIONS -

How has your business changed in the

What mindset or values do you carry

the launch of Care Solar Solutions in April this

last three years?

with you in order to be good leader?

year and now deal directly with householders.

Technology continues to play a large part

I’m extremely passionate about making

The timing is critical - the NSW Government’s

important here are to be flexible, to listen, and to be decisive. I find staff always have great ideas to assist your business, and therefore you should be always willing to listen to suggestions - which usually means

in our business, with online accounting

solar storage accessible to householders.

generous solar feed-in-tariffs end this year, and

systems being at the forefront of change.

Now more than ever, people want control

it is prompting thousands of solar customers

This has made it easier for clients to access

of their electricity consumption, and they

to investigate their battery storage options. We

information on their business, but has also

want their power from a sustainable source

have the solar solutions for householders.

made it easier for us to proactively review

at a reasonable price. Care Solar Solutions

Where do you get your inspiration when it

being flexible in assessing their ideas. I think from there, you need to be decisive, so that everyone is pushing in the same direction.

our client’s situation and advise them. A

embodies everything I stand for: availability of

comes to creating new ideas? Luckily I have

world class battery storage units, education

a great team around me who help steer Care

on solar solutions, and making sure we match

Solar Solutions’ creative direction, allowing

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful?

in Sydney, and saw that they were coming

the right products with a customer’s needs (we

me to focus on the day-to-day business

never sell a product that’s not needed!) I’ve

operations. The renewable energy industry

Always, but I think that the risks should be calculated. I think that you should always be prepared for the worst case scenario, and then assess the potential reward from

were decreasing. We had a quick phone

started this business from scratch, so the buck

has become a juggernaut. The technology

hookup to discuss the situation, and they

stops with me.

geniuses behind the likes of the BYD and LG

realised that they needed to start limiting

How has your business changed in the last

Chem energy storage units that we supply

their stock purchases to get them back on

three years? We extended our focus beyond

provide an endless source of inspiration, and I

track.

the business-to-business (B2B) market, with

cannot wait to see what they think of next.

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be a good leader?

The three main qualities I think are

that point.

92 greater port macquarie focus.

few months ago I looked at one of my clients using a cloud based system, who is into a slow sales period and their cash levels

G R E A T E R

PETER CRISTOFORO -LAURIETON TAXIS -

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be good leader? I’ve always tried to install leadership values from those who have inspired me in the past. Good communication is something I highly value. Being able to listen is just as important as delegating, and that’s where I try to find that perfect balance. Being confident and having a positive approach are also part of my leadership style. Sometimes in small business things don’t always go right or according to plan. I approach these problems by being calm and confident, which helps everyone work forward in a positive manner.

How has your business changed in the last three years?

Camden Haven is ever evolving. Being customer service focused, we’ve had to evolve with it. We feel we’re servicing a broader area than we have in the past. Whilst we consider Laurieton our main hub where we find most of our call volume, growing areas like Bonny Hills and Lake Cathie have made us realise that we need to be offering a more expansive service to allow for the growth. It is an area that has often been under serviced in the past, and we believe is part of the overall picture when it comes to fast, reliable transportation needs.

If you could be mentored by another business leader or person of influence for one day, who would you choose?

I’d have to say Sir Richard Branson. When it comes to personal branding, he truly is king. To hear what he says for just for one day would have a life lasting effect.

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ALEX COSWAY

KEVIN BLUNDELL

- REDSAND COMMUNICATIONS -

- KUMIAI RYU MARTIAL ARTS SYSTEM -

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? I haven’t yet met a successful business and/ or business owner who has not taken risks. Calculated risk taking allows untested ideas and goals to be nurtured, with the end result one that is vastly different than maintaining the status quo. Common examples of risk taking that businesses and leaders take on include developing and prototyping new products or services, expanding into new markets or additional locations, and more commonly, taking on new employees.

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to be a good leader? I believe a good leader is a person who is a clear communicator, prepared to be flexible, willing to work with their staff whilst encouraging their participation, regardless of their position. If staff have a clear direction, share your vision, are made a part of the process and they’re a contributor, then they will definitely be far more participative, productive and your business will be far more successful.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? The most significant challenge I see local businesses having to take on this year is taking advantage of NBN. The opportunity to save $$, improve efficiency, and adopt new technology has never been so great. My goal is assisting business leaders turn this challenge into increased profitability. When a business is more profitable, it allows further investment, which drives growth.

Do you think businesses need to take risks in order to be successful? Most definitely. If you are where you were five years ago, you have just maintained the status quo and have not challenged yourself and your staff to achieve more. Don’t have a Plan “B”, otherwise you have a plan for mediocrity. Certainly be calculated in your risks, but be brave and bold!“Imagine - Believe - Achieve”.

When it comes to creating (new ideas, products or processes) where do you get your inspiration?

For me, inspiration comes from fellow successful businesses and leaders. Attitudes are contagious, so surrounding yourself with successful people with bold ideas that conquer risks is a great start. As a young business owner, I’m always looking out for successful mentors who share their intrinsic innovative and inspiring aspirations.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? The way your business’ message is now conveyed to current and potential clients is a greater challenge as opposed to even five years ago! Traditional mediums for communication are rapidly changing and in this fast paced world of “it has to happen now”, you need to be far more creative in getting your message to cut through all the white noise!

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Jeremy is a creative entrepreneur … he’s not only a talented photographer, well known for capturing the fast-paced action of rally cars, but he also specialises in commercial and industrial photography AND he’s the inspiration behind local business Port Macquarie Web Design. With over 200 websites already in his business portfolio, Jeremy and his team are leaving their mark in the I.T world …

JEREMY ROGERS

- PORT MACQUARIE WEB DESIGN JEREMY IS A CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR … HE’S NOT ONLY A TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHER, WELL KNOWN FOR CAPTURING THE FAST-PACED ACTION OF RALLY CARS, BUT HE ALSO SPECIALISES IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AND HE’S THE INSPIRATION BEHIND LOCAL BUSINESS PORT MACQUARIE WEB DESIGN. WITH OVER 200 WEBSITES ALREADY IN HIS BUSINESS PORTFOLIO, JEREMY AND HIS TEAM ARE LEAVING THEIR MARK IN THE I.T. WORLD …

H

i Jeremy, it's been a couple of years since we caught up. Last time, we spoke about your photography business; you were busy capturing all the action at Rally Australia at the time! How's the photography world treating you these days?

Really well, thanks Jo. I now tend to specialise in commercial and industrial photography, which are both really interesting and challenging fields. I could be hanging out of a plane doing aerial photography one day, then shooting an ad campaign in a penthouse apartment the next.

You're also the brains and inspiration behind Port Macquarie Web Design.

What's the history of this business - what led to its creation?

I created my first website many years ago, long before the advent of Google and the iPhone! Before I knew it, I was creating one for a friend and then a friend of a friend, and that’s how the business grew. These days I have a great team of specialists working with me, including programmers, SEO experts and copywriters, who all share the same focus.

The majority of our clients seem to come from referrals or are repeat customers, and our business has already gone live with well over 200 websites. The world is so small today, and the power of networking is amazing. For instance, we recently completed a website for a cross-fit gym in Toronto, Canada, referred to us by a Sydney client for whom we had also designed a website.

What are some of the services Port 94 greater port macquarie focus.

Macquarie Web Design provides to clients?

We aim to create a perfect online solution for each client’s needs. From a new mobilefriendly responsive website to a makeover of an existing one, we can create a vibrant, new and totally individual look. In today’s modern world, the image that each client and each company projects is more important than ever before. This is particularly so for online presence as, in just a click of a button, a prospective client can leave one site and be instantly viewing its competitors. We've all seen some fairly ordinary looking websites or even many which fundamentally don't work properly - and poor sites put us off dealing with the company, don’t they?

In addition, we provide advice and setup assistance for social media profiles and marketing strategies. We also register domain names, offer excellent value web hosting and even design company logos, brochures, flyers and business cards. And of course, we offer great professional photography as well!

What do you feel are the points of difference your business offers?

We aim to create websites which stand out on the internet, and I think that’s where my personal background as a photographer really offers the visual edge over other web designers who may be great technically, but just don’t have artistic flair.

As a prime example, we recently designed two different websites for an international software company, which was full of expert programmers, but simply didn’t have the creative capacity to promote a stand-out web presence.

As a small business operator for many

years, I understand the time and the budget constraints affecting small business operators.

Digital marketing can be a real minefield, so I like to think that being able to talk to someone who understands these unique situations can be invaluable for other small business operators and can seriously help them to achieve their goals.

What businesses have you worked with to create new websites recently (both locally and further afield)?

Where to start? Locally, some of the recent ones have included Leichts Tyres and Auto, Port Macquarie Driving Range, Beachside Medi Spa, Seasalt Café, Port Macquarie Child Care and the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie. A little further afield, there have been the Seniors United Party of Australia and DDV Technologies in Sydney, then Sunrise Apartments in Forster, Compleat Angler, Macleay Valley Transport, Camping World and Kempsey Regional Support, in Kempsey, and many more.

We hear a lot of website-related terms thrown around these days, such as “SEO”.

What does this mean - and how can you help people with this?

“SEO” (Search Engine Optimisation) is one of the keys to the success of any website, and it has become crucial to ensure that a website is easily located. Without “SEO”, it is unlikely that a site will receive visitors from search engines. Each and every website must be correctly set up from the outset. They need to be mobile-friendly, with search engine friendly URLs, keywords, geographic location details and sitemaps, and that’s just the start. Each site then needs to adopt its own unique online marketing strategy, which can include social

media, Google maps, directory listings, blogs and so much more. It’s good to remember that, whatever approach is taken, it needs to be ethical. After all, Google isn’t just a search engine; it’s a reputation management system.

How can you help businesses raise their social media profile?

Online marketing can certainly be confusing and overwhelming. Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+, Instagram, YouTube, blogging - there are so many choices! At Port Macquarie Web Design, we help clients to plan their social media marketing strategy, to outline their goals and to determine the steps they will need to take to drive success. It could start with one simple question: “Before you start your business marketing campaign, do you know where your customers already congregate online?”

We always stress to clients that, as far as their social network is concerned, their own personal conversation and participation will never be enough to keep ongoing interest from potential customers, especially if they choose to create their own communities instead of joining preexisting ones. People need to find value in any interaction, and our clients need to provide ongoing reasons for those people to keep participating in their social networks.

Where can readers contact you or find out more about you?

Well, my website is great place to start: www.portmacquariewebdesigns.com.au or they can simply Google “Port Macquarie Web Design”.

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!

Thanks Jeremy.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

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focus_interview

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS minds

ht It’s where I boug of er on my first scho d an 18 year old, an as er be s ie or em m t ea it’s full of gr myself as a place where mily y fa and many of m come ve and friends ha years.” e th er together ov

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lenn, can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to your position of owner and manager of the Laurieton Hotel?

I grew up in Laurieton and started my career at ANZ Bank Port Macquarie, straight after I finished school. I moved to Sydney at 19 on a bank transfer and was lucky enough to meet a couple of great mentors, who got me off and running. During my twenties I held a bunch of different roles in banking and later in local government, which were all great, but didn’t inspire me much. By my late twenties I was sure I wanted to run my own business and spent lots of time looking at opportunities.

My criteria were to get a business that would allow me to live and work in the Hastings area, I wanted to be able to make good money, and I wanted to do something fun and interesting.

So in 2007 I took a huge leap and bought my favourite pub … Laurieton Hotel. It’s where I bought my first schooner of beer as an 18 year old, and it’s full of great memories as a place where myself and many of my family and friends have come together over the years.

At that stage I had never poured a beer, and my first day as owner was the first time I had walked behind a bar! It was a steep learning curve, and I think it was just the sort of challenge I needed at the time. It was a risky move, but one I am really pleased that I took.

The hotel industry has become my passion, and I can see myself being involved in the industry until I drop!

What is that you like the best about your role?

I like the variety in this role, and I enjoy the 96 greater port macquarie focus.

people I come into contact with.

There is no such thing as a typical day for a publican, and there is never a dull moment.

Publicans are heavily involved in such a broad range of activities, including event planning, supplier meetings, marketing, purchasing, public relations, performance management, budgeting, promotions, merchandising, and much more. We have to be good negotiators, and we have to be innovative. Of course, we are also very hands on with everything, from working behind the bar, running meals, cleaning tables, looking after customers … and of course, sampling the beer to make sure it tastes just right!

I’ve always found a lot of genuinely top people around the place. Many of our customers become our friends. People get to know who you are and take an interest in you.

It’s a community within a community, and I love that. If someone falls on hard times, people in pubs rally around and help out.

You have a big team of people who work for you within the bar, the bistro, the bottle shop and your accommodation.

What do you think are some of the important factors that employers need to consider when they are hiring and training staff?

If I have learned anything in this business, it’s that good staff are everything. I focus first and foremost on hiring nice people, not nice resumes. When I interview, I don’t ask all the normal questions everyone is used to, because people can programme themselves to answer them, and you can often learn nothing real about the applicant. I prefer to have an open conversation and try to get to know the person, and I find this approach reveals the most. It is

far more important to me to find a person that will fit in and be happy working with us, than to find a person with the right experience and training. We will give them the training and time to develop. It’s all about getting the right fit!

What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced running your business, and how have you overcome them?

There are always challenges running this business, and I have had some doozies over the years! Probably the toughest ongoing challenge is that the cost of everything keeps going up pretty sharply, and we are unable to fully pass that on. If we did, it would price us out of the market … People wouldn’t pay. In the decade I have had here, just about everything’s cost has gone through the roof, yet the price of a schooner of beer has hardly increased at all.

It’s a constant battle, but we try to wring every dollar out of every stream of the business that we possibly can, negotiate with suppliers and keep looking for opportunities.

Some of the other challenges in our industry include legislative changes such as smoking restrictions, bans on takeaway after 10pm, the introduction some years ago of a new tax on premixed drinks. All of these challenges have impacted our business. We just roll with the punches and hang in there!

What do you think is the single most important factor in running a successful, regionally based business?

Get a good team of advisers behind you.

My support team includes my accountant,

insurance broker, solicitor and business consultant, and they are enormously important to my success. Their input helps with key decision making. No matter how good you are, you can’t do it on your own, and having the right team has helped me navigate through so many challenges and has helped keep me on the front foot.

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

Justin Hemmes of the Merivale Group: one of the best today in the hotel, bar and restaurant business. He is a real innovator in the industry, and I would love to pick his brains.

He’s quite a young guy who was lucky enough to come from a very wealthy family and get his start, but he has really done a great job and has some of the best venues in Australia in his 50 plus venue portfolio.

John Singleton - self-made entrepreneur known for embracing the “Aussie-occer” style! He’s old school, loves a beer and a bet, a straight talker, larrikin, knows his way around pubs; he’s got plenty of runs on the board. I imagine the conversation would be great fun, and he seems like someone I would relate to!

James Packer - as far as I know he doesn’t have any pubs in his portfolio (only casinos!) but he does have plenty of money. My plan would be to try to talk him into funding my dream of buying a stable of iconic regional pubs and breathing new life into them. He could fund the venture, and I would run it.

Seems like a good idea to me!

Thanks so much for your time, Glenn.

“

ALL NAMES WE GIVE TO OUR GENERATIONS, AS IF WE ARE ALL DEFINED BY AGE. PERHAPS WE ARE. BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, PERHAPS ALL HAVE SOMETHING TO OFFER EACH OTHER.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

He talks of the company having a mentality constantly searching for a better idea or way of doing things. He encourages us to look at how others do things as a way of taking those ideas, embedding them within our own processes, and perhaps even improving upon them.

Importantly, he believes that those who take the risks when seeking innovation should not necessarily be punished if things don’t work out exactly as planned.

As we know, some innovations don’t work and in fact, many will fail and cost the business money.

Risk taking seems to be more a preserve of the young. The thrill encourages the young to push boundaries, to try something new. That rush of adrenalin, however, is not necessarily something that those of us with a few more years under the belt seek.

But it leads me to think that there is a certain complementarity that exists between the generations. Our roles are different; but each benefits from the other.

For those of us with a little bit more experience and in leadership positions, our role is more about creating a space for the young to experiment, thrive and to grow, thereby harnessing their energy and enthusiasm. In this way, earlier generations are not standing in the way of the younger generation; they are, through their guidance and wisdom, creating the space for them. The old get things done harnessing the energy of the young.

The young receive the counsel to ensure their energy produces positive outcomes.

In Port Macquarie, our burgeoning tertiary education sector means we have a growing opportunity to test this thesis.

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I

t is common to hear the phrase “old white male” used as a pejorative term - more a sneering put down.

One can’t deny that there has been an intrinsic sexism over the millennia as our civilisation has evolved. However, there may be a need to think harder about how we value age and experience.

Those who have led exemplary lives, who have met challenges and achieved great things, are those to whom we should turn when seeking guidance in our own lives.

The Romans knew this. Their senate was a legislative council that helped guide the republic and later, their emperors. There was a qualifying age to be admitted to the senate.

Not just any young whipper snapper could gain admission. In fact, “senate” is derived from the Latin word “senex” meaning an old man. I don’t think it was an insult in those days.

It will be apparent to readers that “senex” is also the Latin root for the word “senile”, but we won’t go there.

The point is, we look to people with experience for guidance to get things done - not just those with enthusiasm.

In business, we should clearly do the same.

When faced with challenges, we sometimes need to step back and take heed of those who have faced similar circumstances.

Jack Welch, the former CEO of General Electric, has led a great company and written many books. We could do worse than listen to some of his lessons.

For example, on the subject of innovation, his insights really make some sense. To distil his thinking into a few words does not do him justice, but his approach is about culture.

Ask Greg

business

GEN X, Y, NEXT, BOOMER, FRUGALS

Q

My brother and I are preparing So 11-12 weeks is to move our 86 year-old mother probably the kind of to be closer to us in Brisbane. lead time you’ll need.

Comments on your website At present, the average number of days taken for suggest you’ve handled this situation quite property to sell in Port Macquarie is 59, so you a few times, so we’re hoping you could help will need to better this to achieve a sale by the us take some of the stress out of this end of November. move. Her new villa up here Bear in mind, the initial sale price set won’t be available until on your Mum’s unit will affect the the end of November, so response, and the number of rt when should we put Take comfo potential buyers stimulated to ing Mum’s two bedroom from know ou are inspect and commit to the unit in East Port on that what yachieve purchase. the market? Thanks, wanting to with good Recently Kim and I assisted , Suzy P. is possible nd an a lovely lady who was keen A. Suzy, Well done on planning a d agent to move closer to family over e c supporting your mum experien e. in Perth; we managed to sell id s through this move. I agree, on your her home in the first week of getting the timing right marketing, which was great news will be an important part of for her. making sure your Mum’s move is And just last month we helped a recently smooth and stress free. widowed lady co-ordinate the sale of her home In this situation it’s best to work back from her with flights she’d booked for her return to the anticipated move-in date, once you’re confident U.K. the completion date for her new home is realistic.

Take comfort from knowing that what you Taking into account the state of the Port are wanting to achieve is possible, with good Macquarie market, I would suggest you allow planning and an experienced agent on your side. one week to fully prepare your Mum’s unit, so Contact me any time for a chat. it’s spick and span, ready for sale and all the Answers are general comment and readers documentation is in place, then a further four should always seek their own independent weeks for an effective marketing campaign to professional advice. find the most suitable buyer.

Greg Trembath is Principal Licensee at Greg After offer and acceptance with an exchange of Trembath Real Estate Licensed Real Estate contracts achieved, the usual time to complete the sale is six weeks in NSW. Agent - Licensed Auctioneer.

MINDING YOUR

business

Ask Greg

”

Greg Trembath answers your real estate questions.

Hadyn Oriti.

MINDING YOUR

focusrealestate

Here was I, recently widowed, wanting to go back to the U.K. I had never sold a property in Australia and had no idea how to go about it.

Everyone I asked said, “Use Greg Trembath”, so I did.

He could not have been more helpful. Answered all my questions and led me through the whole process step by step. Really, there were no steps; he did everything. No stress, except for what to pack. I would recommend him every time! Maggie Brown.

gregtremb th REAL ESTATE

greater port macquarie focus. 97

you want living close to you.

We have been thinking

focusrealestate

Hadyn Oriti with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

G Greg T Trembath b h answers nswers uestions. your real estate questions.

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

Property guide

August FOCUS features talented local builder Anthony Shipway of Shipway Constructions - Anthony is also one of our Men in Business cover boys! Chrissy Jones caught up with Anthony for a chat about his business and had the pleasure of viewing some of his recent builds ‌

98 greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode.

ABOUT THE BUILDER

T

ell us about your business …

Shipway Constructions specialises in custom homes, difficult builds and difficult sites, and major renovations including bathrooms and kitchens. We are a growing building company, building locally for nearly eight years.

Working hard to build a good reputation for quality and professionalism, we have a good team of guys and are constantly looking to achieve a higher standard of finish.

How many people do you employ?

We employ 13 guys and have a group of subbies and suppliers whom we recommend on every build. In the office is myself, Kodie

and Meredy helping clients with interior design and admin, and Helen is on the books.

How has your business evolved over the years?

We have gone from three carpenters working on whatever we could, to building homes that we love to put our name to.

The projects are getting larger and more challenging, but we like different!

You have a new software program for your customers; how will this help with the building process?

At Shipway Constructions we use the world’s best online building app to make your experience easy and hassle-free - the best

building experience with Buildertrend - FOR NEW HOMES AND EXTENSIVE RENOVATIONS. Buildertrend brings your whole building world together in one powerful cloud system.

One platform, any device, any time, everyone connected.

This clever construction management software provides real-time 24/7 access to construction scheduling, change orders, documents, photos, warranty management, homebuyer selections and much more. We love using Buildertrend, to bring communication, collaboration and documentation to your fingertips.

How do prospective clients contact you?

We are in the final stages of the website construction and a revamp of the Facebook page. When you’re driving around Port Macquarie, you might see the big “Shipway Constructions” signs out the front of our projects, and we’d love for those thinking of building to check out our work or stop and say hello. Our email is on our site signs, as well as our contact numbers.

We showcase three magnificent properties - 3 The Grange, 16 Coastlands Place and 53 Swift Street. Each a wonderful build is a testament to the Anthony’s eye for exacting detail and precision.

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focusabode.

16 COASTLANDS PLACE ANTHONY AND WIFE KODIE’S OWN HOME, 16 COASTLANDS PLACE IS A TRUE MEASURE OF ANTHONY’S STYLE AND EXACTING WORKMANSHIP.

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he three level home is a standout in the quiet cul-de-sac, and being positioned high on a sloping block, it takes full advantage of its footprint. A modern mix of exterior finishes and fixtures, including Easylap James Hardie Surf Mist wall panels, rendered brickwork by M F Render & Texture in Dulux Domino black and vertical hardwood timber screening, all blend well with the tropically landscaped gardens.

Entry to the home is via a rendered brick wall that conceals polished concrete steps leading to a portico; a cantilevered roof line overhead adds further appeal to the exterior. A wide timber and glass panel entrance door opens into the expansive foyer that is filled with light from a void that reaches to the second level and a bank of windows above. Southern Beech hardwood

100 greater port macquarie focus.

flooring underfoot is easy-care, as well as attractive, setting the theme for the home and leading you up wide timber treads to the living areas of the secondlevel.

LOUNGE/DINING/KITCHEN At the top of the stairs you find an open plan lounge, dining, kitchen space that is the perfect setting for entertaining or sitting back with the family in a relaxed atmosphere. The lounge area is very comfortable, with a stunning feature being the Domino wall panelling that has a custom-built alcove for the wide screen TV. Adjacent is the dining room, conveniently placed alongside the kitchen.

Old Lake Joinery have designed and installed the kitchen, a fantastic layout. An island bench divides the kitchen and dining area, plus gives a spot for food prep and acts as a breakfast bar

with seating on one side. Under bench cabinetry on both sides and a spot for the dishwasher adds to the practicality. The bench-tops and splash backs in the kitchen are a stylish addition Statuario Quantum Quartz.

The back wall of the kitchen houses a double stainless steel sink, perfectly positioned beneath a window allowing plenty of natural light; it is centrally placed in the bench-top, alongside a Miele oven and cook-top. Soft close drawers and storage cabinets under-bench and overhead complement the butler’s pantry, that is tucked away to the side.

Easy access from the kitchen/dining is provided through glass stacker sliding glass doors, from Mid Coast Windows, to the front balcony on one side and the outdoor entertaining area on the other. Roller blinds have been supplied and

installed by Topstitch on all sliding glass doors throughout the home, allowing for privacy when desired. The balcony utilises an innovative product from Fastplast Building Supplies - foam panelling and with an added small glass balustrade top, gives protection from the elements.

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING AREA Reminiscent of a tropical resort, the outdoor entertaining area is a stunner. Travertine pavers, from Amber Tiles, are a non-slip, attractive surface under the alfresco outdoor dining space and as the pool surround. Constructed by Anthony and his team, the pool area adds to the relaxation factor of the outdoor space. Frameless glass balustrade encasing the pool and tropical plantings add to the tropical feel.

SHOWER ROOM Cleverly placed, the shower room is handy to

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16 COASTLANDS PLACE

the outdoor entertaining area and utilises space under the stairway to the top level. Hexagon, honeycomb patterned tiles on three walls, a frameless glass door on the shower, stainless steel fittings, a timber look laminate wall hung vanity with mirror above and an above bench rectangle shaped hand basin add to the amenities.

MEDIA ROOM/LAUNDRY/HOME OFFICE Wrapping around to the rear of the build, the remainder of the first floor comprises a media room, laundry and home office. The media room has soft carpeting, ceiling fan, built-in storage, vertical windows with white shutters from Topstitch and integrated music and airconditioning.

Having access to the outside drying area, the laundry is well thought out. Non-slip tiling underfoot, two x linen/storage cupboards, marble look splash back behind the laundry bench cabinetry and a deep stainless steel tub - the laundry is very functional.

A custom designed home office gives Anthony and Kodie a comfortable work area to suit their needs. The work station is positioned under a wide window that has adjustable shutters for light direction and ocean views; built-in cupboards with plenty of shelving gives a space to hide away the paperwork when not needed, and a ceiling fan, downlighting and timber flooring all add to the comfort.

TOP LEVEL Ascend another flight of beautifully handcrafted timber stairs with frameless glass balustrade to the top level, which comprises the family bedrooms. The master suite has a walkthrough his and hers custom-built wardrobe; each separate robe comprises hanging, shelving and drawer provisions. A full length mirror one end and a window the other with adjustable shutter, plus downlighting makes for a great dressing room.

The master bedroom is spacious and light filled. Three glass stacker sliding doors open out to a private balcony, boasting lovely ocean views.

The adjoining ensuite has his/hers shower roses,

off white hexagon wall tiling in the honeycomb pattern in the shower recess and on three walls, with light grey wall and floor tiling on the remainder. Wall mounted timber look vanity with above bench basin, large vanity mirror and black fittings and fixtures add a contemporary feel.

Three generous sized bedrooms comprise the remainder of the top level; all have plush carpeting, built-in robes, ceiling fans and ducted air-conditioning. A family bathroom services all expertly with a deep, rectangle bath and shower recess provided, as well as a large wall mounted vanity. The Velux skylight above allows in plenty of natural light, complementing the Statuario Quantum Quartz wall tiling.

BATHROOMS | INDOOR LIVING | OUTDOOR

indoor + outdoor

PORT MACQUARIE

Proud Tiles Supplier Shipway Constructions

193 Lake Road

(02) 6581 5066

www.ambertiles.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 101

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AN EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN THAT IS AT ONE WITH ITS TRANQUIL BUSHLAND SURROUNDS, THE HOME IS APTLY NAMED “THE CHAMELEON”.

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omplemented by a low maintenance garden of river rock, native grasses and trees - it is reminiscent of a river bank setting. Exterior claddings are a mix of horizontal corrugated Colorbond sheeting, James Hardie Matrix cladding and recycled painted double brickwork all monument in colour; the home has a modern industrial feel blending perfectly with nature.

Stepping stones lead through the garden to an entry portico that welcomes you into the home through the glass framed entrance door.

Upon entry you are greeted by a stunning glass atrium in the foyer; Southern Beech hardwood flooring underfoot steps you up right, taking you to the media room, children’s bedrooms, family bathroom and master

bedroom suite.

BEDROOMS/MEDIA ROOM Bedroom one and two are mirror images of each other; both have plush carpeting, custom-built loft beds, three doored built-in wardrobes, toy shelving and purpose built study nooks. Both bedrooms have beautiful outlooks through large windows to the surrounding bushland. The media room opposite has Southern Beech flooring, a feature wall of recycled brickwork and views to the bushland. A great spot for the kids.

FAMILY BATHROOM Unique, the family bathroom is a fantastic layout. Separated into three zones, it has an oval freestanding bath from Fishers Plumbing Supplies placed under a picture window

overlooking the rainforest inspired garden. Phil from Saw Cut has crafted a custom concrete wall hung vanity. Tucked away behind the vanity wall is a shower and separate WC. Floor to ceiling tiling, downlighting and pendant lights are incorporated.

MASTER BEDROOM/ENSUITE/WALK IN ROBE Timber flooring continues into the master suite, walk-in his/hers robe and borders the bedroom carpet. It then wraps around to the ensuite, a smaller version of the family bathroom complete with a crafted wall hung vanity, separate WC and shower recess with charcoal powder coated towel rails. A recycled brick wall is the feature of the spacious master bedroom, with pendant lighting and feature

Proud supporters of Shipway constructions

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convict bricks.

KITCHEN/DINING/LOUNGE Left of entry is the main living area - kitchen, dining and lounge. The kitchen from Old Lake Joinery is ideal. Comprising four sections, incorporating both Caesarstone and timber benchtops, timber veneer cabinetry fronts in three shades of grey, and plenty of storage, each serves a purpose.

An island bench divides the kitchen from the dining, has double sided cabinetry, microwave nook and a timber breakfast bar. A gas cooktop is housed in the bench-top of back wall cabinetry, and a glass splash-back gives an easy clean surface in the food prep area alongside.

The square set double kitchen sink is moulded into its own stone benchtop on the

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side wall and has a landscape window above looking onto the atrium. Tucked away behind is the butler’s pantry, Southern Beech has been used as the benchtop, and the laminate fronts are continued on the under-bench cabinetry.

The dining room features an expansive 14 seat dining table and a cosy fireplace specifically placed to enable heating of the entire home. A custom formed concrete hearth and recycled bricks around the fireplace add a warm industrial feel. Ascend timber stairs to the comfortable cantilevered lounge. A mix of timber and carpet flooring, an industrial ceiling fan and directional lighting are present, along with display niches for artwork. An expanse of

windows on three sides allow views over the 2.5 acre property and the river inspired pool.

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING AREA/ AMPHITHEATRE/FIRE-PIT/POOL Triple stacker sliding glass doors open out from the dining room to the outdoor entertaining area.

Step down timber stairs to the amphitheatre that edges an in-ground fire-pit. Cozy family nights by the fire are a real treat, with a built in sound system and portable projector and wide timber bench seating.

With the look of a sunken jetty, the pool area blends smoothly into the landscape; it seems that it has always been there as a

natural water course. Edged with pavers that look like timber sleepers, having a seating alcove and a shallow spot, the pool is family friendly.

GUEST QUARTERS/RUMPUS Fully self-contained, the guest quarters are a home away from home for visitors.

Having two generous sized bedrooms, a full bathroom with disabled access, grab rails where required, shower, WC and wall hung vanity plus a full kitchen; this separate addition to the home can be dual purpose. Yes, a very comfortable private accommodation for guests, but it can also adapt to a great rumpus room easily enlisted for entertaiining. A bank

of glass sliding stacker doors open onto the outdoor entertainment area, so all becomes one if wanted. The overall design showcases raw materials, including polished concrete and timber floors, recycled convict bricks, concrete formed vanities and river stones in the swimming pool. Industrial concepts are incorporated through the use of returnededge roof lines, commercial framed glazing, integration of metal and matrix cladding, with painted brickwork and high ceilings.

Everything about this home focuses on lifestyle and seamless integration between the indoors and outdoors - truly one with nature!

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53 SWIFT STREET ANOTHER EXCEPTIONAL BUILD FROM SHIPWAY CONSTRUCTIONS, 52 SWIFT STREET IS AN ELEGANT COMBINATION OF OLD WORLD CHARM AND COASTAL LIVING.

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complete knock down and re-build, Anthony was asked by owners to give them a home that had a modern look, but retained a country feel, as they were having a coastal change of residence, moving closer to the grandkids and down-sizing.

The home is split into four levels and is a very functional design from Collins W Collins. Comprising a main living area taking in the modern, timber accented kitchen from Keena Kitchens, lounge and dining on one level with an external living area featuring a decorative timber screen, all flows seamlessly from the internal living area, creating a fabulous indoor/outdoor entertaining space handy to the kitchen.

The fireplace is surrounded by natural stone, exuding an elegant warmth to the living areas, that is enhanced by the polished Blackbutt timber floors that are the choice underfoot throughout the living and main traffic areas of the home. Timber treads and glass balustrade with a timber top rail is provided for safety on all stairways.

A laundry, workshop and garage on another, two family or guest bedrooms, bathroom with tiled ceiling, separate WC and study on another and the master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in-robe on the top level. All bedrooms are very comfortable, being carpeted, having built-in robes and have French doors opening onto their own timber verandahs with white picket fence balustrade overlooking the front gardens.

The timber verandahs with classic white picket balustrades, painted timber frames surrounding the windows and French doors and a well-balanced integration of horizontal cladding, render and natural stone finishes all combine to present a modern contemporary, yet country ambience to the exterior.

Landscaping was a big finisher to the overall look of the home. The corner site is beautifully landscaped with low-maintenance and low-impact planting and pathways, with a clear connection to the rear yard.

The home has delivered the owners’ desire for a home with a country feel, yet designed for easy, coastal living.

FROM THE BUILDER Everyone loves Swift St! I have had so many people give me great feedback. The stone feature is a real eye catcher and gives the facade extra depth. It is a great classic design using a mix of materials and textures that creates a very homely feel.

Reece Port Macquarie proudly supports Shipway Constructions

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FROM THE DESIGNER JAMES COLLINS, COLLINS W COLLINS PTY LTD | AWARD-WINNING BUILDING DESIGNERS

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ollins W Collins Building Designers, owned and operated by brothers Derek and James Collins, are your local award-winning building designers.

Based in Port Macquarie, Derek and James Collins have been designing new homes for the Mid North Coast and surrounding regional areas since 2003.

Collins W Collins have been working hand in hand with Anthony Shipway since the inception of Shipway Constructions. James Collins of Collins W Collins says, “It is a pleasure to work with Shipway Constructions. Anthony’s mindset to make people’s dreams a reality allows our firm

to think outside the box, with unique design styles. Visualising a unique design, to see it built in to an extraordinary home, is always a highlight of our work.”

Passionate about building design, Derek and James strongly believe in delivering an individually tailored service specific to their client’s needs.

Designing these three vastly different designs for Anthony was inspiring and challenging to roll it in to one. There were koalas to consider, height constraints to incorporate, and steep slopes, all of which were overcome with alternative design options.

Collins W Collins specialises in custom designs, with a guiding philosophy of “individual designs for individual people”. Their building designs centre on meeting their clients’ individual requirements and lifestyle, whilst utilising a site’s characteristics to its best advantage. A home that has been designed to address all elements of a particular site will be more enjoyable to live in, and will ultimately be a greater financial investment for your future.

The extensive range of services that Collins W Collins offers has been developed to create a “one-stop-shop” for those choosing to design and build their new home. Clients benefit from

an established network of local consultants, builders and trades. This provides a smooth transition between the stages of design, Council approval and construction.

Collins W Collins has the expertise and experience to effectively complete projects of all sizes, from small-scale residential renovations, to large scale cluster housing developments, along with commercial and industrial fitouts and developments.

Want to see more of what Collins W Collins do? Head on over to our new website: collinswcollins.com.au and have a look at more of our projects in the Project Gallery.

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Apollo blinds Have moved Vessel maintenance and mooring If you have a problem with a boat, a jetty, a pontoon, a swing mooring or just about anything to do with the river - All Marine Work can probably help.

Brian Lambert is well known in the maritime industry in Port, as he has been a commercial skipper here for nearly 20 years.

If you then include his work overseas and other parts of Australia, he has over 36 years’ experience. After Brian and Alison sold the Chinese Junk and Port Venture, Brian bought a small work punt with a 1.5 ton crane.

“I have used it for all sorts of jobs, installing new jetties, removing old ones, installation and servicing of moorings, installing poles for pontoons and jetties. Straightening leaning poles is keeping me busy at the moment.”

With Brian’s background as a Skipper, Dive Master and mechanic, he can help or give advice on most of your maritime problems.

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After 11 years on Lake Road, Apollo Blinds has made a move to a new location. We are now situated at 20 Acacia Avenue, the new building in place of the kitchen company which burnt down a few years ago.

Our new location has been designed from scratch, so it suits our needs perfectly - it is so much more fresh and modern than our old showroom. We are so excited to be there and to welcome existing and new customers to come and see our new look.

Add to that the fact that we now have easier access (from Lake road or Fernhill Road) and have much easier customer parking; Apollo Blinds customers no longer need to battle the Lake Road traffic and roadworks to get to us.

We have incorporated a kids’ play area, which showcases our cute kids’ blinds fabrics. Parents can bring the kids along to play while we discuss their blinds needs.

Our products, staff and prices are still as good as ever - just in a much more inviting and relaxing location. Call into our new showroom at 20 Acacia Avenue to see our range for yourself.

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

PERCIVAL PROPERTY LAUNCHES “PERCIVAL PROPERTY TV”

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n what is a first for the region, the locally owned family business has employed a full time videographer to showcase their clients’ properties and introduce Port Macquarie and its lifestyle to out of area buyers.

Wanting to excel in the marketing of property, Principals Michelle and Michael Percival are establishing their business as an information source.

“Real estate is an interest and passion for the majority of people,” said Michelle.

“Being client-centric, creative, innovative and striving for continuous improvement, we have firmly established ourselves as leaders in our industry. We believe our keen understanding of the market, our unique approach and dedication to our client’s needs gives us a great platform on which to continually build,” she explained.

Having established the sales office a brief two and a half years ago, Michelle and her team of only three other selling agents have already created a real buzz in the property market and established themselves as one of the leading sales offices in greater Port Macquarie.

recommended real estate agency in Port Macquarie by independent website ratemyagent.com.au. To us this is a real indication we are on the right track!”

“We never stop learning and we never stop seeking improvement,” agreed Michael Percival, whose team goes to great lengths to raise the bar in residential property management services.

estate professionals to help them achieve their end goal. This was to develop a property management office offering a premium service and then expand with the addition of a sales office.

“Underpinning our evolving plan for Percival Property is providing a superior client experience and excellence in real estate as both a service and conduit for information,” said Michelle.

“The Percival team, across both the Sales and Property Management offices, are congruent with our guiding “Percival Property TV principles - always will be constantly evolving innovate, never stop so keep watching… Sign developing as an up to the e-newsletter at individual, team or percival.com.au to receive business, treat our a link to our weekly update, clients with the utmost subscribe to the Percival Property TV channel on respect and care, and youtube.com for new move forward with a content alerts, or follow us common goal, which is on Facebook!” to be the best at what we do on every level.”

“To that end, the introduction of Andrew Watts as a full time videographer to work with our teams will add a new and heightened dimension to the level of marketing we create for our clients and the information services we will now be in a position to provide.”

“We do work hard for our results,” said Michelle

With more than 30 years of experience in the property industry, Michael and Michelle spent much of that time locally establishing a successful real estate franchise.

Andrew will be a familiar face to many in the region having worked with Prime7 News for 22 years as a cameraman and operated his own video production company filming real estate and events.

“However, one of our proudest achievements comes from being awarded the most

In 2010 they realised a dream to create their own brand and selected a team of real

“The Percival teams are made up of people with diverse and different talents, but all with

SALES OFFICE 106 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 8606 www.percival.com.au

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICE 4/111 William Street, Port Macquarie P. 02 6583 7499 E. info@percival.com.au

the same passion and love of the real estate industry,” said Michelle.

“Our marketing professionals come from mixed backgrounds ranging from the television industry, newspaper journalism, public relations and real estate sales - each of which are dedicated to developing campaigns that generate optimum results for our clients and an overall exceptional experience.”

The Percival teams work to produce an unforgettable film event highlighting property features and the remarkable lifestyle Port Macquarie offers.

“Video cuts through the market clutter. We have found the emotional connection this creative marketing provides is a key ingredient to a successful property campaign whether the property is for sale, or for lease “Buyers and tenants want as much information as possible before they emotionally invest in a property. Providing an intimate tour of a home and showcasing the location, people will not only fall in love with its features but the lifestyle it offers as well,” Michelle explained.

“As we welcome Andy on board and move forward with our creative plans, we invite you to tune into Percival Property TV! At present you can view our property films and weekly updates and as we progress there will be a catalogue of informational videos.”

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Estelle Gough from Port Macquarie Landcare

The Federal Election has been and gone and we finally have a winner – but only just.

With the Coalition narrowly getting across YOUR AREA - EMERALD DOWNS the line, we can expect ‘negative gearing’ will This area has some of the largest homes in not be disadvantaged, based on the party’s Port Macquarie, many with premium fit-outs. campaign promises.

Interestingly, our sales records show that more I imagine a number of investors would than one-third of all sales involve a property have dropped out of the market following containing a pool – one of the highest ratios Mr Shorten’s election promise to in the town. remove ‘negative gearing’ as The median sale price for the we know it. These investors area of the last six months is should return now, $587,500 (compared to the placing more pressure Should you town $537,500) and the on our local real estate be selling average days in this area market – great news this spring we art to sell a home is 73 days for ‘sellers’. suggest you st r which is higher than the The number of preparing you.” town average of 59. Statistics properties for sale in property now show that a home sold over Port Macquarie has $700,000 will take longer to dropped again to only sell than those under this value.

352. This low supply of There are approximately 920 properties combined with more properties in this area and 26 have sold buyers in the market equates to the over the last six months (representing 2.83 per potential for fantastic results this spring. cent of all properties) and currently there nine Over the last two months the median properties for sale. price for Port Macquarie Houses has been Being towards the top end of the Port $537,500 and $525,000. The consistency of Macquarie market, this area should perform these figures reinforces that the spring selling better when interest rates are lower. season should be a good one for local vendors.

Remember that well prepared and presented 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 properties will get more attention, hence a information contained in this article and readers should make and rely better price. Should you be selling this spring we on their own enquiries as to the correctness of such information.

Source: corelogic.com.au suggest you start preparing your property now.

“

E

Search for David Plews First National Real Estate Agent

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UPDATE

WINTER MENU EVER WONDERED HOW OUR WILD CREATURES GET BY IN THE WINTER MONTHS?

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he bush may seem dormant, but look closer and there is a lot of lifegiving action going on with native plants.

In July, for instance, Tallowwood trees (Eucalyptus microcorys) are covered in creamy white blossoms that contrast with the bright green leaves and brown bark.

Eucalypts are so tall you may not notice the flowers, but you can’t miss the sound of lorikeets feeding on Tallowwood nectar. Talking and squawking, their voices are as loud as their colours!

And on the ground below there’s a mess of chewed up flowers, bits of leaf and twigs - a giveaway that there’s a party going on in the branches.

Also flowering in winter is the less common Forest Red Gum (E. teretecornis). Its bark is white with grey patches, above a sock of rough dark bark. The birds love its white blossoms too, scattering them on the ground below as they feed.

The flowers of both these trees sustain birds, insects and possums. In addition, their leaves are food for koalas, so they are very valuable indeed.

Banksias flower in winter too, growing in low nutrient soils yet miraculously producing lots of nectar in the cold months. Coast Banksia (Banksia integrifolia) is now loaded with golden flower heads and Hairpin Banksia (B. spinulosa) is decorated with big orange blooms.

Not only do honeyeaters love them, flying foxes also feed on the flowers, so both the day shift and the night shift are catered for.

Mother Nature has not forgotten the fruit eaters though. Right now there’s plenty of

indigo fruits on Blueberry Ash trees (Elaeocarpus reticulatus). These lovely trees with serrated leaves and white bell flowers deserve a place in many gardens. Their seeds are only likely to germinate after being conditioned by passing through a digestive tract.

Pigeons are enjoying the succulent black berries of Native Hydrangea (Abrophyllum ornans). The fruits hang in clusters among the large glossy green leaves of this attractive rainforest shrub, which likes shade and moist soils.

Pink fruited Lillypilly (Acmena smithii) is also providing winter bird food, which humans can eat too, though it can be rather bland. The tree has shiny green leaves and pretty flowers, so it’s a popular garden plant too.

The wattles are also starting to add colour to the bush as well as providing food, especially pollen.

Myrtle Wattle (Acacia myrtifolia), a little shrub with delicate pale blossoms, is one of the first to flower. Coast Golden Wattle (A. longifolia) is starting to flower: its gorgeous yellow blooms light up the beachside bushland, and are a welcome source of food.

Fortunately for the herbivores, native Kangaroo grass (Themeda australis) has new growth now. If you are up early, you’ll see wallabies enjoying it.

It may be more challenging for wild creatures to find food now, but please don’t feed them.

Wildlife carers say it can result in sharing diseases, and changing animal behaviour in a negative way.

Contributed by Julie Ho.

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KAREN BURKE ARCHITECT Residential architect Karen Burke brings 30 years of industry experience to the local area. She shares her passion for design, showing that a home is more than just walls, floors, bricks and mortar ...

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i Karen. You recently re-located to the region, but are a local originally. Can you tell us about your local history?

Our family moved to Port Macquarie from Bondi in the early ‘60s. We lived on a farm at Lighthouse Beach, which was essentially made up of dairy farms and market gardens.

My father, Ken Underwood, was a builder, which was probably where I established my interest in architecture. He bought and developed various parcels of land in the Port Macquarie and Lake Cathie areas. My mother, Norma, had a bright green ice cream truck at one stage, “Uncle Olly”. She parked it on the spare block adjacent to the old Amusement Centre, near the corner of Clarence and Short Street, during school holidays. It was apparently a very lucrative business. My brother and I appreciated it; free ice creams and a regular handful of 5 cent pieces to put through the pinball machines next door.

My parents then built Marbuk Park, at Lighthouse, which was an Australian animal/ reptile park and riding stable. Marbuk provided my brother Perry, sister Sandi and I, plus many of our friends, hours of entertainment and holiday employment, helping out with the

animals, working at the stables and generally just hanging out. It seemed we had an incredible amount of freedom as children, growing up in Port Macquarie during that time.

You have now established your business here. Please give us some insight into what your profession does and how it differs from similar fields ...

I’ve been an architect for over 30 years, and have been specialising in residential architecture for the past 22. I find residential work very rewarding. A home is often the biggest single investment a person will make, and that built environment will have a huge impact on the occupant’s quality of life. It’s important to get it right.

Residential architecture goes further than just the floor plan, street façade and the dictates of the market. A home is a “one off”, and must fulfil the specific needs of a single brief. Factors such as budget, site constraints, environmental constraints, lifestyle, etc. must all be taken into consideration. As a residential architect, I’m involved with all aspects of the design, planning approval and build process, depending on the client’s need, whether the project is a multi-million dollar build or a small

renovation.

How would you describe your architectural style?

I don’t have a “style” as such, with reference to the visual. A design solution must be specific to the needs of the client, whether it’s a contemporary, “state of the art” home, a casual lightweight beach house or rambling country home. My design philosophy is to produce unique, sustainable and liveable design solutions. A home must meet the needs of the client, respond to the constraints of the site and its natural environment.

How do you approach a design, and what is the first step for interested locals?

The first step is call or email and have a chat. We’d organise a meeting to view the

site and generally discuss the brief. I’m then able to give advice, with regard to Council planning requirements, and a general overview on the best approach to build or renovate, on that particular site, and the costs involved. At this stage the client has enough information to decide whether they would like me to be involved with their project.

The next step is a fairly long and detailed meeting, generally involving a few cups of coffee. I ask a long list of questions, to determine the client’s “must haves” and their wish list, to understand how the home should perform. From this meeting, the exciting journey begins.

Thanks Karen.

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ORION GETS THE GREEN LIGHT for construction to commence...

We are very excited to announce all plans have been approved at last weeks’ full council meeting, so it is now full steam ahead. All plans have been approved with the Green light now move forward. Construction will commence in the last quarter of this year!

An excited Jonathon Mckenzie on behalf of Grosvenor Capital commented: “Finally, Port Macquarie will see this magnificent site’s potential realised and the design and consultation process afforded to the project ensures Orion on the Beach will be a quality development offering excellent amenity and overall serviceability.” Jonathon Mckenzie on behalf of Grosvenor Capital The Economic flow on effects from this decision are considerable for the Port Macquarie region. Particularly with

Grosvenor Capital being very passionate about ensuring that many of the costs associated with constructing this iconic building will be sourced locally.

The effects of this have already been felt as BDM Construction and Nationwide Property Brokers inject further funds into local businesses and provide job security for many locals.

Once constructed this will be an iconic building that Port Macquarie can be proud of. The ground floor commercial space will feature a world class restaurant and café plus additional retail outlets. This will further enhance the outdoor experience that this precinct desperately needs in meeting the increasing tourism demands. Many of the 1100 plus visitors to the display office onsite have been Sydney visitors excited by

the prospect of a sea change. Many have now taken a front row position, on the spectacular town beach strip.

Brad Maggs, Managing Director, BDM Construction has been impressed with the process thus far commenting: “We would like to thank the PMHC and in particular their Planning Department, for their professional approach to working through the section 96 approval in a consultative and progressive manner, to ensure the best outcome for the community. The council often receives its fair share of criticism at times and in particular from the construction industry, but credit where credit is due, they have carried out a great job on this with due process and integrity.”

Brad Maggs, Managing Director, BDM Construction.

To keep up to date with this development as the construction progresses please like us on Facebook or check out the website online at http://www.oriononthebeach.com.au 110 greater port macquarie focus.

NEW ORION WEBSITE NOW LIVE

Over 3000 people checked out the 360 degree technology On the website you can experience drone photos, video footage and an interactive 360 degree screen where you will see just how spectacular the surrounds are at Orion on the Beach. We also posted this 360 degree technology onto the facebook site ‘orion on the beach’ as an image post. The amazing thing was that the technology behind the 360degree image post allows you to move around the view by simply moving your iphone or ipad.

Over 40,000 people engaged in the 360 degree surround interactive technology with over 350 people sharing it with their friends.

If you want to view the fun get online and take a look.

Like us on Facebook so we can keep you in the loop!

This includes progress reports of the project as well as insights into the beautiful lifestyle at Port Macquarie.

Don’t miss out on securing your beachside lifestyle in this iconic town beach location.

C ALL 180 0 223 768

info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com oriononthebeach.com.au

All information contained herein is obtained from sources that we believe are reliable. We have no reason to doubt its accurateness and reliability, however, we cannot guarantee and do not warrant such to you. All interested parties should make reasonable enquiries and obtain professional financial and legal advice in relation to these enquiries. Interested parties should rely on these enquiries, and not the information proffered herein.

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SONNEVILLE F A R R I E R Y

BERTRAND SONNEVILLE GREW UP IN THE NORTH OF FRANCE AND WAS INTRODUCED TO HORSES AT AN EARLY AGE. HIS LOVE FOR THESE ANIMALS LED HIM TO QUALIFY AS A FARRIER, AND THESE DAYS HE ENJOYS WORKING WITH HORSES OF ALL TYPES.

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ertrand’s special interest is remedial shoeing, from which he gains great satisfaction, and he’d love to collaborate more with local vets on treating and managing hoof disease and injury …

Hi Bertrand. Your background is French ...

Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Australia?

I grew up in the north of France. I came to Australia to attend our friend’s wedding in 2013 along with my wife and three children, which was held just outside Port Macquarie.

While visiting NSW and as far up as Brisbane in Queensland, we were impressed with the relaxed attitude of people, and life seemed so easy and pleasant. We were on holidays, but we had started to consider what it would be like to live here.

Why did you choose to settle in Port Macquarie ... and how long have you been a local for now?

After spending about 15 months in Sydney, our permanent Residency Visa came through and a very tempting offer of permanent employment at the Base Hospital finally brought us to Port Macquarie in November 2015.

What initially led you to be interested in horses and the work of a farrier?

As a young boy, I always had a keen interest in horses and ponies. At five years of age, my father got me a pony and allowed me to ride it around the town! I took horse riding lessons, and when I was a young adult I worked for a horse trekking company in Bourgogne, France, where I also passed my exams to become a tour guide.

Working with animals is not easy all the time, but being a farrier is beautiful and complex work. The forge was also something magic.

112 greater port macquarie focus.

Where did you study/train to qualify as a farrier?

I did an apprenticeship just outside Paris, and that took two years to complete. I became part of a Craftsman’s Guild and perfected my skills through working with Master Farriers for a few years to improve my techniques. This also allowed me to work, study and travel to learn a second language.

I have worked as a farrier in many countries across the world. I finally settled in Nantes and ran my own farriery business for almost 10 years. I have had quite a few apprentices and have enjoyed teaching and sharing my knowledge and experiences with them.

I have a Diploma in Kinetherapeutic Equine Shoeing, which was a three year course, and I graduated in 2012. I believe in lifelong learning and am always looking for ways to enhance my practice. I read farriery journals and try to attend conferences in Australia and worldwide.

Some people may believe that farriers simply shoe horses, but this certainly isn’t the case. What other types of services do you offer?

Lots of people think that horses wear shoes simply to protect the hoof, but what they don’t realise is the way they are shod has an effect on their locomotion and all over wellbeing.

An ill fitting shoe can have detrimental affects on the quality of the hoof, which can easily be observed. The long term effects will cause damage to the surrounding tendons and joints.

One day a client called me, as her horse was tripping repetitively and caused her to fall with the horse. She was afraid to continue riding him in case of a serious accident. Her horse was uncomfortable. I assessed the horse in action, and I decided to apply a corrective shoeing method. Since then, the client has been able to ride her horse safely and the horse is clearly

Lots of people think that horses ply to wear shoes sim , but of ho protect the realise t n’ do ey what th are shod is the way they their on has an effect all over d an n locomotio wellbeing .”

“

moving the way he is supposed to.

All shoes are adjusted and custom made to suit the individual needs of each horse and each foot. The type of activity the horse is involved in will also help me to decide what type of shoes would be necessary; for example: race horses require light shoes which help to prevent injury; whereas as trekking horses require a stronger and more comfortable type of horse shoe.

What are some of the more common hoof problems you see locally?

White line disease, which is a bacterial infection that colonises the hoof and causes cavities and weakness in the horse hoof.

I have treated quite a few cases of laminitis (inflammation inside the horse hoof). Laminitis can be very painful and may cause lameness.

I would like to collaborate more with the Equine Veterinarians to give my input in managing certain injuries or hoof diseases, and I love remedial shoeing. It is an exciting challenge, and I enjoy seeing good results for the horses.

You spent some time working with racehorses in Warrick Farm. What were some of the most valuable things you learned from this experience?

I learnt about the importance of effective communication with the trainers and other people responsible for taking care of the horse.

On the technical side of things, I learnt other

methods of shoeing; for example, “glue on shoeing”, which entailed correcting hoof distortion by applying aluminium shoes with glue, rather than fixing them with nails.

Aluminium is a light material and allows for greater speed - very important in the race horse industry.

What advice would you give to someone these days who’s interested in training as a farrier?

I would encourage them to find a good farrier who was willing to take them on and to do a recognised course to get good background knowledge on the hoof and limb anatomy.

There are Schools of Farriery in Scone and Richmond NSW. Like all skilled manual jobs, you need the theory and the practice, which doesn’t happened overnight, so patience and perseverance.

Another added complication is that we are working on living beings, which does not allow for error, and animals have their habits.

Where can people contact you, or find out more about you?

They can call me directly on 0450 435 624 or visit my website, which is sonnevillefarriery. com or check out my Facebook page Sonneville Farriery.

Thanks Bertrand.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

greater port macquarie focus. 113

focus_interview

with Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

AFTER A CAREER WITH MANY TWISTS AND TURNS, ROD SIMPKINS H A S TA K E N T H E W H E E L W I T H A J O B T H AT C O M B I N E S H I S L O V E O F P E O P L E A N D S T R O N G S E N S E O F C O M M U N I T Y S P I R I T.

T

Organisation” status, awarded by Alzheimer’s Australia. he journey has taken Rod from Mullumbimby to Sydney, then across NSW with his four The Port Macquarie electorate has been ranked as the third children, and finally putting the brakes on highest dementia prevalent area in NSW, and Port Taxis in Port Macquarie. Rod has experienced an estimate 50 - 60% of the 2,500 passengers they pick up every impressive variety of professions over the past day are elderly. The company also equips drivers with specialist 40 years - from Electrical Foreman to Business training in first aid, special needs children, Returned Analyst, to Facility Manager and business owner.

Veterans, plus disabled and wheelchair care.

In 2014 he retired, resolving to ease off the Behind the scenes there’s plenty of accelerator and enjoy the view. According state-of-the-art technology and complex to Rod, the reason he became a taxi dispatch logistics helping Rod and driver is simple: people. “Retirement at There is a his 75 colleagues get you to your an early age can have great rewards, great crossdestination. Bookings, which come but coming from an environment of section of the in via phone, email, web, and the el people management, I wanted to pu blic who trav new “Australia Wide Taxi” App, are keep up conversation with a diverse in taxis, and all transmitted to on-board computers, g in st re have an inte mix of people. There is a great crosscomplete with GPS navigation. ” ll. story to te section of the public who travel in Jobs are allocated to specific taxis,and all have an interesting story to vehicle types as requested, including tell,” he said. “ecofriendly”hybrids, Maxi Taxis and Rod is passionate about his community.

Wheelchair Accessible Taxis.

Over the years he has been involved in many So what’s next for Rod? Maybe a bit more driving organisations, including the Friends of the Players Theatre, on his days off … “With the help of others, I run the the Scouts and the Rural Fire Brigade. Recently his local not-for-profi t “Discover Your Own Backyard” tours to places Masons & Friends Group has partnered with students from of interest in and around the Hastings, Manning and Nabiac CSU “Student Heart Project” and Rod’s employment provider areas.”

A few more good deeds … “Our next project is a trivia Port Macquarie Taxis to install the first 24 hour Public Access afternoon on 28th August, to raise money for a defibrillator Defibrillator in Port Macquarie. The unit is housed in a secure for the Lord Howe Island Police to carry in their Patrol Car.” Or cabinet at the Horton Street Taxi Rank, and Port Taxis is proud more opportunities to drive on the wrong side of the road … of Rod’s involvement in securing this life-saving equipment.

“My partner, Maureen (an artist with an exhibition currently in This care and concern for others is appreciated by the Harrington) and I have just returned from the Mediterranean locally owned and operated Port Taxis. A recent focus for the company has been the attainment of “Dementia Friendly Islands.”

“

114 greater port macquarie focus.

6:00am

Up with the alarm, out of bed and into the shower.

7:30am

Head off to the Taxi Base.

8:30am

The most rewarding part of the morning - pick up a disabled student and transport him to school.

9:30am

Airport jobs and more wheelchair passengers.

12:30pm

Jobs are slowing up, so now is a good time to take a lunch break - off to Munster IGA for a chat and a flat white to go with my home made wraps.

2:30pm

Time to take my “little mate” back home after school and a leisurely drive to Rawdon Island.

4:30pm

Slim pickings in jobs now, but soon the planes will be arriving.

6:00pm

The day’s work has finished - so many new faces with stories to tell.

7:00pm

Home at last to spend the evening with Maureen, my wonderful partner.

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web. email.www.nationwidepropertybrokers.com info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com email. info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com All information contained herein is obtained from sources that we believe are reliable. We have no reason to doubt its accurateness and reliability, however, we cannot guarantee and do not warrant such to you. All interested parties should make reasonable enquiries and obtain professional financial and legal advice in relation to these enquiries. Interested parties should rely on these enquiries, and not the information proffered herein.

All information contained herein is obtained from sources that we believe are reliable. We have no reason to doubt its accurateness and reliability, however, we cannot guarantee and do not warrant such to you.greater All interestport macquarie ed parties should make reasonable enquiries and obtain professional financial and legal advice in relation to these enquiries. Interested parties should rely on these enquiries, and not the information proffered herein.

focus. 115

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