Greater Port Macquarie Focus i133 by Focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

December 2016 // issue 133

Feature Story David Martin

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Welcome to the December issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

his year, we’re proud to say the year is going to end with a BANG … Well, a few BANGS ... As the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Taphouse Group, will present a Midnight Fireworks Spectacular on New Year’s Eve - finally! Set against the backdrop of the Hastings River (where the Christmas Parade Fireworks were), Port Macquarie residents celebrating New Year's Eve will be able to chime in 2017 with the ultimate show. Find out more on page 18. As 2016 draws to a close, we reflect on the year it has been: what we wanted to achieve, and what we have achieved, the good times and the not so good times. For some, the month of December heralds the end of the year - the last few weeks before a well earned break and enjoying the summer weather. For others, it's the start of one of the busiest seasons of the year!

Our accommodation, hospitality and tourism sectors will be in full swing - putting in the long hours to ensure both us and our guests enjoy Port Macquarie at its finest. It's nice to remember that we have this beautiful destination to enjoy all year round with never a shortage of things to see and do. INSIDE THIS EDITION In keeping with the Christmas/holiday theme, there's so much festive content in this edition! Check out our Christmas retail section, which showcases some amazing gift ideas. Many of the featured venues in our "Eat" section will be hosting special meals and functions for Christmas and New Year's Eve, so we're spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out. We interviewed Tim Campbell, who'll be visiting us for The Westport Club's Christmas Under the Stars event.

WHAT’S

ON GLASSHOUSE

GLASSHOUSE 2017

MEMBERSHIPS

OM 1 DEC O N S A LE F R

EXTREME DANCE STUDIOS END OF YEAR SHOWCASE 2016

GIGGLE & HOOT’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

Saturday 3 December, 2pm

Tuesday 13 December, 11am & 1pm

Showcase 2016 will delight audiences with performances by the studio’s talented students who are eager to perform and show the rewards of their hard work and dedication to all.

It’s Christmas time in the land of Giggle and Hoot and everybody is busy getting ready for the arrival of Hootoclaws for his special Christmas Night Watch.

IN THE GALLERY

Wishing all our sponsors, supporters and patrons a very

Happy and Safe Festive Season

Gallery entry is free

GUY MAESTRI UNEARTH

The perfect shop for those who ‘have everything’ - unique gifts, beautiful accessories, local produce - or a Glasshouse Voucher!

And if you really want to escape from the madness that is the holiday season for just a little while, we also have interviews with young local Isaac Sanderson, who'll be travelling to Brazil for a year as part of Rotary International's Youth Exchange Programme; David Martin, who's written and produced a new book, Panoramic Port Macquarie, Australia's First Resort; and Tash Sultana, who will wow the crowds at FOTSUN. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We regularly publish our monthly online flip book, local news and interviews and upcoming events to Facebook - so be sure to follow us: https://www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus/ You can also watch all the stars' performances from this year’s Stars of Hastings Dance for Cancer! Our instagram is @focus.mag - be sure to tag us in your favourite local photos - they might end up inside our pages.

E M BE R 2 0 1

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3...

Renew your Membership before 31 January and save $5

Book your complimentary ticket to the Glasshouse Season Launch on Thursday 2 February

Book your tickets to our first Glasshouse Season Show of 2017... The Tap Pack. Priority booking period for Glasshouse Members until 16 December!

Gallery entry is free

REMEMBER ME

THE LOST DIGGERS OF VIGNACOURT

10 Dec 2016 - 12 Feb 2017

17 December - 5 February 2017

Maestri’s work captures the world he sees in masterful, confident brushstrokes. Opening event: Fri 9 December, 6pm Meet the Artist: Sat 10 December, 11am

These photographs enabled Australian soldiers to maintain a fragile link with loved ones in Australia.

Guy Maestri, Black Gold no.5, 61cm x 51cm, 2015, oil on linen (detail). Courtesy of the artist and Jan Murphy Gallery, Brisbane.

Opening event: Fri 16 December, 6pm

Australian War Memorial touring exhibition. Image courtesy: Kerry Stokes collection, the Louis and Antoinette Thuillier Collection.

BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

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UNARGUABLY THE BIGGEST ARTIST TO COME OUT OF THE UNEARTHED DEPTHS OF AUSTRALIA THIS YEAR IS THE EVER TALENTED TASH SULTANA, DELIVERING HER DYNAMIC POWERHOUSE STYLE TO THE SHORES OF PORT MACQUARIE FOR FOTSUN. TASH CAUGHT UP WITH FOCUS FOR AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW, WHILST RELAXING IN A BATH PRE-GIG IN TASMANIA …

ost of us are familiar with your artistry so far, from your street performances to your bedroom recordings and the like. Tell us about life before all the hype… I was pretty much doing the exact same things as I’m doing now. I always knew that this was the path I would follow - there was no question; it’s just what my life was. I’ve been playing music for my whole life, playing shows since I was 14. I used to sneak into venues with a fake ID, play shows, and then leave and go to school the next day. When I finished school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, so I started busking. I started to pick up some traction and then thought, I’m just going to film my live jams in my room and put them online - and they just went nuts! There are a lot of elements to your music; obviously you’re talented across a wide range of instruments. When did the pieces start falling together for your compositions and layering? It’s been a really long transition of performances and different rigs; I never had my mind set on a specific sound or specific way that I 4 greater port macquarie focus.

wanted to play - it was just how it happened. Corby, and Erykah Badu. It kind of unfolded with my journey; I’d be I heard a podcast the other day where you inspired by different things and go and search stated that initially you didn’t actually like for that sound and apply it to my music. I listen your voice … to lots of different genres. I wouldn’t I still can’t listen to it. I like the class my music as a specific way I feel when I sing, but I genre, it is whatever it is. can’t actually listen to my I started off playing just voice back - I can’t listen up ck pi acoustically and then to my songs back really. to d te ar I st d started looping and I find the audio hard, some traction an just I’m t, playing around with efgh because I have to listen ou th en th live fects. My pedal board is to them a lot. I find going to film my and now 29 kg, and I carry doing vocal takes really jams in my room - and a lot of baggage! hard, because I don’t put them online !” ts they just went nu When it comes to like singing the same your lyrics, what inthing over and over and spires you? then having to listen to it Oh, everything! More interback. I don’t like to listen to nal stuff, more of my internal perthe sound of my speaking voice - I ception, projection, feeling, a little bit of don’t enjoy listening to that; I cringe heartbreak in there - only recently though, actually. ‘cause I didn’t think I was empathetic until Watching you grow over the last 12 recently. But it’s good; I can write an album months or so, how have you kept your about that. earthly, humble and grounded nature When it comes to music, who is your throughout the whole time? muse? My dad would give me a good clip over the I love Pink Floyd and I love Fleetwood Mac, I head if I started getting cocky. He’d say, “Pull love Jimi Hendrix and I love Jeff Buckley, Matt your sh*t together!”

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Another high for you this year is being nominated as triple j Unearthed Artist Of The Year; how have you taken that? I am a little bit stoked about that - I won’t lie! I don’t really think of stuff in a competitive manner, or I don’t strive to be nominated for anything; it just kind of happened. You’re about to head off overseas with a load of shows already sold out, but before that you’re playing our very own Festival of the Sun. What are you looking forward to about that? Jut to play my music in the bloody sun! It’s a festival I’ve always wanted to play, so I’m stoked. A lot the guys on the bill are friends of mine, so it’s going to be a great time. You’ve just released an EP; is there any talk of a studio album in the works? Not for a while. I’m just going to drop feed things slowly and do it when I’m ready. This EP I’m touring ‘til June 2017; it’s massive. I will be dropping a single next year and tour that with my EP, and I’m about to drop a live album, Live at The Corner, so that’ll be sick. Thanks Tash. Don’t miss Tash Sultana at FOTSUN. For set times, head to fotsun.com

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D E C E M B E R

GUY MAESTRI.

CELLA R DOOR | W INE CLUB | GA R DENS | R E STAUR A NT | HORSE R IDING

With a strong connection to the landscape and a distinctive style, Guy Maestri is a multi-award winning artist, with an Archibald Prize win to his name. His latest exhibition, Unearth, will be on display at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from December 9.

TIM CAMPBELL. Tim Campbell is a multi-talented performer as an actor on screen and stage, TV host, MC and vocalist. Well known for his roles in Home and Away and House Husbands, Tim is bringing the Tim Campbell band to perform at The Westport Club’s Christmas Under the Stars event on Saturday 17th December.

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Australian Wine. French Tradition.

KATHERINE APPLEBY.

Katherine’s illustrations tell a story … glorious, imaginative, and creative characters come to life under her skilled hand. Having recently illustrated her first children’s book, Katherine has plenty of other exciting projects planned for the next few months …

WE ARE OPEN ALL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS (excluding Christmas Day) so why not bring your family and friends along to Cassegrain for a fun day out.

R EGU L A R S

13. what’s on for December 28. eat local restaurants 30. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 34. out to lunch with Susie Boswell 50. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 67. landcare with Bronwyn Newton. 68. tourism with Janette Hyde 81. starguide with Terri Hall 84. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti

PHONE 6582 8324 PACIFIC HIGHWAY, PORT MACQUARIE

facebook.com/portmacquarie.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

No matter where you are in the world, read focusmag.com.au Focus for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au

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

www.cassegrainwines.com.au

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LOGAN M c A R T H U R

HOW MANY OF US DREAM OF MOVING TO THE CITY AND PURSUING A CAREER IN THE ARTS? WAUCHOPIAN LOGAN MCARTHUR HAS DONE JUST THAT … RECENTLY PERFORMING THE ROLE OF PARIS IN SYDNEY SHAKESPEARE COMPANY’S PRODUCTION OF ROMEO AND JULIET. NOT AFRAID TO WORK HARD, LOGAN HAS SOME GREAT ADVICE FOR YOUNG ACTORS.

i Logan. Describe your background ... where did you grow up and go to school? I grew up in Wauchope and I went to Wauchope Primary and then St. Columba Anglican School. What initially sparked your interest in acting - and can you remember your first ever acting role? I definitely remember doing “performances” for family and friends as I grew up, with whoever happened to be over at the time. It began to spark near the end of primary school and really launched once I hit high school. Performances in Tournament of Minds as Humpty Dumpty spring to mind, but I think my first role in a play was Tom in Stories from Suburban Road. I'll never forget a dear friend of mine always grabbing my arm very dramatically at the end of the scene, pointing off stage and yelling CHICKEN HAWK at the top of her lungs! What led you to leave the area and move to the "big smoke" - Sydney? I moved here mainly for university. I went to Macquarie University to study a Bachelor of Actuarial Studies/Science (Mathematics) … Though, it must be said I did also audition and apply for the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) straight out of school, and I would have taken it over everything else! You recently performed the role of Paris in Sydney Shakespeare Company's production of Romeo and Juliet. Describe this experience for us ... I had a brilliant time with the Sydney Shakespeare Company. Their artistic director, Steven Hopley, has literary knowledge and insight you wouldn't believe and put together an incredible cast that I was very blessed to be included in. 6 greater port macquarie focus.

What surprised me about the experience is how few rehearsals I attended before we were running the show and then putting it on! I think it was perhaps three rehearsals (one just a fight rehearsal!), then we were 10 days out and just did full show runs, and then on we went! Obviously other performers (like Romeo and Juliet) had significantly more rehearsals, but I was terrified of being really underprepared. But that was when I realised I had really stepped up into a new level, as my fellow actors were incredible. Romeo was a NIDA graduate, Nurse was a WAAPA graduate and Juliet was a real force, just to name a few. They were intimidating and inspiring, and it really forced me to lift my game, which was fantastic. And again our director Steven, who also played Mercutio, made it seem so easy. What do you feel were the most valuable things you learned from this particular production? That I had gotten quite lazy! Ha ha. It had definitely been too long since I'd done a course, or studied acting, or really had a role that pushed me in multiple ways as an actor. I had to remember all I had learned and put it back into practice: analyse the lines, relationships, why is your character saying this, what does he want, what is he afraid of etc. It also brought me back to my favourite thing about acting: great onstage truth … When you and a fellow performer are connected by your scene and your characters, when the lines are natural and powerful and diverse and very human. So thankful for that! More functionally, I saw a lot about putting on a large independent production, experienced a bunch of cheap and effective rehearsal spaces and how to maximise rehearsal time effectiveness. Oh, and got a crash course in knife fighting!

My understanding is you've performed in several Shakespeare productions now ... How difficult is it, as an actor, to learn dialogue as complex as the Bard's? What tips/tricks do you use to help you memorise the lines? I'm a bit of an odd ball, because I almost find Shakespearean dialogue more comfortable than modern pieces! Many of my first acting steps were with Shakespearean monologues and scenes. But my advice to actors struggling with it is never be afraid to ask what a word means/look it up yourself, practice speaking the words and grammar naturally and above all, don't think of it as “Shakespeare”! If you approach it as modern English and treat it that way, you can actually end up with a wonderfully comfortable base in the text. You can always add the specific rhythms and add oomph to the poetry later in the rehearsal process. I'll bombard myself with multiple learning processes. Reading over them, speaking them aloud, running the scenes. One tip for locking them in is to record the surrounding dialogue, and then play through the scene with your recording, performing the scene with yourself! Out of all the characters you've played in any play, who would be your favourite (and why)? Another Shakespeare, I fear! Benedick from Much Ado About Nothing. He's terrific, because he's so clever and so daft at the same time. It's also a bit special, as it was my final show at high school and my romantic opposite (Beatrice) was my high school sweetheart and still one of my closest friends. They have these great arguments and battles of wit, then end up pathetically in love with each other, and the audience gets to laugh at every step along the way!

What are your acting aspirations ... any role/s you'd like to one day play? Hamlet, because I'm hopeless and boring like that, but mainly since it's just the most incredible and terrifyingly complex role. More modern ones would be Konstantin from Chekhov's The Seagull (beautifully heartbreaking) and Christopher Boone (maths and acting, my perfect combination!) in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time if it finally makes it over to Australia! What advice would you have for any up and coming youth from our area who may be considering pursuing acting in a big city like Sydney? Firstly, have a backup option. It's a very overcrowded industry, and the more cuts that come through, the worse that situation is going to get. But, definitely dream big and have a crack at it. There are some great schools if you get a fulltime course, and they can give you the training as well as a badge and connections to get you into audition environments. But with or without that, expect to have to work hard. Nobody is going to find you in your little apartment and drag you into the limelight. You need to be creating your own work, performing at multiple places, building up a network of fellow creatives that you can bounce off and work with. Learn to sing, learn to dance, write if you can. Everyone I know who is on their way up worked incredibly hard to get there, as well as built and maintained friendships and collaborative partnerships. I really do believe if you have the talent and ability and you work hard enough, you can carve out a career. Thanks Logan. Interview by Jo Robinson. Photo by Shakira Wilson.

with Jimmy’s Bar & Lounge

of The

Image of the month. Title: Peak Coffee’s Head Roster Ainsley inspecting a fresh batch of award winning coffee beans at The Brew Lab on 30 Jambali Road, Port Macquarie. Photo by: Michael Marchment. Camera: Canon 1DX Mk II + 50mm f/1.2 Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email sarah@focusmag.com.au

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

GREEN SHALLOTS

AT ’ S I N •

Known by many names (spring onion, scallion, eschallot) the green shallot is not really a shallot, but most of us are happy to call it one. Actually a non-bulbing onion, these edible hollow leaves with slender white bulbs can add intense flavour to a wide range of dishes. Popular in the warmer months in salads, noodle dishes and stir-frys, the white bulb has a stronger onion flavour than the green leaves, but just about everything (except the roots) can be eaten. This versatile vegetable is an excellent source of Vitamin C, with the leaves containing beta carotene. Green shallots are grown locally in Soms vegetable garden at Bago vineyards - and are delivered by the grower straight to Ken Little’s Fruit & Veg in Port Macquarie, where they are available to purchase.

WHERE

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

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S M OK E Y BE E K E E PE R •

Johnny Walker Double Black, Jimmy’s honey syrup, bitters and whisky infused with honeycomb and served with dark chocolate to follow. An old-fashioned cocktail, created for the gentlemen of Georgian New York. Smokey flavours balance with sweet complexities which have evolved over the years to bring you to a modern twist on a tradition that was once an institution. •

PAS S I ON F L OW E R •

42 Below Vodka, elderflower liqueur, fresh passionfruit and mint. Jimmy’s refreshing combination of vodka and elderflower. It’s kept simple with floral notes, passionfruit and mint. Created by Jimmy just for you. This one’s perfect for a sit down, kick back and relax. •

R E D VE L VE T •

Ketel One Vodka, chocolate liqueur, raspberries, champagne foam accompanied with dark chocolate on the side. Do you like chocolate and raspberries? Yes! Say no more just ask the team at Jimmy’s for this delectable combination of rich cacao and tart ripe raspberries. It’s time to indulge!

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THE PORT MACQUARIE REGION HAS RECENTLY ACQUIRED SOMETHING IT HAS BEEN LACKING FOR MANY YEARS - AN ATTRACTIVE PICTURE BOOK SHOWING THE FEATURES AND VISUAL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE REGION. THE AUTHOR IS DAVID MARTIN, WHO SELF-PUBLISHED THE CHANGING FACE OF PORT MACQUARIE IN 2012, THEN UPGRADED AND REVISED THE BOOK AS PORT MACQUARIE THEN & NOW IN 2014.

Panoramic Port Macquarie A U S T R A L I A ’ S

ot having spoken with David for a while, we caught up with him to ask about the new project: Hi David. You’ve been busy again on a new book! Yes. It’s called Panoramic Port Macquarie Australia’s First Resort. As the title suggests, the book focuses on panoramas, using them to show the beauty and diversity of the region. But there is a lot of history in there too? Yes, there is history in everything I do. After defining what a panorama is, the book follows the history through paintings and other artworks, and then the development of photography, and how photographic panoramas are constructed. At each stage, the relevance to Australia and the Hastings region is maintained as much as possible. You have a few really interesting 10 greater port macquarie focus.

F I R S T

R E S O R T

historical images in there ... panorama that was taken of Port Macquarie I wanted to show the drawings that in 1890. Phillip Parker King did when he visited Yes, the foldout is amazing! the Hastings with John Oxley It is a very long panorama, and in 1819. They are not very few people have ever seen panoramas, but neither it before. It is an amazing I have also st are they well known. find, and the image was fir e included th gs tin They would be the actually taken by the in panoramic pa ne O . first artistic works Manager of the Bank of on of the regi g tin in pa of the region New South Wales - W. ly is the on rt Po of ne do created by a J. Mcdonnell. People as w that convic t a as ie ar qu European? really need to see it to ac M ver Exactly. To me, believe it. colony. It has ne fore; been in print be that sense of history is So where did you ant that is an import very important. I have locate these items, .” first for the book also included the first David? panoramic paintings of the The paintings are in the region. One is the only painting State Library and the Library of that was done of Port Macquarie as a Australia. The 1890 panorama came to convict colony. It has never been in print me in pieces. I had a couple of the images, before; that is an important first for the but only thought of them as individual book. The other big inclusion is a seven-fold photographs. But then as I have made more

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friends over the years, I have come across more and more that belong to the set, fitting together like a big jigsaw puzzle. I thought my images came from about 1885 but when you consider all seven panels as a single panorama, it dates almost certainly to 1890. Has this been an exciting experience of discovery for you? Yes, it has been. A new 240-degree view of the town in 1890! And it is exciting to be able to share it with everyone as an historical source in print for the first time. There remains the possibility of there being an eighth panel somewhere, but I have looked for a while now, and I think it is probably unlikely. So, how much of the book deals with the history? Only about a third. The larger portion looks at the region as it is today, divided up into small sections of three or four pages each. In many cases I give a small amount of essential information and then several pages

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When someone tells you how tion has much your crea an d their meant to them rill like th families , it is a e it to ow u no other. Yo ete the pl m co to yourself e it the project and mak be.” very best it can

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of photos. There is a section on many of the main features or locations - a section on the Koala Hospital, one on Town Green, one on the Innes Ruins, one on Sea Acres, one of rural scenes, and the beaches and so forth. It is intended as a bicentennial record for the region, and as a collection of memories and information for locals, but also as a souvenir for visitors. What were some of the challenges you faced in putting the book together - and how did you overcome them? Well, I am not a photographer as such. But I wanted to learn some new photographic techniques that I had never tried before. I wanted to include as much diversity in the photographs as I could. I wanted to attach the history of panoramas and the development of photography to Australian and Port Macquarie history as much as I could. I had considered doing a book called Postcards from Port Macquarie, because I have a large collection of historical postcards and they are very interesting. But it seems to be impossible to do because of photo clearances, so I inserted a very small portion of that project into this book. Each of those things were challenges. There are always things like lack of funds, lack of experience and knowledge, and the need to learn new computer programs that

you just have to tackle head on. If you let them discourage you, then the project never develops. So each one is an obstacle that you need to go over, around or through. I think of this as a steamroller mentality. I don’t move very fast, but there has to be progress every day, and if one avenue closes, then I move towards another. Sometimes those challenges or obstacles take the form of people or administrations who would discourage you or not be cooperative. So I try not to give any person the power to stop me. The project is going to proceed, and their choice is whether or not they wish to contribute. Of course, people might not like being side-stepped, so you try to be as careful and respectful as possible. What advice would you give to someone else considering producing their own book? Basically, don't let anything stop you. It's your idea, your project. Complex things like books don't evolve - they are created. And your skilled, creative mind will produce a work of art unlike any other. And when someone tells you how much your creation has meant to them and their families, it is a thrill like no other. You owe it to yourself to complete the project and make it the very best it can be. The satisfaction you gain will be lifechanging.

You’ll be launching the book on Saturday 10th December. Describe what will happen at the book launch … will you be available for Q&A? Yes, certainly. The book launch is at the Port Macquarie-Hastings Library on Saturday 10th December at 9:30am. Most of the time will be spent talking about the book, the creative process, how it came about, etc. But I will also spend a little time talking about the projects I have that are yet ahead. I rely very heavily on support from members of the community, and there are a number of ways in which people can make a very big contribution, without it costing a cent. So I will be introducing the new book, but also asking for help and information. Where else can people have a look at the book? I will have them for sale at most of the Foreshore markets and the Artist market for the next few months. They will be for sale at the Historical Courthouse, and Matt will also have them at PhotoWorks Express in the Galleria building. Or, you can call and leave me a message on 6583 4627 or email me at portmacquarie2018@gmail.com Speaking of future projects, what other creative ideas do you have bubbling away at the back of your mind? There are always a million things going

on back there! There are still about five book ideas ahead of me, although I don't know if they will all reach completion. Each is somewhat dependant on the previous one. Immediately ahead is a book that examines a big collection of primary source materials, like personal recollections, maps, journals and audio recordings. Another one I have been working on for about ten years looks at the old shops of the main street - the blacksmiths, wheelwrights and mercery stores that used to be on old Horton Street. But, bringing these books alive and making them interesting and vivid is always a challenge. For the bicentenary I hope to do a chronology - a year-by-year history from 1818 to 2018, although some will argue it should be 1821 to 2021. But a year-by-year history of Port Macquarie has never been written. I plan to do it! One other, ultimate project involves video. I have a number of wonderful ideas that would be great as a visual documentary of the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. But I don't have the equipment, I don't have the old archive footage, and I don't have the kind of funds necessary to make such a project happen. But these are some of the ideas I will talk about at the book launch. Thanks David. Good luck with the book. Interview by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 11

Black Gold no.5 61 cm x 51 cm, 2014.

Rasp Mine Head Frame no.2 82 cm x 72 cm, 2014.

focusinterview.

GUY MAESTRI

WITH A STRONG CONNECTION TO THE LANDSCAPE AND A DISTINCTIVE STYLE, GUY MAESTRI IS A MULTI-AWARD WINNING ARTIST, WITH AN ARCHIBALD PRIZE WIN TO HIS NAME. Guy spent most of his formative years living in the Pappinbarra Valley and attending primary school at Beechwood. His latest exhibition, Unearth, will be on display at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from December 9. i Guy. What was the inspiration behind your exhibition, Unearth? Essentially it’s a selection of work that I’ve done over the last five years, and it represents my main focus - which is landscape painting, and other things that have led from there, like some figurative sculpture. It’s mostly about my observation of the landscape and how human beings have interacted and impacted with it. You’ve mentioned this exhibition contains sculptural work, as well as paintings. Is sculpture a relatively new practice for you? It’s funny - I went to art school to do sculpture in 2000, and I very rapidly fell in love with painting. Sculpture has kind of been on hold since then, and it’s only been over about the last six months that I’ve really delved into again. There’s so much potential in it - it’s fantastic. I want the sculptural work to have a narrative or speak to or with the paintings, and that’s slowly starting to happen. It’s a pretty new thing, even though I had a focus on it 15 years ago. My recent exhibition at Jan Murphy’s Gallery in Brisbane was the first body of sculptural work I’ve ever exhibited. How has the response been to your sculptural work, considering it is so new? Fantastic! I was really surprised, actually. You do what you have to do and you don’t know how people are going to respond to it. I was very uncertain about how the work might be received. But, I think that was the nice thing about it … I just did it, without having any preconceptions about what sculpture should be, and that led me to bring my understanding as a painter 12 greater port macquarie focus.

back into the sculptures. They were received really well, and that was so encouraging. Since then, I’ve been working on a lot more. Why is oil paint your preferred medium for your paintings? When I’m painting, I definitely use oil. Apart from being the most tactile, luxurious medium, it’s so rich, and the colours are so vibrant. It captures every nuance and every detail so beautifully - and it doesn’t change, unlike some other materials. It’s the perfect material, particularly if you’re working in that painterly, gestural kind of way that I do … You can allow the paint to take over in some parts, but it’s also very controllable if you know how to use it. It’s the perfect medium for me. How do you construct your sculptures? The original material for most of them was plasticine - it’s very much like oil paint, in that it’s malleable and you can push it around and move it. You can model with it, much like you can do with paint. But plasticine never dries, so you then have to make a mould of it and cast it in some other material. The original ones I’ve made were created from plasticine, cast in bronze, but then I’ve painted them so they look like plasticine again! They have the feeling that they’re impermanent and malleable, but underneath they’re actually really solid. I’ve been enjoying the process of moulding, casting, reproducing and playing around with new materials. You’re well known now for many of your paintings, but some of your more interesting ones featuring “road kill” - which are so vibrant and somehow so lifelike - may be seen as a bit macabre by some viewers. What’s your motivation for painting these

pieces? My main focus has been landscape, but very much about observing what influence we have on the landscape. I spend weeks and weeks driving around in the country, and I come across enormous amounts of roadkill. It became almost like a survey of what is in an area that I visit, and I thought it should be documented. I really enjoyed painting in that way - it made me refine the way I worked, as I was able to bring these things into the studio and work as though they were a still life. I was able to compose and control the environment, as opposed to all my landscape paintings, which are painted on site - where it’s very difficult to control anything. There’s a nice counterbalance there with the landscape paintings, but they continue on the basis of landscapes - they’re part of the landscape, they’re part of our effect on it - so they’re a valid part of my research. Among other locations you visited and painted, my understanding is that an artist residency in Hamilton, Victoria, led to some of your work in Unearth? Yes, I had 10 weeks in a really beautiful old region of southwest Victoria, which is sheep country. It was an area made famous by Streeton and other artists, who created some landscape paintings showing the light and the grandeur of the region. It was nice to travel in those footsteps and make my own contemporary observations of the same landscape. I’d only seen this area through other artworks, so it was very interesting to go there and create my own 100 years later. There are a number of paintings from this residency in the show.

You’ve achieved such success in the art world, winging the Archibald Prize in 2009 for your portrait of Australian singer and musician Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu. You also won the Kings School Art Prize in 2014, as well as being a finalist in the Wynne prize several times - among others. What are your current goals and aspirations? You don’t enter these things with the thought of ticking them off, or even that you might win them - it’s more about being involved. Being hung in these exhibitions mean you become part of that art community with your contemporaries and other artists you admire. It’s a nice thing to belong to! Entering these awards prompt you to finish something, put something together and think about things in different ways, whci is very healthy in terms of achieving things … That’s really what my sculpture is about. It’s opening up potential, and I’m so enthusiastic now. I hope to always have that, and I think that’s what keeps me bouncing to different things; I hope to always keep that enthusiasm. If I was to hope for anything, it would just be that I never run out of inspiration, ideas and enthusiasm. Thanks Guy. Interview by Jo Robinson. Photo of Guy by Daniel Shipp.

the plug! See Unearth at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from 9 December - 12 February. The Glasshouse acknowledges the support of the Jan Murphy Gallery with this exhibition. www.glasshouse.org.au

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

December

CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE

MEMORIAL SERVICE TO HONOUR THOSE LOST TO SUICIDE

Held by Garden Village Craft Group. Where Garden Village Craft room, off Findlay Ave entrance, opposite Westport High School. When Wed and Thurs 7th and 8th December 2016, 8:30am - 2:30pm.

SANTA COMES TO SETTLERS

Lifeline Mid Coast would like to extend an invitation to all those touched by suicide to attend this nondenominational Memorial Service at Windmill Hill. The memorial service provides a space for people to remember a loved one lost to suicide - the happy times and the laughter, as well as those times when life was hard. Where Windmill Hill, Port Macquarie. When Friday December 23rd. Time 6pm.

Family Christmas Party. When Sunday 11th December, 4pm 7pm. Free photos with Santa; post letters to the North Pole! Phone. 6583 3100.

CHRISTMAS UNDER THE STARS

At The Westport Club, starring Tim Campbell. Entertainment from 6pm at Westport Park. Fireworks display from 9pm. A $2 entry fee per person supports The Salvation Army Christmas Hamper Appeal. When Saturday 17th December. More info www.thewestportclub.com.au

25 17

2016 COMBINED BUSINESS NETWORKS CHRISTMAS PARTY

With our event sponsor MBC Recruitment we are raising funds for If We All Had Wings and Endeavour Clubhouse at this year's Combined Business Networks' Christmas Party! Join us at Sails Resort, in the beautiful newly renovated Pavillion, for drinks and nibbles and a chance to mingle with friends and colleagues. When Thursday, December 15, 2016. Time 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Cost $30 per person. Includes two complimentary drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks), finger food and live music - all tickets must be pre-paid. Tickets need to be booked and paid for by Thursday 8 December 2016.

NEW YEAR’S EVE ON THE MARINA

Bring in the New Year on the marina with a sumptuous seafood buffet. Four hour beverage package. Front row seat for the fireworks. Live entertainment by the Jackson James Trio. Where Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges. When 31st Dec 2016 - 7pm. Cost $135.

NYE CASINO MONTE CARLO

RODNEY RUDE When Saturday 17th December. Where Laurieton United Services Club. Doors 7pm - show 8pm. Tickets $59.90 18+ event. Phone 6559 9110 or visit www.laurietonclub.com.au

Rydges Port Macquarie. Bring in the New Year in style with a glamorous night at the exclusive Rydges Monte Carlo waterfront casino. Indulge in all the decadence and intrigue of the high flying casino, featuring showgirls, Black Jack and Poker. When 31st December. Tickets $139pp. Time 7pm - 12:30am. Contact Rydges reception 6589 2888 or email kate_woodfoye@evt.com

greater port macquarie focus. 13

focusinterview.

WHAT BETTER WAY TO CREATE A VIBRANT AND WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE AT HOME OR WORK THAN THROUGH HEAVENLY AROMAS! SARNDRA INGERSOLL’S LOVE OF CANDLES LED HER TO MAKE HER OWN … AND SHE CAN SHOW YOU HOW TO DO THIS TOO!

e Soy wax is mad s an be e from th which of the soy plant, d is a renewable an uct. od pr biodegradable r fo od go This wax is in s le nd ca making has a containers as it t, so it in low melting po .” er burns slow

“

i Sarndra. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to call Port Macquarie home ... I am originally from Tamworth, but around 16 years ago a work opportunity led to us moving the family to the beautiful Mid North Coast. My background is in tax and accounting, and I have worked for a local accounting firm for the past 14 years. These days the kids are all grown up and have moved on, so now I live in Port with my husband. We run a solar business installing solar panels and batteries systems, and more recently I have started a candle making business. Why do you enjoy candles - what makes them special to you? I have always loved burning candles and became interested in learning the processing of making them myself a few years ago now. For me, I enjoy the creative side of candle making; it inspires me to think outside the box and to create something that’s individual. If you like the vintage, modern or the classic look, there are so many choices of containers and jars that can be used to create a candle. What products do you actually make? I make soy candles, mostly made to order, and carry around 40 fragrances for customers to choose from in an array of containers. I 14 greater port macquarie focus.

specialise in wedding candles, with vintage jars and champagne glasses making beautiful candles for the tables, and wedding favours as thank you gifts for wedding guests. I have an online store and an ebay shop, but would like to offer my candles to a more local market. I also make soy melts for tealight burners, which replace the water and oil that was used in the past. These melts will fill your home with a beautiful fragrance for many hours. How did you learn your craft? I did a lot of research, testing and made lots of mistakes to start with, and I have come to realise that although candle making isn’t a hard process, it’s a very precise process. Once you figure out what works, you stick to it. Candle making is a science, so every time you make a batch of candles, you are working with the elements. Describe the process of making your beautiful products ... what materials do you use? Do you also use essential oils for some/all of your products? I use soy wax, cotton wicks and fragrance oils and some blended essential oils to create my candles and melts. Soy wax is made from the beans of the soy plant, which is a renewable and biodegradable product. This wax is good for making candles in containers as it has a low melting point, so it burns slower. Temperature is key when creating a candle;

from melting and heating the wax to adding the fragrance to pouring the candle, it must be done at the correct temperature. Other factors are wick sizes depending on the size of the jar and fragrance ratio to wax, to ensure you create a clean burning candle with a great scent throw. You offer workshops, where you show people how to create their own gorgeous candles and melts. What was the impetus behind offering these classes? Initially I wanted to share my love of candle making and to offer something a bit different. The workshops were created so friends can get together and learn something new in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. I have been running workshops since May, and many of the ladies who have done the workshop are now creating their own candles at home. I think it’s a bit addictive. Explain how these workshops function ... Are they hands on, are materials supplied, or do people bring their own? No, everything is supplied - no need to bring anything! All materials used on the day are covered in the cost of the workshop, which is $70, or $65 each if you bring a friend along. It’s

a hands-on experience; you will make a selection of candles, spa lights, tealights and melts. Lots of fragrances and colours to choose from, and I think the hardest part of the workshop is selecting your fragrances and colours. Step by step easy instructions are provided for you to make your own candles at home. Also, starter kits are available to purchase on the day, which contain everything you need to make candles at home, including the equipment. Like my Facebook page for notifications on upcoming workshops, or workshops can be booked by appointment. I only take small groups, so you receive a more personalised experience. Where can we find out more about your workshops, or buy some of the products you create? Find me on Facebook, candle making by the sea, or email me at candlemakingbythesea@ gmail.com for more information. Also, visit my website at: www.candlemakingbythesea.com.au Thanks Sarndra. Interview by Jo Robinson.

greater port macquarie focus. 15

focusinterview.

On 11th December, a special fundraiser for a true local icon is planned. Alan “Digit” Dick is well known

for his involvement in both the local oyster industry and the Port Macquarie Surf Club - he’s

spent years giving to the community, but now he needs our assistance. Ken Wilson tells us more ...

“DIGIT”

FUNDRAISER

ntroduce us to Alan “Digit” Dick, and tell us a bit about his family’s history in the oyster farming industry … Alan “Digit” Dick is a local icon and hero within the Hastings region. He was born on 23 July 1938, making him the fifth generation of his family to be born in Port Macquarie. His family traces its origins in the area back to the arrival of John Dick and his wife, Mary Agnes Suart, who arrived from Kendall, Lakes District, England in 1841. Alan’s great grandfather is credited with the start of oyster cultivation in the Hastings River. His son, Thomas, continued with oyster cultivation and this continued down to Alan’s father (Jack) then Alan. Oyster farming during these times was tough. Sandstone rocks, which arrived in the town as ballast on sailing ships, before taking on cargo and returning to Sydney, were placed on Ti-tree platforms at low tide to catch oyster spawn. When the oysters were fully grown, they were culled off (three years), placed in bags and shipped to Sydney for sale. When Jack passed away in 1990, Alan took over the oyster leases in the big bay and Limeburners Creek, being the fourth generation of the family to farm these leases. Once Alan retired, the leases were sold - ending a family dynasty. What’s Alan’s connection with the Port Macquarie Surf Club? Alan joined the Port Macquarie Surf Club at 16 greater port macquarie focus.

the age of 15 years, under the guiding hand of The cost of his medications is high. Ray Feeny. He was awarded Life membership and There has been little improvement since his whilst a member, carried out or assisted with a stroke. His mind appears to be good, and he number of rescues. communicates by eye and hand movement. He He also became a member of the Port Maclikes to read any mail or documents he receives. quarie Walruses and the local Sea Rescue unit There’s a special trivia/auction fundraiser and was boat captain for a lengthy period. He planned for Alan on 11th December, 2pm, at took part in a number of rescues … one of Port Macquarie Surf Life saving Club. which, with his offsider Brian DeWho comprises the organising nyer, involved rescuing a yacht committee behind the fundin distress off Port Macquaraiser? e rie, securing the vessel John Dick (Alan’s brothWe hope to rais to s er), Michelle Dick (John’s near Bird Rock and bringenough fund g in ak m ing the family ashore. Daughter and Alan’s assist ‘Digit’ in n de ar G e Niece) and me, Ken Alan was awarded a his stay in th m co e or bravery medal by the Wilson (long time friend Village m . ly al ci an fin le Royal Humane Society, and fellow Life Member fortab be to y pa t n’ es which was presented to do of Port Macquarie It unwell.” him by Sir Roden Cutler, SLSC). NSW Governor. How long has the planning for the event been Alan is a great mate to taking place? many of his friends and was For approx. four weeks … And always ready to have a chat or lend everybody I have asked to assist i.e. someone a helping hand. Gerry Byron (Trivia), David Plews (Auction), How is Alan faring these days? The Port Macquarie SLSC Committee etc. have On 6th October 2015, Alan suffered a made themselves readily available. massive stroke. This has left him paralysed down How will the afternoon/evening activities at the right side of his body. With assistance he can the fundraiser unfold? What activities will walk a short distance, but cannot eat, talk or use take place at the event? his right hand. He receives nutrition by way of a The people will start to arrive at 2pm, which feeding tube inserted in his stomach. gives time to mingle and meet past acquaintancAlan’s been a resident of Garden Village Nurses. The Surf Club balcony is a great place to look ing Home since December 2015, and receives out to the ocean and talk. good compassionate and medical care.

“

The Trivia will start at 4pm - Jerry has told me that many of the questions are quite pertinent to “Digit”. There will be lots of fun, with an auction and prizes. As a wind down, the crowd can mingle some more and catch up with old friends. What is it hoped the fundraiser will achieve, and how will funds raised be used to help Alan? We hope to raise enough funds to assist “Digit” in making his stay in the Garden Village more comfortable financially. It doesn’t pay to be unwell. Whom would you like to thank for supporting the event so far? There are so many, including Brian Peel (Oxley Travel) for a holiday, the businesses that operate on Flynns Beach, and I hope that the friends and people who come to the afternoon have a great time and know that they have contributed greatly to an old friend. How do community members book to attend the event? Individual bookings or bookings for tables of eight are being taken. The cost is a $10 donation per person. Contact Ken Wilson: 0411 160 656 or email kwil9185@bigpond.net.au Booking commitment is required by December 1st. Thanks Ken. Interview compiled with the assistance of a family history excerpt written by Alan’s brother, John Dick.

FORESHORE

MARKETS DECEMBER FOR MANY OF US MEANS FAMILY TIME, APPRECIATING THOSE IN OUR LIVES AND SPENDING QUALITY TIME WITH THOSE WHO MAKE UP OUR WORLDS. It is also the time for giving, and Marketplace Events has lots of opportunities for you to give a gift made with love and heart. Extra Market days - the Xmas countdown is on! December is overflowing with markets, so you have every opportunity to stock up on local goodness. With so much enthusiasm shown over the last few years for the Xmas Markets in the forecourt of the Glasshouse, we are returning this year with three all day markets, from 9am - 6pm on Thursday 8th, 15th and 22nd December. The Foreshore Market will be held on Saturday 10th December, 8am - 1pm. One of our busiest markets of the year, it’s sure to be a another great day as we welcome the festival goers of FOTSUN to our beautiful town and look for the most special of gifts. We always have new faces at the markets, and it is always changing with what produce is in season, so bring along your shopping basket for the best local regional produce, wood fired breads, local honey and cheeses and stay for a while and enjoy our extensive group of stallholders who make up the Foreshore markets; you never know what you will discover. This month as we celebrate Christmas, and we meet a few of our local marketplace stallholders who make our

community markets a great place to find local products every month. FRANCESSCA O’ DONNELL OUT THERE DESIGN & MOSAIC What gives the Christmas Forecourt Markets a “special” vibe? Being centrally located, there is a great mix of locals and early holiday makers, who are drawn in by the music and energy these markets are known for, and also for the eclectic mix of stall holders and merchandise. How do you celebrate Christmas? Like many families, Christmas is the time we gather up the whole clan and a few “orphan” friends, for a week of amazing home cooked food, music, love, laughter … and Tequila. “Love and family clumping” is a precious gift, as we never see them often enough! How do the markets bring the community together? There is a fun camaraderie between stall holders and visitors, whether they are locals or holiday makers. Everyone is made to feel welcome and part of the day. I think the Bohemian in all of us is drawn to the atmosphere, music and positive vibes markets have and the chance to slow down and enjoy the energy as they peruse the stalls. WARREN AND BARBARA - RECYCLED SKATEBOARD JEWELLERY Tell us about your products on offer

at the Christmas Markets? All of our jewellery is made from old skate board decks that have been re-loved into beautiful wearable art pieces - outstanding colourful rings that look amazing, necklaces, bronze framed pendants and beautiful earrings. The colours in the skateboards are so dramatic, it makes all of our pieces bright and beautiful. What does Christmas mean to you? Christmas to us is family day. We are all down at the beach, lots of lovely food and company, a good swim, and a lie in the sun! What do you love about being a part of our local community markets? It is lovely to meet so many new faces and to have a place that is buzzing with excitement. Children are happy and immersed in the magic of it all. To have a place where people can buy handmade gifts that are extra special is just fantastic. What else is on offer at the Christmas Markets? All of the lovely food, the cheese, pickles and olives - I love all of those. There are lots of hand crafted jewellery, clothing and Christmas decorations. The markets have grown over the past few years and have become more popular in our community, and there is more support out there for all of talented stallholders - which is great. greater port macquarie focus. 17

focuseditorial.

LORRAINE GIBSON. THE PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER AND TAP HOUSE GROUP PROUDLY PRESENT THE TAP HOUSE HASTINGS RIVER NYE MIDNIGHT FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR. WHAT DO SCOTLAND, SYDNEY, WILCANNIA, ALICE SPRINGS AND PORT MACQUARIE HAVE IN COMMON? IN SHORT, ANTHROPOLOGIST AND ARTIST LORRAINE GIBSON HAS LIVED, WORKED AND PAINTED THERE.

fter moving from Scotland to Australia in the late ‘70s and raising a family, Lorraine’s strong interest in different cultural beliefs, values and lifeways saw her undertake a doctorate in cultural anthropology. This provided the opportunity to work and live with different cultural and language groups across Australia, where she explored diverse art forms and some of the many ways of being in the world. After moving to Port Macquarie two years ago, Lorraine again took up the brushes and now finds herself drawn to the easel most days. Describing herself as an aspiring artist, or as someone who tries to render culture, myth and symbolism on canvas, Lorraine’s work

18 greater port macquarie focus.

draws on Scottish myth and lore, Australian fieldwork experiences and being human. Using mixed media and mostly abstract expressionism, with the occasional naïve work, she conveys, for example, the essence of the Orkneys, supernatural cats, mythical water sprites, desert life and still life. Lorraine will be showing and selling some works at “Studio 5”, Jacaranda House Creative Hub, Cameron Street, Wauchope, from 15 November until 24 December 2016; open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm and 10am to 1pm Saturday. Limited copies of Lorraine’s book We Don’t Do Dots, Aboriginal Art and Culture in Wilcannia New South Wales and limited edition gift cards will also be for sale. For more information, email rainy.gibson@outlook.com

ort Macquarie locals and residents should look to the skies at midnight New Year’s Eve, as we welcome 2017 with a fireworks display launched from a barge on the Hastings River. The Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce seeks to bring the delights of a midnight fireworks display to Port Macquarie for all to enjoy. Please take precautions to reassure your pets during the fireworks. The Chamber encourages all to have a safe and happy New Year’s Eve.

well as welcome in a prosperous year ahead. Fireworks is something that all age groups can come together and enjoy, and nothing says celebration like fireworks. “We as a chamber have felt that this excitement has been missing in Port Macquarie at midnight New Year for many years and as we are maturing as a town, a fantastic place to visit as well as a wonderful place to do business, we have plenty to celebrate.

Alex Glen-Holmes, Vice President of the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce, spoke to FOCUS about the exciting addition to local New Year’s Eve celebrations:

“The Hastings River has been the drawcard for many over the years, so it seems fitting to light up the river in celebrations. We are grateful to be able to partner with Tap House to bring this to the people of the Hastings."

"With so many families and visitors in Port Macquarie on NYE, this is a great way to wave goodbye and celebrate the year that was, as

When: Saturday 31st December 2016. Time: Midnight. Where: Port Macquarie.

focusinterview.

LUCIO

ALFARO PITTWATER ECO FLOORSANDING

LUCIO ALFARO FROM PITTWATER ECO FLOOR SANDING AND DECKING RESTORATION TAKES PRIDE IN PROVIDING CLIENTS WITH A PROFESSIONAL, ON TIME, HONEST SERVICE.

i Lucio. Chemicals and toxic substances are found in most building products - what products do you use that are

“eco” friendly?

We use a natural oil from Livos, which has zero chemicals and soaks into the timber

begins. Acclimatisation of the boards on site

Japan. We generally recommend top-coating

before installation is also very important,

with a high quality, water based finish.

particularly with our coastal humidity. This

Outdoor timber requires expert knowl-

helps prevent excess shrinking and expansion,

edge to get it right the first time - how

which can lead to all sorts of problems down

do you ensure flawless results?

the track.

Much of our work is in restoring outdoor

What are some helpful hints for floor

timber; often clients call to know how they

maintenance and longevity?

can fix their deck gone wrong! We don’t

We have heaps of info on our website

generally recommend film coats, because as

rather than being a “film coat”. When we use

about maintenance of different types of

many find out, they are prone to cracking and

water based polyurethane we use top quality

timber flooring and finishes. The main points

peeling, which then needs to be sanded back

brands with low VOCs to European Stan-

to be aware of are:

in order to apply another product. Using an

dards. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds which have been found to be harmful to the environment and your health, as they

• Keep the floor well swept; walking over lots of grit can act like sandpaper. • Never use harsh chemicals to mop

oil based product might not look as glossy to begin with, but as it soaks in and nourishes the timber, it protects it for the long term, and

evaporate into the air - especially in solvent

timber floors; they can react with the finish

any high exposure areas which need more

based products. We like being able to tell our

and cause premature wear. Always use a ph

regular maintenance can then be recoated by

clients that they can walk in once the floor is

neutral cleaner (never vinegar!) and use only

the client. Our website has heaps of useful

dry with no lingering chemical smells.

the minimum amount of product.

info for anyone looking to improve the look

What is special about working with timber and its natural qualities?

• Keep decking swept and clear of leaves,

of their home, and our Facebook page has

particularly eucalyptus with high tannins, to

weekly updates of our current jobs and plenty

prevent moisture collecting and rotting the

of inspiration:

I was a kid helping my dad out building and

boards.

www.facebook.com/ecofloorsanding

renovating. It’s been great to get to know

What are some tips on wood floor stain-

As a young family, what do you enjoy

Australia’s hardwoods, and each timber has

ing and lime washing?

most about the Port Macquarie area?

I’ve loved working with timber, ever since

such different qualities. It’s essential to under-

Staining and lime washing are great ways

stand the character of the timber before you

to brighten up or lift the look of a home. Lime

camping nearly every weekend, or driving up

decide how to install it and treat it.

washing can make a small pokey area appear

the beach to North Shore, or taking the dirt

What should customers take into consid-

more spacious and give that coastal feel, and

bike down to Jolly Nose. We couldn't have

eration before floor board installation?

the colours are not limited to white - there’s

landed in a better community, and we are

Sub floor preparation is key to a well laid

a whole range of colours to make any home

very proud to call it home. It’s a privilege to

floor. It also prevents issues down the track,

stand out. Staining darkens the timber while

bring up our three kids in such a beautiful

such as gaps and squeaky floorboards. Your

allowing the features to show. We’ve had

part of the world; we consider ourselves very

flooring installer should discuss any prepa-

clients make drastic changes to their homes

lucky

ration or issues with you before any work

with subtle antique browns through to black

Thanks Lucio.

We’ve fallen in love with this area. We are

greater port macquarie focus. 19

focusinterview. We're Going on a Bear Hunt - Live on Stage! Therese Raquin - Photo by Lachlan Woods.

Hamish Blake and Andy Lee in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan, 2008. Photo by Captain Al Green. Courtesy of Department of Defence.

T H E G L A S S HOUS E PL AYS A N I M P ORTA N T E DUCAT IONA L ROL E I N OU R COM M U N I T Y, H E L PI NG TO S U PPL E M E N T S C HO OL C U R R IC U LU M S A N D PROV I DI NG DEV E LOPM E N T OPP ORT U N I T I E S FOR B OT H ST U DE N TS A N D T E AC H E R S.

ec Washington - Event Services Coordinator and Niomi Sands - Gallery Curator give us some insight into what we can expect from the Glasshouse’s educational programme, which was launched just recently … What is the Glasshouse's ethos/purpose in providing educational opportunities to primary, secondary and home school students? Bec: Since opening, over 28,000 students have participated in the performing arts and gallery education programmes at the Glasshouse - participation in live theatre, workshops, and visual arts provides experiences that can build awareness of our own culture, other cultures, build empathy and understanding and reinforce a sense of belonging. At its core, the Education programme wants to fire the imagination of students of all ages and provide new ways for them to interact and learn about the world around them - but at the same time, it has to be fun! At the Glasshouse we endeavour to create a programme that works alongside the wonderful work that our schools do to enhance a student’s educational journey. Niomi: Glasshouse Regional Gallery education programmes provide quality arts and cultural learning opportunities for students and teachers through exhibition focused professional development events, gallery tours, talks and workshops. Students are inspired to create, participate and learn through art making and innovative discussions. The new Education Programme at the Glasshouse has just been released. What are some of the exciting events/exhibitions that will be available to teachers and students over the next year?

20 greater port macquarie focus.

Bec: There are so many! When I determine the education programme, I'm really conscious about ensuring there are shows that cover all ages whilst remaining relevant to the curriculum and work being done in the classroom. So for the younger children, we have The Diary of a Wombat, based on the award winning book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley and produced by Australia's best Theatre Company for children, Monkey Baa, as well as We're Going on a Bear Hunt, that really engages children with a fun story, catchy songs and rhythmic repetition to create an interactive experience. We also have Mr Stink for upper primary, which I'm quite excited about, because students watching the show will be having such a great time, they won't even realise the wonderful lessons within about prejudice, stereotypes and human relationships. I'm also really excited about DRACULA for secondary school students! I have personally seen this show and it’s amazing - the set, costumes, script and acting are world class, and it’s brought to us by Shake and Stir Theatre Company, who presented Wuthering Heights at the Glasshouse this year … In 2017 I'm really pleased to present The Merchant of Venice by Bell Shakespeare. Bell Shakespeare are the masters at modern reinterpretation of Shakespeare's plays, and Merchant is a wonderful opportunity for students to truly appreciate Shakespeare's work, as it takes them on a journey of love, mercy and justice. Niomi: In 2017 the gallery will be presenting a dynamic programme of exhibitions that will inspire our educational audiences and foster creative learning. Exhibition highlights include Theatres of War: Wartime Entertainment & the Australian Experiences, Operation Art, Being Tiwi and Shapeshifters: 3D Printing the Future.

A diverse programme of workshops, teachers’ professional development opportunities and tours will accompany these exciting exhibitions. The Education Programme is not just about coming to view an exhibition, or see a show. What other opportunities are available to students? Bec: With the performing arts education programme I always spend a great deal of time working with Producers to devise workshops that complement the learning they are doing at school. The benefit of our Education Programme is that the best actors, dancers, musicians and artists are coming to our town. This creates opportunities for students to work directly alongside these people to learn valuable skills in their particular area of study. In 2017 students will be able to participate in workshops with the best classical dancers in Australia, experience a masterclass with a world renowned musician and audition to receive a scholarship to live and work with some of the best actors in the world. Niomi: The gallery is proud to present a selection of new workshop programmes. This includes two new workshops, B is for Bicycle and Incredible Insects that inspire primary students to let their imagination go wild while engaging with quality learning outcomes, as well as exciting day excursion experiences in partnership with Port Macquarie Library and Port Macquarie Museum to encourage students to participate in innovative hands on creative, heritage and new technology learning. What professional development opportunities are available for teachers? Niomi: The gallery will be present three exciting professional development opportunities for primary and secondary teachers in conjunction with Operation Art, Being Tiwi and Shapeshifters: 3D Printing the Future. As part of these workshops, teachers will be

encouraged to learn how to develop inspired creative programmes, engage students with contemporary art and utilise cutting edge technology within the classroom. What has been the most rewarding part about being involved with the Education Programme at the Glasshouse? Bec: The Education Programme is one of the most loved aspects of my job. I have built some wonderful relationships with educators all around the Mid North Coast, and I value their contribution when they keep me abreast of curriculum objectives and basically tell me what they need their Glasshouse to deliver! Just seeing the excitement and joy (and noise!) that the students show when they are coming to a show is amazing. I love live performance, and I am driven to break down the perception that theatre is somehow high-brow or "not for everyone". I'm motivated to ensure that future generations get to learn that going to the theatre is as easy and as accessible as going to the movies or seeing live music. Niomi: One of most rewarding parts of my role at the Glasshouse is seeing how inspired students get when they participate in our exhibition tours and creative workshop programmes. Each student lights up when they create their artwork, and you can see the joy and sense of achievement in their faces - you just know they have had an experience that they will remember for years to come! Thanks Bec and Niomi. Interview by Jo Robinson. Note: Within a week after its Thursday 11 November release, the 2017 Education @ the Glasshouse Programme had already received 3,945 reservations for performances, workshops and tours. For more info, visit www.glasshouse.org.au

2015 Winner of the Mid North Coast Open Art Prize

11th annual Summer showcase exhibition The Hastings Valley Fine Art Association will hold its 11th Annual Summer Showcase Exhibition and sale from 28th December 2016 until 8th January 2017 at the Laurieton United Services Club, Seymour Street. Open each day 10am - 5pm, $2 entry. The Showcase is the major event on the Association’s calendar and for the seventh year incorporates the Mid North Coast Open Art Prize of $1,000, which is open to all artists living in this area. An additional six sections make this a varied and vibrant, must-see exhibition. The judge is Bridget Purtill from the Port Macquarie Regional Gallery. President Brian Barker said, “This is our eleventh Summer Showcase and as last year’s judge, Ken Strong, commented, all paintings were of a very high standard and as good as any exhibition he had judged. This year will be no exception, so for those who are interested in viewing and purchasing high standard fine art, you are invited to visit the Summer Showcase Exhibition. We would like to thank our sponsors, LUSC, Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce, Tourism & Industry, Higgins & Dix Lawyers Laurieton, The Grange Family Medical Centre, Ocean Drive Family Practice North Haven, North Haven Pharmacy, Trek Web Design, First National RE North Haven, Masterpiece Framing & Gallery and Port Macquarie Psychology.” An Opening Night and Awards Presentation on Wednesday 28th December from 6pm - 8pm will launch the exhibition, $2 entry, lucky door prize, drinks available at the bar. RSVP by December 12th to Rita, 6586 3236 or 0418 284 583. More information at www.hastingsvalleyart.net.au

FlORA, FlIGHT and Fantasy At Long Point Gallery From the moment when, as a teenager, Linda obtained her first camera, she was hooked on photography. Her passion is nature photography, especially birds, flowers and garden critters. Capturing the perfect clear shot of such tiny and timid creatures requires considerable time and patience. She often wonders at the size of the heart in these tiny birds. Linda also enjoys landscape photography and capturing "times past" in the form of old buildings, cars and machinery. Linda is a member of the Hastings Photography Group, a friendly club with an emphasis on teaching. She has entered various photo competitions, winning awards such as 2nd in the 2010 Young Cherry Festival, runner-up in the 2011 Lawson Festival and 3rd for small print in the 2016 Northern NSW Zone competition, and club awards. More of Linda’s work can be viewed at local markets and on her website: www.lindaappleby.com Katherine Appleby is an illustrative artist using different mediums including acrylic, watercolour and mixed media to create her works. In the upcoming Flora, Flight and Fantasy exhibition at Long Point Gallery, visitors can look forward to creative pieces with intricate detail to inspire imagination. Katherine has recently illustrated her first children’s book, Little Sower Samuel, by Robert Costa. Read more about this on page 82. More of Katherine’s work can be viewed at: www.katherine-appleby.com

greater port macquarie focus. 21

focus_interview

with Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

Y N E E H Y ANTHON

S K I P P E R

P O R T

J E T

O W N E R

nthony Heeney, Owner and Skipper at Port Jet cruise to Lighthouse to check out the camels and share local and Jet Ski Hire, is looking forward to a busy history with passengers taking in the views to North summer season, taking passengers Brother. on ocean tours. He owns the “We make sure everyone swaps seats business with wife Jodi and halfway to get a different experience employs a young, fun and vibrant crew. on the waves. There are plenty of on I love being out A typical day for Anthony involves dolphins, green sea turtles and of e av W e the water. Th surfing the waves at speed, coastal course, endless fun surfing the ul tif au be Rider is such a cruising and spotting local marine waves to music.” to re su ea bo at , it’s a pl ’s It life. Anthony’s friendly and For people seeking a little y! da y er drive it ev le op pe informative tours have placed Port more adventure, Port Jet e se to e awesom hales up w Jet at number one on Trip Advisor operate top of the range ng ci en ri pe ex time and for Tours in Port Macquarie. Seadoos at the exclusive close for the first part of a Anthony owns one of the fastest nine hectare jet ski park - the very special to be .” ce en ri pe vessels on the East Coast of NSW, but largest in NSW, right here in Port that ex it’s not only for thrill seekers. With 25,000 Macquarie. whales migrating north each year, the whale Anthony and wife Jodi moved from watching season is a highlight. Tamworth 18 months ago. “I’ve always This year a Wave Rider passenger snapped the owned boats and had been looking to make perfect photo of a rare Bryde’s Whale breaching right the move over this way for a while. When Port Jet in front of the boat. You can’t put a price on wildlife was for sale, we jumped at it and haven’t looked back!” experiences like these. Anthony spent six months learning about the local “I love being out on the water. The Wave Rider is such coastline from Port Jet’s previous owner. a beautiful boat, it’s a pleasure to drive it every day! It’s “It’s a given that you have to love the ocean and all the awesome to see people experiencing whales up close for the amazing marine life in it, but this job is so much fun in that first time and very special to be a part of that experience,” customers book on to have a great time; they arrive ready to said Anthony. have fun! It’s such a vibrant place to come to work in every As whale season draws to a close, the favourite tour for day. summer is the Ocean Blast Ride, skippered by Anthony or “While moving the family and setting up in a new town Roger Porte. can be a scary prospect, for our family the whole experience “With 900 hp engines, this ride is a lot of fun,” says has been amazing. For anyone thinking of making the move Anthony. - Port Macquarie is such a welcoming and beautiful place,” “We surf the waves, visit the North Shore, enjoy a coastal adds Anthony. 22 greater port macquarie focus.

“

6.00am

Get up and do some sort of exercise, ride bike or run up to the lighthouse.

6.45am

Quick brekky, then head off to work.

7:30am

Open up, get boat down off hydrolift and ready for the day.

9:30am

First boat ride for the day, whale watching in season, Ocean Blast or Coastal Cruise in the warmer months.

12:00pm

Usually have some jet ski hires.

3:30pm

Start the big clean up, washing of boats, jet skis and equipment.

5:00pm

Finish up at work and start running the kids around to their various sports.

7:30pm

Walk the Great Dane and Schnauzer.

8:00pm

Dinner, then crash into bed!

greater port macquarie focus. 23

focusinterview.

LOCAL

ACCOUNTANT WINS

PRIZES IN

A U S T R A L I A

Many of you will know the name MISS DALE VELVET-ROSE, aka Dale Rankmore, more recently her married name of Mac Millan - resident, business woman and proprietor of Velvet-Rose’s Pin Up Dressing Room. You may also have seen Dale at Port Panthers Rockin’ Retrofest and Beatles Festival and other local car shows.

t the Panthers Port Rockin’ Retrofest 2016, Dale was honoured by her pin up community with the presentation of a cup inscribed “Pin Up Mum”. This was in honour of the time and effort she makes to encourage girls to become pin ups and respect themselves, no matter what size and age they may be. She has organised hair and makeup workshops around NSW and in Port Macquarie during the year, also organised pin up competitions and fashion shows on the Mid North Coast NSW. Dale competed in the Pin Up Doll Australia 2016 competition in conjunction with Chromefest on the Central Coast on the weekend of 22 and 23rd October, 2016. The competition programme involved wearing day wear, evening wear and performing a talent. She was pleased to be awarded “Best Wardrobe” for her outfits; one outfit was a dress and coat that Dale designed herself (see photo). She was also awarded “Miss Congeniality”, which is for the most supportive, mentoring pin up - it was voted on by the other competitors. In her pursuit of the Pin Up Doll Australia title, Dale chose to raise funds for THE LAYNE BEACHLEY AIM FOR THE STARS FOUNDATION, which was created to inspire girls and women to dream, aspire

and achieve. Encompassing academic, sporting, cultural and community pursuits, the Foundation offers moral and financial support to ambitious girls and women across Australia. The Pin Up Doll Australia Competition is a non-profit organisation run by women for women. Contestants who participate also learn to help one another. 1. Create a network of friends and colleagues on which to draw support. 2. Contestants learn to get involved and give back to the community as leaders and role models. 3. Contestants learn to work to affect change through volunteering, fundraising and advocacy. 4. During the competition entrants are given the tools to personally enrich others. 5. They learn to raise awareness and much-needed funds for philanthropic endeavours. The above aims are what Dale likes to promote with her pin up girls. Dale was honoured to be awarded the above prizes and be involved in the Pin Up Doll Australia Competition and to meet so many beautiful women in the competition. If you need any more information regarding the above, you are welcome to contact Dale on 0422 827 786. Photo taken by Noel Mac Millan.

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24 greater port macquarie focus.

B C U

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SuperFUNDS THE NECESSITY OF HAVING A STRONG, WELL-EXECUTED SUPERANNUATION PLAN HAS BECOME OBVIOUS IN RECENT TIMES.

ith the changes in government pensions and the cost of living on the rise, a lot of retirees are living on a shoestring, rather than the comfortable retirement they expected. As a result of this, a number of people are choosing to take control of their financial future by establishing a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF). Unlike traditional superannuation funds, SMSFs give people the freedom and flexibility to choose how they invest or manage their superannuation. Some SMSF investments options can be facilitated through shares, alternative investments, property, fixed interest and cash. As real estate is a popular choice for those with an SMSF, bcu has developed a custom suite of products for both residential and commercial investments at both fixed and variable rates. This, coupled with a well-crafted education piece, provides customers with the information they need to get the most out of their SMSF property investments. bcu’s first priority is that their customers get

both sound legal and financial advice from qualified specialists before making their investment choices. This allows for their individual circumstances and lays the ground work for a sound financial future. bcu has partnered with key experts in the industry, including solicitors and financiers, to bring both current and relevant information to the public through free SMSF Education Workshops. The most recent of these was held of The most recent at at the bcu Port Macquarie store and these was held qu ar ie provided a wealth of knowledge and the bcu Port Mac a ed id ov pr d an insights for those looking at manage stor ledge wealth of know ose ing their own superannuation fund. th r fo ts gh si in and Due to the workshops’ popuing oking at manag ualo larity, these will continue to run at nn ra pe su n ow r thei various bcu stores in the future; go to tion fund .” www.bcu.com.au/smsf to register your interest to attend. If you would like to talk to one of our SMSF specialist prior to the next SMSF Education workshops, feel free to contact bcu on 1300 228 228 or visit your local bcu store.

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bcu.com.au/smsf greater port macquarie focus. 25

focusinterview.

an you tell me a little bit about yourself? I’m originally from Tasmania, from a little town called Sisters Beach. Funnily enough, it’s a lot like Emerald Beach, which is where we moved to 10 years ago. I love it here; the entire coastline is where I like to spend my time. Can you briefly describe what it is you make? I create Native American inspired dream catchers; ninety percent of them are made with a leather material, which I love working with. I incorporate feathers, leathers, beaches, a range of crystals and any other natural charms I can get my hands on. When I have completed a dream catcher, my main desire is when someone catches a glimpse of it, they feel a connection towards it, as if it was designed specifically for them. The shirts that I design are ninety percent unisex; I really wanted to depict an early seventies California style. These ratty crew necks are made to be worn with rugged slim cut jeans, dusty bandanas and sun bleached locks. What have been some of your favourite pieces to make? I remember the first dream catcher I sold on Etsy was to a lady in New York. I thought it was incredible that someone half way across the globe now had something I had hand made in my little lounge room hanging up in their home. We’re very lucky to have this type of technology where we able to connect with people across the world and share all the wonderful products we create. Another one of my favourite pieces was a series of

26 greater port macquarie focus.

first I remember the ld so I dream catcher in dy la on Etsy was to a t it was gh ou New York . I th someone incredible that the globe ss ro ac half way hing I had now had somet little y m hand made in ing up in ng ha lounge room their home. ”

“

dream catchers that I designed for a lovely elderly lady, who gave me the privilege of transforming all of her mother’s handmade doilies that she had held on to. She gifted her children and grand children with the dream catchers I had made, and now they all can be treasured forever. Where do you find your inspiration? I find inspiration in a lot of places. Both my parents are creators and encourage my business. A lot of my creativity comes from my mum; seeing her originality in the pieces she makes and how to add individuality to your art really makes me want to strive to do the same. I also know a few local artists; seeing their passion and drive in what they do inspires me to exert myself and give it my all. If you could live anywhere in the world that would help influence your work, where would you choose and why? America. I've always wanted to travel and explore America, and I feel I would be able to draw a lot of inspiration for both my very different products ... specifically my shirts; I think I could find a lot of inspiration over there. There would be amazing places I’d love to visit, like Santa Monica and Venice Beach and hear from people who actually got to live through that laid back seventies beach lifestyle and get a feel on what it was like growing up when skate culture kicked off and became the influential industry that it did. Skateboarding was all about

innovation and style, two things that still influences both the sport and fashion culture today. What advice would you give to someone who is considering taking up making objects either as a profession or hobby? Just to be authentic and create things that reflect who you are and what you love. Because creating should be about having fun. What are your plans for the future? I'm working towards building up my products for an online store and creating a larger range of shirts with new designs. Down the track my dream is to own my own store; until then, I’m going to start doing a few pop up shops. I also would love to start supplying more businesses with my products not just in Coffs Harbour, but hopefully other states. I will be working hard to accomplish my goals. Where can people purchase or order your products? I'm lucky enough to have some great shops that stock my product. You can find my dream catchers in an amazing florist in town, Emma Louis Flowers. Also, another awesome shop that stocks my dream catchers as well as my shirts is Wrecked Vintage, which has a great range of unique one off pieces. My Instagram and Facebook can both be found under the name “the peach and the bear” and all custom orders and enquires can be sent to freya.hall3@hotmail.com Thanks Freya.

BOOK NOW FOR NYE

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YOUR TICKET INCLUDES 4 HOUR BEVERAGE PACKAGE 7:00pm - 11:00pm CANAPES, MAIN & DESSERT I SHOWGIRLS 300 CASINO CHIPS I FRONT ROW SEATS TO THE MIDNIGHT FIREWORKS I DJ UNTIL 12.15AM ACCESS TO THE NYE AFTER PARTY IN ZEBU BAR + GRILL

T H A N KYO U TO O U R M E L B O U R N E C U P E V E N T PA R T N E R S

Charlize Rose Phone (02) 6589 2888 email kate_woodfoye@evt.com Hay Street, Port Macquarie

greater port macquarie focus. 27

SEAFOOD CREATION; GINGER LOBSTER, CRISPY SNAPPER WITH CAULIFLOWER PUREE, SALMON TARTARE, CAVIAR AND CAPSICUM COULIS. from sails resort restaurant + bar

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

28 greater port macquarie focus.

Oyster Kilpatrick- crispy bacon, worcestershire sauce, tabasco.

Sails resort Restaurant + Bar Get yourself water side this summer and enjoy the silly season Sails style with loads of summer dishes and events to make a splash in your festive diary. Join us for a Sails Resort Poolside Sunday and kick back with a delicious frozen margarita, some yummy $1 Oysters and get yourself a tan whilst kicking back with the tunes. Grab the office crew and celebrate the end of the year with a beautiful waterfront Christmas Brekky any day of the week from 6:30am till 10am, or join us for lunch on a weekend to sample some of Exec Chef Kit’s finest seafood with a side dish of sun!

Alpine Venison Fillet: with potato skordalia, blistered truss tomato, braised red cabbage & juniper berry jus

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

Chocolate fondant, candied orange andCRAZY crèmeSEASON fraiche. SPECIAL: Synergy Bar $10

Festive Cocktails from 5pm till late every day in December.

Diary Date: New Year’s Eve Resort style! Ring in the New Year with a delicious Seafood Buffet + 4hr beverage package over the water with live tunes from Jackson James Band and a cracking view of the fireworks. $135pp – Bookings essential.

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

aqua the westport club

salty's bar and grill

Exec Chef Summer is not to far away, and with summer comes Christmas Enjoy exciting new options in Aqua with our menu whilst relaxing Kit Foe Holidays. in our stunning, fully refurbished surrounds. Located Sails Resort Port Macquarie Salty’s have the perfect location to treat yourselfinside to some much needed Aqua now offers a full wine and dine experience Cnr with Hay an emphasis on Streets, Port Macquarie & William by Rydges. Park St, Port Macquarie at the time out from the hussle and bussel of daily life. With perfect water Australian Wines at our new Aqua Bar. 6583 0830 www.centrohotel.com.au roundabout, opp Settlement City. views, soaking up the sun and enjoying a glass of wine or cold beer has book online www.resdiary.com A new menu, a new restaurant feel combinedor with our classic Hastings 6589 5100 never been easier, match that with delicious meals and you have the River view and friendly service. 7 days, 6:30am - 10am for breakfast; Breakfast: 7 days 6:30am - 10am, Lunch: perfect lunch or dinner. Chefs de Cuisine 5pm - late for dinner. Bookings essential. Bookings are recommended. Fri - Sun from noon. Dinner: 7 days 6:00pm.The team at Chris & Luke Think of Salty’s when booking your next function or birthday party, talk Salty’s. to us today about the perfect package to suit your needs. Tataki Kingfish entrée, sustainably sourced, served with black garlic, Fennel crusted Licensed pork fillet, celeriac puree, pickled shemiji mushroom, tempura ohba leaf & spicy togarashi purple cabbage,Family onionfriendly cells, bacon crumb, speck and apple ciderIndoor foam./ outdoor dining Chef’s The Westport Club's

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841

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

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

Kingfish carpaccio, fingerlime, chorizo and radish

TABLE SPRING Sensations

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

zebu bar+grill Summer is just around the corner - head to Zebu to soak up the pre holiday atmosphere with cracking water views and blue skys. Enjoy the quintessential taste of summer with a glass of vino or a muddled mojito teamed with some succulent oysters or crispy duck spring rolls, whilst listening to some live tunes from many local talented musicians. If it’s something a little more

zebu bar+grill

aqua at the westport club

refined you are after, head to the grill for our degustation menu with five hand crafted courses Head to the waterfront this festive season and enjoy summer Zebu Chef Adam Tait matched withItfiisneonce again the festive time of year, the chance to reconnect with loved fromat Executive wines sourced from across Australia. Still can’t with loads of yummy dishes on our casual dining and bar menu. ones, and celebrate the year that has been with cheerful celebration. This is the time of year where the special moments occur and lasting memories are Hit the town with some naughty and nice cocktails for every day decide? of the Be tempted by the King Fish Carpaccio with fingerlime, chorizo and radish paired with a week, throw in some amazing live music and you’ll have your festive fun made - the perfect opportunity to enjoy one of our signature share dishes. crisp Andrew Thomas Six Degrees Semillon - simply

sorted! If it’s something more refined you’re after, Head Chef Callum In AQUA we love bringing the community together to live, love and laugh irresistible! Riddock is serving up the taste of summer in the grill with divine dishes and Diary Date: New Year’s Eve - Bring in thearound New the table while sharing a meal. The time for decadent dining, five course degustation menu if you fancy a feast. indulgent delights set against a relaxed waterfront backdrop is upon us! Year in Sin City Style Headwith Chefa night in Vegas

off the hook

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

Callum Riddock. Diary Date: New Year’s Eve! Bring in the New Year with fireworks withover dancing girls, blackjack and poker! With the recent launch of our new season menu, the re-invigorated offering We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, Seewith page 21 for more info! the water and party from 7pm ‘til 2am in Zebu Bar with guest DJ’s in AQUA once again champions our fantastic produce, while also adding snacks, salads, and of course, fish andlocal chips. pumping out all the tasty tunes. No cover charge. If an elegant dinner on some of the most exclusively sourced ingredients from the world. We have added a larger selection of fish to our around menu, including our the waterfront is more your style try our NYE 5 Course Degustation in Zebu favourite, the Flathead fillets. Grill- $115pp – Bookings essential.

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

25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie 6588 7201 thewestportclub.com.au

Head Chef Michael Finch.

The friendly staff.

Lunch 7 days - 11:30am - 2:30pm.

Dinner 7 days - 5pm - 8:30pm. Executive Chef Adam Tait.

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

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green. 6584 1146

greater port macquarie focus. 29

focus_eat

Lou Perri from the Stunned Mullet

HAPPY HOLIDAYS CHRISTMAS COMES BUT ONCE A YEAR ... ONCE WE HIT ADULTHOOD, MOST OF US DON’T CARE FOR IT TO OCCUR ANY MORE THAN THIS!

ithout the wonder and promise of childhood to add sparkle, it’s easy to get bogged down in the negative when it comes to this time of the year - trolley wars at the supermarket, parking space rage, gritting our teeth at the in-laws, hangovers, sunburn, tantrums etc. etc. There’s an almost apocalyptic urgency to get things done by Christmas Eve, when in fact there is really just one day where the world sort of stops - Boxing Day, for the most part, becoming a day of boringly normal trading hours. But still nevertheless, many of us panic and start to resent the various tasks we feel we need to complete, as well as the people around us - usually our nearest and dearest! In Australia, Christmas signifies the start of the holiday season - schools and universities are out for the count of January, and office workers take their annual leave. The sun shines, the cicadas roar in a constant and sometimes deafening chorus, the beaches are crowded, and there’s always a barbie going on somewhere. For someone who comes from a freezing northern hemisphere Christmas past, this is an extreme juxtaposition - albeit not an unwelcome one. Although Christmas in Canada provides one with a typical winter wonderland scenario - sled rides, snowmen, snowball fights, comfort food with lots of gravy and mash, weather conducive to “touque” wearing (I believe Aussies call these “beanies”); the Aussie version engenders a certain casualness (I think it’s called “sunshine”) - which induces a freedom to partake in the outdoors that you just don’t get in wintery northern climes. In this country we seem to be still unsure of the correct protocol for the season. Our

30 greater port macquarie focus.

northern European heritage has long provoked a certain nostalgia for Frosty, Rudolf and the typical Fir trees we adorn with baubles and fake snow. With this comes a bit of yearning for “the old country”, and subsequently there are those who never venture to the fishmonger to supply for the day. But our climate has inadvertently paved the way for a growing acceptance of a departure from the culinary norm and led us outside to the barbie and away from the oven. Let’s face it - a hot and traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings just doesn’t hold quite the same appeal in 30˚C heat ... But we have to ask ourselves (setting aside sentimentality for a second) - does the time-honoured idea of white Christmas with turkey and pudding somehow trump the feasting on of juicy King Prawns, oysters (at their seasonal best), delicious salads, mangoes, cherries and all the other great stuff readily available and frequently utilised for a typical Aussie Christmas? There’s no right or wrong answer here except that Christmas and the holiday season are what you make of them, wherever you happen to be around the world. In this country we have even more freedom to utilise the bounties of our climate, to add to our enjoyment of the season. We can still embody tradition and the ancient symbols, but we can also go for a surf on Christmas morn, or float in the pool sipping a cocktail. Some of us don’t celebrate - and that’s okay too. But if you do, I would say the only requirements are people you care about (even just one, or a phone call if necessary!), food and drink that you enjoy, and just taking the time to enjoy the interlude - in between the next onslaught of Boxing Day, NYE and Resolutions anew - that this one day creates.

Beef & Platypus Pie (no aussie icons were harmed in the making of this dish)

How perfect ... the classic meat pie with the enhancement of a traditional style Australian ale called the Platypus from Black Duck Brewery.

ingredients

650 g beef scotch fillet, cubed 2 tbsp plain flour 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion (brown) 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 tbsp thyme, chopped 400 g tomato, chopped 250 ml Black Duck Brewery Platypus Beer; sample the leftover 1 whole egg, lightly beaten 2 whole puff pastry sheets Tomato sauce, to serve

method

Chef Craig Freudenstein

S E RV E S 4

Place the beef in a large bowl and sprinkle with flour. Season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to evenly coat. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and thyme and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until onion is soft. Season with salt and pepper. Add the beef and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until browned. Stir in the tomato and beer. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 55 minutes or until beef is tender. Set aside for 30 minutes to cool. Preheat the oven to 220Â°C. Place a baking tray on the middle shelf. Use four oven proof ramekins 3 cm deep, 12 cm (base measurement). Divide the beef mixture evenly among the ramekins. Cut each pastry sheet in half diagonally. Top the pies with puff pastry and trim the excess. Press the edges to seal. Brush the pies with egg. Cut a small cross in the centre of each pie. Place the pies on the baking tray and bake in the oven for 25 minutes or until golden and puffed. Serve with tomato sauce and another Black Duck Brewery Platypus beer. greater port macquarie focus. 31

The Eagles Are touching down! The Eagles are touching down the voice of Hotel California, at Club North Haven Don Henley. Tickets are Friday, December 9th. es just $25 and available at ur The band feat ’s Paul McGovern’s The ia al tr the club or online at five of Aus hed Heart of The Matter www.clubnorthhaven. most accomplis ians ic Eagles Show is the singers and mus is com.au th best Eagles Tribute paying tribute to with Over the Christmas ong show in Australia, classic band , al e th to e ut period there will be a special trib and Paul McGovHotel California, of e a host of both family ic vo ern’s voice is as close Henley. ” on D friendly entertainment to Don Henley’s as and shows for over 18s, you will find. The band including a fantastic Electric features five of Australia's

“

most accomplished singers and musicians paying tribute to this classic band, along with a special tribute to

32 greater port macquarie focus.

‘80s show in January, the return of the Baby Boomers and international magician Jay Scott Berry.

9 7 G O R D O N S T R E E T, P O R T M AC Q UA R I E N S W

P. ( 0 2 ) 6 5 8 3 4 6 4 6 â€¢ F I N N I A N S TA V E R N . C O M . A U

greater port macquarie focus. 33

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

JEFF COLLYER PORT M ACQUA R I E I S E NJOY I NG U N PR EC E DE N T E D GROW T H I N R E SI DE N T I A L R E A L E STAT E ACT I V I T Y. M A N Y HOUSE S SE L L BE FOR E F I R ST I NSPECT ION OR ATT R ACT M U LT I PL E BI DDE R S. F EW E R A R E L A ST I NG U N T I L AUCT ION DAY. SUSI E A SK E D A L E A DI NG AGE N T A BOU T T H E F R E NZ Y.

s Paul Keating would possibly put it, Port Macquarie real estate is going gangbusters. In one given week recently, official data registered a total of 29 residential properties being sold - while just 16 came onto the market: near enough to a 50 per cent deficit. Buyers are falling over themselves to snap up homes here. Agents are intensely competitive, if not begging, for listings. It’s been relentless for the past 12 months and more. Daily, letterboxes are crammed with colourful flyers, sales reps pleading to be invited to offer an appraisal or valuation estimate – a foot in the door to win business and encourage owners to sell. Quite a number offer discounted or fixed-price reduced rates of commission. (And, while many “name” franchises maintain a prestigious high-profile high street presence, buyer inquiry is increasingly internet-driven: some agents don’t even feel the need to have an office, let alone a prominent shopfront with traditional window-card displays.) I was startled recently even to see two leading franchises within a fortnight moved to tout for business by setting up a stall in Settlement City shopping centre. In fact, competition among agents seeking clients is keener than ever in local memory. Without “listings” – properties for sale – a real estate agency is like Woolies without groceries, just a hollow shell of empty shelves. No stock. Fortunately, the traditional spring season brought out the sellers again in 2016, even though so many properties had already been turned over, most at record prices, in the past year - but still not enough new offerings to

34 greater port macquarie focus.

meet the demand agents claim to have on their books. My own property hunt was marked by a salient experience: despite being first, with one other, to inspect a house ahead of its initial open inspection and telling the agent I wanted to buy it ... when I asked why the contract hadn’t materialised on the spot, as earlier promised, or within the again-promised following hour, or been emailed to my phone, I was told the property was sold. “It has exchanged.” Frankly, I’m sure it had not exchanged by then, but I let it go. I wasn’t gazumped, but somehow someone else – not far removed from me, as it turned out - had been smarter, or preferred, or better connected. Perhaps the seller would have gained a better price if I’d been allowed in the contest. Certainly, competing buyers sometimes need to offer greater than asking price to secure a desired property. So, as is reported of the Sydney scene, it’s an exciting scenario for vendors in Port’s own seller’s market. But, as also in Sydney, some potential sellers are reticent, nervous at the prospect of not finding their next house, of vying with cashed-up out-of-towners exiting pricier markets and with investors, many diverting super funds into property in the current low interest-rate environment. For a professional view, I sought some observations from an impartially-placed leading local agent and licensed auctioneer. Port News’s Domain magazine, published Fridays, lists 20 or so residential real estate companies, both multi-agent agencies and sole operators. Agents are prone to move around a fair bit, especially in lean times; in this often ephemeral industry Jeff Collyer was a rare stable identity for 17 years: one of just a few who’ve

sat at the same desk throughout an entire career in Port Macquarie residential property sales. Mid-year, he took that experience with him to Debbie Moore Real Estate, specialising in commercial sales and leasing – a vibrant, expanding arena now that Port’s population growth has stimulated a cycle of development, infrastructure, industry, service industries and a resurgent retail scene. Collyer observes: “Currently the Port Macquarie residential market is very active and the biggest issue facing agents is ‘Where will I find my next listing?’ Sales numbers are higher than new listings and this creates urgency for buyers to secure a property as they just don’t have the choices. And competition among agents for your business is at times fierce, with probably more agents competing per listing than anywhere else I can think of. This has resulted in fee discounts and free marketing packages with different agencies all doing their utmost to secure business. Higher sales prices, less competition from other properties, and agents fighting for your listing - what a great time to be a seller! Buyers however are faced with increasing prices, lack of choices and therefore more competition, so it’s perhaps not so great for them. All the same, I think Port is generally still affordable when compared to similar markets ... but for how long?” In rising markets, smart buyers are on alert not to pay beyond a fair price. “Real estate is a medium to long term investment,” Collyer cautions. “When I first started in the 1990s twobedroom walk-up units around Bridge/Waugh streets sold for around $80-90k. By 2003 they’d doubled in price - but then they sat at that level or even a little lower for about 11 years. Then

the market moved again and now they achieve around the $240-260k mark. Yes, some people have done very well over short periods: they’re either very astute or just plain lucky. But, overall, property is an excellent investment and nothing beats the feeling of security of owning your own home.” Collyer maintains a modest presence in, and so current knowledge of, the residential market, accepting the occasional residential listing with past clients seeking him out for advice. Looking forward, he notes some of the factors influencing the local scene: “The opening of Charles Sturt University has unquestionably had an impact, with the need for more rental accommodation for students and housing for its full-time staff. The availability of land such as at Ascot Park, Crestwood and Sovereign Hills has given a boost to the building industry that’s enabled the shortage of residential listings to be offset by house/land packages. Areas such as King Creek and Lake Cathie are becoming more attractive as the boundaries of the town continue to spread. “Sydney has always provided a big number of new residents here, but they were generally retirees. More recently there’s been a trend to young families priced out of Sydney – who can find employment here, start a business or, especially in IT or similar industries, just keep their old job and work from home. I’m looking forward to seeing what impact our new direct flights to and from Melbourne will have; I think it’ll enable a whole new market to discover and fall in love with our beautiful town.”

greater port macquarie focus. 35

focusinterview.

Diani

Butchart

EMPOWERMENT CENTRE AFTER A COLOURFUL JOURNEY ONCE LOCAL CLAIRVOYANT DIANI HAS RETURNED TO PORT MACQUARIE, THIS TIME TO STAY … SHE CHATTED TO FOCUS ABOUT HER PREMONITIONS ABOUT OUR REGION COMING TO FRUITION AND WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE FUTURE …

i Diani. Introduce yourself to our readers and how you came to call Port Macquarie home ... I didn’t choose Port Macquarie; it chose me 17 years ago. I bought a place, was settling in, and circumstances changed. I left, and returned to my house three months ago. I then was involved with a Psychic Expo and was on the front page of the Holiday Magazine, predicting our future ... some things have come to fruition, like the houses on the canals, cycle tracks, vineyards, more tourism, the food and wine festival, and the increase in sports fields. The cafés I predicted have a Sydney and Melbourne influence. Europeans have made it a destination, and the police have cleaned up. When did you first discover your psychic abilities? I have been clairvoyant from a teenager. I’ve been a meditator for over 25 years. This I believe opens one up, plus I wished to help people gain clarity. For 30 years I have been working with my abilities and talents. We Psychics are not always right, as we have been given free choice and at any given time we can change our minds. I was born a Pisces (The Ides of March) - for any of you familiar with star signs, I was born to help others and express my talents and gifts as we all are, but so many people are in jobs they don’t like! This is an area I love to help others with ... to find their potential, to gain clarity on direction. I studied Science of Mind Spiritual Counselling and many other shorter courses in the spiritual area. 36 greater port macquarie focus.

I was born to help others and nts express my tale l are, al e w as s and gift le op but so many pe n’ t do ey are in jobs th ea like! This is an ar rs he ot lp he I love to ...” with

“

I worked with Athena Starwoman on her Psychic Line for many years. I belong to the International Psychic Association and Natural Healing Association. I have worked in Psychic Expos overseas and within Australia, designed my own Tarot Cards, and presented workshops I designed. Where has that since taken you? I left Australia as a teenager to live and experience as much as I could, so as to help others. The work background has been varied. After leaving school I worked in the NRMA and had a second job as a waitress in an up market seafood restaurant, to save for the overseas experience. I worked in a textile company in London, taught English in Spain, Valencia. I lived in Ibiza and was a nanny in Paris. Whilst away for six years, I lived in London, Paris, Spain and later Indonesia - Bali - as a family. We negotiated on the leasing of a piece of land with volcano and rice paddy views above the Aung River. This was an amazing experience, to say the least. Here we built an upmarket restaurant outside of Ubud called the KUPU KUPU; we were the first before the 5 star hotels to build on the ridge at Kedewatan. In those days there weren’t up market stores to go into and buy for the restaurant ... One had to seek and barter for everything. It was not easy living there with small children, building and developing a tourist destination.

The Kupu Kupu expanded into a resort and later a second one opned up. Dealing with the pressures of a foreign country and customs was not easy some 30 years ago. After a failed marriage, my children and I returned to Sydney. My children were born in Byron Bay and Lismore and whilst there with family, I enrolled in the Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education to study the arts course, where I received a Diploma for directing, radio and acting. I feel Port is a mini Byron, with less people and without the cost of real estate. We have a beauty here unlike any other coastal town. Looking into our future here now, what do you see for Port Macquarie? When I look to our future again, I see ... Airport expansion, with more flights going to more destinations. A rock pool in the main beach area. Conferences on a regular basis - Port being the central hub on mental health and other health issues. Boot camps for teenagers who are lost. This will have them reconnect to nature and themselves. More yoga and meditation retreats. A commercial organic farm will pop up. Another vineyard, which will have accommodation attached. Manufacturing increase in and outside of Port. More sport facilities, with more major events.

A large sports arena, which will house music events. A commercially owned Angus cow farm. A tourist animal farm. The North Shore will open up slowly, and a golf course with resort style facilities will be known. Local Council will be under pressure to meet the new demands with integrity, as an injection of monies from Government support the growth. Port Macquarie’s growth is a reflection of the quality of people who live and who are drawn here and those who are still yet to discover this wonderful place we call home. My aspirations living here places me in a position where I can move between Sydney, Newcastle, Queensland, Tasmania and overseas. Living locally, I can visit family and friends and also be available to help others. I know it takes 12 months to settle into a new place, even though I am familiar with here. I have joined a couple of clubs and I’m checking out Lions. They do a fantastic job. I have a building project next year where I can expressmy creativity.. My time is divided with helping others, entertaining family, friends and meeting new people to enjoy my time here, where my heart is now settled and happy. Where can our readers contact you for a reading of their own? I am available for reads or a one on one or over the phone. Healings and reads by appointment. DIANI 0412 593 488. www.empowermentcentre.com.au Thanks Diani.

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. (02) 6580 2300 tel. (02) 6330 0600 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

greater port macquarie focus. 37

greater port macquarie focus. 38

HIBBARD SPORTS CLUB Hibbard Sports Club - your family friendly club.

corner, itâ€™s a great spot to hold your Christmas

This December, come and say hello to our friendly team, escape the heat and let the kids have a ball at the on-site playgroud, water park or putt-putt.

friends.

The bistro caters for everyone, with delicious home style meals, cooked when ordered. The bistro is open for lunch and dinner every day. Lunch is from 12pm - 2pm and dinner from 5pm - 8pm.

run daily.

With a great outdoor, undercover function area, why not ask us about your next party or get together? With Christmas just around the

Meat raffles, Wednesday and Friday nights.

and New Year functions with family and Hibbard Sports Club is home to three prestigious bowling greens. Come down for a social game, or ask about our competitions There really is something for everyone at Hibbard Sports Club. Bingo every Monday and Thursday.

We look forward to seeing you and your family soon at Hibbard Sports Club.

greater port macquarie focus. 39

COLT PROSSER RACING Colt Prosser Racing has grown quite

of good gallopers, like Alpine Dragon, Stop the

substantially over the last couple of years.

Fight, Admiral Ruff, Sweet Missile etc. Then there

What’s they key to your success in business?

are the babies coming through - keep an eye on

To love what you do is the first ingredient needed

Rocket Monkey and Metre Eater.

to be successful in any form of business. Being a

With the next lot of sales happening in

third generation trainer, I guess it is in the blood

January, how do those interested in getting

- but passion helps drive you. The second key is a

into the industry as part or full owners find

good team around you who love what they do,

out more information? There has never been

and it’s very important - especially in this game.

a more exciting time to get into racing, with

Rain, hail or shine, they show up and make sure

the new prize money increases. I try to buy on

their animals are exercised and cared for.

THE ANNUAL WOOP WOOP CUP Wauchope Racecourse: there has been

annual Boxing Day event is always a

racing on the present site since 1945.

favourite among the locals and is a great

A stable viable history, with much community

family day out for all.

a style of horse I like, rather than breeding, and

support. Well drained ridge country.

Admission to the five-event race day is just $10

Tell us a bit about the team you have out at

it’s worked pretty well over the last few years.

Facilities at the Wauchope Racecourse include:

and $5 for pensioners, with gates opening at

Wauchope? We have built a handy team over

Owners can get involved in ownership for as little

Full betting facilities, Tote and strong

the last couple of years, with the stable star being

as $30 a week, by joining in a syndicate with as

bookmaking field;

Prince Mayted this year. He’s won a $60,000 race

little as 5%. This is becoming a very popular way

in Brisbane, Moree town plate, Coonabarabran

to enjoy horse ownership, and many owners are

cup sprint and came 2nd in the Port Macquarie

taking 5% in numerous horses, so they have a

sprint recently on cup day, taking his winnings

few thing always going on. Contact me to find

This year’s Woop Woop Cup race meeting

dress up and try their luck at the Fashions on

just shy of $200,000. Then we have a number

out more.

is shaping up to be another great day. The

the Field.

40 greater port macquarie focus.

Bar and refreshments; Grassed betting ring.

12pm. There will also be lots of undercover seating available, whether it be rain, hail or shine. The day will provide great entertainment for young and old, as well as those who love to

greater port macquarie focus. 41

focusinterview.

TIM CAMPBELL IS A MULTITALENTED PERFORMER AS AN ACTOR ON SCREEN AND STAGE, TV HOST, MC AND VOCALIST. WELL KNOWN FOR HIS ROLES IN HOME AND AWAY AND HOUSE HUSBANDS, TIM IS BRINGING THE TIM CAMPBELL BAND TO PERFORM AT THE WESTPORT CLUB’S CHRISTMAS UNDER THE STARS EVENT ON SATURDAY 17TH DECEMBER.

hat do you enjoy about being involved in different aspects of the entertainment industry? I love that my career allows for diversity in what I do. I’m sure anyone’s job would love any changes that come. Live performance is obviously a different experience to on set and I love the intimacy of working a camera, then being huge and having a lot of fun on a stage. I’m lucky over the years to go between mediums, without having to get a real job! Where did you grow up, and how did you get into acting and singing? Not sure I have grown up yet, but I intend to be an adult one day! I basically discovered performing in late high school; I played more sports at school than performing. I studied music at school, but didn’t sing then. When I left school I tried university a couple of times, but basically took my own path in different aspects of performing and haven’t looked back. I just said yes to every job and convinced them I could do it - whilst secretly learning ... Shhh! I’m sure my dad is hoping I’ll be that inspiring accountant one day! When/how did the Tim Campbell Band first come together? I started the band back in 2008 when I was hosting a show on Channel 9/NBN called The Singing Bee. We had great live music on the show, and I did sing on every episode,

42 greater port macquarie focus.

enjoy

As much as I was this experience but that wasn’t enough. E TV work, I LOV like? The band and I have ce a live performan e this That was a lot been playing events lik especially ones harder work than I and touring around the e w t, as Christmas even d anticipated. I was country and into Asia an n fu can have a lot of l.” al fi lming Home and ever since. I LOVE playing at pt ri there is no sc Away at the time in the ‘70s and ‘80s dance Sydney, so had to find floor classics - don’t get me any spare time to rehearse started! and then fly to Melbourne to What can people look forward shoot the show in between. to at the Tim Campbell Band Then of course, the dance styles, performance at The Christmas Under the which are very intricate. I now know why Stars event in December? they call it a sport; you need to be very fit to I won’t have the full band on this gig, pull it off. I did tell my amazing partner, Natalie but am bringing my guitarist Brad Green and Lowe, to treat this like it were the national backing vocalist, the amazing Susie Ahern. We championships, and she didn’t hold back. We will still bring the fun vibe of the songs we do put everything into those dances, and it paid in the shows, so I do expect a HUGE dance off. Loved that whole experience. floor in front of the stage - in fact, in the You’re also well known for your roles in whole outdoor area. Of course there’ll be a fair Home and Away and House Husbands; few classic Christmas tunes also, so prepare to how do you stay grounded? raise the voices. And don’t muck it up! Ha Ha! I grew up in the western suburbs of Sydney, What do you love about entertaining a so I already had a very grounded upbringing, live audience? which I have never let go of. Luckily, Anthony As much as I enjoy TV work, I LOVE a and I have a very similar work ethic and as live performance - especially ones like this much as we are very lucky to have the careers Christmas event, as we can have a lot of fun we love, we also know how to switch off from and there is no script at all. Musicals are fun work. That, and we don’t believe in any hype/ also, but just being in front of a live band with marketing written; it’s all part of the game. a live audience is a BRILLIANT feeling. I have as And really, nights like this Christmas event is much, if not more, fun than them. Who knows what it’s all about. Making sure everyone has what will happen, or who I’ll end up dancing fun … Then it’s espresso martini time … It’s for with in the crowd. Prepare yourselves! the vocals - very technical! A Dancing with the Stars favourite, what

“

And this year you have also been playing the role of Corny Collins in the national tour of Hairspray? Yes! I have always wanted to play Corny I’m type cast in the role really - and have had a great time touring this show around the country, including Newcastle (well, that’s the closest venue - sorry!) It’s a huge arena version of the show, and we also include about 600 local performers in each city we play in, so it’s enormous. Very excited also, as next year I’ll be playing Johnny Casino in the national arena tour of Grease! What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Spare time is normally recovery time for me - I’m not getting any younger! Both Anthony and I travel a bit, so soirees at home and catch ups with friends generally fills the down time. I’m also an ambassador for a couple of charities, including RSPCA, which I do some work for in Victoria, along with my adopted dog, Oscar. How do you usually celebrate Christmas? Christmas is usually a bit quieter, as I have Carols By Candlelight the night before, so that tends to be a long night (apologies to the driver!) My family are scattered throughout the country, so generally it’s an Italian lunch with the Calleas. Let’s be honest - one Italian feast is enough for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Thanks Tim.

THE WESTPORT CLUBâ€™S

UNDER THE STARS

focus_local recipe

H A M

F E A S T

This recipe uses our home grown Wessex Saddleback ham, honey and garlic, as well as making use of my orange and honey marmalade failures (always a good thing!) INGREDIENTS 6 kg leg ham 250 g jar of orange marmalade 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 heaped teaspoon freshly minced garlic 1 tablespoon whole cloves 150 g pure bush honey

Recipe supplied by Sophie Love The Naked Farmers www.thenakedfarmers.com.au

method Preheat the BBQ or oven on high with the lid shut. Remove and discard the rind by using a small sharp knife to cut around the edge of the rind and peel it slowly back from the fat, using your finger to work between the fat and the skin. Score halfway through the fat on the diagonal to make a diamond pattern, and press the cloves into the corners of the diamonds. Make sure your ham is fully dry before proceeding (best to wrap in a tea towel and leave in the fridge overnight). Combine the garlic, balsamic, honey and marmalade in a bowl or mixer and then spoon half the mixture over the fat until well coated. Place the ham on a wire rack into a roasting pan and put boiling water up to 2 cm deep in the base of the pan (this will ensure your ham does not dry out). Turn the heat down to 44 greater port macquarie focus.

180 degrees. Bake for 30 minutes and then remove and use the remainder of the glaze mix, turning the pan when you return it to the BBQ. Bake for a further 20-30 minutes or until golden. Can be served either hot or cold (allow to rest for 15 minutes before serving), with either roasted vegetables or your favourite summer salads! Our favourite summer salad means slicing local Comboyne avocados, home grown spring onions and luscious Australian mangoes into a bowl and serving with lashings of our award winning honey and garlic dressing. Guaranteed to titillate your taste buds! Merry Christmas to you and those you hold dear, from all of us at The Naked Farmers!

CHRISTMAS & NYE EATS

life is short Lick the bowl Better still, head to Miss Nellie’s for a homemade treat and see why this hip, hinterland café is one of the most popular treasures of the Hastings! Nestled in the village of Kendall, where the beaches meet the lush scenic valleys of the Camden Haven, Miss Nellie’s Café is a modern-yet-classic haven for all. Defying the country café trend, the décor and vibe is modern with a retro twist, and guests are greeted with a friendly smile and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing morning coffee with a book on the verandah, treat yourself to a homemade cake or Devonshire Tea with Miss Nellie’s jam, or bring family and friends to indulge in the all-day lunch menu. For those wishing to spoil themselves with a little decadence, Miss Nellie also offers a delectable High Tea service (bookings essential). All meals are freshly prepared using the best of the Hastings local produce, including a generous Gluten-Free menu, while Miss Nellie herself bakes every sweet treat on the menu! Make the most of the fine weather and dine alfresco-style in the outdoor garden area - your well-behaved furry best friends are also welcome. Just four minutes’ drive from the Kew turnoff on the Pacific Highway, Miss Nellie’s truly offers a taste of home! While you’re there, why not browse the shelves and take home some local goodies and gourmet gifts. Miss Nellie’s is open six days a week, from 9am - 4pm. CLOSED WEDNESDAY. BYO, EFTPOS, groups welcome, lunch bookings recommended. Child and pet friendly! Air conditioned. Ph: 6559 0085 or email info@missnellies.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 45

CHRISTMAS & NYE EATS

STRAWBERRY JAM - MISS NELLIE’s CAFE Phone. 6559 0085 33 River St, Kendall www.missnelliescafe.com.au

CANAPES SEED CATERING Phone. 0417 957 463 www.seedcatering.com.au

FRESH FRUIT & PRODUCE Ken little’s 43 Munster St, Port Macquarie Phone. 6583 5685

BLANC DE BLANC Cassegrain Wines

Enjoy the fresh fruity flavours - serve well chilled with canapes or as a pre-dinner drink. Phone. 6582 8324 www.cassegrainwines.com.au

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GOURMET GOODIES murray st bakery

A selection of local gourmet goodies. 3/1 Murray St, Port Macquarie Phone. 0401 526 936

LOCAL SMOKED HAMS MUNSTER ST QUALITY MEATS 35 Munster St, Port Macquarie Phone. 6584 9140

CHRISTMAS & NYE EATS

order now for christmas!

MurrAy St Bakery

With the festive season fast approaching, now is the time to get your orders in for Christmas!

Murray St Bakery offers more than artisan breads. It has a full range of gourmet pantry staples to make your festive season scream yumminess.

Munster St Quality Meats has been established in Port Macquarie for many years, and current manager Greg is proud to continue to source high quality local meats for customers. QUALITY LOCAL PORK - Smoked on the premises, a succulent Christmas ham is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Why not try a whisky marmalade and mustard glaze this year? TURKEYS AVAILABLE BY ORDER - If you prefer a classic roast turkey, Munster Quality Meats have turkeys available by order. Try a cherry and pecan stuffing to add a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch to your Christmas turkey. Other popular products include gluten free sausages, local pasture fed chicken, Cowra Lamb and grass-fed Taree beef. You can be assured of the quality and taste of the array of meats available at Munster St Quality Meats. FREE DELIVERY - Come and see the experienced and friendly team at Munster St Quality Meats to place your Christmas order! Located in Munster Street next to Ken Little’s Quality Fruit and Veg, Port Macquarie.

We are strong supporters of local producers and proudly have the ranges from Bellingen Smokehouse, Hafla Dips, Parched Earth Pasta and Pasta sauces, Salumi, Comboyne Culture Cheeses and our own tomato relish and sauces. We have so many gorgeous delights, it will be hard to decide what takes your fancy. It is certainly a wonderful time of year to celebrate all that is wonderful about our region, and there is no better way than to offer a sampling of the best from our local producers over Christmas. Stop by and pick up your selection, along with some amazing breads from K’Pane, and you will have your afternoon sharing plates sorted. Murray St is renowned for our incredible patisserie lines; it’s a little hard to resist all the beautiful cakes on display. We now offer Petit Fours, which allow for a beautiful selection of all our favourite tarts in bite sized morsels. Once you visit our beautiful hole in the wall, it will become your regular stop for all things scrumptious. We wish you all a very merry and safe festive season!

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CHRISTMAS & NYE EATS

Award winning local coffee This Christmas, the team from Peak Coffee are super excited to have an exceptional coffee for you to try! In November this year, we were very proud to have been awarded three medals in the 2016 Golden Bean Coffee Roasting Competition. We received two bronze medals and one silver. The silver medal was awarded in the highly competitive espresso category, with a very special blend of coffee called “Methods Create Madness”, created by our head roaster Ainsley Harrison (AKA Dr Ainsley!) Ainsley has spent nearly three years developing the blend, to ensure it had just the right balance of flavour and roast profile for the highly qualified judging panel. The coffee was rigorously scrutinised by the judges in several rounds and deemed to be one of the best in the country from a total of nearly 400

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entries in the category. Ainsley is heading off to Panama this month for a coffee origin trip to expand his knowledge and experience in this highly competitive industry. So, whilst he’s away, we thought we’d show the local coffee loving community what all the fuss is about. So make sure to visit us at The Brew Lab to get your hands on some of this exceptional blend; it truly is world class coffee and roasted right here in our backyard. With every retail bag of coffee purchased during the Christmas period, you’ll also receive a FREE sit down or takeaway coffee of your choice. Stock is limited, so don’t wait too long or the “Madness” may run out! Peak Coffee Australia, 1/30 Jambali Road, Port Macquarie. (02) 6581 2677. www.peakcoffee.com.au

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Kate WOOD-FOYE

from Rydges Port Macquarie and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Below. Lucy Partridge & Jesse Wisselo’s Wedding

Photo Credit Meraki Photography

Left. Looking glamourous at the Rydges BMW Melbourne Cup

Left. Steve Foye, Kristine & Tilly Edwards at the Golden Bean Gala

Below. Roxy Chan, Sean Edwards & Bronwyn Martin at the Golden Bean Gala

Photo Credit Kyle Crisp

Left. Celebrating at the Hastings Co-op 100th Dinner

Right. Beth May Jones & Kath McGuire at Sails Resort Melbourne Cup

Photo Credit Meraki Photography

SOCIAL/SCENE

THE SANTA CLAUS … WE ARE HURTLING TOWARDS CHRISTMAS AT AN UNSETTLING SPEED, WITH THE CALENDAR BECOMING A HECTIC MESS OF SOCIAL AND FESTIVE ACTIVITY.

ore than ever, this year has been filled with a dizzying blur of events - many exciting, some shockingly sad and unarming, and some outright insane. On occasion it has felt like we have been transported to Topsy-Turvy Land, a world of opposites where the leader of the free world is a pudgy, pushy, orange tinged dictator with a dubiously droopy comb over and even more dubious world view! Like it or not, we are charging forward to the end of 2017 with just a few days to pause for the Claus, as we unplug from the current craziness of the universe, eat an indecent amount of glazed ham, gobble expensive chocolate and swim in French Champagne! One of my favourite Englishmen, the charming and ever so slightly cheeky Mr Robert Marlowe and his lovely family returned to Port Macquarie recently to celebrate the big 4 - 0 with his Port Macquarie contingent, with a chillaxed afternoon of beer and bubbles, nibbles and belly laughs overlooking stunning Town Beach. Rob started his day with a private flight above Port Macquarie and then celebrated with guests, including Justeen Single and Ed Godschalk, Jarad and Susie Mea, Janet Alexander, Gemma and Jason Clifton, Bronwyn and Andrew Martin. Rob and his beautiful wife, Peta, daughters Morgan and Jassy

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kicked back and enjoyed all that is good about Port Macquarie life, before returning to the sunny GC. Happy birthday, Roberto! A heady mix of caffeine and adrenalin wafted through the corridors at Rydges recently, with the national Golden Bean Awards being held in the waterfront event space. Talented roasters from all over the country send in their lovingly roasted beans for an anonymous judging, brewing and tasting by some of the best baristas and coffee palates from around the world. Congrats to Di Bella Coffee, who was awarded the overall Golden Bean gong. The coffee clan hit the Beach House then enjoyed beers and giggles in Zebu Bar and a gala Gatsby event in the barrel room at Cassegrain. Congrats to everyone involved, including Sean and Kristine Edwards, Kevin Chilvers, Roxanna Chan, Bronwyn Martin and the extended local coffee crew. Congrats to the gorgeous Lucy Partridge of Ella Baché and Jesse Wisselo, who tied the knot recently poolside at Sails Resort with celebrant Brooke Bell, followed by an exclusive waterfront reception in Zebu Grill. Eighty special guests, including Maureen and Glenn Partridge, Kay and Gerad Wisselo, Belinda Rodger and Zoe Bevez, Elle and Aiden Brown enjoyed a sun drenched ceremony, where the bride wore a stunning flower crown by her cousin Jessie. Guests enjoyed tea smoked chicken, pork belly and crispy skin

salmon and fillet steak, followed by the couple’s delicious caramel and chocolate mud wedding cake. Guests partied with a private DJ until late, with the happy couple jetting off to Singapore and Thailand for their honeymoon. Congrats, Lucy and Jesse! The gorgeous Rachel Lehman and her girls from the Miss Motivator fitness crew celebrated a night on the town celebrating and year of fitness and fun with a night at Bills Fish House – guests including Jo McNamara of Newman Communications, Nicole Champion, Rebecca Blemith and Hayley Hanks all got their jolly on and kicked on or a night on the town – look out Port Macquarie! Merry Christmas Ladies! Happy birthday to the Grand Dame of Wauchope - the Hastings Coop officially celebrated 100 years of operation recently, with a gala event where it all began - in Wauchope. Over 250 guests enjoyed a night of fun and festivities at the Wauchope Country Club, officiated by Lynn Lelean and attended by Alan Gordon CEO, Tim Walker, Nicole Langdon and Kristy Van Eck. Other special guests including Uncle Bill, David Gillespie, Leslie Williams, Sue Jogever, Necia Waghorn, Peter Besseling, Lee Dixon, Sharon Griffiths and Lisa Intemann, all joined in the fun. What a fabulous organisation! Cheers to you all! Melbourne, here we come! JETGO are here

people, making a Melbourne trip that much easier - we can now touch down in Melbourne in just one hour and twenty five minutes and be in Essendon DFO before you (or your bank account) know it! I’m not sure about you but when I travel domestically, I find myself regularly stretching the boundaries of the carry-on luggage allowance by choice or by force - I always end up carrying an illegally and highly unsuitable amount of hand luggage. A recent trip to Sydney was no different, with me managing to artfully drop all my bits and pieces in a unglorious mess of paper, high heels and pull up banners across the tarmac on my homeward trip to Port Mac ... thanks to the lovely gent who assisted with the pick-up ... nothing like looking like a total clutz in front of Mr Johnny Diesel ... Eek! It’s official: 2017 will finish with a blaze of sparkles and light, with celebration over all over our coastal city, whether it’s a night at the Monte Carlo Casino at Rydges with showgirls and champagne, a night of seafood and chilled tunes at Sails Resort, or simply fish and chips and family on the green as you enjoy a night under the stars. This year the extended Taphouse Group are proud to present the midnight fireworks - we are literally bringing in the New Year with a beautiful bang! Can’t wait! Cheers to a happy and healthy 2018 for all xx ‘til next year!

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O â€™ B R I E N & F A M I LY

Deb Oâ€™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

ell us about yourself and your family ... My name is Deb Oâ€™Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that â€œhomeâ€? 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, â€œFine, you want to buy a milking cow â€Ś Well, let me build you a dairyâ€?. 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 â€œThe Home for Wayward Jerseysâ€? (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 â€œtypeâ€? of Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favourite things is being a petting zoo â€Ś 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 head down their has who 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 â€œmorning I have thought a by the end of their tell you routineâ€?, which includes lot about why this they couldnâ€™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. â€? 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 theyâ€™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 â€œMilk comes from where?â€? Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

â€œ

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 couldnâ€™t even tell you where their gaming device is. Do you think locals like us take for granted whatâ€™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, doesnâ€™t mean that most people donâ€™t know they are on a good thing by living here. Itâ€™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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W A U C H O P E

W I S H L I S T

Department store is christmas central New year’s eve at bago tavern Come and celebrate New Year’s Eve with us. Live and free entertainment is the key to a great night at the Bago Tavern in Wauchope - along with a great restaurant serving well crafted modern pub food, you can’t go past what’s on offer. Take advantage of our outdoor kids’ playground. If you haven’t booked your Chrismas party yet, why not ask us about our functions packages? We have great indoor and outdoor areas and can do lunch or dinner, so be sure to call us - to make sure you don’t miss out. Why not ask us about our

platter options? Platters are an easy and quick option when holding any party or get together at Bago Taven, with platters to suit everyone, such as: Little Gremlins (ideal for kids), Oceania, Bago Mix, Tasty Sandwiches, Healthy Choice, and Asian Inspiration you’re sure to find something. Our platters are designed to cater for approximately 10 people. We are open Mon - Thur, 11am - 11pm, Friday and Saturday 11am - 12am, and Sunday 11am - 10pm. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. We look forward to seeing you this holiday season.

It all started with the traditional unveiling of their Christmas windows in late October, and now the Christmas spirit is well and truly alive in The Department Store.

be launching her new book and signing books

To celebrate the festive season, the Wauchope store will have late night shopping every Thursday during December, Santa photos on December 3, 10 and 17 and their Annual Christmas Sale Days in both stores on December 9 and 10.

before, rather than after, Christmas.

On Friday, December 9 there will be Bago Bluff tastings, the Upper Rollands Plains Public School Choir at 9:30am and a cooking demonstration with Eric Robertson at 11am.

the

between 10am and 12pm. Manager Judy Standring said the Annual Christmas Sale is different, because the specials come “There will be 20 to 50 per cent off selected items storewide, so it’s the perfect time to do all your Christmas shopping under one roof,” she said. “One of the highlights of the sales will be the drawing of our $200 Christmas shopping spree,

Department store

The following day there will be a 2MC live broadcast from 8am to 12pm, Santa Claus photos from 10am to 1pm and a special visit from acclaimed author Di Morrissey, who will

which is currently being run on Facebook. “If you haven’t followed us on Facebook and Instagram already, jump on so you don’t miss out on the latest promotions, competitions, sales and new arrivals.”

the

Department epartment store

WIN $200

Shopping spree

the Annual Department Christmas store Sale % the 9th-10th 20-50off

on our Christmas Facebook competition

(Formerly Shareholder Shopping Days)

December Department store

Selected items storewide

WAUCHOPE STORE Friday, Dec 9

Bago Bluff tastings 9.30am Upper Rollands Plains Public School Choir 11am Cooking demo with Eric Robertson

Saturday, Dec 10

Bago Bluff tastings 8.30am-12pm 2MC live broadcast 10am -12pm Di Morrissey book signings, sales and new book launch 10am - 1pm Santa Claus photos HCOOP XMAS Focus 156x125.indd 1

3/11/16 8:41 pm

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W A U C H O P E

W I S H L I S T

R SARAHS C ESCENT

Christmas lights

Most of us have enjoyed the splendour of the Sarahs Crescent Christmas lights, and if you haven’t - after reading this you will! FOCUS caught up with the amazing man behind one of the biggest Christmas light displays seen in the Greater Port Macquarie area - Rod Lane.

i Rod. Where did your journey with Christmas lights all begin? It all began 22 years ago, when my wife and I decided we should make the move from Sydney to the Mid North Coast to give our three year old daughter, Kiara, a better environment to grow up in. We moved into our new home in January 1995, so Xmas 1995 I decided to put a few lights up for my daughter (about 3,000 from memory) which took me a whole weekend to put up. These were purchased from Target. After a few nights of the lights being on, I noticed a bit more traffic than usual passing our house and on several occasions I would see flashes like lightning, and when I peeped out the blinds, it was people taking pictures of our home. It wasn't long before the neighbours were busy putting up lights and decorating their homes to get in on the festivities. How has your display collection grown? Over the next 10 years or so we added and grew our display, and in 2004 were given an award for the best house for Xmas lights in Australia. I must thank the businesses and community of Wauchope for their voting and support in making this possible. What is the vibe like for you and your family? Nowadays the street is packed both sides of the road with no parking in sight, thousands of people walking, talking, having fun and enjoying the festivities with family and loved ones, taking in the spectacle of the lights 54 greater port macquarie focus.

and atmosphere that has been missing in When I was working full-time, I would start celebrating Xmas for many. putting up decorations in early September, For years, Sarahs Crescent was the focus for as I only had weekends to do this amongst Xmas lights, and we would have tens other duties (lawn mowing, gardening, of thousands of visitors from shopping, maintenance, etc). Now I all areas of the Mid North am retired, it takes me 30 days. Coast and from many When is the light show ur To any of yo parts of the world visit ready, and what times e er th t ou readers our house and leave can we come and of t gh ou th who have r fo s wonderful comments enjoy? ht lig w fe doing a e Th it! in our visitors books, My display is on every r fo go , Xmas only t no gs e.g. breathtaking, night in December, in br it y jo but to wonderful, winter 8pm ‘til 10:30pm and to your family, people wonderland, now it turns off at midnight lots of kids and there t feels like Xmas, thank New Year’s Eve. We doing it tough ou is amazing.” you for making my Xmas sit out the front under so special, nothing in our drive through for the Europe like this, David Jones month (weather permitting) and need to take a look at what you socialise with our visitors in a very have done, etc. happy and friendly environment. For 11 Over the past six years or so the houses months of the year it is very quiet out our which lit up have dwindled from about 10 way, but come December, let the party begin. to two. My neighbour, Barry Pead, and I are Now, you’ve told us about the set up. the stalwarts, and between us I think we have What is the packing away like? You must the lights that are missing covered. It is sad, have a pretty scheduled, regimented way but the visitors still enjoy what they see and of doing things? come back year after year. Christmas Eve is by Pack up begins New Year’s Day and usually far the busiest night of all; Santa pays a visit takes 7 - 10 days. with his sack full of lollies and novelties for the Where do you source all your amazing kids. Lots of photos and fun for all. displays? I have seen some donation buckets when Not all items in my display were purchased visiting. Whom do you donate to? from shops. I actually became very creative We’ve supported several charities over the over the years and built a 7 metre tall Xmas years, mainly The Salvation Army and The Kids Tree with 2,000 LED lights, which is my pride Helpline. and joy - and everyone agrees! And also, an How long does the set up take? 8 foot tall angel releasing three white doves

“

and a couple of 8 metre long signs for the roof. Inside the home is a full size Mr and Mrs Claus in a huge Xmas room, which is filled with some exquisite and beautiful Xmas ornaments my wife, Donna, puts the finishing touches to after I have set it up. Donna is limited with what she can do, as she is in a wheelchair, so I do all the high and awkward things. Every October I think to myself the time is getting near when I will be dragging 60,000+ lights from the shed and the task to build my masterpiece again will begin, but no matter how hard the task is, I know that when I flick that switch on December 1, all my sweat, pain and bad language will be worth it. What would you say to anyone reading this and inspired to create their own Christmas light wonderland at home? To any of your readers out there who have thought of doing a few lights for Xmas, go for it! The joy it brings not only to your family, but to lots of kids and people doing it tough out there is amazing. Who knows, you might just get the itch like me and next thing you know you need to build a large garden shed to house your display. Any final words you’d like to share? My son, Trent, who is 15 and my daughter, Kiara, are responsible for all this lights business, have given us two beautiful grandchildren: Ryan is 22 months and Rosalie is now three months, so it looks like I will be doing this for a few more years now! Thanks Rod.

W A U C H O P E

W I S H L I S T

Aumveda the essence of you Always dreamed about creating a total look that complements your lifestyle and radiates confidence? Aumveda can help you do just that. Aumveda means universal knowledge, and it is this knowledge that has guided the offering of a range of unique products that enhances the essence of you.

Heart to Heart Lingerie Heart to Heart Lingerie would like to wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. With Christmas just around the corner, Heart to Heart Lingerie have the perfect under garments that make you look and feel good in your Christmas and New Year outfits. We have something for the modern woman, with Black Pepper and Tani Clothes in store. If you can’t find that perfect gift for Christmas, Heart to Heart Lingerie have gift vouchers ready to be purchased - a great gift for that hard to buy for person. A reminder to ladies that Sheryl has been fitting Amoena Breast Forms for 10 years; Medicare give you up to $400 back every two years on each breast form. If you need a petticoat, cami, strapless bra or front closure with back support bra, call in and see Sheryl at Heart to Heart Lingerie.

Offering a fresh, new shopping experience, they stock unique products, including Keshet Clothing sourced from Tasmania, local handmade gifts from Rebourne Timbers and Pallet Pieces, jewellery from Nic Nak I Made That, table pieces by Bottled Gardens and Baba Lila Chocolates. Also, gorgeous recycled plastic outdoor/indoor ottomans and floor rugs to brighten up your living space. Aumveda have a range of Ayurvedic herbal skin and hair care products, which are 99.9 percent natural. As well as hydrating the skin, the products have wonderful natural bright colours, fresh fragrances and are chemical free, keeping your skin feeling fresh, soft and clear. To complement the range of Keshet clothing, Aumveda have incorporated Colours4You to enable you to complement your skin tone with colours that suit you, make you look fantastic, save money and make shopping a breeze. Aumveda’s unique products are brought to you with passion from the people who love to create, look good, feel great while having your health and beauty needs at heart.

OUTLIER WAUCHOPE Outlier in Wauchope sources and provides a range of antiques, collectables and homewares, which are hugely varied in quality and quirkiness. What is your favourite thing about the Wauchope region? Wauchope is forever changing for the better. It has a strong sense of community and still has a country town charm. What do you enjoy about sourcing interesting furniture and antiques? It’s exciting to source pieces that have a story, or you can see that it has had an interesting life. To then see it be equally admired by its new owner and given life again is a great experience. You are also serving the popular Holy Goat Coffee? Yes, we are! It was important to us to source our coffee locally. Not only is it great to support local business, but it is a great product, and our customers keep coming back for it. What makes an experience at Outlier unique? Outlier brings a sense of nostalgia and world traveller to whomever visits. You can enjoy browsing our great range of interesting and loved items, while you sip on a great a cup of coffee! Come and visit Outlier to find something that is truly one of a kind. Don’t miss the Christmas themed High Tea on Saturday 17th December, including sweet and savoury treats and lots of Christmas cheer! Bookings essential, and tickets are $35 per person.

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Art by Carly Hollis $360.00 60 cm diameter, acrylic & resin on board

Outlier Wauchope Ph. 0411 550 860

Seafolly Ocean Rose Bustier Bra Bikini Top & Skirted Hipster P’Chi Swimwear Ph. 6584 1088 Huxter Soaps, Harry G Men’s Boxer Briefs Louenhide clutch Inside Out at Lighthouse Ph. 0403 569 478

Seafolly Rainbow Blanket P’Chi Swimwear Ph. 6584 1088

Samantha Wills Bohemian Bardot rings from $79.00 The Department Store Ph. 6584 5817

Antique Three Masted Schooner $320.00 “Deliw” model. America, early 20th C.

Outlier Wauchope Ph. 0411 550 860

Ride-On Cow $79.90 Almond Collection $78.00 East Coast Laser and Cosmetic Clinic Ph. 6582 6466

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Cute ride-on cow featuring a sturdy wooden trike with a comfortable seat that’s just perfect for touring around on.

Beeline Toys - Ph. 0419 921 081

Colonial Cobbler Summer is a great time to have fun with your footwear and embrace bright colours and stand out patterns that will add an extra layer of style to any outfit. The Sandler brand was first launched in Australia in 1954 and established itself as a leader in the Australian fashion footwear industry to become a uniquely Australian brand. Sandler offers a broad range of contemporary looks that have the perfect balance between fashion direction, exceptional quality and consistent fitting. Sandler trends are timeless and are appreciated by women who welcome fashion but understand the value of quality leathers and craftsmanship. Wearing the Sandler brand gives women the confidence to be comfortable in any situation.

Easy Steps is part of the Sandler brand, and was one of the first genuinely Australian footwear brands to successfully combine style and comfort into a shoe that women are delighted to wear. Easy Steps are the perfect choice for women on the go with a combination of outstanding comfort, support and classic styling. Providing superior underfoot relief, coupled with extra toe room and width, Easy Steps is the ideal mix of ‘fashionability’ and comfort, giving women the security of not only looking good, but feeling good. You can trust its quality and leathers and be sure that each style is ‘on trend.’ See the Spring/Sumer 2016 ranges in store now at Colonial Cobbler!

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Tea Infused Soaps World Par-Tea Phone. 6581 4833 Favourite Things $120.00 Moisture restore cleansing milk, triple action exfoliating cream, multi vitamin treatment oil and a deep hydration face moisturiser.

Endota Port Macquarie Phone. 6584 7888

Handmade Jewellery Arthouse Industries Phone. 6584 5443 www.arthouse industries.com.au

Heels & Handbag Sandler heel and Pierre Cardin handbag

Colonial Cobbler Phone. 6583 3525

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focus_editorial with Robyn Buttler

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE... The end of another year in this fast moving world of ours. What a year it has been in every facet of life … I look to next year for new beginnings, a happier world, and GREED taking a back seat.

his year has proved cutting corners to “save” or “gain” does not work and in the long run, never does. Let’s get Christmassy! So here are a few items of interest happening this month, and a few suggestions for Christmas presents. CHRISTMAS ON THE BEACH Year after year the Port Macquarie City Church prepares their annual Christmas on the Beach gathering, this year being their eleventh at Town Beach near the skate park. The event is run to give people who are alone on Christmas Day somewhere to go and enjoy the day with others. People from all walks of life and all ages attend. everyone is welcome. There is NO COST for the guests, as everything is provided, and it is a day of community celebration and fun. Last year over 600 people attended. There is a smorgasbord lunch, with hams and chickens, lollies, snacks, fruit and Santa makes a special trip to the beach to distribute pressies. (No alcohol please) Over 100 volunteers are needed, as well as donations of finances and gifts. If you can give your time to help, you can fill in an application on line at portcitychurch.org.au/Christmas or collect a form from the church at 40 Munster Street, Port Macquarie. If you would like to donate finances or gifts, please contact Karen Davies on 0449 752 566. I have been involved with this for over six years, and the work, time and effort to make this a special day for people less fortunate than others is enormous but magic! CHRISTMAS CHORISTERS CONCERTS, ST AGNES CHURCH To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Church, Fr. Donnelly installed a beautiful Allen digital organ (quite a fabulous “beast”, I am told). They will be showcasing this instrument by bringing a talented Sydney organist to play. The concert will also contain some very beautiful traditional carols and religious music. Three choirs will be participating in this special event: Cantorus, Cantabile and Bel Canto (Tacking Point Public School students) The concerts will be held Saturday 17th

December at 8pm and Sunday 18th December at 1:30pm. The very talented and respected Robyn Ryan is Musical Director, with a special treat for the audience, renowned singer John Thompson performing several songs, including Oh Holy Night. Tickets available at the Glasshouse Box Office or at the door of the church. THE PROMISE OF HOPE, written by ROBYN HATHERLEY Robyn lives in Lake Cathie, and this is her second book. The first, called Cathleen, was released two years ago and follows a girl growing up without a mother and a very distant father in the 1950s in Sydney. It sold very well. This book, The Promise of Hope is an historical fiction novel and follows the lives of Claire, Sarah and Nadzia. She has had resounding reviews from people who have purchased the book. What a great Christmas present, at only $15 including delivery, if you live in the Hastings. Phone Robyn on 0404 849 636. HATS OF TO BARMAH, AUSTRALIAN OWNED www.barmahhats.com.au - went to the markets the other day, and Paul from Valla had the best selection of hats on his stall you can imagine. I asked if he had any Australian jobs, and he showed us a few of the Barmah range. My husband purchased one with air panels on the side. He has found it fanastic! You can purchase The Original Bush Hat made from leather, Kangaroo Collection (squashy hat in a bag), and many others. Different prices for varying quality, but my husband paid $45 for his. He now thinks he is Mike out of Crocodile Dundee ... I don’t think so! ASTRO SPACE NEWS Next month I will be writing about David Reneke from Port Macquarie, Astronomy lecturer, writer, Sky Tours Outreach Progammes and much more - interesting bloke! To all my readers, fellow columnists, Jay, Louise and staff (especially Sarah) at FOCUS, may your Christmas be filled with happiness, good health and lots of fun. As I say each year, to the wonderful doctors, nurses, police men and women, firies, ambos, SES volunteers and all those working whilst we enjoy the festive season ... A HUGE THANK YOU! greater port macquarie focus. 59

Tea, Teapots and gifts for all Our loose leaf teas are the highest grade and quality and are ethically sourced from the best locations worldwide, including Australia. Our teas are free of artificial chemicals and flavours, using only natural flavours in infusions and the finest dried fruits, flowers and organic herbs and spices in blends. Our Shop: Our beautiful shop located under Rydges in Hay Street is stocked full of not just teas, but wonderful teapots, tea cups, saucers, creamers, sugar bowls, novelty cups and all the accessories. From gorgeous china and porcelain cups with ornate and floral designs to quirky and fun character pots, cat pots, elephants and so much more! We also have a beautiful gift sets and tea canisters - for the complete gift set. Tea infused soaps will be a great stocking filler gift this season - or why not try some of our tea bath salts! New Hello Koala Tea: If you love the Hello Koala Sculpture trail, then please come see the great new range of teas, including: Rainforest Blend Crusader Koala at Sea Acres. A delicious fresh caffine free blend with Raspberries, Lime and Vanilla Rooibos and the Organic Dreamtime Tea (Indigenous) - featuring Alira at Sea Acres, a National Parks Ambassador. A dreamy blend of Passionflower, Lemon Balm and Lime Blossom. Caffeine free. So for a special gift, come and see the great range of teas, tea pots and more at World Par-Tea, Hay Street, Port Macquarie - and perhaps stay for a TEA TASTING at our Tea Bar!

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A perfect Christmas gift idea Violin maestro Ian Cooper returns to The Glasshouse with “An Afternoon at the Proms - A Musical Spectacular”.

massagE At Port Macquarie Whoever said, “It’s always better to give, than to receive” was probably not thinking of massage gift vouchers at the time. The lasting effects of professional remedial or relaxation massage are so wonderfully profound, particularly when administered by the hugely popular principal of Massage at Port Macquarie, He Ling Ying. Highly qualified, both in Australia and in her native China, Ling’s skills are quite unique, as she successfully combines recognised contemporary techniques with time-honoured Chinese modalities to provide real assistance to those with physical discomfort, sport, health or 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 so easy. 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.

Australia’s most acclaimed international violinist Ian Cooper is joined by opera stars, prima ballerinas, Australia’s current national champion Pipe Band and the Blue Danube Orchestra to evoke the sheer exuberance of “An afternoon At The Proms - A Musical Spectacular”. Voted “Best Production Show” in Australia, this stunning spectacular salutes the famous BBC Proms Concerts of London’s Royal Albert Hall, performing all the well-known favourites including Rule Britannia, Radetzky March and Elgar’s Land of Hope and Glory. Enjoy selections from The Sound of Music, The Merry Widow, Verdi’s Rigoletto, “The Waltz King” Johann Strauss plus CanCan and Tango dancers. Also including haunting renditions of Irish favourites, the romance and emotion of the Hungarian Gypsy Orchestras and the Pipers’ tribute to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, this musical and visual spectacular is set to raise the roof! Our host, violinist Ian Cooper, was commissioned to compose and perform at the Opening Ceremony of the Sydney Olympics - broadcast around the world to 2.85 billion viewers. That’s as big as any Australian performer gets. Bring your flags and come join the fun and frivolity of “An afternoon At The Proms”. Five Golden Fiddle Awards - two Mo Awards - four Ace Awards - one Platinum Aria Award. AUSTRALIAN GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

ian

the blue danube

COOPER

ORCHESTRA

Opera Singers - Prima Ballerinas - Australian Champion Pipe Band evoke the sheer exuberance of THE PROMS in concert

Rule Britannia, Land of Hope & Glory, The Can-Can

Selections from: Carmen, The Merry Widow, Sound Of Music, My Fair Lady, Johann Strauss II and other favourites

The ACE Award winning “Best Production Show” in Australia

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE SATURDAY 11TH MARCH 2017 | 2PM SHOW BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 | WWW.GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU TICKETS: $75 CONC: $69: Members $67 5 G o l d e n F i d d l e awa r d s

2 M O Awa r d s

THE PROMS - A Musical Spectacular

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4 A C E Awa r d s

1 p l at i n u m A R I A awa r d

Australian Global Entertainment

Inside Out at Lighthouse

Arthouse Industries Arthouse Industries is one of Port’s best kept secrets, showcasing some of the most unique gifts and local artisan products in town. Not only is it a working glass studio where you can watch award winning artist Skye Petho produce beautiful wearable art, but it is also an amazing clothing boutique specialising in unique ranges from handmade producers, and a gift shop selling homewares, art, jewellery, and accessories. Why not shop local this Christmas and purchase something hand made that will support a local artisan and give you a gift that is truly unique! Some of our signature products we sell are a beautiful timeless ‘50s style dress that are produced in short runs, original watercolour paintings from talented local artist Mel Casey, artisan knives from Paprika Knives, and of course, beautiful glass jewellery from Skye. To say thank you for your support this Christmas, we are offering a FREE gift from under our Christmas tree for every purchase over $100. You could do your Christmas shopping and get a gift for yourself! This offer is available for purchases from the 1st December until Christmas Eve.

A delicious new menu, great coffee, beautiful gifts Inside Out at Lighthouse is not only a great coffee stop, but a place to find some unique gifts too! Owners Gabby and Mick Baker moved to Port Macquarie from Narrabri at the start of the year, and have been loving the lifestyle here. ”Customers will love our beautiful location and vibey café at the Lighthouse shopping precinct, focusing on good coffee, fresh food, unique jewellery and homewares, and quality service.” The Inside Out menu has something for all tastes and also includes lactose free, Bonsoy or Almond milk coffees, and GF, vego and paleo alternatives. Get your morning off to a great start with a well made coffee and fresh bacon and egg roll with our own brand of delicious house relish! Looking for a perfect Christmas gift? Some great gift brands in store include Huxter Soaps, which are Australian made and are the perfect stocking stuffers, and teachers’ gifts with cute sayings and package designs. Men’s cotton briefs from Harri G, Noosa Living round beach towels, Tea Tonic teas and accessories, new style Louenhide bags, Cool Coconut jewellery, kids’ toys from Urban products and unique Christmas tree decorations all in store now. Enjoy a beautiful coffee while you shop, with gift wrapping available - we will make it easy for you this Christmas! Some of the must-haves now in store for summer are the new and totally luxe Turkish Noosa Living beach towels, leather bags from Rugged Hide and Louenhide, hats and Australian made items, and beautiful beachy style jewellery from Cool Coconut.

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Wedge-tailed shearwaters, long-range seabirds, are back from the North Pacific on Lord Howe Island for breeding season. When they fly in from a day foraging the ocean they’re clumsy on the ground and often crash on returning to their nests. Emulating the shearwaters, I crash spectacularly into a clump of kentia palms moments after mounting Campbell Wilson’s hire bicycle. I kiss Lord Howe’s ancient earth hello.

any a visitor here climbs onto LHI’s traditional transport only to discover a gap of 10 years since they last pushed a pedal proves it’s not entirely true that “it’s like riding a bike: you never forget”. That’s what kind locals assure me anyhow, so my pride, unlike my shins, is unwounded. And Campbell’s brother Craig appears straight-faced when he reminds me they also hire out mobility scooters. Frankly, I reckon the much-touted means of exploring LHI by bike is for the birds (Lord Howe has 170 species.) The island has some pretty

steep slopes, let alone iconic mountains Gower and Lidgbird, that need surmounting daily to enjoy its many delights and varied locations. After wobbling about a while on two wheels I set the bike aside for shorter trips and hire Rodney Thompson’s faded-red Diahatsu, whose appearance qualifies it for Rent-A-Wreck. But let’s not be picky, for rental cars, indeed vehicles of any kind, are strictly limited on LHI to protect the environment. Competition for them among holidaymakers, especially those who’ve recently reassessed their bike-riding ability, is keen. (Consider pre-booking at one of four outlets.) The Terios climbs the hills niftily, getting me fast to places I want a luxury of time to explore on

foot: like the astonishingly beautiful 3km-return walk (level, suitable for almost all) to Little Island where the scenic and sensory rewards are breathtaking: tilt your head back 90 degrees at the base of Mts Lidgbird and Gower to take in their frighteningly sheer majesty ... picnic at a timber table and benches on a spread of green lawn kept neatly mown ... consider yourself in the Garden of Eden. “World Peace”, Miss Universe contestants? It’s right here. Oh, the Thompsons and the Wilsons: within days I’m on first-name terms with heaps of them. Some 25 Wilsons and a roughly equal number of Thompsons are found in LHI’s phone book (a few A4 pages stapled together),

families of many generations’ standing here. For others than a total philistine it’s impossible not to be captured by curiosity about the island’s culture. Barely beneath an extrovert, welcoming, carefree surface of accomplished, polished hospitality lies an easily discernible cocky insularity and much intrigue. But: be absorbed instead by what’s openly on display at the Museum, lovingly tended by volunteers and remarkably comprehensive. (Allocate half a day.) Marine, ecological, genealogical artefacts, displays and video shows are complemented by local crafts and a range of fascinating LHI history books, one excellent tome just $5. Recommended first on arrival: Ian Hutton’s

Photos: TREVOR KING. Image Destination NSW

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The Terios climbs the hills niftily, getting me fast to places I want a luxury of time to explore on foot: like the astonishingly beautiful 3km-return walk (level, suitable for almost all) to Little Island where the scenic and sensory rewards are breathtaking:

introductory evening lecture to set the local scene; follow up with dinner on the deck at adjacent Coral Cafe. This strategy will introduce you to LHI’s quaint method of getting guests around after dark: with no street lights, torchlight’s the go. But the tradition is: your lodge drives you to dinner; your dinner host drives you home, both gratis. Perfect! With tourism LHI’s lifeline industry, visitors are greeted warmly. Soon I’ve met 30 new faces: Lance, Don, Caitlyn, Vicki ... I’m adept at the Lord Howe Wave; like Her Maj, I offer the salute as I reccy around one-handed on the steering wheel: “Good morning”, “Nice day”, and so on. (Scratch the surface of this geniality, though, by raising the question of local attitudes to mooted wind-farm power generation or other urgent environmental control issues and you uncover a fierce conservationist - or equally rigid pragmatist.) The “name thing” started at LHI’s Lilliputian airport where I was met by LHI Tourism and Rebecca from my digs, on behalf of owner Gai Wilson. I’ve been here before, but briefly; this time, with the luxury of a week’s stay, I encounter friendly people everywhere: Julie, charming owner of Ebbtide Apartments, gives me a lift in her van. Karen, ending her Museum shift, takes me to swim at Ned’s Beach among hopelessly beautiful swirling schools of blue trevally and translucent sand mullet. Melissa takes time to show me a banyan-rainforest pathway. (Walk the undergrowth, cycle and

NEXT TIME

picnic freely: no land snakes, biting ants, diving seagulls or swooping magpies here.) Teniele from Tourism is tirelessly determined to ensure my visit’s superb. I eat at The Anchorage in the “CBD” (post office, general store, co-op, hall and two boutiques pretty much does it) with a view through tall Norfolk pines across the impossibly perfect gorgeous blue lagoon to the towering twin mountains. Great food and a terrific bakery of breads, cakes, muffins, wholesome savoury and vegie pies and takeaway lemon-stuffed roast chook. I explore the shops for fashion and knick-knacks: some prices are severe but most have the same printed swing-tags as on the mainland. Failed to pack a new cossie, kaftan? Fret not: the range is good and culling to the best styles has been done for you (unlike scouring the acres at DJs, say.) Sure, prices on LHI for some things are elevated, understandably, considering its remoteness and limit of just 400 guests to sustain tourism at top quality levels. Yet not so for all things: dining-out prices comparable to those at home, attractions at good rates. Selfserve BBQs are everywhere: free gas or woodfired (timber provided, ready-chipped) and they even clean them after you! Packs of freshly caught ready-filleted fish widely obtainable, naturally. With the gift of Qantas 90-minute flights direct from Port to LHI right through to Easter you can leave home at 11am, fly at noon, be swimming at Lovers Bay by 2. Crazy if you miss the opportunity, at least once in a lifetime.

“Rrrydinfrunnuhyuh!” snarled the Qantas customer “service” officer at Sydney airport. “Food court? Straight ahead!” would’ve done. Our scheduled noon departure ex PQQ was changed to early check-in, travel via SYD, and a snappy 90min direct flight became two hours on the SYD-LDH sector alone. But a sweet flight attendant and apologetic captain soon soothed us on take-off. (We did enjoy a nifty 80-min direct return flight, with LHI Qantas agent Cindy Shick a marvellous ambassador. Invite her to lead customer relations training, perhaps?) For the first time Qantas this summer is continuing non-stop flights between Port and LHI without a break, right up to Easter - normally suspended over the two-month Xmas-NY holidays. Comparing fares is difficult but test bookings show small difference flying ex Port or Sydney: no real saving, it seems. But a tremendous saving of time and hassle against flying via Sydney or Brisbane. LHI is, after all, a speck in the mighty ocean subject to strong winds, a tiny runway with nowhere to extend to except into the water. Qantas is admirably fussy about safety, so schedules are sometimes altered. The airline’s said to keep its Dash 8s in service at big cost to cover the route. Problems with sand dunes and potential bird-strike exist; sometimes passengers and hand luggage are weighed within slim tolerance levels acceptable to Qantas standards. Conditions may seem fine for take-off but aircraft need to carry sufficient diversionary fuel to turn round if necessary. (But telling passengers changes are due to “no flight attendants available” is an insult.) Who knows if Qantas will tender for the service next time round? It’s vital for LHI residents, business and tourism: to reach doctors or secondary schools on the mainland, for certain freight consignments. Residents, family and friends enjoy preferential fares and luggage allowances; 14kg is ample for visitors. So let’s treasure the QF service: if the fares are more than average, the value and enjoyment are immensely greater.

Where to stay and eat; secret sandy swimming spots; best attractions: reef walking, SUP, turtle watching, glass-bottom boats; free phones; free rainwater; architecture: the triumph of VJ board.

The local For Manning and Hastings holidaymakers, travelling to LHI is closer than Coffs. And incomparable. • The Island Trader, owned by two LHI families, departs fortnightly from Port, carrying freight including building materials and the mail. • You’ll likely be welcomed by Lisa (ex Stunned Mullet), Phoebe (ex Rydges) or Susan (from Willawarrin) and many more Port locals working in LHI hospitality. • Ricardoes tomatoes and strawberries feature on The Anchorage’s menu, picked in person by restaurant owner John Green, who flies in his own aircraft. • Other provisions are from Port suppliers like Pye Providores (Phoebe’s family) although much excellent primary produce is harvested or grown on LHI. (Buy it at Top Shop). • Some young islanders attend secondary school in Port. • J R Richards in Port handles the island’s waste, despatched on the Trader. • Leslie Williams is LHI’s MP; Port’s police commander is theirs too. • There’s an excellent little hospital, local doctor (whose son won Port’s last Ironman), pharmacy supplies and visiting dentist but Port hospitals treat medivacs. • Oxley Travel, in new premises on Horton Street in Port, is Australia’s leading LHI travel agent. greater port macquarie focus. 65

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The Forest Courtyard. The Forest Courtyard is a celebration of forests, showcasing the beauty of timber in design and craftsmanship, and the display provides a snap-shot into the region’s rich forest history. The pergola and hand crafted solid timber seats are built from our beautiful North Coast hardwood timbers, our own local renewable resource. This was all made possible through the partnership between Port Macquarie Museum and Forestry Corporation of NSW. This new partnership shines a spotlight on the incredible destinations our State Forests have to offer. Our region is blessed with amazing places to visit, from the tall Eucalypt forests of the Coopernook area, to the crystal clear waters of the Wilson River at Cobrabald camping areas. There are spacious grassy campsites at the family friendly Swans Crossing, and not forgetting the world’s largest Red Bloodwood tree, Old Bottlebutt, near

Wauchope. Best of all, forests are free, and you can bring your dog! These areas have provided generations of families with lasting memories, and they are also productive native forests that have been supplying timber for more than a century and continue to produce renewable timber today. Forest, from the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, is now permanently located within The Forest Courtyard. Artist Pauline Roods’ design for Forest was inspired by her childhood memories of visiting State Forests. When you are in Port Macquarie, come and visit The Forest Courtyard at the Port Macquarie Museum. Pick up a fact sheet and wander through the Timber! exhibition within the museum. Share your experience on social media - search #VisitNSWForests Download our free VisitForests app www.forestrycorproation.com.au/visit

focus_editorial

Bronwyn Newton from Port Macquarie Landcare

irds can and must adapt, because people have removed many trees and other vegetation that would have fed them previously.

land - declared a noxious weed in some areas. It

The pigeons make the best of what’s available, and go for the fruit, even though it’s not home-made. They seek the purple succulent fruits of Camphor, even when it’s growing right in the heart of town, as in Laurieton.

It also contains toxic chemicals: camphor extract

It happens that there are native fruits ripe and available for the pigeons right now, from Myrsine howittiana. This is a shiny-leaved compact tree ideal for your garden, and one that attracts wildlife, with purple fruits in late spring.

UPDATE

FOOD THAT’S NOT HOME-MADE SOME AUSSIE BIRDS HAVE DEVELOPED A TASTE FOR IMPORTED FOODS. WHITE-HEADED PIGEONS ARE RAINFOREST BIRDS THAT DO THIS. WE SEE THEM ENJOYING THE FRUITS OF CAMPHOR LAURELS: TREES WHICH LOOK LIKE OUR RAINFOREST PLANTS, BUT WERE IMPORTED FROM CHINA OR JAPAN.

displaces endemic trees, preventing native plants from germinating with its heavy shade and its dense surface root system. is used as an insect repellent. Domestic fowls eat the fruit, but because of the camphor, their eggs taste dreadful. Some of our other native birds are adaptable too, and learn to eat or live in foreign plants. They benefit if they are clever enough to find a new resource first, and use it to their advantage. It intrigued me to see Galahs eating Liquidambar seeds on the ground in a local carpark. No other

White-headed Pigeons (Columba leucomela) live on the east coast from Victoria to northern Queensland and are also known as Baldy Pigeons. The head and underbody are white, wings and tail are black, eye-ring and legs are red. Males and females look similar, while juveniles are grey, rather than white.

birds were doing it, so they seemed to have this

These stately birds are naturally shy and wary, but if they feel safe they come into suburban gardens. At our place they enjoy the bird bath. Two or three try to get in at once, which is interesting, as they are 40 cm long and quite plump.

nockers.

The fact that these birds utilise Camphor trees shows the complexity that comes from changing our environment. Such foreign plants can be a source of food and shelter, and may even form links between remnants of original native forest. Yet Camphor is a pest plant in Australian bush-

food to themselves, and the seeds would otherwise be wasted. Liquidambar comes from North America, where squirrels and small birds eat its seeds. But it doesn’t seem to invade bushland in Australia, where its dry spiky fruits are called bommykSo Galahs are smart. I’ve seen these inquisitive birds eating the seeds of “farmers friends” weeds, which are plentiful, and possibly eaten by no other critter. These annoying seeds stick in your clothes, stay there through the wash, then germinate under the clothes line. I’m hopeful there will be less of them, thanks to our adaptable Galahs! Contributed by Julie Ho.

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focus_tourism

Janette Hyde from Port Macquarie Tourism Association

tourism UPDATE

HOW THIS YEAR HAS FLOWN! CHRISTMAS IS FOUR WEEKS AWAY. EVERYONE LOOKS FORWARD TO TAKING PART IN COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS. THERE ARE MANY TO CHOOSE FROM, IN BONNY HILLS, LAKE CATHIE, WAUCHOPE AND PORT MACQUARIE - LIST AT THE END OF THIS ARTICLE. The Touch State Cup is back on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th December. What a great spectacle it is, with over 6,000 people coming to our area for the event. We sincerely welcome all competitors. This one event contributes substantially to our local economy and encourages competitors and support teams to come back and have holidays in our beautiful region. Visited the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park last week and saw the newly arrived beautiful African lion cubs, Milo and Misty, now out of quarantine and making their first appearances. Why not have breakfast or lunch at the café? Mark and Dee are doing such a great job in creating this wonderful tourism facility. A new member to the Tourism Association is

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Port Macquarie Duffy Electric Boat Hire. Have you ever travelled in an electrically powered boat? The ideal way to explore the Hastings River, without leaving an impact. It is a great experience. Another new member is Wyndham Vacation Resort at Flynns Beach. Our region is very lucky to have such a diverse range of accommodation on offer; any wonder our tourism figures are growing. The NSW Tourism Awards were held on the 24 November. We look forward to hearing the results. The finalists are Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, Port Macquarie Museum, Sea Acres Rainforest Centre (two categories), Telegraph Retreat and The Observatory. Port City Bowling Club, The Westport Club and

Port Macquarie Panthers have also improved their facilities, with major renovations nearly finished, or in the case of Port City, completed. These improvements increase the incentive for tourists to come to Greater Port Macquarie. Congratulations to Tacking Point Lions for the fantastic improvements at Gaol Point. This historic area of Port Macquarie has justifiably been highlighted. Another Service Club, Rotary Sunrise, have made a difference at the Lighthouse. The viewing platforms, the new steps, the highlighting of the Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage and the repainting of the lighthouse itself has enhanced this favourite landmark. Neil Black and his hard workers are to be congratulated. These projects could not have been completed without the support from the NSW State Government and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. EVENTS HAPPENING IN DECEMBER 2 - 4 December - Touch State Cup All Day, Tuffins Lane www.nswtouch.com.au 3 December - Coastside Church Carols 7pm, Westport Park Port Macquarie Email: info@coastsidechurch.com.au 10 December - Carols in the Park 5pm, Mullaway Road, Lake Cathie Email: roblee.hefron@gmail.com 10 December - Wauchope Community Christmas 5pm, Bain Park, Wauchope Email: studio-318@hotmail.com 11 December - Jazz in the Vineyards “All that Jazz” 10am, Bago Vineyards, Wauchope www.bagovineyards.com.au

11 December - Carols on the Grass 5pm, Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Cub admin@wbhslsc.org.au 11 December - Salvation Army Carols in the Car Park 7pm, Lord Street, Port Macquarie Email: debbie.cooper@aue.salvationarmy.org 17 December - The Westport Club Carols and Fireworks Special Guest Tim Campbell 6pm, Westport Park www.thewestportclub.com.au 25 December - Christmas Lunch Port Macquarie Panthers Auditorium www.portmacquarie.panthers.com.au 25 December - Christmas Day Lunch Sails Resort, Park Street, Port Macquarie www.sailsresort.com.au 25 December - Christmas Day Seafood Lunch Cruise Terminal, Clarence Street, Port Macquarie Email: cruises@cruiseterminal.com.au 31 December - New Year’s Eve “Carnivale with Soundscape” 9pm, Port City Bowling Club www.portcity.com.au 31 December - New Year’s Eve “The View From Madeleine’s Couch” 10:30pm, The Westport Club, Buller Street, Port Macquarie www.thewestportclub.com.au 31 December - New Year’s Eve Beach Party with Beach Boys Tribute Band 8:30pm, Port Macquarie Panthers www.port.macquarie.panthers.com.au

HELLO WO R L D SCENIC 30TH BIRTHDAY SALE

SCENIC HAS CERTAINLY TRAVELLED A LONG WAY SINCE ITS FIRST COACH TRIP ALONG AUSTRALIA’S SPECTACULAR GREAT OCEAN ROAD.

fter celebrating 30 years in October, the Scenic of 2016 can rightly lay claim to being one of Australia’s most successful business stories in travel.

Founded in Newcastle by Glen Moroney, the company began with coach tours around Australia before expanding to New Zealand, Norfolk Island and Southern Africa in the 1990s. Scenic introduced innovative double-door coaches which improved access to the coach, resulting in more time for guests to spend in the locations they travelled to. By the turn of the century, Scenic had cemented its place as a key player in the Australian travel

market, with its tours to Canada and Alaska offering guests trips of a lifetime. Renowned for incredible natural beauty, outstanding hospitality and astonishing wildlife, Canada and Alaska have been two of Scenic’s most popular destinations ever since those first tours, and they are still the number one Australian tour operator, offering experience others can’t.

both worlds - the chance to cruise along beautiful rivers with the ease of regular shore excursions into historic and beautiful locations, along with the experience of staying in a floating luxury hotel. Exclusive, luxurious and tailor-made for Scenic guests, these ships changed the face of river cruising and ensured Scenic’s place internationally as the premiere luxury river cruise company.

The expansion continued throughout the early 2000s with Europe, Russia, Asia, the Americas and Antarctica included as destinations for Scenic guests. However, the real game-changer arrived in 2008 in the form of the all-inclusive Scenic Space-Ship. Owner Glen Moroney realised that this kind of tourism offered guests the best of

These days you can find these beautiful SpaceShips cruising the waterways of Europe, from the Rhine to the Seine, the Douro to Bordeaux. And in 2016, a brand new river cruising chapter began in South East Asia, with ships launched on the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers.

Not content to rest on its laurels, Scenic contin-

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greater port macquarie focus. 69

focusinterview.

TRISH DAVIS AND MAUREEN MCGOVERN

i Trish and Maureen. Cathedral in Santiago, Spain, to be freed from How long have you both their sins. called the Greater Port How did you come up with the idea Macquarie area home, of completing this journey, and what and how do you both preparation did you do beforehand? know each other? Trish: I’d wanted to walk the Camino for Trish: I moved here with my husband and around 16 years after a work colleague told me three girls in July 1983. My son was born the about it. I read everything I could and then the next month. I commenced work in movie The Way stimulated my interest again. Community Health in 1987. The years went by, and I just decided Maureen: I moved here that 2016 would be the year. in May 1993 to work in I didn’t really do too much of Palliative Care. My sister preparation, other than y or We loved the st le st lived in the area, and what I normally do to po A St James (an of ea I visited often and id keep fit parkrun every e th of Jesus), and k al w a g decided to move to Saturday, training for tin Pilgrims star ed liv ey th r the area. ve the City2Surf. I had two re from whe ral ed th Ca e We are both really long walks with th to to go n, to be registered nurses and Maureen; she did a lot in Santiago, Spai sins .” r ei th om fr became instant friends more preparation than I d ee fr when we became work did. The hardest one was colleagues. walking up North Brother You've both recently carrying our backpacks. It was returned from an epic trip, important to test out our boots and travelling the Camino de Santiago. particularly for me, my socks. What can you tell us about the Maureen: I wanted to do this walk for historical significance of this a number of years and had discussed with particular trek? friends. Initially there were eight of us who Trish and Maureen: Both of us had a Catholic planned to do the trip. In the end it was only upbringing, and this had a lot to do with it. Trish and I who made the commitment and We loved the story of St James (an Apostle booked our flights. I did a lot of long walks for of Jesus), and the idea of Pilgrims starting a about six months, including my normal daily walk from wherever they lived to go to the walks and parkrun every Saturday.

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TED, HE FAINT HEAR T R O F T O N IS KM WALKING 1,000 MAUREEN ISH DAVIS AND R T S IE D A L L A BU T LO C TING HAT – COMPLE T ST JU E N O D VE MCGOVERN HA ERSED AS THEY TRAV E G A IM R G IL P N THEIR VERY OW Y WAS A HOLIDA IS H T . O G IA T N E SA L, THE CAMINO D TABLE PHYSICA T E G R O F N U N …A LIKE NO OTHER NC E … ITUAL EXPERIE IR SP D N A L A N EMOTIO 70 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview. How far did you have to travel on foot, roughly how much ground did you cover each day - and how long did it take you in total? Trish and Maureen: We walked 800 km from St Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostella in the west of Spain. When you total up all the kilometres we did, it was over 1000! Once we were in the towns, we still had to walk to find our Albergue, and discover what the town had on offer. We averaged 27 km a day. The longest walk was 43 km. What were some of the biggest highlights of the trek for both of you? Trish and Maureen: So many! We attended a number of Pilgrim Masses, the most memorable at Carrion, when the nuns sang and the Priest and nuns blessed every Pilgrim individually. The nuns had made us all a paper star, and that has become such a precious possession. Such a simple gift, but so meaningful. We then all sang the Pilgrim Hymn together. It was such a spiritual and emotional experience for both of us. Another highlight was standing in the Pilgrim Office in Santiago and having our Compostela handed to us, knowing we had completed this amazing pilgrimage. It’s hard to describe the feelings and emotions. Favourite place you visited (and why)? Trish: I loved the smaller towns. Going into the larger cities, I just wanted to leave and get back on the road. Maureen: My favourite was the Cathedral in Burgos. Trish and Maureen: Both of us had a favourite town, and it was Los Arcos. The beautiful square, surrounded by the Cathedral, cafés, bars, with many Pilgrims. The Albergue off the square that we stayed in had been a family home for over 400 years; it remains in the family. All the Albergues had fabulous Managers, but this one went above and beyond and created such a memorable stay. What's something you ate/drank while you were away that you'd never tried before? Trish: I had a fantastic steak that melted in my mouth in a town called Puente la Reina; however, Maureen is convinced it was horse! I still ate it. She didn’t eat hers. Maureen: Stingray, and it was a bit tasteless and the texture was horrible. What was the biggest challenge/difficulty you faced along the way? Trish: I didn’t have any physical problems; my challenge was snoring men (and women). Probably 20 of the 30 nights in Albergues I had loud snorers. I worked on my patience! Maureen: Blisters. With hindsight, would you do the trek again if you had the chance? Why/why not? Trish: Definitely, and plan to in four years’ time. Maureen: Definitely considering it, but not for a few more years. Final say … Trish: I absolutely loved the rhythm and simplicity of the day, having hours walking and

deciding if I wanted to talk to people or walk alone. I had nothing to think about except where I would sleep that night. Everything I needed was on my back. I made lifelong friends. It was so much more than a walk. Maureen: I loved the walking and the solitude when I chose to have it. The people you met and the friendships formed - all of us were on the same journey; we had what was in our back-packs and it didn’t matter if you were rich, poor, or what walk of life you were from, we were all Pilgrims. Trish and Maureen: We’d read a lot about what happens along the Camino, and one thing that resonated was that “the Camino will provide what is needed”, and that is so true. For example, one day when Maureen needed to buy a poncho, another Pilgrim heard the conversation and gave her one. Those things happened regularly. We became providers of all things medical, so were able to reciprocate. One of our funny experiences was climbing out a window of an Albergue. We’d organised to meet a fellow Pilgrim at 6:15am; however, when we went to leave our accommodation, km We walked 80 0 de the door was locked. So quickly ed Pi an Je from St thinking, we found a window Santiago Port in France to the west and did the climb. Another in de Compostella u total two Aussies were in the same yo n he W n. ai Sp of predicament, so we talked them et res we up all the kilom into doing the climb out as well. 10 00!” er ov as did, it w We didn’t get a photo, and that is our big regret. It was hilarious. Thanks ladies. Interview by Jo Robinson.

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greater port macquarie focus. 71

focusinterview

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS minds

VANITY MEDI SPA

Bethmay JONES

ethmay, you have been one of Port Macquarie’s favourite beauty therapists for many years now. And now you have some exciting news to announce about a new business venture; can you tell us a little bit this? In July, my former sanctuary TONIC Beauty Therapy bought The Vanity Room, now known as VANITY Medi Spa, situated at the Port Marina next to Sails by Rydges. After nearly seven years of treating my clients at my home clinic, the time had come to expand and my children wouldn’t give up any more rooms! So after a very quick-look see, we realised this was to be my new home as such. I have the beautiful Hastings River as my backdrop and a group of friendly businesses within the Marina. We have had a few slight tweaks at VANITY Medi Spa, and in the New Year will continue as my clinic evolves with combining dermal therapies and traditional spa and beauty treatments. Tell us a little bit about your background ... I’m Port Macquarie raised and was educated at what was Westport from Kindy to Year 12, where many a fabulous teacher helped guide me on my journey and whom I’m still lucky enough to get their input from even 25 years on! Must be my name they don’t forget! I moved away when I started my career in the beauty and wellness industry at the Strand College of Beauty Therapy, where I gained CIDESCO and ITEC qualifications. I am happy to have had employment every day since, and over the many years I’ve been able to travel our amazing world and combine my love for industry also. During my home clinic years, I fell into teaching and after completing my

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Training and Accessing Course, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed six years at Trendz Beauty and Training, imparting my love for my industry onto all who have started their journey with us. Over the last 18 months I’ve completed more studies through the Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science and I’m happy to now provide Dermal Therapies for those needing more anti-ageing modalities in the management of their skin, promoting integrity and optimal function. What is it that you love most about what you do? I love our cells! Simply put, but so very important for me. The love for the cell gives me results, and that is what drives me. In my 23 years in the industry, no-one has ever asked me to make them look older! I see many a different skin. Skin disorders that can break your heart, such as Acne and Rosacea. I treat hair concerns that cause distress to individuals and many impaired Immune Systems, which is always a concern. But every day I am privileged that I can bring results to such conditions, and over time with skin maintenance programmes and a combined effort with my clients, we aim to achieve a harmonious result. What are some of the challenges you face running your business, and how do you manage to overcome them? My challenges as a parent are no different to any working mum; it is a constant juggling act. I have a fabulous team at VANITY Medi Spa who are very conscientious workers and are aware that if I am teaching or leaving early for parental duties, they take over. I am extremely lucky that my shift-working hubby has a 12-month roster, like Trendz, so our calendars certainly

get scrutinised. When all else fails, my parents are our go-to for back up, along with our great neighbours. The most obvious business challenge is that I’ve gone from just me to eight staff and all that that entails. A substantial shift in overheads, a location change for my TONIC clients and a realisation of middle term goals being met are now my daily challenges. I work to a structured business model and have many a mentor I can draw knowledge from, and I’m doing just that. I won’t stop believing in myself, so that is always helpful! And of course, there is always bubbles! What changes have you noticed in your industry over the last decade or so, and how have you had to adapt to cater for these? Brows! With the increase in muscle relaxant treatments, we’ve had to totally change our shaping methods. Makeup is another, but that is always changing and when done wrong, can be the most ageing! For more than the last decade, Anti-Ageing treatments most definitely have changed, with many a person not wanting to go under the knife just yet. Hence my path into Dermals, which really came about as my clients were wanting access to modalities such as Peels, Needling, Microdermabrasion and LED. What advice would you offer to other people looking to open a beauty salon in a regional area? Be passionate for what you do, but be humble. Never stop learning, as education within our industry is of the utmost importance. We are the qualified therapists; we educate our clients relating to their specific needs; we never stop learning, so know your Integumentary System, your demographics. And remember that you are privileged, as you almost invade people’s personal

space on a daily basis! You are an active Rotarian with Port Macquarie Sunrise Rotary. Can you tell us a little bit about how Rotary contributes to our community and why you choose to be part of this group? I love my Sunrise Club. Friday breakfast overlooking the water’s edge is such a great end to the working week. We are a fun club and events such as The Big Dig and the Hastings Sports Awards are two events that I think showcase the diversity of our club and its local community spirit. The awesome effort into the Lighthouse “re-vitalisation” project is our latest showcase, which has been a mammoth task to all involved. And thanks to the re-packaged FOCUS plastic bag, I’ve been able to donate over 500+ baby clothes delivered to families in our Kharikhola Nepalese village. Rotary is all about paying it forward, and I’m extremely happy to do just that! And finally, if you could invite any three business people to lunch, who would they be and why would you invite them? The Mas Family, as they head SOTHYS - my beloved professional skincare products which are scientifically formulated and highly specialised. I’d love to see what makes them excited for our constantly evolving future. My favourite author, Marian Keyes, as she makes me laugh every second year. Obviously I’d ask her to make me laugh every year, but it is so worth the wait for her books, I’m happy to oblige. Rae Morris, one of my makeup gurus, as I love her energy, passion and how she became who she is. Thanks for your time, Bethmay!

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greater port macquarie focus. 73

WELLBEING

Sun

Safety

MENand

depression DEPRESSION IS A SERIOUS AND SURPRISINGLY COMMON CONDITION FOR MEN, WITH ONE IN SIX AUSTRALIAN MEN SUFFERING DEPRESSION AT ANY ONE TIME. DON’T LET SUNBURN BE YOUR NEW SUMMER ACCESSORY. DID YOU KNOW THAT TWO IN THREE AUSTRALIANS WILL BE DIAGNOSED WITH SKIN CANCER BY THE TIME THEY REACH 70?

ith summer just around the corner, it’s important to pay extra attention to your skin and you’re aware of the factors that increase your risk of developing skin cancer. In Australia, we are more likely to develop skin cancer than any other type of cancer, so it’s critical to know what to look for, as it can appear as a variety of different skin lesions, including: • A mole, ulceration or scab that won’t heal • Bleeding on light contact • Changing in size • Changing in colour • Flat moles that become raised or develop an irregular edge. Skin cancer comes in many forms, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. All of these types of cancers can appear on all parts of the skin, are more common in sun exposed areas and have varying severities. It is often hard to differentiate between these common types of skin cancer at first glance, which is why expert opinion from Australian Skin Cancer Clinics 76 greater port macquarie focus.

(ASCC) is always recommended. The Australian Skin Cancer Clinics provides caring, efficient and accessible service for early detection, diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. The team of skin experts provide a full suite of skin assessments and treatments to help prevent you from being affected by this condition, such as: • Skin checks • Mole removal • Skin biopsies • Skin cancer surgery/treatment • Cryotherapy • Dermatopathology • Non-surgical treatments. In addition to skin cancer risk, sun exposure can also result in the development of wrinkles, sun spots and broken blood vessels. To boost your way to healthy skin, book in a skin check with the team at the Australian Skin Cancer Clinics by calling 1300 SKIN Doc and keep up to date with skin tips and tricks by subscribing to the Australian Skin Cancer Clinic’s Facebook page.

epression is not a reflection of problems, work pressure, unemployment, how “strong” or “together” a parenting changes, increased use of alcohol and man is, but is a sign that your other drugs. usual positive feelings and sense When compared with women, men statistically of wellbeing have been overare at significantly greater risk of depressionwhelmed as a result of circumstances, changes related suicide and are also statistically much in life-pressures or health-related issues. less likely to seek help. It’s often very hard for men to Some tips for getting help: • See your GP, acknowledge or recognise the psychologist, or signs of depression, but it’s e risk factors Th counsellor important to seek help for depression • Access good and not ignore these e ud in men incl , quality information feelings due to fear or es su is p hi relations e, rc vo di • Share your stigma. Depression can or n tio separa s, work m le ob feelings with family, be described as feeling pr th al he ployment, mates or helplines consistently sad, pressure , unem ges, parenting chan • Exercise most days miserable or down for alcohol increased use of • Eat and sleep as more than two weeks other drug s.” d an well as you can and can include the loss • Be kind to yourself, and of interest or pleasure in don’t act on all your feelings usual activities. Depression in Other sources of information: men can result in the pulling back Mental Health Access Line: from friendships and social connections, 1800 011 511 (24/7 NSW Health) increased dependence on alcohol or drugs, Interrelate Counselling: reduced concentration, a heightened sense www.interrelate.org.au or 1300 473 528 of hopelessness and strong negative thoughts of Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au failure, guilt or worthlessness. Other symptoms or 1300 224 636 may include physical changes such as tiredness, sleep problems, appetite and bodyweight Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7) changes. Dads In Distress Support Services:1300 853 437 The risk factors for depression in men include Mensline: 1300 78 99 78 (24/7) relationship issues, separation or divorce, health Suicide call back service: 1300 659 467

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Teething problems IN growing children A specialist orthodontist can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth in young children, even while some baby teeth are still present. It’s called interceptive orthodontics. Saacks Orthodontics is the leading specialist practice on the Mid North Coast and recommends parents have their children assessed when they are seven or eight years old. At the new practice in Port Macquarie (85 William Street) we are able to take 3D scans with the latest low dose radiation i-CAT FLX technology, to give us a clear view of the teeth, roots, airway, sinuses, bone and all of their spatial relationships. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be problems that only a trained orthodontist can detect. Early treatment may prevent, or intercept, more serious problems from developing and make treatment at a later stage shorter and less complicated (and less expensive). In some cases we will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the jaws have finished growing. Early treatment gives us the chance to: guide jaw growth | guide permanent teeth in a more favourable position | correct harmful oral habits | lower the risk of trauma of protruded teeth | create a perfect healthy smile in later years. To arrange a free orthodontic consultation (you only pay for the 3D scan) call Saacks Orthodontics on 6584 2333.

NYREE PRYCE naturopath Nyree is a Naturopath, Herbalist and Nutritionist with 17 years’ experience and is now consulting privately. Naturopathy takes a holistic and individualised approach to your health and looks at factors including physical, emotional, environmental and lifestyle to identify areas that may need support. Using education, herbal medicine, as well as nutritional assessment and dietary intervention to restore the body’s natural ability to grow, heal and prevent disease underlies the naturopathic way of life. Around 2,000 years ago, Hippocrates stated that “all disease begins in the gut”, and it’s true to say that many modern chronic and metabolic illness are indeed influenced by what happens in our digestive systems. Focusing on healing the gut and restoring balance to our gut flora can often see great changes in our physical and mental health and wellness. Individualised diet programs are an ideal way to do this. Contact Nyree to book your consultation on 0477 186 779.

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focu

Plastic Cosmetic & Laser surgery Individually tailored eyewear

Cryolipolysis - Non Surgical Fat Removal Cryolipolysis is the most innovative, safe, non-surgical body contouring treatment available.

People today generally lead very busy active lives and have many varied demands on their vision. From the near work demands of computers and mobile phones, to the need for clear dynamic distance vision with driving, playing sport, cycling, and the list goes on.

It is used to target annoying bumps and bulges of stubborn fat. Clinical studies have shown that this revolutionary technology is an effective means of targeting and freezing away unwanted isolated areas of fat within your body, such as love handles, tummy, back rolls, arms and knees.

This means that very few of us have only one focus that requires our spectacles. This is especially true for those over 45 years of age, who need both a reading and distance correction.

DOn’t suffer from lower back pain! Lower back pain is a common and debilitating condition that interferes with daily activities and lowers quality of

At Hanks Optometrists we pride ourselves on being able to offer advice on what is important to you when it comes to your eyewear needs. If one pair of spectacles can perform all the tasks important to you, then we can advise you on the lens most appropriate. We prescribe a wide range of new technology lenses to fit your individual needs, from specialised computer and office spectacles to light weight sun adaptive polarised prescription sunglasses.

life.

You may also have specific interests such as fishing, boating, golf, bird watching or mountain bike riding. These tasks put different demands on your vision to the usual demands of everyday living. A specific pair of spectacles prescribed for your interests can help you achieve optimum vision for all the things you want to focus on. If you don’t expect to wear the same pair of shoes for everything you do, you also can’t expect one pair of spectacles to perform for all the varied vision tasks you do.

and rehabilitate ability. This means we address the structural,

So come in and discuss your individual eye care needs with our staff. We can tailor spectacles or contact lenses to suit every focus in your life, from work to play.

Acupuncture is an excellent stand alone or complementary treatment. The practice of acupuncture has stood the test of time, and scientific research now backs its ability to treat pain safely, with little to none of the common side effects associated with conventional medications. The trick to acupuncture is it stimulates the body’s restorative musculoskeletal and functional cause of the lower back pain itself, not masking symptoms and having the pain return shortly after. With a suitable postural analysis and appropriate treatment strategy you can soon be pain free. Get in touch to find out about Gift Vouchers - a great idea for someone you love at Christmas! For further information about what I do, visit; www.christophernesbitt.com.au

What is Cryolipolysis? Cryolipolysis is the non-invasive controlled cooling of adipose tissue (Fat Cells) to induce lipolysis (breaking down) without causing damage to other surrounding tissues. The result over time is a noticeable, natural-looking reduction in fat. How does Cryolipolysis work? Cryolipolysis is based on the principle that fat cells are more vulnerable to energy extraction (cooling) than surrounding tissues. A non-invasive applicator is attached to the targeted procedure area to extract energy from the underlying fat tissue, while protecting the skin, nerves, muscles and other tissue. The cooled fat cells undergo apoptosis (controlled cell death) and are gradually eliminated, reducing the thickness of the fat layer. Permanent results after the slimming treatment. Noticeable changes are often seen as soon as three weeks after treatment. Results will continue to improve over the following four months. Please contact us for more information.

DON’T CROSS-OFF YOUR OPTICAL BENEFITS AS WELL The ye  gg by & uce p�c heh fu beeﬁ ’  ve  ex ye. If yu ’ ue yu 01 u eb ebe, yu e  feve . . .

  

BOOK & CLAIM BEFORE DECEMBER 31st

Hanks Optometrists PORT MACQUARIE:              

AUCOPE:       

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focusinterview.

10 YEARS IN THE HASTINGS

saacks

WE CAUGHT UP WITH DR ERIC SAACKS, SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST AT HIS BRAND NEW PRACTICE IN PORT MACQUARIE.

SAACKS

ORTHODONTICS

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

his is a superb ultra modern practice; when did you move in? We have been here at 85 William Street since the beginning of October. It’s the start of our next chapter in Port Macquarie. This will be our tenth year in the Hastings, and it is fitting that the practice re-invests in the very latest technology in a purpose fitted orthodontic practice. So are there new things in orthodontics? Absolutely. The pace of change, especially in technology, is ever increasing and as a leading specialist orthodontic practice, we have to keep up. Because of my memberships of both Australian and American Orthodontic and Periodontic organisations, and training in America and Australia, I am in a lucky position of being able to assess and select the best technology used in successful practices around the world. Your new practice has some very impressive technology. For some time we have been wanting to update all our technology. Moving into new premises was the perfect opportunity. We are so pleased that we now have the fantastic 3D i-CAT Scanner. It’s a low dose radiation imaging system that creates high resolution 3D images of the patient’s teeth and jaws. The images allows us to show a visual diagnosis of the bones, teeth, nerves, sinuses,

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I A M IN A LU CK

airway and structure of PO SI TI O N the head, face, neck E O F BE IN G A BL D N and jaw. It means we A S ES SS A TO ST BE E are able to diagnose SE LE CT TH SE D U GY LO with more accuracy TE CH N O L U SF ES CC and recommend the IN SU UND orthodontic treatment PR ACT IC ES A RO .” TH E WO R LD plan at our initial orthodontic consultation. You trained as an patient’s regular dentist so we Orthodontist and a Periodontist. get a complete picture, ensuring we Yes, I originally trained as a dentist recommend the best available option. and was fascinated with gum disease You specialise in interceptive (periodontics) and later spent a further three orthodontics; why is that important to years studying to become an orthodontist you? in America. It does mean that, as a dual In children, airway issues MUST be specialist, I can access any problems from a identifi ed and treated as early as possible. broad knowledge base and then customise Delays in treatment only delay the future each treatment. We certainly don’t offer a suffering of the family and the child. Proper “one system fits all” approach. Smiles are as screening using ultra-low dose CBCT individual as fingerprints. imaging and early management through So how do you determine what inter-professional collaboration with ENTs treatment is best for a patient? (ear, nose and throat), paediatricians and The only way we can recommend the best allergists during the growing years may treatment option to create a healthy smile prevent Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in the (and there are many options available) is to do future by promoting healthy growth of the a thorough initial orthodontic consultation. cranio-facial complex, and thus pharyngeal We offer these consultations for free. It’s airway development, during childhood. our investment in our clients’ smile. The only Early diagnosis of impacting canines can thing a potential new patient pays for is a often prevent future extractions and surgical digital X-ray (which we can now provide). We treatment. allow up to an hour for each consultation. Do you treat adults as well as children? Sometimes we will also consult with the

There is a misconception that orthodontic treatment is just for teenagers and children. Although we are known as specialists in interceptive orthodontics, seeing children when they are seven or eight years old to ensure healthier smiles in later years, we are treating more and more adults. Our “invisible” treatment options - Invisalign and Damon Clear are popular - but not recommended in all cases. Our priority is to provide longlasting, healthy smiles. Finally, as Christmas approaches, any message from Saacks Orthodontics? Smile. It’s confidence therapy. Best wishes to all our past and present patients, colleagues and friends, and we hope everyone enjoys a happy and healthy holiday period. We look forward to seeing you at our new practice in the New Year. Saacks Orthodontics - new practice at 85 William Street, Port Macquarie. Free consultation call 6584 2333 www.orthodontistportmacquarie.com.au

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

DECEMBER 2016

with Terri

Photo credit: Will Eades Photography

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Surprises are likely to be on your agenda. Embrace change, as you have attracted these things into your reality. Now is a wonderful time to discover new gifts and talents with passionate learning opportunities. Moldavite is great for fulfilling destiny.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 You are much stronger than you believe. Set your sights on your desired outcome and give yourself permission to fearlessly embrace the outcome. Disconnect from what others think, as these thoughts are really no concern of yours and are inhibiting. Citrine shatters negative thoughts and energy.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Save some time for yourself.You are always beautifully generous in giving of your time to help others, and now it is time for you to enjoy being nurtured. Use your wisdom to know when to speak or when to be silent; communication needs to be love based for your best outcome. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Stand your ground and speak your truth; you are an amazing leader in the workplace, and it is a good time for you to shine. Replace negative self thoughts with positive ones and become the answer to your fears. Clear quartz is great for amplifying.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Set some fresh goals with clear intention and agenda. Then simply give yourself permission to succeed. You are needing to feel validated or appreciated at the moment, so give yourself some pampering. Amethyst connects us to our soul’s strength.

CANCER.

June 23 - July 23

Spend some time outdoors; the earth offers many healing properties. Soothing and calming effects will be most beneficial to you at present. Lighten up and be cheeky to avoid becoming too serious. Turquoise connects us to our playful self.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 The need to fulfil your destiny will be a strong influence, so set smne fresh goals to gain the most out of this next six months. If you doubt yourself, you will be probably sabotaging your success. Give yourself permission to fearlessly step forward and enjoy your journey. Ruby shatters fear.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Listen to the wise words you speak when helping others, as this is how you are presently being guided. Your example can inspire people and your charisma can be captivating. If you are feeling challenged emotionally, focus on your loving qualities to fill your energy with self approval. Clear Quartz amplifies our strengths.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 New beginnings, adventure and exploring the unknown are likely to be strong influences, so embrace change fearlessly and connect to your love of the unknown. Life is, after all, a great adventure in itself. Bring out your silly self and lighten up that seriousness. Jade connects us to our heart energy.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 You are in a purging cycle, as it is time to release anything from your reality that stops you achieving your highest potential. Give intention to everything you take into your body and release from it. See it as a flushing out of negativity, replenishing your cells with positivity. Aquamarine cleanses negativity

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

Avoid entertaining thoughts of what you believe others are thinking about you. Your judgement has attracted these thoughts. Be a little more self nurturing and avoid worrying about how people conceive you. Other people’s thoughts are none of your business. Amethyst keeps our thoughts clear.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

You have been challenged lately by old beliefs you have outgrown. So instead of feeling comforted by your beliefs, you are likely to be feeling trapped. Try debating with these old beliefs; it isn’t easy, but initiates very powerful change. Kyanite opens our mind.

greater port macquarie focus. 81

focusinterview.

Battle Blue

Wren

e n i r e h Kat y Appleb

KATHERINE’S ILLUSTRATIONS TELL A STORY … GLORIOUS, IMAGINATIVE, AND CREATIVE CHARACTERS COME TO LIFE UNDER HER SKILLED HAND. HAVING RECENTLY ILLUSTRATED HER FIRST CHILDREN’S BOOK, KATHERINE HAS PLENTY OF OTHER EXCITING PROJECTS PLANNED FOR THE NEXT FEW MONTHS …

i Katherine. When/how did you come to call the Greater Port Macquarie area home? I was lucky enough to land in this beautiful part of the world a little over nine months ago. My parents had moved here to retire a few years before that and every time I had the opportunity to visit them, I found myself wishing I could be so lucky as to live here. Then an opportunity came up that would enable me to move here, and I’ve felt so blessed ever since. Tell us a little about yourself ... My interests and hobbies are almost all related to the creative arts. In my spare time I can be found drawing, painting, designing, printing, photographing, bookbinding, writing, and ... well ... you get the idea. I also love recharging in nature and find morning walks along the coast to be a small taste of heaven, and I follow it with a half-hour session at Port Macquarie Personal Training during the week (I can’t recommend this enough!) I work full-time in marketing and design, and I have a passion for business, so I am often reading and studying in those fields. But all that I do is under the watchful eye of Indy the black 82 greater port macquarie focus.

I still use these today. However, I am one of and white studio cat, who enjoys nothing more than seeing how often he can distract me from those people who were lucky enough to grow up with plenty of people who believed in me, my work and gain some attention, pats and while I failed to have belief in myself. It took food. quite some time until I felt confident enough How did you discover you had a talent for to call myself an artist, and I know this drawing? is an experience echoed by many I loved drawing and painting creative souls. If I could reach and generally creating as a out to those people, I would child. I’ve never known say, “Just do it!” a time that I wasn’t e I am one of thos What studies (if any) drawing or painting e people who wer have you done in the something. grow lucky enough to art field? I also grew up with up with plenty of d ve lie I started my working a wonderful family people who be iled to life as a secondary who encouraged these in me, while I fa elf.” ys teacher and while I skills. When I turned have belief in m did love teaching, I felt twelve, my brother (also a constant desire to try an artist) bought me my something more creative, so first set of watercolour paints I decided to be brave and pursue and paintbrushes. In fact, I still that passion. In 2013 I was awarded a have and use a beautiful, soft, goat’s Bachelor of Creative Arts with Distinction hair brush that is wonderful for painting from the University of Southern Queensland watercolour washes on paper. with a double major in Marketing and Visual My grandparents were also very Arts. supportive and believed I should be a The following year I was awarded the Golden cartoonist. My grandmother bought me my Key International Honour Society National first set of Derwent watercolour pencils in a Visual and Performing Arts Award for Painting. I beautiful two-tiered wooden box; and again,

“

have also completed studies in Graphic Design. Many creative people wonder whether studying in the art field will actually benefit them, but I can assure them that it will. Taking the time to study creative arts enabled me to further develop my skills, to think about my arts practice in new ways that I hadn’t considered before, to analyse my art and learn to further develop it, and to learn more about professional practice. I also loved art history and philosophy and found that these subjects informed my own arts practice in ways I hadn’t imagined. So go for it! Describe your creative process ... When you have the inspiration to create, do you draw freehand, for example, from memory/ imagination? What tools do you like to use to create your illustrations? A famous quote from Pablo Picasso is, “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working”. In my spare time, I am always creating, whether working on a project for a client or whether working on my own artistic experiments and projects. It’s in working that inspiration comes. I love to draw and paint freehand. I love the feeling of a graphite pencil dragging along textured paper, or the feeling of paint gliding onto canvas. I love “getting

dog

battle bull

messy” with paint. And I love generally creating - well, anything! I am a multi-disciplinary artist, primarily working in watercolour, acrylic and digital mediums and I have a passion for printmaking too. I usually start an artwork with a sketch either from reference images or equally from imagination. My work is usually quite intricate, as I am addicted to detail. I do love creating creatures and scenes from my imagination and exploring my own invented worlds through art. Most importantly, I love the value that creative arts can bring to the lives of others; whether it’s through children’s book illustration that encourages learning and the use of imagination (which develops empathy) in kids, or whether it’s through allowing adults to experience beauty or an aspect of nature which they would not have been otherwise able to do. You recently illustrated the beautiful children's book, Little Sower Samuel, by Robert Costa. How did this collaboration come about? At the time, I was working with Montsalvat, a beautiful arts community in Melbourne (put it on your must-visit list!) I remember chatting with the Arts Manager about how I wish I

could be an illustrator. She looked back at through illustrating a book of this kind? me and said simply, “So, why don’t you?” Little Sower Samuel is the first children’s Sometimes we just need to hear it, and that book I have illustrated, so it was a steep evening I found myself thinking and planning learning curve. I learnt about planning a book, about creating character sketches, about how I would pursue that direction. The very storyboarding, and I also had to learn next day I almost fell off my chair when about digital illustration. Up until Little Steps Publishing contacted that time, I had mostly used me to ask if I might consider traditional art mediums such illustrating a children’s as acrylic and watercolour, book. Some things are I am currently but the publisher had just meant to be! e completing som requested digital Robert Costa is int paintings for a jo ving illustrations, so I very an emerging author bition I am ha hi ex quickly had to improve and had written this nda with my Mum , Li embe r my digital painting skills. ec beautiful story, and D er ov , by Apple ” My training in graphic his words inspired me. y. ar nu Ja d an design certainly helped On my first reading I throughout this process. had pictures and ideas Perhaps the most important flooding my head. I knew lesson I learnt is how much joy then that the little boy, Samuel, illustrating brings me - especially when would need a pet dog to keep him I see the joy the finished product brings company on his journey. I also felt that to others. I know I made the right decision to “dog” would need to have his own pursue illustration. little adventure of learning to share with What other projects are you involved with “rabbit”. And if you look closely enough, you at the moment? might also discover that Indy the studio cat I am currently working on my second book makes a cameo appearance! through the same publisher for a different What are some of the things you learned

“

author. Although I can’t say too much about it (spoilers!) I can tell you it will feature a very cute little dog as the main character (Indy the studio cat is a little jealous, I think). I have also been creating worksheets for a talented Nutritionist in Melbourne who has established a fantastic programme for kids. She is also hoping to release a book in the future, and I have another couple of possible book projects lined up. I do hope to be able to get involved with editorial illustration in the future, as well as art licensing. In addition, I am currently completing some paintings for a joint exhibition I am having with my Mum, Linda Appleby, over December and January. Where can we see more samples of your work, or contact you for further info? From December to January, you can find my paintings hanging in the gallery at Long Point Vineyard. Otherwise, connect with me through social media (www.facebook.com/ KatherineApplebyArt) or visit my website (www.katherine-appleby.com) Thanks Katherine. Interview by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 83

focus_business

Hadyn Oriti with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

MINDING YOUR

business PEACE ON EARTH AND GOODWILL TO ALL WE HAVE PRAYED FOR PEACE FOR ALMOST 2,000 CHRISTMASES; WHY THEN, DO WE STILL SEE WAR AND STRIFE, HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY, HUNGER AND HOPELESSNESS?

t is a rhetorical question; however, pondering it I noted it is good business to reflect on the lessons of Christmas. Let’s attempt to distil the messages of peace

and goodwill and speculate as to what they may mean for us in business.

84 greater port macquarie focus.

A time of peace We all want peace. We all want to live comfortably. The safety and wellbeing of our families is paramount. How do we achieve that in a competitive, commercial environment with tight margins and increasing costs?

Peace, comfort, and safety are all outcomes. If we want peace, we must first ensure a few things are a part of how we do business. We must respect others, including our customers and competitors, understand their perspective and listen. We cannot dismiss them, treat them rudely, call them names or disparage them. We must deal with the issues, not the person. Disrespect your customers and not only will you not have peace, you will not have a business for very long. So it is important to listen but importantly, then we must act. We must convert what we have heard into tangible, considered action. Be responsive, not reactionary. A time of goodwill and joy If prosperity and happiness is our objective, then in commerce we must work hard and focus on delivering what our customers want. Occasionally, customers feel ripped off. They don’t perceive the value of what they purchased. Don’t take short-cuts. Focus on the quality of our goods and service, delivering on our promises and our customer experience, then we are going a long way to avoid the ripped off customer syndrome. Treat customers fairly, listen to their complaints and ensure you deliver the quality they expect. If you succeed in this, over time your reputation will grow, your customers will become your raving fans and, through word of mouth, they will ensure your business grows. Other forms of marketing work. But none like a customer endorsement.

It is not necessarily easy, but stick to it and financial rewards will follow. Deliver quality. A time of giving In our family lives we need to give ourselves. We know we must make time for the important people in our lives: our spouses, children and friends. Making time for our families cannot be over-rated. It is critical, and family lives matter. Finding balance to be with our children is critical to raising well-adjusted, productive members of our community. Making time in all relationships is important, including business relationships. Let’s actively monitor important business relationships - our suppliers and customers. Don’t wonder why you haven’t received the order. Make the call; see how things are going. Put yourself out there. Your customers will appreciate it. Giving of ourselves in business and in our community is important. Donating time to voluntary organisations and charities helps provide some perspective. Not only is it a great way of noting the small mercies in our lives, they help keep us connected with other businesses. You will have heard, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know”. There is truth to that saying; being connected to others will always help if you have problems or are looking to ways to grow your business. You may be surprised by the help. Peace and goodwill do not come from passivity. They come from actions. Get engaged. We are blessed to be a part of this wonderful Port Macquarie-Hastings community. Have a very merry Christmas.

focusinterview.

“Starting strong is good. Finishing strong is epic" - Robin Sharma.

ACT NOW OR PAY THE PRICE Ursula Boorman of Direct Advisers brings finance into Focus, to help you find your way through the money maze.

s the end of the year approaches and before you get too busy preparing for holiday festivities, we recommend part pensioners review your information with Centrelink and take action, if necessary, to reduce your assessable assets. On 1 January 2017, there will be changes to the assets test used to calculate pensions, which may affect your payments. That means 30 December is your last chance to reduce your assessable assets and update your details before the significant changes come into place. Gifting - goodwill or financial headache? Many Australians use gifting as an act of goodwill, often to help family members get ahead. But there are rules that apply to gifting, highlighted in our June column. Pensioners are able to gift up to $10,000 a year, but no more than $30,000 over five years, to stay under the assets test limit. It’s wise to be across all factors involved in gifting, as it can impact on your future financial health. The gifting rules for Centrelink are based around financial years. But with the new asset test to calculate pensions, you may wish to review your situation before year-end. Tips to reduce your assessable assets Pay bills upfront Prepay as many of your expenses as possible. This is smart spending and brings forward your usual expenses. Think about paying rates, car and house insurances in advance. Book and pay your next holiday You can get some great deals online; pay now and choose your dates later.

Clear the credit card Always a good idea, and in this case it could save you money. Value assets correctly When quoting to Centrelink the value of noninvestment assets such as home contents and motor vehicles, you only need the estimated current value, not the insured value. Check your Centrelink information is up to date Most importantly, check that Centrelink holds your correct information. Don’t just update your balances - ask them what their records say! Recently we discovered a client’s Centrelink records showed an investment property and shares which had both been sold many years earlier. Direct Advisers picked up this glitch and ensured our client did not lose their pension.

St columba Anglican School St Columba Anglican School has a limited number of scholarships for new Year 10 and 11 students entering the School in 2017. These scholarships offer Senior Secondary students the opportunity to join the school and be a part of the academic, cultural, sporting and leadership programs that have made the school the choice of students who aim for post school academic and leadership success.

key to their continued growth. • have been offered access to an education that not only allowed them to reach their academic potential, but also provided them with the access to the knowledge and skills required to successfully enter the next phase of their lives as lifelong learners who are erudite, optimistic and disciplined.

Our aims for our graduates are that they:

• understand the vital nature of change in the world and are prepared to face this reality with confidence and resilience.

• display, by their words and actions, a positive, Christian view of the world and their place in it.

• are given the opportunity to develop such 21st Century skills as agility, creativity and an ability to work collaboratively with others.

• understand that while they should be valued as an individual, their willingness to serve their community, now and in the future, will be a

• have developed leadership skills so that by their great and small actions, they will have the potential to make the world a better place.

Don’t dismiss these changes because you are “income tested”. It could be an expensive mistake. The loss of your Centrelink payment for even one day in error, removes all concessional treatment of Allocated Pensions. If you’re time poor and loathe the thought of waiting on the phone to talk to Centrelink, please call us and we can help you save hours of angst and keep you in the best financial position. For $330, Direct Advisers will be your advocate with Centrelink, identify potential problems and find solutions to maximise your financial situation. Ongoing rates for our “Age Pension Assist” service are $220. Call us before we close for Christmas on 21 December or visit directadvisers.com.au. 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.

greater port macquarie focus. 85

WE ALL WANT TO STAY IN OUR OWN HOME AS LONG AS POSSIBLE. THIS IS NOW EASIER THAN EVER, THANKS TO CHANGES IN AUSTRALIA’S AGED CARE SYSTEM. FROM 27 FEBRUARY 2017, YOU HAVE A CHOICE OF WHO PROVIDES CARE IN YOUR HOME.

you have

a choice

new national system is being introduced, called the “national queue”. Once you have been assessed for a home care package and been allocated one by MyAgedCare, you can now decide and control which organisation you prefer for your care and support. Exceptional care in your home We are fortunate that our community is served by an organisation dedicated to helping you live a safe and healthy life in your own home for as long as possible. Since 1985, Home Nursing Group has been delivering exceptional home care for people across our region. Locally owned and operated, Home Nursing Group is a full-service, high quality home care provider. They employ their own fully qualified nursing staff, who receive ongoing training and support. Their workers are proficient in first aid,

CPR, infection control, medication management and other skills needed for excellent home care. Many also have specialist training in dementia and palliative care.

and Locally owned e operated , Hom is a fullNursing Group ality service, high qu ider. ov pr home care eir own th oy pl They em rsing fully qualified nu going on e iv staff, who rece ort.” pp su d training an

“

They are backed by industry leading intake, coordination and clinical teams in local offices across the region. With HNG, you always talk to real local people, not a far-away call centre. And you are always welcome to drop in for a cuppa! This range of skills and local support means that Home Nursing Group offers you peace of mind: they can always care for you - no matter what your needs today or in the future.

More value for your hard-earned money Consumers increasingly demand higher quality, greater choice and more flexibility in how their home care is delivered. Home care not only provides a better quality of life, it is more affordable than traditional aged care.

Almost all Home Nursing Group clients are eligible for Commonwealth support for their care costs. And since Home Nursing Group is committed to efficient operations, they keep their administration fees below the industry average. An unlike some home care providers, Home Nursing Group have no hidden “exit fees”.

Call Home Nursing Group today for a free, no-obligation service review to learn how Home Nursing Group compares with your current provider. They can often provide you with more support and better value for money. And best of all, Home Nursing Group takes care of everything - their team will make your choices and decisions easy. Be where you want to be Most importantly, being cared for at home ensures a higher quality of life, and for most people, that is beyond price. Home Nursing Group is passionate about helping you be where you want to be. Please call Home Nursing Group today on 1300 698 693 to find out how they can help you, or visit the website: www.homenursinggroup.com.au for further details.

ReSkill • UpSkill • MultiSkill at SkillsLink in 2017 Concessions apply. Fees range from $0 - $2300 according to qualification and eligibility - Contact SkillsLink for more information CHC33015 CHC33015 CHC33015 BSB30415 BSB31115 SIT30616

Certificate III in Individual Support - Aged Care Certificate III in Individual Support - Disability Certificate III in Individual Support - Home & Community Care Certificate III in Business Administration Certificate III in Business Administration (Medical) Certificate III in Hospitality

FNS40215 BSB40515 CHC42015 BSB42015 BSB42615 TAE40110

Certificate IV in Bookkeeping Certificate IV in Business Administration Certificate IV in Community Services Certificate IV in Leadership and Management Certificate IV in New Small Business Certificate IV in Training and Assessment

Don’t know what to choose? Try our multi-industry tasters Literacy & Numeracy courses also available

Enrolling now for a January/February 2017 Start This training is subsidised by the NSW Governmentt

www.skillslinktraining.com.au

86 greater port macquarie focus.

SkillsLink Training is the training arm of Port Macquarie Community College RTO 90315

ph: 6583 7288

77 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie

admin@skillslinktraining.com.au

focus_motoring

with Ben Kernahan, Service Manager at John Oxley Motors

IS YOUR CAR PREPARED FOR THE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR SEASON?

he festive season is nearly upon us, • Pets should always be in approved car which inevitably means you are driving restraints. here and there much more, from trips • Entertainment, especially for kids travelling to the beach, holidays, shopping and books, movies, colouring books or toys. visiting friends and family. Check: Ask yourself, is your vehicle prepared for the • Your vehicle’s recommended safe load limit festive season ahead? - you don’t want to over pack the car … the To help you, we have put together a heavier the car, the more petrol is consumed. holiday checklist: • And don’t forget to secure your • Book into John Oxley Motors, home! where our factory trained Most importantly, have a safe and experienced technicians and merry Christmas and New From the team will give your vehicle a Year! From the team at John at John Oxley l complete check over, Oxley Motors, we wish all al Motors, we wish y ensuring it’s safe. readers a happy Christmas pp readers a ha fe sa a d Important items that and a safe New Year. an Christmas .” need to be checked are See you in 2017 for ar New Ye battery, tyres, brakes, our January Floorstock suspension, air con, fluid Clearance Sale! levels, lights, seat belts and John Oxley Motors has been electrical systems for faults. a family owned business since 1971, • Consider joining your preferred roadside and our customers are an extension of this assistance - in the event of a breakdown, family. It’s important to us that as customers you they will be able to provide 24-hour roadside know how valuable you are. We offer a price assistance. match guarantee, when your car is being serviced Leave for your trip with: we provide a courtesy bus to take you where • A map or two, along with your GPS. you need to go and pick you up when your car • A sunshade for your windscreen. is ready, the option of a loan car, offer a service • A basic tool kit. while you wait and for customers in Kempsey and • A first aid kit. Laurieton, we can also pick up your car and drop • Snacks for everyone. it back to you at the end of the day!

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greater port macquarie focus. 87

focusabode.

property guide

88 greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode. P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

O F F I C E

harcourts R E A L

E S T A T E

Originally the Bank of NSW, 56 High Street, Wauchope has undergone a transformation in recent months. Harcourts Greater Port Macquarie’s Wauchope branch is moving back into the renovated premises, returning home… emodelled in 1978, housing a bank, the building is a Wauchope landmark. Wauchope local Ken Mackay was the last bank manager when the bank closed its doors in 1999, and the building was sold to Ross Lindsay, who moved his then real estate franchise - Raine & Horne - into the building in 2000. After a successful 10 years of trade in the premises, Ross re-branded to Harcourts and has gone from strength to strength, now employing 18 staff and having two Harcourts offices, Wauchope and Port Macquarie.

In April this year, Ross moved the Wauchope branch into temporary premises whilst the extensive renovation was undertaken. The downstairs has been revamped, and a residential flat has been added above. A major highlight of the build is the extension of the mural to the wall facing Bain Park; credit must be given to the owner Chris Bowser, artist Silvana Wirepa and paint supply from Hilberts Hardware for keeping this landmark intact. The renovations are now almost complete; Ross and his team are expecting to move back into the revamped office prior to Xmas.

Harcourts Greater Port Macquarie is the one stop real estate agency for your buying, selling, property management and rental needs from Wauchope to Port Macquarie, Bonny Hills to Comboyne, Laurieton to Kempsey. Whether it’s residential, rural, commercial or industrial property you are seeking - Harcourts Greater Port Macquarie has you covered from “The Beach To The Bush”. From the Owner: My family and I run a kitchen business, Kitchen Kraft; I enjoy renovating buildings and

could see the potential of 56 High Street. It’s a great location and by renovating the building, and adding a flat above, the look of the street has been improved, as well as providing potential rental accommodation. The mural that faces Bain Park is a landmark of Wauchope, so by extending it, thanks to artist Silvana, we have improved the outlook of the park, the main street and given something back to the community. We would like to wish Harcourts every success in their new premises.

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B E F O R E

// A F T E R

REAL ESTATE WAUCHOPE Successfully buying and selling real estate is so often about understanding human needs and aspirations. hatâ€™s why Harcourts people not only receive in-depth professional training, but are also committed to creating meaningful and genuine personal relationships. Alongside the trust, honesty and integrity of Harcourts' personal hallmarks, an intimate knowledge of local markets and current property trends help establish consultantsâ€™ credentials. Meet the Team Ross Lindsay - Business Owner Business owner Ross Lindsay is a fifth generation local. Ross purchased the business in 1989, and from small beginnings has grown and developed the business to its current site and size. Harcourts is the largest real estate firm in town, offering both property management and property sales services. Having grown up locally, his knowledge of the local area is invaluable to the many customers he has met over his 33 years in real estate. His expertise in financial and investment areas is also a valuable asset. Barry Thompson - Sales Consultant Barry has lived in the Hastings Valley since 1980, with his real estate career commencing in July 2001. After a successful career dairy farming, he is now a specialist in residential,

90 greater port macquarie focus.

lifestyle and rural property sales and is involved with all facets of the real estate industry. He is a fully qualified licensed real estate agent, stock and station agent, business agent and an accredited auctioneer. Barry also holds recognition as a NSW Justice of the Peace. Marc Minor - Sales Consultant Marc commenced his real estate career in July 1996, and became a licensed real estate agent and stock and station agent in 2001 and is a registered auctioneer. He was the Principal at Peppertree Real Estate from March 2002 to July 2007. He brings a sound knowledge of all matters real estate and development. Kylie King - Property Management Supervisor Kylie commenced working in the real estate industry almost 20 years ago and has been in the Hastings area since 2004. She is a licensed real estate agent and Justice of the Peace. As the supervisor of the property management team, Kylie assists the property managers to maximise their own personal potential, ensuring the team works cohesively and effectively together.

Gary Webb - Property Management Representative Gary brings with him a wealth of knowledge in the real estate industry; twelve years in strata management with Raine and Horne, Epping has given him a strong customer focus and the ability to solve the most challenging of issues. After many years of working in the city, he has moved to the countryside to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Rachel Coombes - Property Management Representative Since starting with Harcourts Greater Port Macquarie in October 2012, Rachel has acquired outstanding communication and negotiation skills. She has a real passion for real estate and as a part of the property management team hopes to continually be able to provide a high level of service to both landlords and tenants. Cassie McDermott - Property Management Representative Cassie joined the Wauchope office at the beginning of the year after working with Harcourts, Hawkesbury Valley for three years. Cassie enjoys building long-term relationships and making clients feel relaxed and confident throughout the management

of their investment property. She believes in open communication and ongoing feedback, so her clients are fully aware of how their property is been managed. Carol Wright - Property Management Administration Carol is one of Harcourtsâ€™ longest serving staff members. Her prior background work in legal offices for over 10 years assists Carol greatly with real estate procedure. Carol covers many areas in our team: property management administrator, commercial leasing and reception. Elissa Schmitzer - Receptionist Born and raised in the Hastings area, Elissa is relatively new to the world of real estate but is enjoying learning new skills and meeting new people. On the front desk she is happy to meet and greet all of our customers with a smile. Elissa can help you with general enquiries about property management, sales and storage bays. Jade Wallis - Sales Administration Jade has been involved in the real estate industry since 2006, starting out with a firm in Port Macquarie/Lake Cathie overseeing reception and sales administration, whilst also completing her real estate licensing course.

focusinterview.

focusabode.

Silvana W I R E P A

The mural on the eastern wall of 56 High Street, the new home of Harcourts Wauchope, has been extended with the addition of a beautiful skyscape taking in Bago Bluff and a striking Wedge-tail Eagle. Chrissy Jones chatted with the artist commissioned for the job, Silvana Wirepa. ow did it come about that you painted the top half of the mural in Bain Park? I met Chris Bowser, the owner of the building in Wauchope, some months back. He asked what I did and invited me to restore a smaller mural on the side of the Three Little Birds building on High St. When he saw my work at the studio gallery, he asked me to extend the mural on the Harcourts building. He felt the mural was important to keep for the people of Wauchope. I was taken aback by the size, having not done anything on that scale before, and enlisted Richard McLeod to help with the prep and background work. I didn’t realise it was the Werribee National Park when I included the Bago Bluff. I stretched the artistic license a lot (lol). If you look closely at the original (lower) section, you will see a koala, wallabies, even a dingo running through the bush. It appeals to both the young and the old, to people of all walks of life at various distances. I am grateful for the opportunity to create something interesting for the community and would love to see more around town. Walcha is fantastic for its sculpture, and the 50 murals in Kurri Kurri are just amazing. Were you given any guidelines on what to paint? I did a small scale mock-up in photoshop, which Chris approved. He wanted the mural to extend the original. The Wedge-tail Eagle was intended to be much larger; however, it works between the windows. I love the uplifting nature of the bird and wanted to impart that feel of soaring within the clouds. I have some acreage in Ellenborough, and if I am lucky I get to see a pair of Wedge-tails

playing in the updraughts ... It’s magnificent than others. Architecture can be like creating to watch. I didn’t realise they are only slightly art in three dimensions, like the work of Frank smaller than the American Bald Eagle. Gehry. I have always had a passion for fine art Tell us about the process ... Were many in and am motivated and inspired by it. I have the Wauchope community involved? recently joined with the Port Macquarie Arts I got progressively ill with the flu from and Crafts Centre, as well as the Hastings the first day of painting and really struggled Valley Art Society. Seeing others create is very physically. What you see is the culmination motivating. of three days’ work. I was still painting and Do you have any formal training? framing for my exhibition, so I couldn’t lend My background is in architecture and anymore time. I gave Chris a crash construction management, but course in detail painting, and I also have a Fine Arts thankfully he lent a hand Diploma from Hunter towards the end. St College of TAFE in g Sharon Griffiths from Newcastle in 2013, I love the upliftin rd Hilberts was really studying under nature of the bi part that gracious by providing Brandon Snape and wanted to im in the ith feel of so aring w e acre age the tinting and even for sculpture. I m clouds . I have so some of the paint studied the use I , and if in Ellenborough e a pair gratis. Extending a of organic oil se am lucky I ge t to ing painting can be more painting using ay of Wedge-tails pl ... It’s difficult, because you the methods ts gh in the updrau atch .” have to carefully match of the Flemish magnificent to w colours. Van Ecyk brothers Tell us about yourself ... (14thC) and gestural Both my mother and my life drawing with Peter maternal grandmother (Alice and Lankas, as well as the Max Mary Gundry WiRepa) were artists. My Meldrum method of portraiture grandmother’s grand uncle was accepted with Pablo Tapia. I have just completed into the Royal Academy of Art in 1850. I an artist in residency program with had to get building out of my system before Muswellbrook Regional Art Centre. That being able to paint and sculpt full-time. I am a program culminated recently in an exhibition figurative painter, but my sculptures are quite of 50 small and major works, portraits of the abstract and totemic. I am also writing and people of Muswellbrook. illustrating a series of children’s picture books. What do you love to paint? Some of the characters are based on local Mostly portraits, but also landscapes, people here in the Hastings Valley. streetscapes and still life. At the moment What inspired you to be an artist? I am enjoying mixing the primary colours I always knew I would be a full-time artist with black and white and working the tones one day; however, I chose architecture initially for portraiture. I am attempting to create - because it was a practical career, closer to art my own paint, further purifying and ageing

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walnut oil with pure pigment, that I hope to market some time soon. I am moving towards acquiring and crushing my own colours. I am particularly interested in faces that show character and definition - bearded faces that show age. I have modified a school etching press to take a 900 x 300 mm print and am working on a series of etchings currently of my life in pictures titled pain and joy. You have a shopfront in Wauchope. Tell us about that ... I have this fantastic space at 42 Cameron St, Wauchope with a saw tooth ceiling and exposed steel trusses with natural light. It’s called Top Hat Gallery. It has been a terrific space to paint within; however, I feel it will be equally successful as a working gallery. I would like to teach what I have been lucky enough to learn and try to impart that knowledge to the Hastings Valley community, given the opportunity. The first exhibition opened the 25th November, titled Two Chisels and a Brush. It’s a joint exhibition with Henry Field and Warwick Saxby. It will showcase both portraiture and sculpture, and I encourage anyone with an interest in painting and sculpture to come along and view it. Entry is free and will be open from Wednesdays to Saturdays, 10am to 4pm. We hope to have painting and sculpture classes during the week and life drawing/ painting for both artists and hens’ parties on the weekends. All are very welcome, including any Hasting Valley artists who would like to exhibit, and we can always do with more portrait and life models. All enquiries: 0467 700 307. Thanks Silvana. greater port macquarie focus. 91

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ISAAC saNDErSON Isaac is renowned locally for his sporting achievements and community service. Now,

on the eve of heading to Brazil for a year as part of Rotary’s Youth Exchange Programme, Isaac spares the time to share his

thoughts ahead of what will no doubt be a life changing experience …

i Isaac. When we last chatted, you were busy with surf lifesaving and triathlons! How much involvement do you still have in either of these activities? Hi Jo. I still am involved in both of these activities. I recently completed my first half marathon in a time of 1 hour 29 mins, smashing the time I wanted to achieve. I am also still actively involved in the surf lifesaving movement at Wauchope Bonny Hills SLSC, patrolling the beach whenever I have the time. What have been some of your athletic highlights this past year? Some of my athletics highlights include making it to NSW all schools cross country held at Eastern Creek Raceway in Sydney. Also, another big highlight in my sporting life is completing my first half marathon in the Forster Running Festival earlier this year. You’ll be heading off overseas soon, for a year, as part of Rotary International’s Youth Exchange Programme. Which country will you be travelling to? Yes! I am heading overseas soon, and I will be travelling to a town in Brazil called Valinhos in the state of Sao Paulo for one year, to live and immerse myself in a totally different culture to what we have here in Australia! Explain how you were chosen for this role ... what was involved, and how tough was the selection process?

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The process is very, very, very long to become an exchange student, but I will tell you the main steps: Step 1 - application of interest - this meant that I just had to say I was interested and await an email. Step 2 - I got the go ahead. After I received the email, I organised a local Rotary Club interview. This consisted of a panel of five people from the local Port Macquarie Sunrise Rotary Club. It was daunting ! But all they wanted to know was who I was and why I wanted to be an exchange student through Rotary. Step 3 - district interviews. After I passed the Rotary Club interviews, I got a phone call to say I could go to district interviews. These were crazy scary! Each room consisted of five people, and each interview went for approx. 15 minutes. But, I passed and was accepted! Step 4 - I got allocated my country at the district interviews. I put down my top five countries, with my first being Brazil. I got a phone call from the Youth Exchange Programme Chair (YEPC) and they said I’d been accepted and was a great candidate for the position. I was STOKED! Step 5 - tonnes and tonnes of paperwork needed to be completed - about 40 pages - so that it could be sent to Brazil. What are your feelings ahead of leaving home for such a lengthy period? I am quite nervous, and I think I will miss Mum and Dad very, very much, but I do think

this by trying my hardest to learn the language it will be a great experience to become more independent and grow and get to experience and not speak English and speak Portuguese as the world and what it has to offer. much as I can. What research have you done about your I also think that it will be hard to overcome host country? the home sickness that I will go through over in Well, I have not done much research, as Brazil, but I think it will be OK if I just keep in I have had a Brazilian exchange contact with Mum and Dad and also student staying at my house chat to people about how I feel. for the past two months. Anyone you’d like to thank His name is Victor, and for their support in your g he only lives 20 km I am also lookin journey so far? away from my host forward to Yes! I would love to n city. It has been great being able to lear and take the time to thank all ge having him at my another langua the businesses that doin elf immersing mys house teaching me nt re ffe nated items for numerous di culture from a the language and raffles and trivia nights country!” about the country and to fundraise for me. I also life in Brazil. would like to thank the Port What are you most lookMacquarie Sunrise Rotary Club ing forward to about the for all the support and countless next year? hours of help they gave me in preparing I am most looking forward to meeting for the exchange journey. so many different people from all over the And finally, I would like to say a massive world and making lifelong friendships. I am thank you to my parents, James and Rachele, also looking forward to being able to learn anbecause without them none of this would be other language and immersing myself in culture possible. from a different country! Final say … What problems/difficulties do you think If you would like to follow my exchange you may encounter while you’re away - and journey, I have a Facebook page called Isaac how do you hope to overcome these? Sanderson Youth Exchange. Some of the problems I think I will face while Thanks Isaac. overseas are the language barriers I will need to face, and I think that I will be able to overcome Interview by Jo Robinson.

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

PERCIVAL PROPERTY SALES WELCOMES GREG WARD TO THE TEAM Percival Property Sales is thrilled to welcome highly experienced licensed agent Greg Ward as an addition to the team!

20 year veteran of the industry, Greg is no stranger having worked with Michelle & Michael Percival for 14 years in their Laing & Simmons franchise from 1996 prior to its sale in 2010. Greg has spent the past six years with First National Real Estate. “Joining the Percival team is very much a case of ‘coming home’,” said Greg. “I’m very excited to be back working with Michelle and about the prospect of working under the independent Percival Property brand.

knowledge between Di, Jenny, myself and Greg, our clients can have the confidence they are working with a team of highly experienced agents that have careers spanning decades,” said Michelle. “This guarantees our clients an outstanding outcome! We pride ourselves on providing excellence in real estate from our first class marketing, negotiating skills, to individual strategies for each and every client. “Greg embodies the commitment and dedication to excellence we are so proud of and we are excited for our team and clients.”

“In the three short years Percival Property Sales has been operating, the team has created an indelible footprint on the Port Macquarie real estate market and I’m looking forward to very much being a part of its future.”

Michelle said Percival Property Sales was in a period of growth with the recent addition of a full time videographer and commencement of an additional administration officer in January.

On welcoming Greg to the team, Michelle said his addition would add another 20 years experience to the vast skills set offered already.

A further three team members recently attained qualifications as licensed real estate agents, reinforcing the office commitment to ‘excellence’.

“With over 70 years of local real estate

Back row Greg Ward mob 0412 823 088 Jenny Magill mob 0401 503 020 Andy Watts, Amanda Robinson, Stuart Green. Front row Karen Bennison, Di Calder mob 0412 654 646 Michelle Percival mob 0404 466 500 Denise Durant, Ally Downing

“ “The Percival team can’t wait to see what 2017 will bring one thing we know is that the standards of excellence established by the team will continue to set the bar for property services in Port Macquarie. Macquarie.”

SALES 106 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 8606 www.percival.com.au

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 4/111 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 7499 info@percival.com.au

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MERRY CHRISTMAS YOUR LIFESTYLE AWAITS Imagine living in a brand new apartment directly across the road from the park and beach. Let go of the worries associated with having to do lawns or spending your weekends maintaining a property that just keeps on needing more work. This is all about reducing the mundane and increasing your lifestyle in one of the best locations in Port Macquarie. A range of apartments are still available from affordable with hinterland outlooks to premium apartments with spectacular north coast ocean views. This highly desirable location places you front row on town beach with easy access to parks, playgrounds, cafes, award winning restaurants and beaches.

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Orion on the Beach would like to take this opportunity to wish our future residents, neighboursâ€™ and teams of people who have invested time and effort into Orion a festive safe Christmas holiday period. We appreciate the enthusiasm the Port Macquarie Hastings community has shown through 2016 and we look forward to realizing the potential of this magnificent site. With Christmas and the holidays upon us we now look forward to commencement on site early in 2017. Ground breaking work is now scheduled for February, so to all our neighboursâ€™ and holiday makers, enjoy the 2016/17 holiday break. Be safe, happy and get set for an exciting and prosperous 2017. Have a Merry Christmas and New Year and remember to look up into those wonderful Australian night skies and see Orion hanging up there for all to see.

Orion on the Beach

email. info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com website. www.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.

greater port macquarie focus. 95

Well, here we are at the end of 2016 and what a year it’s been for Port Macquarie real estate. The market has certainly exceeded our

YOUR AREA – SHELLY BEACH/NOBBYS BEACH you thought it couldn’t kick on any further, it When it comes to buying real estate, this area went ahead and surprised us once more. is generally one of Port Macquarie’s favourites. Several results have blown many of us away The area provides a great lifestyle, has plenty of character and is conveniently located to - but it’s interesting to note that this generally town and beaches. occurred within a fortnight of a property’s It comprises almost 1,400 residences launch. Coincidently, the beyond with only 14 properties currently on expected results achieved the market – it appears nobody in the market place were wants to leave and move on. of nt generally recorded for The amou Most properties are houses on s tie er prop those properties that y with a scatter of villas, town an at t ke the mar presented favourably. e tim houses and units, plus the in t in po one We had a reasonably ve ha to very occasional block of land. s ar pe ap n low volume of Properties in the area stabilised betwee properties ‘for sale’ were generally built in the 305 - 330.” throughout the year and 1970s and 1980s and in recent good ‘demand’ - much of times have undergone facelifts and extensions. These renovations it coming from buyers from are enhancing the area further and will capital cities. provide extra confidence, hence leading to At the start of the year, the median higher values. house price was $470,000 and has There have been 45 sales in the last six jumped to $505,000 representing 7.5 per cent months in this area with some fantastic results growth. Units have increased in value from achieved. The median house price is now $319,000 to $340,000 representing 6.6 per cent $554,500 and median town house/villa price growth. These figures are certainly better than $369,000. money in the bank – and don’t forget there is The sea change phenomena will continue a rental return on top of this which is providing and so should buyer demand for this pocket of close to 4.7 per cent. Port Macquarie. expectations throughout the year. Just when

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STUDENTS NEEDING HOMES After buying a new home in Port Macquarie three years ago, Adam and Rachel considered renting out their spare bedroom to help get ahead in their mortgage payments. “We knew it was a smart option to help us get ahead financially, but we really wanted to make sure our home was our own over Christmas when family and friends visit,” Adam said.

We operate on the Mid North Coast, servicing areas from Ballina to Port Macquarie and inland. We provide mobile dustless blasting and painting services. Our aim is to provide a reliable and efficient service to all types of industries, including construction and renovation projects, auto and marine industries, farmers and residential home owners. Dustless blasting is perfect for all substrates, and is ideal for working with fibreglass, aluminium and the removal of old coatings on weatherboard without damage. Our process has no impact on the environment, using the latest technology. We have over 30 years’ experience and offer free onsite quotes. Give Jerry a call on 0401 278 229 or email info@reddogblastandpaint.com.au

Finding a Charles Sturt University (CSU) student provided the perfect solution. “We went online and added our room to the listings on csu. studystays.com,” Rachel said. “It’s free and you can upload photos, so students can have a clear idea of their new home. “We ended up with a lovely girl from Tamworth who is studying paramedicine. She goes home for the holidays - leaving us with plenty of space for the family to visit over Christmas.”

Smarter property group Wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas The Christmas break is a great time for many to reflect on where they are at and set goals for how life could be next year. The distance between a dream and turning this into reality is action. Every day we are taking action for our clients, turning their property dreams into reality. For most people the constraints of time, lack of understanding on potential rebates and property hotspots results in lost opportunity for dreams to be reached.

With more than 750 new and returning students arriving in Port Macquarie in 2017, CSU is inviting enquiries from people seeking to rent rooms or properties as well as students who are seeking rooms or share accommodation.

So to get started in 2017, let us help you develop a:  Plan to build wealth via property  Surround you with a team of property professionals  Take action to make 2017 fantastic for you and your loved ones.

Visit csu.studystays.com to register your property or room for rent or contact Kristy on 6582 9338 or accommodationpmq@csu.edu.au

Stay safe these holidays and from the team at Smarter Property Group we wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

DO YOU HAVE AN EMPTY ROOM OR RENTAL PROPERTY? Charles Sturt University students are looking for accommodation in Port Macquarie. Turn your spare room or rental property into cash by registering on: csu.studystays.com

Any questions? Contact Kristy on 02 6582 9338 or accommodationpmq@csu.edu.au

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Kai Stanley

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P O RT M ACQ UA R I E

designer wins AWA R D W I T H I M P R E S S I V E

KITCHEN DESIGN

PORT MACQUARIE’S MICHELLE BURTON CKD AU OF DESIGNING DIVAS HAD MUCH TO CELEBRATE AT THE KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGNERS INSTITUTE’S ANNUAL AWARDS GALA IN MELBOURNE IN SEPTEMBER.

he KBDi accredited designer builders. presented an impressive kitchen About the KBDi Designer Awards design that secured her the category Now in its eighth year, the KBDi Designer award of Designer - Large Kitchens Awards program is a well established and NSW. The judges loved Michelle’s stunning highly regarded event on the Australian combination of colours and textures in this design calendar. The program recognises wide open space (King Creek kitchen). the professionalism and talent They said the designer met the of Australian kitchen and client’s brief for an industrialbathroom designers, and is styled interior with painted buoyed by the support Michelle brickwork, exposed steel of industry sponsors founded beams and polished whe n and partners. This D esigning Divas e Po rt concrete floors, while she moved to th year’s KBDi kitchen in a delightfully coloured Macquarie area ks awards were proudly or glazed brick splashback 2012 and now w sponsored by Cabinet of added a quirky edge with a number Makers Insurance d an and family-friendly local architect s Brokers (www.cmib. builders.” appeal. com.au), while E & S About Michelle Burton Trading (www.eands.com. Raised in the colourful au) were valued sponsors of deep south of the USA, the KBDi 2016 bathroom awards. Michelle Burton began her design Lincoln Sentry (www.lincolnsentry.com. journey when she enrolled to study at au) once again sponsored the coveted award the University of California, Los Angeles for Australian Certifi ed Designer of the Year, (UCLA). She completed her studies in and TLD Kitchens (www.tldkitchens.com.au) Sydney, graduating with an Advanced Diploma sponsored the Design Space and First Time of Arts, Interior Design ... then became a Entrant Awards. Kitchens and Bathrooms certified kitchen and bathroom designer. She Quarterly continued their ongoing support founded Designing Divas when she moved to the Port Macquarie area in 2012 and now with the People’s Choice Award, and Austaron works with a number of local architects and proudly supplied each of the design trophies.

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greater port macquarie focus. 99

Awards 2016 Annual

HONOUR ROLL BEST BUSINESS GROWTH (TEAM) EXCELLENCE IN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GROWTH (TEAM) TOP AUCTION LISTINGS (TEAM) GO BEYOND AWARD TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS OUTSTANDING SALES PA OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE (INDIVIDUAL) OUTSTANDING OFFICE MANAGER EXCELLENCE IN MARKETING POWER LISTER TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS POWER LISTER

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Gold

Danyelle Macfarlan

TOP INCOME PRODUCER (NON-PRINCIPAL)

Silver

Naomi Hunter

TOP INCOME PRODUCER (NON-PRINCIPAL)

Bronze

David Evans

TOP INCOME PRODUCER (NON-PRINCIPAL)

5th place

Damian King

TOP INCOME PRODUCER (NON-PRINCIPAL)

7th place

Kristian Murphy

5th place 4th place 7th place Merit Merit Merit Merit Bronze Merit Merit

Danyelle Macfarlan Danyelle Macfarlan Amanda Gibson Janita Smith Louise Doig Kelly Koch Chris Koch Chris Koch David Evans

Expert Advice. Proven Marketing Strategies. Exemplary Service.

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TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS TOP INCOME PRODUCER (OVERALL) HIGHEST NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS (INDIVIDUAL) HIGHEST NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS (INDIVIDUAL) TOP INCOME PRODUCER (OVERALL) POWER LISTER TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS POWER LISTER TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS POWER LISTER TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS TOP EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS

Merit 7th place 8th place 7th place 8th place Merit Merit Merit Merit

David Evans David Evans David Evans Naomi Hunter Naomi Hunter Naomi Hunter Naomi Hunter Kristian Murphy Kristian Murphy Damian King Damian King Andrew Meldrum

2016 Rookie of the Year Danyelle Macfarlan Well, what a trip, from Fashion to Real Estate! They say if the shoe fits, wear it, own it, well this one fits perfectly! So well indeed that in the first ten months in my role of listing and selling Real Estate, I was fortunate to achieve Rookie of the Year at the Laing+Simmons 2016 Annual Awards along with an award for Going Beyond. Now for the how. I feel that I am tackling my new career with a fresh approach. After having years of experience dealing with people from all walks of life and, shall I say, life experience itself, this has enabled me to slip comfortably into the next phase in my working life. A good old saying, “treat people how you would like to be treated” It’s not rocket science, it’s about giving a damn! It’s about putting your client’s and customers’ needs ahead of your own, as I believe that if you do this, which should be expected, good things will follow. I’m a softy at heart and I have a big heart and am passionate and driven to achieve outstanding results. I believe I have done so in my short time in Real Estate, evidence being, new friendships formed and sharing tears of joy on many occasions when I have exceeded my client’s expectations. Now, that’s an amazing feeling, knowing that I was not only instrumental in selling their home but able to connect with them in a very special way. As cliché’ as this sounds, I feel so lucky, as not only am I doing something I love, but also fortunate to be working within the brand of Laing+Simmons headed by an amazingly humble principal, Chris Koch and alongside a dynamic group of achievers, pretty hard to top!

With a record achievement of no less than 32 awards at the recent 2016 Laing+Simmons Annual Award Ceremony, the Port Macquarie team continue their reign as the most highly awarded office in the Laing+Simmons network. Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie Principal Chris Koch, was again humbled by the recognition received at this year's awards held at the Ivy Ballroom in Sydney. 'Winning a total of 32 awards is an outstanding result and testimony to everyone's efforts,' Chris said. 'We were honoured to be recognised in so many categories, and this reflects the commitment, enthusiasm and drive of our entire team. Port Macquarie is a vibrant regional market requiring specialist local knowledge, expertise and a genuine passion for what we do. Every member of our team is 100% focused on delivering the highest standard of customer service, and this uncompromising approach was rewarded with the team receiving Gold for Outstanding Customer Service for the third year in a row,' he added. 'I'm incredibly proud of this award, as it clearly demonstrates our team's unrivaled capacity to deliver results and experiences that exceed the expectation of our clients,' Chris said. Another highlight of the evening was the Port Macquarie team again receiving Gold for the Highest Number of Transactions in the entire Laing+Simmons group in 2016. Incredibly, the Port Macquarie team has taken out this award fifteen times in the last sixteen years. Naomi Hunter, David Evans, Damian King and Kristian Murphy were all recognised in the Top 10 Agents at an individual level, and their newest sales team member, Danyelle Macfarlan received due recognition as the group's brightest up-and-coming star; 2016 Rookie of the Year. 'Ultimately though, this award recognition is just a welcome bonus,' says Chris. 'Our greatest reward is simply being given the opportunity to do what we love doing; and that is helping our clients achieve a result worth celebrating.'

Beyond the expectedTM 6583 7733 | lsre.com.au/portmacquarie greater greaterport port macquarie macquariefocus focus. 101 111

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Parra Trooper Giant Parramatta Grass is an issue for many farmers, resulting in a loss of productivity and leading to great expense. Locals Cathy Eggert

and Jeremy Bradley have spent four years developing a product that may just mean issues with this grass weed will become a thing of the past. Best of all, it’s natural, has no side effects for other grass species, and can actually improve soil health …

here in the Greater Port Macquarie area do you currently live/ work? We live on a farm near Beechwood. Cathy’s family has farmed in the Wauchope area since the early days of European settlement. Jeremy came to care for and support his mother, Daphne, in 2002. It was through Daphne’s passion for organic farming that Cathy, then Treasurer of the Hastings Organic Group, and Jeremy met. After her passing, Jeremy stayed on to farm with Cathy. What are your career backgrounds? Cathy studied Science at SCU and went on to work for National Parks, Farming for the Future and Landcare. Jeremy has a farming heritage and has lived and worked in a wide variety of building, mining, farming and road-building jobs throughout Australia. He has worked on some of the largest and smallest agricultural projects and has always been an innovator. When did you become aware of the problems that Giant Parramatta Grass causes? Giant Parramatta Grass (GPG) was first identified as a serious problem in the Hastings more than twenty years ago. After seeing a poster in the Co-op Rural Store, Jeremy started seeing the grass at his mother’s Huntingdon property, along the Oxley Hwy and in neighbouring properties. Despite the best efforts of local farmers, there are now very few properties in our region that are free of GPG. On top of that, the closely related Giant Rats Tail Grass (GRT) has more recently begun its invasion. People who live in urban areas may not know about these grass weeds. What can you tell us about the family of plants that it belongs to, how it can be identified and 102 greater port macquarie focus.

some of the more severe issues it causes? Collectively known as Weedy Sporobolus Grasses (WSG), GPG, GRT and other closely related species now dominate millions of hectares in Eastern Australia and have started to invade the NT and SA. WSGs form dense tussocks of individual plants that have a single seed bearing stem in the centre. Each plant can produce many thousands of seeds that stick onto and are spread by animals and vehicles. One of the main problems is that the high Silica content of these grasses wears down the teeth of cattle on WSG dominated pastures. This slows weight gain and shortens the productive life of breeding cattle. The loss of productivity from infestations of WSGs in pastures is many millions of dollars per year. What methods are traditionally used to control WSGs, and what are the downsides? Practicing good weed control hygiene by controlling vehicle movements in pastures and quarantining newly arrived stock are key to managing all pasture weeds. Collectively, it is impossible to estimate how many thousands of hours we’ve spent throughout the Hastings Valley carefully cutting and removing seed heads and then digging out the plants. Encouraging competition by desirable pasture species through fertilising and strict grazing management is helpful, but these are really tough weeds to control. Herbicides have been used over the years, with mixed success. Sometimes these expensive treatments have resulted in increased infestations, and many farmers can’t afford the legal requirement of locking up their pasture for months after spraying the poison. Even when the herbicide is effective, the grasses will return after a few years, and the cost will always increase.

D espite the best efforts of local e now farmers, there ar s in tie er op pr very few are free our region that that , of p of GPG. On to Giant d te la re the closely (GRT) Rats Tail Grass ly has more recent .” on si begun its inva

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What is Nigrospora oryzae, and what led to your research and production of it? Nigrospora oryzae is a naturally occurring, beneficial, soil fungi that is implicated with the formation of a crown rot infection in WSGs. We, like many other farmers in the area, heard of N. oryzae about ten years ago at a Landcare field day. NSW DPI research scientist, David Officer, told us how introducing infected GPG plants to a farm was the only way to spread the disease. At that time we were experimenting with introducing fungi into soil as a method of assisting soil health and pasture productivity. When budget cuts virtually stopped the DPI research into the practical application of Nigrospora, we drew on our experience with science, innovation and sustainable agriculture to make a concentrated source of the fungi. It has taken us four years of hard work and most of our savings to develop our product. How are these spores used to help control GPG? Parra Trooper is a living organism in a bag of a special fungi food called substrate. The bags have an air filter patch that allows the fungi to “breathe”. Each gram of substrate contains about two million spores and kilometres of microscopic hyphae, the vegetative part of the fungi. The hyphae can, in good conditions, speed up the establishment of the fungi in the soil, and it is this innovative combination of the spores and the hyphae in a convenient form that makes our product so effective. Once applied, N. oryzae should permanently remain in the soil as a beneficial part of the soil

biology and a deterrent to the re-infestation of WSGs. What results have you observed, and have there been any side effects? Unless the conditions are perfect for fungal growth, it can take up to a year for crown rot to spread throughout a paddock, but we have seen results in weeks. Early summer is the time that the disease becomes most obvious, due to the bright orange leaves of the dying grasses, and we are getting a lot of positive feedback now from excited farmers who sprayed Parra Trooper last spring and summer. Trials by various land management authorities throughout NSW and Queensland are showing very promising results with our product in GPG and GRT. Nigrospora oryzae is unique as a native species that affects introduced plants. It has the great advantages over chemicals that it is non-toxic, damages no other pasture species, and remains permanently in the soil. Where can interested readers find out more info about Parra Trooper? Have a look at our website www.parra-trooper.com.au and find us on Facebook parra.trooper.spores We are having a field day at a trial site near Beechwood on Friday 16th December to demonstrate how Parra Trooper is working in a GPG infestation. Contact us on 0448 562 024 if you’d like to come along. Thanks guys. Interview by Jo Robinson. Photo (left) Bob Lynch - a neighbour who used Parra Trooper, holding some dying Giant Paramatta Grass. Photo (right) Cathy Eggert & Jeremy Bradley.

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