Greater Port Macquarie Focus i134

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

January 2017 // issue 134

Feature Story Gavin Rippon

2 greater port macquarie focus.

focus Greater Port Macquarie

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ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie POSTAL: PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts.

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

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Jasmin Johansson

Welcome to the January issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

jasmin@focusmag.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

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

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

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

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

D

uring 2016, Port Macquarie enjoyed a range of new developments and businesses opening around the town, with re-vitalisations beginning in many of our key areas - such as Town Beach, the Stadium, Town Green, Clarence Street, the universities and Hastings River Drive.

It is great to see our area continue to grow and flourish, attracting new residents, industry and tourism, as well as creating jobs and opportunities.

A town that continues to change and meet the demands of its growing population is a positive place to live; and here at FOCUS, it is our pleasure to bring you the latest events, people and business news, so you can make the most of our little city.

While you are out and about, make sure you

tag us @focus.mag or #focusmagazine and also #iloveportmacquarie and show off your photos from this summer on the coast.

This month in FOCUS. It's a bumper edition this month, thanks to our two annual January features.

Best Kept Secrets - where you can discover the hidden treasures of our region and the people who live here. From the Camden Haven and out to the Wauchope hinterland and back to the coast - there are plenty of places to shop, eat, visit and play these school holidays.

Once the holiday season is over, we know parents will be cheering as the children head Back to School. To get them organised, we have a fabulous feature this month, complete with everything from early childhood, to high school, dance and sports.

IN THE GALLERY

WHAT’S ON

Entry to the Gallery is FREE

GLASSHOUSE

02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

GLASSHOUSE

Memberships

Save $5 until 31 January

Our cover this month was shot at Salty Crew Kiosk on Town Beach - thanks Leasa and Chris Harris for the awesome location! It also features three locals - Cory from Soul Surfing, Tara from The Byabarra and Debbie from the PMQ Museum.

Interviews this month include the Judges' Choice Winner of the Stars of Hastings Dance for Cancer, Camden Haven Vet Gavin Rippon, entertainer John Waters, and Di Davison, who represents community group The Friends of Mrs York's Garden.

HSC student Maddison McKittrick from Wauchope High School shares her geography success story, while Simon Leigh and Lisa Willows tell us about their new local record label, Red Earth Records.

And that's just a few of the highlights!

EXHIBITIONS GUY MAESTRI: JOHN WATERS & STEWART D’ARRIETTA

LENNON: THROUGH A GLASS ONION

UNEARTH

THE SEARCHERS

Until 12 February

‘THE SOLID GOLD HITS’ AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Saturday 7 January, 8pm

Sunday 12 February, 3.30pm

Part concert and part biography, reveals the essence of the life and astonishing talent of one of the most admired icons of the past century.

Back by popular demand, The Searchers are returning in their ‘The Solid Gold Hits’ Australian Tour in February 2017.

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

A IS FOR ANIMAL

Works from the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Art Collection

Membership benefits include:Discounted ticket prices

Until 12 February

No transaction fees

Free hands-on activity in the exhibition

Glasshouse Shop 20% discount

Arthur Earl McNeil (1924 - 2012).

Bush Turkeys, 2006. Hand coloured linocut on paper. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Art Collection, purchased 2006.

Encore Theatre Bar 10% discount Exclusive booking periods Monthly Member draws and more!

Enquire at the Box Office today glasshouse.org.au/members

ROY ORBISON REBORN DEAN BOURNE

THE EVERLY BROTHERS & BUDDY HOLLY IN CONCERT

Saturday 18 February, 8pm

Friday 17 March, 8pm

Come and relive the sound, the voice & all the magical hits of music legend Roy Orbison in an international tribute production starring the world’s No. 1 Roy Orbison tribute star Dean Bourne.

Come and hear the magical hits and soaring harmonies that made The Everly Brothers the Rock `n’ Roll legends that they are.

G LASS H

OUS E

HOLIDAY FUN FOR KIDS, 11am: Wednesday 11 January Saturday 14 January Wednesday 18 January Wednesday 25 January

Just

5

$

greater port macquarie focus. 3

focusinterview.

Gavin Rippon, owner of Camvet, was the Judges’ Choice winner of the 2016 Stars of Hastings Dance for Cancer event.

Gavin says although learning to dance and perform in front of an audience was definitely outside his comfort zone, it was a life changing experience. He thoroughly recommends anyone become involved with this event, which raises money for the Cancer Council …

i Gavin. What’s your background as a veterinarian?

I had always wanted to be a vet since as young as I can remember and did all my school work experience at veterinary clinics, zoos and animal shelters. We had pets when I was growing up, and I always wanted to do something that involved animals as a career and thankfully I managed to get into uni to do my veterinary degree.

I moved from Rockhampton to Brisbane to study and did my degree at the University of Queensland. I graduated from there in 1991.

How did you acquire the Camden Haven Veterinary Clinic, and why did you change its name to “Camvet”?

My first job out of uni was with Frank Arnell, who owned the Port Macquarie Vet Hospital and ran the clinic in Laurieton as a branch practice. I bought the business from him in 1994 and have been in Laurieton ever since.

In that time the practice has grown to be open six days a week and has two full-time vets employed and another seven support staff.

We changed the name of the clinic to Camvet in 2013, because we had recently extended the clinic and upgraded our services available to our clients, and we wanted a name that fit with the modernisation of the clinic.

What areas does your clinic specialise in?

We are a clinic that predominantly deals with small domestic pets, but also still have a small proportion of clients with horses and other farm animals. We offer a broad range of services to our clients, including ultrasonography, radiology, in-house pathology and a range of surgical procedures. In the past couple of 4 greater port macquarie focus.

This has been

“

years reptiles have definitely a new experia life changing e. become a much more ence for me. m r experience fo I t common family pet, I had heard from other gh ou I never th e th and I am enjoying the people about Jo’s energy, ve ha would up t ge to ce challenge of dealing and I’ll admit I was a en id conf ople with a range of exotic little bit apprehensive in front of 400 pe m , rfor animals … about whether my energy on stage and pe ” e. nc da e let alon Why did you decide levels were going to be to take part in the 2016 able reach her heights. When Stars of Hastings Dance she told me that we were going for Cancer event? to be doing a modern Hip Hop I don’t know that I decided to get routine to a Michael Jackson medley, I involved in Hastings Dance for Cancer thought she was joking, but surprisingly we more like Louise contacted me to tell me managed to pull it off on the night. that I had been put forward as someone from What fundraisers did you hold for this the Camden Haven area who may be interestevent, and how much did you raise? ed. By the end of the phone call, I had become I managed to raise around $6,000, and the one of the “dancers”, and I don’t think I actufact that I was able to be a small part in raising ally said “Yes” at any stage - but am so glad I $70,000 was great. I’d like to congratulate became a part of the 2016 production.

Michelle Percival on her massive fundraising It was definitely way out of my comfort contribution, which helped us raise the highest zone, because my only other dance experience amount of money since Hastings Dance for Cancer began. My biggest contributor was involved too much alcohol and a nightclub Black Duck Brewery, and I’d like to thank floor. Unfortunately like most people these Alistair Owen very much for his support and days, my life was touched by the dark side of the opportunity to have a fundraising event at cancer earlier this year when I lost a very close the brewery. friend from brain cancer and I knew that if she I would also like to offer a big thank you to was still here, she would have been one of the all my family and friends who contributed to first to buy a front row ticket to see me dance. my fundraising and the large number of supWhat dance routine did you perform, and porters who came to watch and cheer for me who was your teacher? on the night, especially my partner, Brendon, I was paired up with Jo Rowan, who owns who helped me practice in the lounge room, and teaches at Movement Studio in Laurieton. reattach the heels of my shoes and supported I can’t thank her enough for all her time and me every step of the way. I couldn’t have done patience. Thankfully, having a local instructor it it without him. was easy to organise extra rehearsals when we What impact did Dance for Cancer have on needed them, and the other big plus in being you? paired with Jo was the fact that she was surThis has been a life changing experience prisingly shorter than me, so I felt tall - which is

for me. I never thought I would have the confidence to get up in front of 400 people on stage and perform, let alone dance. The change in me from day one to the night of the performance was amazing. I went from having no musicality to actually listening and understanding the music. I went from having no flexibility to having limited flexibility. I was able to stop thinking and just dance and enjoy the routine, rather than be scared by it.

I finished this whole experience 9 kg lighter and a much more confident person and I can’t thank Jo, Imogen and Ellen enough for putting in all the hours to help turn me into a dancer!

What would your reaction be if you were asked to take part in a Dance for Cancer event again?

If I was invited to be involved in the event again, I would be thinking that there are a lot of other people who would love an opportunity to get up there and dance. I wouldn’t want to be greedy and prevent someone else from having a chance to take home their own mirror ball trophy.

I have quite a few names in my head of people who may not be aware that they have an inner dancer within them, but one of them could possibly be receiving one of those phone calls from Louise next year! When they do, I suggest they just say, “Yes”, and have one of the most exciting and challenging experiences of their lives.

Remember, it’s all about raising heaps of money for the Cancer Council and just enjoying yourself. Sometimes it’s great to do something that pushes you outside of your comfort zone, and it’s such a great feeling when it succeeds.

Thanks Gavin.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

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REMEMBER ME. Great photos tell a story without words - as is the case with this remarkable collection of photographs, Remember me: the lost diggers of Vignacourt, which is on display at the Glasshouse until February 5.

Lauren Hewitt, Curator of Photographs, Film and Sound at the Australian War Memorial, fills us in on the significance of the exhibition.

FRIENDS OF MRS YORK’S GARDEN. Di Davison is one of many communityminded, hardworking, enterprising and talented locals who have been responsible for restoring the iconic Mrs York’s Garden in Port Macquarie. If you grew up in Port Macquarie through the 1960s and 1970s, you may have fond memories of this beautiful site.

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

C E L L A R C L E A R A N C E S A L E

SAVE

50 56

U P

T O

50% JANUARY 2017 • FRIDAY 6 • SATURDAY 7 • SUNDAY 8

BISKOTOULI.

Bisko is a dog who’s travelled further than many of his canine friends - all the way from Greece, in fact! He’s also not frightened to compete in the odd marathon to keep fit, and you can regularly see him running 5 km at parkrun most Saturday mornings in Port Macquarie. Bisko is one of the local Godson family members …

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 12. what’s on for January 24. eat local restaurants 27. out to lunch with Susie Boswell 31. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 34. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 45. tourism with Janette Hyde 75. starguide with Terri Hall 76. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 107. landcare with Bronwyn Newton.

PHONE 6582 8324 PACIFIC HIGHWAY, PORT MACQUARIE

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

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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

greater port macquarie focus. 5

focusinterview.

When the news of John Lennon’s death spread through the world, it hit hard - and it’s still felt to this day. A piece of vital music history had been taken from us … Creator John Waters ever so eloquently portrays the last few moments through Lennon’s eyes ...

JOHN T H R O U G H

W

e’ve chatted to your fellow performer Stewart D’Arrietta a couple of times about the show, but this is the first time we’ve been able to pin you down! Tell us the story of Through a Glass Onion; how did it all come about?

Well, for me it originated with a thought. I’d been toying with the idea of creating a show for me to go back to what I started out as - which was a singer in bands - and adding to it what I’d learnt about being an actor, controlling an audience for an hour at a time.

I was still searching for the idea when I got a call from the Tilbury Hotel in Woolloomooloo in Sydney; it was a room that was getting quite well known for cabaret shows, and they offered me a slot there because an act had fallen through. So, last minute I had to come up with this show idea I’d been toying with, and I said, “Yep, I’ve got a show for you”! I booked myself in, and after I’d put the phone down I thought, “I’d better write this show”.

I thought of John Lennon, because I wanted to do music that told a story in itself in its lyrics, and that’s what happens with Lennon’s songs. There’s so much taken from life, so I decided to use my favourite songs and also the songs that were most autobiographical, and then imagined that they were all flashing through his head as he was confronting his assassin on the day of his murder, and his life is kind of unfolding in a dream-like 6 greater port macquarie focus.

A

G L A S S

way - rather than any historical story.

So, that’s how the concept arrived and when we first opened at the Tilbury, it was extraordinary the reaction we got there. We realised that we had to carry this on; I didn’t think back then I’d be doing more seasons 24 years later, but thats how it’s panned out.

Twenty-four years on, and the show is still receiving rave reviews. Why do you think the show is still so well received after all this time?

I think rather than just being a tribute show for great music and a happy clap, like a Beatles cover act - there are plenty of those around you can see - this has got that element of mystery and emotion.

As the story unfolds, through the thoughts of Lennon about Yoko and his life, and there are the weird things that happened when they were the Beatles, the strange concepts he had of them, and his version and the truth as he saw it, the audience feels like they get to know something about Lennon.

Some reviewers have said, “It’s like you’ve just had a beer with him and then you walk outside and he’s got shot”. It has an enormous impact on the audience; I didn’t realise how strong that impact would be when I was writing it. By a combination of luck and good management, we got it right. We nailed emotional content, and that’s the secret of the show; instead of a good show, it ended up being a long lasting, classic show.

How is the show received by different age groups?

O N I O N We nailed emotional content, cret th and at’s the se d of ea st of the show; in ded en it , a good show sting, la ng lo a g up bein classic show.”

“

I’m sure that the different generations view it slightly differently. For some people who are of my generation, the loosely termed “Baby Boomers”, this music was the soundtrack of our lives as teens and young adults, so that’s very formative. And for somebody who was born 20 years later, the pop music they listened to was more like Duran Duran.

The songs that mean something to you are the songs that meant something to you as a young person, so I think that it’s got that real extra factor going for it with the older generation.

There’s something about the Beatles and their content, and John Lennon in particular, that appeals to all generations though. The younger people who come in - we’ve had 15 - 16 year olds who come in wearing John Lennon in NYC T-shirts - they’ve become fans by reading about Lennon and listening to his music. Our show is something that illustrates something extra for them; there’s something for everyone.

I have to say that as the show goes on, it’s more and more being seen by younger people, and perhaps it’s a slice of history … It resonates today. The call for peace from Lennon was a very strong and heartfelt thing, and the world is not an entirely peaceful place anymore, but it has progressed. I think the peace movement of the ‘60s has left its impact in large areas of the world. I think people make much more of an

outcry against unjust wars. I think now it nags on our conscious a lot more, and I think perhaps without having stopped war, Lennon and people like him were able to use people’s consciousness. I hope to keep that flame burning with this show.

Have you had any input from Yoko Ono throughout this time?

We’ve had a lot of contact with Yoko, because she deals very generously with us in terms of all copyright permissions. Our show starts highly dramatically with very loud gunshots, and you wouldn’t expect Yoko to want to live the moment. She was actually there when he was shot down, so as far we know she hasn’t made it to the theatre in person. She’s seen the DVDs and read script and does all she needs to do to make sure we are doing a good job of it. And she obviously does feel that we are doing a good job; she’s given the copyright that we need and everything that we want continue.

Thanks John.

the plug!

See Through a Glass Onion at the Glasshouse; Saturday 7 January, 8pm.

Tickets: www.glasshouse.org.au

focus_local recipe

PASTA BURNT SAGE, PINE NUT AND PARMESAN

A vegetarian pasta dish that is so light but flavoursome. It has the most amazing combination of flavours and is my favourite pasta meal. Sage has a soft, yet sweet flavour and is known to contribute to an array of health benefits, including antioxidant actions and better brain function.

Image of the month.

Title: FOCUS Crew 2016 Christmas gathering!

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

BLUEBERRIES

WH

AT ’ S I N

INGREDIENTS (Serves 2-3) Pasta of choice (mung bean, wholemeal fettucine or egg noodles work great) Centuries ago, Native Americans gathered blueberries from the forests of North America, and they were highly regarded for their medical properties even then.

Packed full of antioxidants, blueberries are a healthy and a delicious addition to a summer fruit salad, pavlova, or an indulgent snack, all on their own. Ernst and Penny Tideman first planted blueberries on their Comboyne farm in 2003 - today they have 4 ha of fruit, with four main varieties, which means their blueberries are available from early September through to the end of January.

“Pick your Own” is available most days between 9am and 4pm. Call ahead to check on 6550 4313.

Ticoba Blueberries are available at local green grocers, including Growers Market on Gordon Street.

WHERE

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

8 greater port macquarie focus.

1 - 2 tbsp virgin olive oil ½ cup sage 1 grated lemon zest 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 bunches of asparagus 2 cups spinach and rocket ¼ cup pine nuts salt and pepper to taste shaved parmesan (to serve)

method

Recipe supplied by Lisa from Lisa Michele’s Every Day Nutrition lisamicheles.com.au

Cook pasta in a saucepan of boiling water according to packet instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Add the pasta to the pan, along with the lemon zest, spinach and rocket. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick fry pan over a medium heat and add the garlic, sage, asparagus and pine nuts.

Serve the pasta topped with shaved parmesan.

greater port macquarie focus. 9

focusinterview.

David and Lyn Brown

Heading: David and Lyn Brown - The Kampot Kids Pics: Michael has hard copy of photos and is taking photos of these!

Subheading: David and Lyn Brown have visited Cambodia several times over the years, with their initial visit in 2004 inspiring them to help children who had been impacted by the Khmer Rouge atrocities. After many years of fundraising, David and Lyn now wish to acknowledge everyone who helped them support their efforts …

David and Lyn Brown have visited Cambodia several times over the years, with their initial visit in 2004 inspiring them to help children who had been impacted by the Khmer Rouge atrocities. After many years of fundraising, David and Lyn now wish to acknowledge everyone who helped them support the Kampot Kids. hat's your background, and why did you first visit Cambodia?

It was on a visit to Vietnam and Cambodia in 2004 after our retirement from teaching, me (Lyn) from French teaching at MacKillop Senior College and David from the Principal’s position at Port Macquarie High School) that we saw the desperate state of things in Cambodia following the Khmer Rouge atrocities. Our background in education and our church commitment fired us up to do something to help.

We went as tourists - David's love of history and the mystery of the East his inspiration, and I was persuaded by the fact that the French influence and language were still strong in Indochina.

What were some of the first impressions you gathered from your visit - especially in Kampot?

At first we were shocked by the dreadful poverty, the war damage, those crippled and injured by exploding landmines. People seemed shell-shocked, traumatised by the recent genocide. We were especially appalled by the plight of the children - the street kids begging, dirty, hungry, sleeping in parks, some with amputated limbs or faces burnt by acid. We became aware of government corruption and the sense of a failing state, but with some Non-Government Organisations working desperately to re-establish a safe society.

10 greater port macquarie focus.

Kampot had been quite a lovely river town with following our first visit to Cambodia. We approached attractive French colonial buildings and with Bokor several people who were working to help Cambodian Mountain as a backdrop. When we visited it, we found orphans, including the well-known Geraldine Cox and most of the buildings decaying and a narrow traffic Gay Miller, and were eventually led to this struggling little bridge across the river that had been bombed and poorly orphanage in Kampot. Our contact was the manager of restored. Kampot was off the tourist trail and not at all a guest-house and restaurant in Kampot who was keen prosperous. to help the children.

There were 36 children in an orphanage After our first email to him, we discovered there, and the conditions were shocking. that a German couple, Nils and Sigrun The buildings were a few rooms from Bussert, had set up an organisation a local school, disused because so to help this orphanage. They called e We became awar many teachers and other educated it the “Somnang Foundation” t of governmen e ns se e people had been murdered by Pol (“Somnang” is Khmer for good th corruption and ith w t bu e, Pot. There were insufficient beds, luck and happiness). Nils and at of a failing st t en nm er ov only one toilet and no bathroom, Sigrun were delighted to accept -G some Non ng ki or w ns io at meals were prepared on a little us as partners, and we worked Organis re to y el at er fire on the ground, the children ate together for 12 years, meeting up desp society.” fe sa a h is bl ta their rice and fish sauce standing in Kampot every couple of years. It es up or sitting on the dusty ground, just happened that Nils (like David) surrounded by flies from the pigsty was a School Principal and Sigrun was next to the “kitchen”. The straw roof a French teacher! had been damaged by a storm, offering no We had many ways of raising funds: a protection from the summer heat or monsoonal rain. sponsorship scheme, dinners, dances, raffles, Flooding from the river was a constant threat. auctions, garage sales, speaking at clubs, and simply When you returned home from this trip, you accepting donations from many kind and generous were determined to help. How did you achieve people. this?

What funds have been raised, and how have these We had found this orphanage after a year’s research been used?

“

focusinterview.

“The orphanage is now part of history. Some special friends of ours who have helped us all the way suggested we ask FOCUS to publish our story, so the hundreds of people in our community who have contributed to this project will be able to take pride in what we have all done for the Kampot Kids.”

We have sent over $200,000 to making decisions on many issues. the orphanage. This has been used The people of the Uniting Church by the Director for extensions (at in Port Macquarie helped us all the e The people of th one time there were 65 children) way, giving us encouragement and in Uniting Church and renovations to the buildings fi nancial support. Our family went helped Port Macquarie ng (a hygienic kitchen and eating with us to visit the children, and vi us all the way, gi and area, bathrooms and toilets, many caring and compassionate t en us encouragem dormitories upstairs to escape the people in Port Macquarie and from t.” or financial supp floods, a computer room). We also afar have all given us invaluable help paid for extra staff to care for the to improve the lives of the Kampot children, including another nanny to Kids. provide night-time security, teachers of What’s been the most rewarding part English and IT, provided a better diet and more of the entire Cambodian experience? comfortable dormitories.

The whole experience was immensely rewarding.

During our visits, highlights would be taking the It was rewarding to see the physical difference our children to the markets to allow them to choose new efforts made to improve the lot of so many delightful clothes, taking them on excursions to Phnom Penh and but unfortunate children. Probably even more rewarding the “beach” at Sihanoukville and providing them with a was the gratitude shown by the children with their big combined birthday party - many orphans not knowing welcoming smiles and hugs, and we will never forget the when they were born. We have also offered scholarships words of the Director, Em Sovanny, “You are like Gods to to those students who managed to qualify for tertiary us!” studies.

An unexpected delight has been witnessing several of What other people have partnered with you over the orphans going on to tertiary studies, and our Somnang time?

Foundation being able to support them. Some have Solicitor Alan Priest and accountant Gordon Finlay were graduated as lawyers, vets, nurses, IT experts, and we have a wonderful help throughout the past 12 years, making also sponsored the studies of several who have a trade as sure everything was done appropriately and accurately. their career choice.

We also sought the wisdom of a small committee when Your main role of assisting with the orphanage

“

has now come to an end. Who will look after the children in future?

The Cambodian Government has now closed many orphanages, including the Kampot one. They believe too many children were in institutions, and they are insisting that a child must be cared for by a surviving relative, who will be given some financial support. Other Kampot Kids have been sent to Phnom Penh or placed in a special home for children in Kampot for children who have no family or who have a disability. We hope they will all be happy and well cared for in their new environment.

The remaining funds in our Somnang bank account have been sent to help the tertiary students from Kampot to complete their studies.

Final say …

The orphanage is now part of history. Some special friends of ours who have helped us all the way suggested we ask FOCUS to publish our story, so the hundreds of people in our community who have contributed to this project will be able to take pride in what we have all done for the Kampot Kids.

We wish to thank sincerely all our donors, sponsors and supporters. We could not have done this without you.

We are very grateful, and so are the Kampot Kids. In the words of Em Sovanny, the Orphanage Director, we “thank you for your kindness minds?”!

Thanks David and Lyn. Interview by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 11

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

January

6

29

Begins

DECK CHAIR MOVIE NIGHTS

Garden Bar and movie menu, retro classics, family friendly.

Where Sails Resort by Rydges. Every Friday in January, starting Jan 6th, from 5:30pm. Movie starts 7:30pm.

AUSTRALIA DAY WEEKEND

Family Fun Day. Jumping castle, slip n’ slide, live music.

When Sunday 29th Jan. Where Port Macquarie Golf Club.

Contact Port Macquarie Golf Club on 6582 0409.

GARDEN BAR GROOVES

15 15

FAIRY DANCE CLASS

17

Join us for a fun girls’ day out at Port Macquarie Performing Arts. Where Tuesday 17 January. For little girls aged two five years. Time: 9:15am session. Register online: www. pmperformingarts.com - places are limited; don’t miss out!

Contact Port Macquarie Performing Arts (02) 6583 3753.

When Sunday 15 January 2017 / 2pm - 8pm.

18

SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE When Sunday 15th January at 2pm. Where Near River.

Contact and bookings: www.mealsinthefields.com or phone 0412 995 256.

12 greater port macquarie focus.

WAUCHOPE FARMERS’ MARKET

When Saturday, January 28th Where Wauchope Showground.

Time 8am ‘til noon. www.wauchopefarmersmarket.com.au

With DJs Ollie Brooke and Andrew Stark: smooth tunes in the Garden Bar and Pavilion from 2pm. Cost Free entry.

MEALS IN THE FIELDS

28

Open to all local dance students six years and up. Class with Stephen Tannos, Ebony Wakefield and Jet Verne. Places limited.

Register now at pmperformingarts.com When January 18 - 20.

Contact Port Macquarie Performing Arts (02) 6583 3753.

5

PORT MACQUARIE FELLOWSHIP OF AUSTRALIAN WRITERS Port Macquarie Fellowship of Australian Writers (FAW) invite all writers or emerging writers to our first branch meeting for the year. When Saturday, February 5 2017. We are a small close knit group, with the support of the FAW, who meet to assist one another in our individual writing and/or publication journeys. Starting time 1pm. Where Mac Adams Music Centre, 33 Lord St, Port Macquarie. Contact please phone our publicity contact, Debbie Bayliss, on 0478 609 153.

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focusinterview.

Islands

MARINE PARK

The Solitary Islands Marine Park is an amazing underwater wonderland, and we are lucky that it’s close enough to visit on the Coffs Coast.

FOCUS chatted with Nicola Johnstone, to find out more about the park ...

hat makes the Solitary Islands Marine Park unique?

The Solitary Islands Marine Park is located on a part of the Australian coastline where tropical and temperate species mix and coexist, resulting in a very diverse marine environment. This is, in part, due to warm waters from the Great Barrier Reef extending down the coast in the East Australian Current (EAC), bathing the Solitary Islands. The EAC and associated species mix with cooler waters and temperate species from the south right here off our coast. In one dive you can see cool water species such as giant cuttle fish and kelp mixing it with tropical species such as corals, anemones, tropical fish, manta rays and turtles. The park also has a lot of good habitat (for example offshore reef or mangroves in estuaries) for species to live.

What are some of the restrictions that help protect the area?

The park is managed through various mechanisms including a zoning plan and fisheries management tools. A multiple use zoning plan is in place to guide where particular activities occur. For example, sanctuary zones are located in areas to protect sensitive habitats such as coral, at key aggregation sites or to protect threatened or protected species.

Anchoring is prohibited in this zone, as are extractive activities such as fishing or aquarium collecting. Other zones in the park include habitat protection zone, general use zone and special purposes zone. A range of activities can 14 greater port macquarie focus.

South Solitary Island is particue water larly scenic abov e and us ho ht with the lig unde rcottages , while ned for water, it is renow ttlecu t an its big fish, gi sharks fish, grey nurse about st ju of ix and a m .” everything else

“

occur in these zones. Residents and visitors are encouraged to obtain a copy of the SIMP User Guide before venturing into the park to ensure they are familiar with the activities allowed in each zone.

How many tourists visit the park each year?

We don’t have exact numbers on how many people visit the park each year. Anyone that sets foot on a beach or headland, swims in a creek or heads offshore for a fish, will be visiting the marine park. It would have to be in the order of hundreds of thousands of visits annually by locals and tourists. Visitors have indicated in surveys that they love the uncrowded beaches, clean waters and “naturalness” of the area. The islands are a real drawcard for visitors, with each island offering a different diving or fishing experience. Interestingly, the Solitary Islands were named by Captain James Cook in May 1770 on his voyage along the east coast of Australia.

What activities are permitted within the park area?

The park caters for a whole range of activities. It is very popular for surfing, swimming, diving and fishing at the many estuaries, beaches and offshore reefs. We really are spoilt for choice here. The commercial fishing industry relies on fresh fish and prawns from the park and there are many tourism charter operators that offer organised experiences diving, fishing, whale watching and surfing in the park. The balance of conservation and use seems to work well.

What are some of the things that people

may hope to see?

There are really so many things that people can see when visiting the park. A simple beach walk or rock pool ramble with kids can reveal some pretty interesting critters such as crabs or octopus.

Offshore, the options are endless.

Every island offers a different experience. North Solitary Island is renowned for its tropical fish, outstanding coral and has the densest aggregation of anemones and anemone fish worldwide. North West Solitary Island is the place to go if you want to encounter manta rays. South West Solitary Island (also known as Groper Island by locals) has the most extensive coverage of corals of all the islands.

South Solitary Island is particularly scenic above water with the lighthouse and cottages, while underwater, it is renowned for its big fish, giant cuttlefish, grey nurse sharks and a mix of just about everything else. Split Solitary Island has a great mix of temperate and tropical species, with coral and kelp coexisting quite nicely, as well as a popular spot for the elusive blue devil fish...and that is just the islands. There are hundreds of other reefs in the park just as interesting.

What is your favourite spot in the park?

I spend most of my weekends at the beach with my family - any beach will do, but I have a few favourite places in the park. One of the dives I did at Pimpernel Rock, offshore from the Sandon, I came to the conclusion that the

sponge garden at 30 metres was “the prettiest place on earth”.

North West Solitary Island is also particularly special to me, as I was able to swim with a manta ray after a dive which was very memorable, and North Solitary Island is spectacular on any dive - just amazing. I am also partial to swimming and paddling on the Corindi River, which is just a beautiful waterway.

What are the future plans for the Marine Park?

The Marine Park will continue to be managed in a way that provides for a wide range of uses, while still preserving the health of the estuaries, coastline and ocean that we all value. A threat and risk assessment of the NSW marine estate will provide information on any priority threats in the region, upon which we can then review and amend current management arrangements to address those threats, if required. It was encouraging to hear prominent marine scientist and coral expert Dr Charlie Veron state, after a dive here in May, that his observations of coral reef condition in the Solitary Islands Marine Park were as good as they were back in the 1970s, if not better, but in his opinion this was not the case anywhere else in the world. So that is a good sign for the future of the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Thanks Nicola.

PORT

Writers

Port Writers welcomes visitors and meets on the 4th Saturday of the month between 1 - 4pm at the Rotary Community Centre, 198 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Entry fee $5, which includes afternoon tea.

P

ort Writers is honoured to be hosting the 2017 Grassroots Writers Weekend, which will be held at Panthers Club, 24th - 26th March. The objective is

to enable writers to enhance their expertise and forge strong connections with other storytellers, poets, and authors. It doesn’t matter where you are in your writing journey this volunteer-run event is suitable for all writers.

Grassroots Writers Weekend will commence at 2:30pm at Panthers Leagues Club on Friday 24th with registrations, introductions, three concurrent workshops, a keynote address and a casual

dinner. On Saturday 25th there will be a full day of workshops, discussion panels and a formal dinner with entertainment. Sunday 26th will have a similar program and concludes at 4pm.

The total cost for the whole weekend is $35 per participant. Dinners are at participant’s expense TBA. Tickets will be available early 2017 through www.trybooking.com Grassroots is limited to 100 participants, so please contact: Wendy Haynes: 0427 240 464/ grassrootswritersweekend@gmail.com or Debbie Deasey 0414 423 270 or write to Port Writers Inc, PO Box 1718, Port Macquarie NSW 2444.

Website www.portwriters.com.au

T H I S W AY , T H AT W AY

ANOTHER

WAY

Three local women working with three diverse media have collaborated to create an exhibition inspired by their weekly happy meetings around Port Macquarie.

This exhibition combines paintings, sculptural fused glass pieces and carefully bound driftwood.

Free standing waves of glass suggest the flow,

The pieces have been created to sit together as friends would, each bringing something different to the table.

and yarn since childhood, has found a new

Artist Yvonne Kiely is best known for her mystic dreamscapes and seascapes. These paintings demonstrate her subtle process of applying texture, glazing and layering of colours, which bring a powerful beauty to her translucent work.

using natural or found objects and sustainable

Glassmaker Rose Burke has moved away from functionality with her new kiln fired glass pieces.

movement and the viscosity of glass.

Wendy McCue, who has worked with textiles direction for her passion. Her Soul Sticks are a recent venture stemming from an interest in products such as bamboo yarn.

Each of these artists shows their way of creative self expression and together, three ways have melded into one varied yet harmonious exhibition.

Exhibition open until the 27th January at the Sunset Gallery.

greater port macquarie focus. 15

Group portrait of eight unidentified members of the 2nd Division AWM P10550.140 Courtesy the Kerry Stokes Collection, the Louis and Antoinette Thuillier collection.

focusinterview.

REMEMBER ME T H E L O ST D I G G E R S O F V I G NAC O U RT

Great photos tell a story without words - as is the case with this remarkable collection of photographs, Remember me: the lost diggers of Vignacourt, which is on display at the Glasshouse until February 5. Lauren Hewitt, Curator of Photographs, Film and Sound at the Australian War Memorial, fills us in on the significance of the exhibition.

H

i Lauren. Please introduce yourself …

My name is Lauren Hewitt, and I am a curator of Photographs, Film and Sound at the Australian War Memorial. As a curator, I take care of many aspects of the collection at the War Memorial, from acquiring new works and collections; researching and telling the stories behind many of our photographs; to ensuring the collection is well looked after, housed and preserved for future generations.

Where did the idea to put together the exhibition Remember me: the lost diggers of Vignacourt originate?

When we acquired the collection of glass plate negatives taken by Louis and Antoinette Thuillier, we were haunted by the gritty, often weary looking faces of these unnamed men.

We may not have known who they were, but we knew they had a story to tell. The rather remarkable story of their discovery, in the attic in France, and the fact that this collection of extremely fragile glass-plate photographs remained largely intact after so many years added to their allure.

What was the significance of the French village, Vignacourt, during World War I? Vignacourt, just north of Amiens, was a vital rest and training area for Australian troops during the First World War. Thousands of Australian soldiers were billeted in the village as they moved to and from the battlefields of the Somme during the bleak winter of 1916-17. For many, during this period, it was a refuge. They had the chance to visit a bath and laundry, get issued with fresh clothing, visit local cafés and estaminets and mingle with the local women and children.

Later in the war, as the Germans again 16 greater port macquarie focus.

advanced toward Amiens, Vignacourt was established as a vital communications hub and casualty clearing station. 585 soldiers, mostly Australians, are buried at the Vignacourt war cemetery. Significantly, it was at Vignacourt on 11 November 1918, that Australia’s 5th Brigade learned of the news that the war had ended.

The techniques photographers used to capture the photos that form this exhibition were markedly different to those used by photographers today. Tell us a bit about the process of capturing these images on glass and how they were then used to create postcards …

At the turn of the 20th Century, photography - like today - was very popular. It was a relatively new technology, but by the onset of the First World War, it was becoming increasingly more accessible to the keen amateur.

While many soldiers had personal cameras, the carrying of them on the Western Front was banned. So, when on leave the men often sought out studios, such as the Thuillier’s, to have their photos taken and to send home as postcards. The photo postcard, at that time, was a social phenomenon, with countless numbers of them being sent all over the world.

Entrepreneurs such as Louis Thuillier saw the opportunity to set up studios and provide an invaluable service to the allied troops.

The photographs were taken on glass plates, about the size of a postcard, that were coated with a light sensitive photographic emulsion. A single glass plate yielded a single photograph. The cameras used to take this size negative were large and cumbersome; often the exposures took several seconds. The photographer would then need to develop the image on the glass plate, in darkness, using photographic chemicals.

Once developed, the image would then be

contact printed onto postcard paper, again purchased privately by Mr Stokes and brought coated with a light sensitive emulsion, and to Australia. fixed (or stabilised) with chemicals. These The exhibitions showcases 74 of the materials were generally available as pre-made, images donated by Mr Stokes ... as Curator, commercial products, Louis likely buying his how/why were these particular images supplies from a photographic store in Amiens. selected from amongst so many?

As the war went on, however, and supplies When putting together the exhibition, we, were harder to get, photographers often had of course, wanted to focus on the story of the to cut their own glass to size and coat Australian soldiers. As we were it themselves with a silver based selecting for the exhibition, we emulsion. could see several recurring The photographers themes emerging. The So, when on are believed to have images that were leave the men taken over 4,000 selected are some t often sought ou e photos originally of the most striking th studios, such as of troops from within the collection, ve ha Thuillier ’s, to various nationalities, but they also tell us a n ke ta os their phot e of which over 800 lot about the hardships m ho nd se and to featuring Australians of war and give us a s.” rd ca st as po were donated to the glimpse into the different Australian War Memorial characters that made up

by Mr Kerry Stokes AC in the quintessential Australian 2012. What's the history behind soldier, the relationships that the Stokes family obtaining these they formed with each other, as well photographs? as with soldiers of other nationalities and Historians at the Memorial and elsewhere French civilians. were aware of the existence of a collection Where can our readers view more photos of photographs in Vignacourt as early as the from the Thuillier family's collection?

1990s. Some of the photographs had been seen The exhibition will include a touch screen in local cafés and museums. In 2011, working interactive that displays all 800 of the Australian with a local French historian and the Sunday photographs held in the Memorial’s collection.

Night program (Seven TV Network), Memorial Readers can also view the collection on our historian Peter Burness travelled to France, to website: https://www.awm.gov.au/exhibitions/ unearth the collection. It consisted of several remember-me/ thousand glass-plate negatives of Australian, For further information about the collection British, Canadian and French troops, as well or identifications please contact our curators on as Chinese labour corps and French civilians. photofilmsound@awm.gov.au. Please read our Housed in the attic of the Thuillier farmhouse, FAQ page before contacting us: https://www. where the photos were taken almost 100 awm.gov.au/collection/photographs/vignacourt/ years ago, the collection was discovered Thanks Lauren. almost entirely intact. The collection was then Interview by Jo Robinson.

“

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“Lilly Mae and Me” children’s clothing is lovingly designed and sewn by Di Kelly. You can find her delightful signature vintage-inspired range for girls’ and boys’ clothing and quilts at The Foreshore Market and The Artist Market.

e a M y Lil me AND

hat inspired you to start designing children’s clothing?

My grandmothers, mum and aunties were beautiful sewers. When they passed away, they left me all their hand made tablecloths, doilies, buttons, lace and fabrics, so I started sewing myself.

I sew for my granddaughters, Stella, Milla, Eva and Bonnie, and have incorporated all the treasures that were passed on to me into the garments.

Because my girls were wearing the clothes that I was designing and making, I started getting requests to make the “table cloth dresses”, which are now one of my best sellers. Hence, that was how “Lilly Mae and Me” was born.

My quilts that I was making for gifts to friends and family became part of my business as well.

How long have you been living in Port Macquarie and attending the markets?

I moved to Port Macquarie thirty four years ago with my husband, Garry, and my sons, Matthew, Adam and Benjamin.

I have been attending both The Foreshore Market and The Artist Market for the past three years now.

How would you describe some of your unique designs?

My clothes and quilts are all made with vintage fabric, vintage table cloths, vintage buttons and lace, and they are affordable.

Every item is handmade, and rarely are there two exactly the same. I don’t always match the buttons or the lace on any one garment, and my clientele love this.

Every market I have something different to show my followers. I make the “Table Cloth Dress” out of fabric, dollies and lace that is over 100 years old.

The quilts I make are 100% cotton, made from recycled vintage and new fabrics. I incorporate lace, doilies and buttons into these designs as well.

What is one of your favourite childhood memories?

Sitting with my grandmothers Lilly and Mae (hence the name of my business, Lilly Mae and Me) learning how to sew, crochet and quilt. The stories and love they shared are still with me today.

I had four brothers and four sisters, and all the girls sewed their own cloths. My sisters and I would sit with Mum, Grandma and aunties and make the clothes for the whole family.

When the local show was on once a year in Gundagai, Mum would give us a yard of fabric and say, “Make something to wear to the show”- and we would! No patterns to follow and made on a treadle foot sewing machine - great times; that’s what we did 55 years ago. Now I am showing my age!

Where do you source a lot of your vintage fabrics, prints and lace?

Over 90% of my fabrics were left to me by ancestors. Others are given to me by my elderly customers, as they love to see their vintage table cloths etc. recycled. I do source some of my patterns from the UK, but mostly I design and draft them myself.

How does the Lilly Mae and Me range take us back to more simpler times?

I am influenced by the fifties, sixties and seventies eras, and I design my clothes and quilts around these times. One of my best sellers is an overall suit design that I wore in the ‘50s. Another is a dress that my sisters and I worn in the ‘60s.

What do you enjoy about attending The Foreshore Market and The Artist Market in the Vines?

I love meeting people from all walks of life, talking and listening to their stories and ideas. My customers bring their children back again and again wearing my “Grandmothers’ Fabrics”. It puts a smile on my face; my grandmothers would love to see their beautiful embroidery work being worn in clothing in this generation.

I have made some great friends through my customers and other stall holders. There is a real sense of community among the other stall holders; we all have a great day out, catch up on news and always support each other.

Thanks Di. greater port macquarie focus. 17

focusinterview.

NOT JUST A PLACE TO VIEW AN EXHIBITION OR SEE A SHOW, THE GLASSHOUSE IS PROUD TO OFFER THE PUBLIC MANY HANDS-ON, INTERACTIVE CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS. NIOMI SANDS FROM THE GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY SHARES SOME OF THE WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2016 - AND SHEDS SOME LIGHT ON WHAT WE CAN LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEW YEAR!

T

he Glasshouse is well known for providing interactive experiences to the general public. Why do you feel it's important the Glasshouse offers hands-on learning experiences to the community?

Each year the Glasshouse Regional Gallery presents an inspiring program of exhibitions and related arts and cultural activities. These events support access, participation and nurture creativity within the region. Our creative programs include artist led workshops, master classes, artist demonstrations and tailored creative activities for all ages. All of our programs aim to develop and share skills, as well as provide an in-depth understanding of visual arts and cultural industries.

The workshop program provides creative learning opportunities for a wide audience.

Each program fosters creative expression, fun, enjoyment, and encourages lifelong learning.

Our activities aim to connect people, ideas and experiences through creative expression and support active participation in cultural life.

While there is a serious element unpinning all our gallery programs, we also want people to enjoy the arts! We always aim to provide experiences that not only educate and grow our patrons’ skill sets; we also make every effort to ensure they have a great time, meet new people and leave with a new creation - or the skills to start one. I think this is why the workshops and craft sessions continue to grow in popularity they are a lot of productive and social fun!

Sum up 2016 for us ...

2016 has been an incredibly busy but

18 greater port macquarie focus.

immensely rewarding year. Our workshop programs rocketed in popularity in 2016 and we have received such positive feedback, we are very excited about 2017 and what we can do with the community.

In the past our “plein air” outdoor days with renowned Australian painters were always popular; however, we have been thrilled with the huge interest in textiles, with sold-out classes for Look Draw Print with Julie Paterson, Extreme Textiles with Kate Scardifield and Felt Making with Giselle Penn.

In 2016 we tried our first-ever night classes with Drawing 101 with Pavel Lankas - these sold out, and the participants were so thrilled with the new skills they gained, that they have snapped up many of the Painting 101 classes commencing in February 2017. Our drawing workshop with Jennifer Keeler-Milne was also very popular, with people travelling from outside the region to attend.

The diversity our workshop program has encouraged first timers, professional artists and students to get creative and try something new.

And that’s precisely what we hope to achieve.

So 2016 has been an excellent year!

What are some of the activities on offer for the community throughout January and early February?

For the first time ever, the Glasshouse Regional Gallery has put together a Creative Summer program. It’s a summer school designed to provide a range of activities for all ages and skill levels. We are bringing back digital artist Mic Rees, fabric designer Julie Paterson and renown abstract artist Michael Cusack - three of our most popular and talented artists

to present a series of inspiring workshops.

Friday afternoons will light up with our new Fibre Fridays, a series of craft and cocktail workshops with local artist Rhiannon Simmonds - these relaxed workshops (complete with a drink and nibblies) will be a fun way to create, make and meet new people or catch up with old friends. The summer fun continues with (free) Tuesday Virtual Reality Experiences from the Library and our holiday Sprouts activities for families on Wednesdays.

Looking further ahead into 2017, what workshops/activities are planned?

2017 is bursting with exciting creative events to inspire all ages!

After the success of Drawing 101, Pavel Lankas will be returning to present Painting 101, in late February. This short course will explore the fundamentals of painting including colour theory, composition and technique. I must warn people that just a few spots are left for this course, and they must hurry and book now!

In February the gallery will be partnering with the Place Making Team to present Digital Art for Seniors. Seniors will learn how to create digital art works using the iPads with well known local artist Lucy Pascale. The course will include visiting a historic site with Council’s Heritage Officer and creating artworks to interpret the heritage specific landscapes. Participants will keep their artwork at the end of the exhibition. Previous art knowledge or practice is recommended.

2017 will see the return of a number of popular programs, including: the Meet the Artist program of inspired artist and curator talks that provide insight into the behind the scene

world of artists and exhibitions; the Craftspot monthly hands-on creative adult workshops and family fun with the Sprouts creative art making events - all of these programs directly connect people to the exhibitions in the gallery.

Alongside these fabulous programs, there will be a series of workshops and master classes - it’s ever evolving and changing as the year progresses, as we keep an very active lookout for new opportunities for the community. So stay in touch, drop in, and try something new!

What are the most rewarding aspects of offering workshops to the public?

The most rewarding aspect of the program is seeing the joy on a person’s face when they complete a project in a workshop. You can see that they have learned a new skill - and that they are surprised by their own creative talent.

I think almost everyone is creative. Sometimes it’s just about challenging yourself, trying something new, or having a little more faith in your own abilities. We are here to help people achieve those things.

How do readers express their interest in any upcoming workshops, or find out more info?

There has been a lot of interest in the Creative Summer program so far; classes are filling up fast. For more information about Creative Summer and bookings, visit the Glasshouse website or drop by the Glasshouse to pick up a brochure.

Thanks Niomi.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

Note: At the time of going to print, Pavel Lankas’ painting classes were sold out.

greater port macquarie focus. 19

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A W I IN RESTL PRO W

SUMMERN MELT DOW

Beatles festival is back in 2017

G

TOUR

THE IWA LIVE PRO WRESTLING SUMMER MELT DOWN TOUR IS ON NOW! CATCH ALL YOUR FAVOURITE IWA STARS IN ACTION AT LAURIETON UNITED SERVICES CLUB ON JANUARY 5TH. TOUR MANAGER MARK MERCEDES TELLS US MORE.

W

hat makes the Summer live performance?

Melt Down Tour a great The great thing about our events, is their show for the whole interactivity - so just when you think you know family? what's coming next, a chant or comment from We are your favourite the crowd can change the whole dynamic.

Marvel movie, come to life - the physical Imagine if a movie could talk back to you embodiment of action and adventure, and the plot changed based on good vs evil and triumph in the your response? face of adversity. Stories as What goes on behind old as time, presented for a g the scenes to pull in th t ea gr The modern audience within ts , en ev a show like this r ou t ou ab touching distance; there's - so ity iv ct together? ra te in r ei is th nothing that compares ink you A lot of hard work just when you th g next , min to the live experience of and planning from know what’s co ent from IWA. our entire team, who a chant or comm

“

change the

Who are some of the the crowd can are dedicated to being .” whole dynamic characters that will be the best at what we wowing the crowd? do, years of practice, We have an array of incredible blood, sweat and tears, talent, featuring Heavyweight and hundreds of thousands of Champion Apollo, who will be looking kilometres of travel all come down to stay atop the mountain; the self proclaimed to two hours, where we want everyone baddest man alive, former Heavyweight to leave exhilarated and entertained.

Champion, Alex Titan; an evil behemoth, “The How would you describe the IWA Summer Jurassic Punk” Syd Parker, who is one of the most Melt Down Tour in a few short words? unique wrestlers the world has ever seen, fan A live action experience that has to be seen to be favourite Turkish Delight, and many more! believed.

With international wrestling heavyweights and femme fatales, what will be some of the highlights of the show?

The athleticism, skill and precision with which the crazy manoeuvres require to be successful is always a sight to behold - the risks our performers take and the sacrifices they will make to entertain the fans is unlike anything you'll witness in competitive sport; it’s the bone crunching physicality of football mixed with the incomprehensible feats of wonder shown at Cirque De Soleil.

How do characters combine comedy with modern showmanship to give a standout 20 greater port macquarie focus.

the plug!

IWA Live Pro Wrestling Summer Melt Down Tour coming to the following venues in January. More info at www.iwawrestling.com.au Jan 3 - Club Lemontree Jan 4 - Club Forster Jan 5 - Laurieton United Jan 6 - Macksville Ex Services Jan 7 - Sawtell RSL Jan 9 - Woodburn Evans Head RSL

The Port Macquarie Beatles Festival is back in 2017, 9 to 12 February. This year’s special guests are Beatle Magic, who have been honing their musical skills and “authentic” sound on the high seas and around Australia for many years.

Night at Bago Tavern, Fab Beatles Champagne

Beatle Magic were even asked by the Cavern Club (yes, the one in Liverpool, England) to contribute to the 50th Anniversary Celebration video of From me to you which was originally released on 11 April 1963 in the UK.

Rock ’n’ Roll), and two days of markets and car

There will be plenty of opportunity over the weekend to experience the ever popular sound of the Beatles performed by Beatle Magic and many local groups and artists. The challenge will be NOT tapping your foot when the music is playing.

enthusiasts are welcome to bring along their own

Events include the Beatles Brain Bending Trivia

given for best in show.

Breakfast at the beautiful Roses Vineyard, free concert in the Forecourt of the Glasshouse, music and dancing at Laurieton United Services Club and Port Macquarie Panthers (including some shows plus free entertainment.

This year’s car shows include the themes Beetlemania and British Invasion, as well as the spectacular classics of yesteryear. Car and motorcycle “pride and joy”, and should email the organisers at info@portmacquariebeatlesfestival.com or contact Chris on 0411 591 520 to ensure a space is reserved to display their vehicle. Prizes will be

greater port macquarie focus. 21

focusinterview.

Lisa Willows and Simon Leigh are the founders of new local record label, Red Earth Records. Having recently signed two talented local musos, Benje Travis and Roy Rose and hot off the heels of their launch in December, we chat to everyone involved about the label’s creation and future plans …

P

lease give us a brief summary of your background/ involvement in the music industry …

Lisa: Simon and I have collectively worked in the Australian Music industry for 56 years.

Wow - that’s scary. I come from a corporate background, starting my career in-house at ARIA, then moving on to Artist Liaison for Marcia and Deni Hines and Jon English and then owning my own recording studio in Sydney, managing bands from there.

Simon: I hve been involved in the music industry for over 30 years, playing in bands and recording when I lived in Perth in the late ‘80s, before moving back to the Mid North Coast, where I started a recording studio called Popfront and later a music shop. I still enjoy performing and promoting live music, with Wildwood Music Festival being a big focus.

When/how did the idea of a record label based in Port Macquarie originate?

Simon: I think Lisa said, “We should start a label”, to which I readily agreed. It seemed like a good idea at the time and is proving to be just that.

Lisa: I think Simon suggested it, ha, but in any case we have pretty similar backgrounds, ethics and musical tastes and we were working so well together on Wildwood, that it seemed like a natural, organic move.

I have a label in Melbourne that works with one of the Bad Seeds and have been managing Sydney acts, but always wanted to do something here. Following an attempt at managing a Port Macquarie band, a label seemed perfect, and our artists are ideal.

We both grew up here, so it’s great to bring our skills back to the local area for the

22 greater port macquarie focus.

community’s benefit.

Well, it’s already The label is set ts So now Red Earth happening to some tis ar e th up so eir th of p Records is officially extent.

Since joining hi rs ne retain ow e W . gs in up and running, the team I’ve managed rd co re r maste rtant for po im s what do you hope to complete my debut it’ ve lie be ntrol of to specialise in ...

EP, with a lead single, them to feel in co and what do you feel Apollo Bay (now their art.” will be your point of available on iTunes). difference?

The label has cured my Lisa: We specialise in Roy procrastination blues. Things Rose and Benje Travis! We are are happening at a rate much happy beyond belief to be working faster than I was doing it alone. with these artists and good friends.

Red Earth Records is the push I so badly Simon: Our focus will definitely be on needed. looking after local artists, whom we believe How did Red Earth's launch on December have got something special to offer. There are 1st at the Latin Loafer go? What feedback many wonderful, talented singer/songwriters did you receive? in our area, and we hope to be able to give the The launch was fantastic. A great night with chance to reach to a greater audience through an incredible energy, and Latin Loafer was the our label and distribution. perfect venue for it. The crowd response was Lisa: We want to build a strong, supported fantastic and lots of positive feedback came roster where artists are free to be creative and flooding in, even days after the event. A really we will look after the business side of things. fun night.

What services do you actually offer to What's next? How would you like to see musicians?

Red Earth develop?

Lisa: The label is set up so the artists retain It’s only just begun, so a general growth ownership of their master recordings. We overall. Maybe they’ll grab hold of another believe it’s important for them to feel in control artist or two and give them a push like they’re of their art. We will support them in publicity, giving us. I’ve already started to pen my radio plugging, distribution, career advice - it’s next EP, so looking forward to the continued a really tight knit, supported entity and not support. Onward and upwards! like other businesses. A personal connection is How can we find out more about you/ required to work at this level, as it takes a lot contact you? of work that doesn’t end in business hours.

People can swing by my Facebook page The first two artists signed by Red Earth www.facebook.com/royrosemusic are Roy Rose and Benje Travis.

BENJE TRAVIS ROY ROSE Benje, Why did you choose Red Earth Roy, why did you choose Red Earth Records? What do you hope to achieve in recirds? What do you hope to achieve in future with this team supporting you? future with this team supporting you?

I chose the label due to the fact it's a great

“

team of down to earth and visionary people, and first and foremost there is a great love for music between us.

I guess what I'm hoping to achieve is to develop as an artist and create music that people can relate to and enjoy. Red Earth believe in Roy and I and what we are doing; this journey we are on is developing organically, and we are excited about the possibilities in the future.

How did Red Earth's launch on December 1st at the Latin Loafer go?

I was really humbled by the support we received from our community - was nicely overwhelming. The night had a fantastic atmosphere.

What feedback did you receive?

People really enjoyed themselves, and the feedback we received was both positive and encouraging.

What's next? How would you like to see Red Earth develop?

Now we have our singles out, Roy and I are in the final stages of the coming release of both our EPs. We are looking forward to sharing our recorded music and live sounds here and in distant territories.

I'd like to see Red Earth Records continue and succeed in their vision.

How can we find out more about you/ contact you? www.facebook.com/benjetravis/www. twitter.com/benjetravis www.instagram.com/benje_travis Further info: Listen to both artists on iTunes or stream on Spotify.

Contact: lisa@rawrmusic.com.au Thanks everyone.

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greater port macquarie focus. 23

GRILLED FRESHWATER YABBIES WITH PRESERVED LEMON AND XO SAUCE BUTTER, GLOBAL ARTICHOKE, PICCALILLI PUREE, PARSLEY CRUMB, MUSTARD GREENS. from zebu bar + grill

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

24 greater port macquarie focus.

SMOKED CHORIZO with semi-dried tomato & orange compote, fried haloumi, multi colour quinoa, honey cashew crumble

Sous vide Milly Hill Lamb, fragrant cous cous and sumac labne.

Chocolate fondant, candied orange and crème fraiche.

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.

salty's bar and grill

aqua at the westport club The New Year is upon us, and so comes the time to sit back and enjoy the company of friends and family.

Here at Aqua, our new summer menu embraces simply the best ingredients sourced locally and from across Australia. A waterfront destination that offers you an opportunity to relax and indulge, with a menu hand crafted for excellence. right: Executive Chef Jay Snelgar left: Sous Chef Shivaneel Nath.

Summer is not to far away, and with summer comes Christmas Holidays.

Salty’s have the perfect location to treat yourself to some much needed Cnr Hay & William Streets, Port Macquarie time out from the hussle and bussel of daily life. With perfect water 6583 0830 www.centrohotel.com.au or book online www.resdiary.com views, soaking up the sun and enjoying a glass of wine or cold beer has never been easier, match delicious meals and you have the 7 days, 6:30am - 10am for breakfast; 5pm that - latewith for dinner.

Bookings essential. perfect lunch or dinner.

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

Pan seared scallops, exotic mushroom, riesling Licensed creme, crisp speck.

Family friendly Indoor / outdoor dining

We invite you to Aqua to try our Milly Hill Lamb. A Mediterranean influenced dish of sous vide lamb, fragrant cous cous and sumac labne. As you look out across the iconic Hastings River with a glass of perfectly matched wine or craft beer, you Enjoy will truly feel asnew though youinhave travelled the Mediterranean exciting options Aqua with ourtomenu whilst relaxing in our stunning, fully refurbished surrounds. itself.

aqua the westport club

Aqua now offers a full wine and dine experience with an emphasis on Australian Wines our new Aqua Bar. 25 Buller Street, PortatMacquarie

new menu, a new restaurant feel combined with our classic Hastings 6588 A 7201 thewestportclub.com.au

and friendly service.

Lunch 7River daysview - 11:30am - 2:30pm.

Dinner 7 days 5pm 8:30pm.

Bookings are recommended.

The team at

Salmon carpaccio, lemon foam, Pedro reduction, fresh dill Chef’s The Westport Club's

TABLE SPRING Sensations

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

Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm.

Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

zebu bar+grill

Chefs de Cuisine Chris & Luke

Salty’s.

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841

Kingfish carpaccio, fingerlime, chorizo and radish

Head Chef Michael Finch.

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

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

Enjoy the quintessential taste of summer with a glass of vino or a muddled mojito teamed with some succulent oysters or crispy duck spring rolls, whilst listening to some live tunes from many local talented musicians. If it’s something a little more refined you are after, head to the grill for our degustation menu with five hand crafted courses

mi casa restaurant

Celebrate the good times this summer at Zebu Bar and check out fromour Executive Chef Adam Tait matched withMi fineCasa Restaurant is transforming Spanish cuisine, delivering wines sourced funky new look. Cool off with house favourites - sensational cocktails, icy from across Australia. Still can’tcontemporary tapas and mains. Accompanied by quality local and Spanish decide? tempted by the King Fish Carpaccio cold beers, live entertainment and loads of delicious food to share and enjoyBe with wines, and select beers on tap, including Monteith Pale Ale and the Bavarian with fi ngerlime, chorizo and radish paired with a family and friends. Soak up the coast life vibe with a little Zebu fun, with our Doppelbock, which has a smooth, rich flavour with a fiery red hue. crisplime Andrew sunshine inspired treats, including a classic Zebu Margarita teamed with andThomas Six Degrees Semillon - simply Chef Paul Fillis and Chef Karan Singh are offering a creative menu for irresistible! tequila battered flathead, or share a tasty charcuterie or cheese plate and add featuring specialty local ingredients and an array of dishes to suit all Diary Date: New Year’s Eve - Bring in the summer New some succulent fresh local oysters, dressed to impress! tastes.

Year in Sin City Style a night in Vegas Chef with De Cuisine Off the Hook is owned and operated by Paul and Narelle Walsh.

If it’s something more refined you are after head to the grill and dine with on our Callum Riddock. dancing girls, blackjack and poker! Try the new menu, including the Salmon carpaccio with lemon foam, Pedro We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, delicious five course degustation featuring the very best from Chef DeSee Cuisine page 21 for more info! reducton and fresh dill, or the Portobello mushroom with beetroot puree, snacks, salads, and of course, fish and chips.

Callum Riddock’s busy kitchen. chèvre and cashew crumb. Paired with a glass of he classic Torres Foran Viña We have added a larger selection of fish to our menu, including our Zebu Bar + Grill has your summer covered - serving coastal cuisine from Sol Chardonnay andthe views of thefillets.

Hastings River. favourite, Flathead sunup to sunset. NEW BAR MENU OUT NOW!

off the hook

Chef Paul Fillis & Chef Karan Singh

Bookings preferred. Fully licensed. (No BYO).

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

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

6584 4559

The friendly staff.

6 nights: Tues - Sun from 6pm.

Executive Chef Adam Tait.

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

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green.

6584 1146 7 days, from 11am - late.

greater port macquarie focus. 25

Salad Caprese and Antipasto Plate

of The

Terracotta Trattoria Looking for a little taste of Italy? Don’t look past Italian restaurant Terracotta Trattoria.

Terracotta Trattoria has quickly become a favourite for locals in Wauchope, with its cosy and very warm atmosphere, whether you dine in or take away.

With friendly service, Izak and his wife, Lyn, along with sone Pieter have brought a special Italian flavour right to our backyard.

They are offering the very best in homestyle Italian cuisine.

Open Wednesday to Saturdayss for dinner; come in and try for yourself and see what all the fuss is about.

Owners Izak & Lyn Lesch

38 Cameron Street, Wauchope 6585 1824 Open Wednesday - Saturday, 5pm - 9pm.

focus_local recipe

CHILLI JAM INGREDIENTS

Method (Serves 4)

Chilli Jam 1.5 kg chillies 8 medium size onions, peeled & roughly chopped 20 garlic cloves 1½ cups tamarind juice or 2 tablespoons paste 125 g palm sugar, cut into small pieces 2 cups sunflower or olive oil 4 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)

Add chillies, onion and garlic to a food processor and chop finely. Transfer to a large saucepan.

26 greater port macquarie focus.

Simmer the mixture for approximately 20 minutes.

Add palm sugar, tamarind juice or if using paste, dilute with ¼ cup water. Stir occasionally while jam is cooking for up to 1½ hours. Slowly add the oil to the jam. Cook a further 20 minutes, until it has thickened.

Spoon jam into sterilised jars and seal. Refrigerate after opening.

Tip! Wear gloves when handling hot chillies.

•

RE D S A N G RI A • with Mi Casa Restaurant

1. Start by dicing some fresh fruit; I like to use apples, oranges and strawberries, as well as anything in season, like watermelon, blueberries, pears or stone fruit.

2. Add the juice and zest of one lemon 3. Lightly coat the fruit with ground cinnamon and let it sit for 5 minutes.

4. In a 1 litre jug, pour 500 ml of your favourite red wine (I use a Cabernet Sauvignon), 150 ml of tonic water, 150 ml of lemonade and 150 ml of fortified wine (Sherry, Port, Madeira or Marsala), then add 50 ml of Brandy.

5. Top with the diced fruit and loads of ice, garnish with a sprig of mint, and a slice of orange.

Now relax and enjoy on those hot summer nights!

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

mitch McKAY PORT M ACQUA R I E H A S GROW N TO A SU B STA N T I A L SI Z E ON LY SI NC E T H E 1970S. Y ET I T ’ S ON E OF AUST R A L I A’ S OL DE ST POST-1770 SETT L E M E N TS, W I T H A R E M A R K A BL E H I STORY. SUSI E LU NC H E S W I T H OU R LOC A L H E R I TAGE GU RU.

A

s Mitch McKay and I lunch in 21st century style on prawns, sashimi and kingfish we’re dining in the shadow of colonial settlers who supped similarly, if rudimentarily, on fresh-caught fish, local oysters and the sweeping ocean views at this very spot almost 200 years ago.

I know this because McKay is an unmatched authority of long standing on Port Macquarie’s convict-era heritage. And, during the 2005 excavation for a high-rise development just metres from our table at The Stunned Mullet, he was involved in the unearthing, dating and preserving of cooking and serving utensils from a household established here in around 1821.

McKay grew up in Potts Point, an elevated inner-Sydney address that looks across the harbour towards The Rocks, our first white settlement. His early world was lived among the many heritage sites around his home’s historic precinct, locations such as the Tusculum mansion and Elizabeth Bay House, a culture he was immersed in and accepted as the norm. But it wasn’t until he came to Port as a young man in 1980, following his now-wife Karen who’d family roots here, that he fell into his lifetime career of delving into our own rich local past - and sharing it with visitors via his popular Heritage Walking Tours of the town’s environs.

“One of the first things I did when I came here was walk in the Historic Cemetery. John Verge, the architect of Elizabeth Bay House, is buried there.” Nearby, he found the grave of Margaret Innes, married to Archibald Clunes Innes, a Scot and soldier from Thrumster, grazier, notable identity in New England and the Manning, early commandant of the penal settlement and

magistrate here – his Lake Innes House ruins are registered on the Australian National Estate and NSW Heritage-listed. “And Margaret was the daughter of Colonial Secretary Alexander Macleay, for whom Elizabeth Bay House was built!”

McKay found the links, the threads that form the warp and weft of history’s fabric, compelling and irresistible, especially once he’d swiftly secured work in the local council’s planning department. There he gained qualifications in Urban and Regional Planning through UNE and was heavily involved in a seminal 1990 heritage study of the local government area.

“One of the first projects I managed, in ’91-’92, was restoration of the old Court House.” His interest led him to dig further into the field, pursuing courses in urban design and heritage through Sydney Uni and traditional building and construction via Canberra Uni. Among many projects, he was involved in groundbreaking works such as the council’s town centre master plan, and archaeology and archaeology interpretation master plans.

“Around 1990 [the] council started taking a keen interest in heritage, by preparing the heritage study, and between ’90 and ’96 we started doing a lot of those reports,” he explains.

In 1999 he was appointed the town’s first Heritage Officer. Aside from his more formal tasks he oversaw or was connected with conservation innovations such as on-site archaeological displays in many of the CBD buildings that went up over the following decade - featuring, for example, 1820s china and cutlery revealed during construction. Another initiative in the period: the creation of interpretive signs - thighhigh pictorial/information plaques - installed at prominent topical historical points around

the town. He was among the archaeological excavation team working on the Glasshouse construction site (Our modern town hall, also on Clarence Street). He prepared the interpretation plan for the site, setting in place the guidelines for the significant archaeological interpretations now installed there.

Over our lunch McKay draws many remarkable, intriguing, facts from the library of his mind. We discuss the prominent position of St Thomas’s Church, ca. 1828, fifth oldest Anglican church in continuous use in Australia.

More recently: during World War II women were co-opted as pea-pickers for food for the cities.

The dense residential area now running south to Lighthouse Beach was then vast market gardens.

In 1943 Don Shand, pea farmer and New England grazier (later, airline founder), organised a state-wide pea-picking contest here. Thelma Batcheldor of Oberon picked nearly 170kg (369lb) of peas in eight hours. The following year she’d harvested a formidable 67kg equivalent when rain interrupted after just two hours - more than half a kilo a minute, consistently for 120 minutes: impressive dexterity!

Fascinating and quirky facts flood McKay’s commentary as he guides visitors from places as exotic as China, Israel and Tahiti around town on the tours - often booked months ahead covering our early heritage: Uncovering Our Past, 2.5 hours’ duration, and Grave Tales, 1.5 hours. But his expertise spreads well beyond.

After nearly 30 years with the council, the last ten specialising in the Heritage Officer role, he struck out on a wider orbit, launching his own consultancy. Now he prepares for both government and private clients across northern NSW a range of reports: heritage impact statements to accompany council applications

for alterations, statements of significance for historic sites, conservation plans to meet statutory requirements, and so on. Examples: for conversion of a decommissioned historic bank building in West Kempsey to a medical centre; and for an extension to Rydges Hotel. Though not itself a heritage building, Rydges adjoins the heritage-listed Royal Hotel; the report addressed the potential impact on the significance of the Royal and nearby historic Court House. He’s a heritage advisor to other coastal and New England councils, a public speaker on historical topics, and author of two heritage/history books.

In summary he believes: “We’ve come a long way but there’s always more you can do. While we’ve got some tall buildings, ground-level swimming pools and underground car-parks, every other building is single- or two-storey. That means they’re built on a concrete slab so when they’re demolished and the slab’s removed you’re going to find that early history, similar to what we found at the Glasshouse.” Pre-construction, McKay and the team there removed about four layers of remains from different eras from the cleared land: of two 1970s buildings, a school of arts building of 1920, another from 1888 and council chambers from 1892 ... to reveal the site, preserved there now, of overseers’ cottages built around 1823.

“When you dig a hole in the town centre you can bet you’re usually going to find something quite often related to our convict period of 1821-1847. That’s the most exciting thing: the opportunity still to uncover more of our convict history.”

Contact Mitch at pmheritage.com.au or on 0447 429 016. Tours $23-$33.

greater port macquarie focus. 27

focusinterview.

N I A R G N A B UR • • BAKERY

MEET THE OWNERS OF THE NEW BAKERY URBAN GRAIN: CATHERINE, TIM AND REGHAN. SINCE OPENING IN MID DECEMBER, THE BAKERY HAS BEEN A NEW FAVOURITE AMONG THE LOCALS - AND WE FIND OUT WHY.

H

ow has the bakery been received by the locals?

We’ve heard there are lots of good comments being said about us, but we’re just not sure what they are! We’re just hoping everyone is enjoying all of our breads, pastries, sweet treats and coffees.

Can you tell us about your background in the hospitality industry?

The three of us have much kitchen experience. Tim’s had the most experience in hospitality, starting his apprenticeship at 19 years old in Tamworth.

From there he went on to Sydney, London, Hayman Island, Melbourne and returned to Sydney as head baker at Bather’s Pavilion, Central Baking Depot and most recently Adriano Zumbo’s. Tim has actually helped train the Australian baking team at Hunter TAFE in Newcastle.

Reghan trained in London and has been at Adriano Zumbo’s for the last six years in Sydney. We’re hoping he’s going to be part of the Australian baking team for their next competition.

Catherine is a pastry chef, most recently working at Burch and Purchese, as well as Yardmill in Melbourne.

Now she’s running the front of house at the bakery and making some celebration cakes for the shop.

28 greater port macquarie focus.

What is your vision for your busiunder bench coffee machine made by ness?

Espresso Deck. We aim to be providHand-made products made from ing Gluten Intolerant breads next year chemical and preservative free ingre- we need to be tested. Our sourdients, with the most emphasis on doughs are fermented for 48 hours good quality ingredients. Our flour (this is where the dough is rested after comes from Wholegrain Milling in being mixed, allowing flavours Gunnedah (Tim has been to develop). using their flour for 15 What are some years, and they’ll of the goodies actually be making on sale each d ou pr ry ve our own special day at Urban re We’ , blend of flour for Grain? of our products expect n ca le op pe us in 2017 - the Goodies d an ste second bakery in available everything to ta ve delicious . We ha Australia to have daily are e, or or st e th in g seatin this). baked fresh ay.” you can take-aw We’re very croissants proud of our and a selecproducts, and people tion of pastries, can expect everything sourdough loaves, to taste delicious. We have ciabatta, fruit loaf, and seating in the store, or you can we’ll be making a dark rye take-away. and whole wheat loaves early Our vision for the business is to next year. We’ll also be serving fresh become a real fixture in Port Macquasandwiches and salads, muffins, rie and part of the community. We’ve brownies, chocolate tarts and cakes started by housing a koala as part of in store and have celebration cakes to the Sculpture Trail - we have Dame order.

Edna with us now!

Where can our readers find you?

Can you tell us what makes Urban We are located at Shop 17 Grain Bakery unique?

Peachtree Walk Arcade (Hay St).

We make everything here on site We’re open Monday to Friday, 7am to we have an open kitchen, so there’s 5pm, and Saturday 7am to 2pm. no hiding anything. We have an Thanks guys.

“

greater port macquarie focus. 57

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 30 greater port macquarie focus.

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

focus_eat

Lou Perri from the Stunned Mullet

MANGO PORCUPINES AND POMEGRANATES THE OTHER DAY WHILST HAPPENING TO SCROLL THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA (AS SHE HAS BEEN KNOWN TO DO) MY OTHER HALF CAME ACROSS ONE OF THOSE FAST-MOTION “HOW TO” VIDEOS, WHICH TEND TO GIVE ONE THE OFTEN FALSE IMPRESSION THAT PREPARING A MEAL FROM SCRATCH IS A SUPER SPEEDY TOTAL NO-BRAINER.

T

he clip that caught her eye was one showing the best method for deseeding pomegranate, depicting the job being done in a bowl of water where the pith and skin sunk to the bottom, whilst the seeds naturally floated to the top.

Cue total amazement from the Australian, as pomegranate is the top favourite fruit of Miss 4 - acquiring a more efficient method to prepare this particularly messy and fiddly fruit was welcome and timely knowledge; in busyMum-meets-kids-favourite-food land it could even be considered to be a revelation …

Hmmm, I’m thinking (and might have said out loud) - “Yeah, of course that’s how you do it! You didn’t know this?”

Of course, we who hail from that part of the world that abundantly offers up the illustrious pomegranate - North America and Canada were born with this knowledge. We’ve always known it, we’ve carried it with us to these sunny shores, but admittedly our skills have mostly laid dormant, whilst we have enjoyed a wealth of other delectable native fruits in the absence of the pomegranate.

Until now, my friends - yet again the international, trans-seasonal, 24 hour world of social media casually offers up all sorts of cultural gems, and “uncommon” common knowledge!

“Yeah, but you had to be taught how to do a mango porcupine when you first came here, didn’t you?” The Australian one had to defend herself with. (Mango porcupines are our household terminology for the criss cross slicing of the mango cheeks).

Fair enough - mango preparation is genetically programmed into all Australians in exactly the same way as the pomegranate! It’s

officially a stand-off …

At the end of the day, every culture has its own intrinsic and local food know-how. Whatever there is an abundance of, as humans we will seek out the most efficient way of getting it ready to eat.

Now to spread the knowledge far and wide…

The fact is that our appetite for ingredients hailing from not just down the road, but from the other side of the world as well, is insatiable.

We want and need all those little tips and tricks, the cultural know-how passed on through generations, the stuff that is second nature to those who practice it, but to the novices handling an unfamiliar culinary gem is often a headache, or a mess - or worse still, something that could have been so yummy but got completely ruined by ineptitude!

But regardless of cross-border sharing of sacred food traditions though, there has to be the extreme kudos given to the country of origin. As in (and I may be slightly biased here), nowhere else on the planet does pizza and pasta taste anywhere near as good as in Italy!

I am sure many of you will vouch for countless other dishes from all over the world in the same vein …

The fact remains, for all the relentless globalisation going on, there’s a whole lot of Mama’s secret recipes out there under serious lock and key - as in, “I can tell you, but then I’ll have to kill you …”

Luckily for the uninitiated Aussies out there, there’s at least those viral pomegranate videos!

Happy eating! greater port macquarie focus. 31

focuseditorial.

M agic TAKE A

trip WI TH JA N I CE D O WN E S

Club North Haven Looking for somewhere to entertain the family this Christmas School holidays? Why not venture down to Club North Haven and enjoy a meal in Seagulls Restaurant or one of the great family friendly shows including The Sillies a free kids show performing 5.30pm Monday 2nd January, maybe for the teenagers up, show them what the 80’s were like with the Electric 80’s Show on Saturday 7th January or just bring the whole family along

32 greater port macquarie focus.

to witness some outstanding magic and tricks with Jay Scott Berry International Grandmaster Magician on Saturday 14th January. There is also free music every Thursday night from 6.30pm and you can always challenge the kids at a game of Barefoot Bowls. Check out the clubs website www.clubnorthhaven.com.au or follow them on facebook to keep up to date with what’s on at Club North Haven.

WE MET LOCAL POET JANICE DOWNES IN FOCUS SOME TIME AGO. NOW, SHE INTRODUCES US TO HER ROLE AS A RADIO PRESENTER ON 2WAY FM 103.9, AND TELLS US HOW HER VIVID IMAGINATION HELPS TO PRODUCE THE CONTENT FOR HER PROGRAMS …

W

hat gave you the idea of “taking a magic trip”?

I had been mentoring a child at school, and I used to ask him to close his eyes and we would climb on the back of my magic elephant … the elephant’s ears would flap, and we would take off! If we opened our eyes, the magic would stop … We would fly to different countries … When flying through cold clouds, I would wrap a frozen towel around him.

If a flock of birds flew past, we would feel their feathers as they passed. The child never opened his eyes, and he always looked forward to the next journey.

Friends told me they’d love to go on a magical journey too, so when one of the presenters at the radio station resigned and his time slot was left open, I thought, “Why not do my stories on radio?” I could tell people to close their eyes, step on to my magic carpet and we will discover different countries of the world …

How long have you been on radio?

In 2000, I went to Radio 2Way FM 103.9 to ask them to teach me how to use a microphone, so I could go to schools and nursing homes to recite my poetry.

They advised me to do the Presenter’s Course and when I finished, they asked me to do a program. I had no confidence and said I only recited poetry. They laughed and told me I couldn’t do a 90 minute program just reciting poetry … but they gave me three months’ trial.

I went on to do the 90 minutes, and they got so many phone calls and letters!

In 2012 they told me they were streaming and they’d just had 30 hits from England and 25 hits from America. The listeners loved my program, Rhythm and Rhyme - Poetry, Stories, Yarns and

Songs about Australia.

In 2016 when another position became available, I offered to do a program called Delicious and Delightful - which is information, history, geography, stories, weather, culture, demographics and religion. This is about interesting facts and figures, delicious food and where it originated from.

When are you on the radio?

Thursdays 9 - 10:30, Rhythm and Rhyme and 10:30 - 12pm, Delicious and Delightful.

What’s a highlight from your magic trips?

When I was mentoring at school, I took the little boy on a trip to Alaska and we met a crying Polar Bear. The magic elephant asked the Polar Bear what was wrong; he had a thorn in his paw. The little boy was asked if he could remove it and when he arrived back in Australia, the elephant gave the little boy an envelope with the thorn in it.

The next week the little boy asked if he could go back to Alaska to check on the bear … and the bear asked the little boy if he could live with him in Australia. I had bought a huge Polar Bear and gave it to the little boy. The look on his face when he asked “Can I truly keep him?” was priceless. It was a magic moment for me.

What keeps you motivated?

I love getting feedback from my listeners such as, “I love taking these trips; they don’t cost anything, and they are safe!” People stop me in the street and ask me, “Where are we off to next week?”

I love my volunteering work - it keeps me busy, so I never get bored. I always live each day as though it might be the last - and if I can do a kind thing for someone, I try to do it today because tomorrow it might be too late.

Thanks Janice.

SPORTSMAN’S LUNCH Friday 20th January 2017

MEET THE PANTHERS WHERE & WHEN Panthers Port Macquarie | 12.30pm

TICKETS

$90 Members | $95 Guests Includes 2 Course Lunch & Beverages

GUEST SPEAKERS

Phil Gould AM Tom Raudonikis OAM

ENTERTAINMENT

Comedian Vince Sorrenti Mat Brooker Trio

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

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

greater port macquarie focus. 33

Kate WOOD-FOYE Right. Carla & Josh Reynolds on their wedding day

from Rydges Port Macquarie and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Photo credit Bayleigh Vedelago

Below. Jeff Cowan and Jeanke Cruz celebrating Jeff’s 40th birthday at Sails Pavilion Photo Credit Meraki Photography

Above. Kelly Cowan and friends celebrating Jeff’s 40th birthday at Sails Pavilion

Right. Margo Johnston, Trish Davis and Kylie Young at the Your Health Link Photographic Competition at the Glasshouse

Photo Credit Meraki Photography

Left. Aaron Patton backstage with Montaigne at FOTSUN

Right. Julie Jamieson, Cat Wells and Ella Lakin-Cruz

Photo Credit Meraki Photography

SOCIAL/SCENE

IT REALLY CAN’T GET MUCH BETTER THAN SUN, SURF, SAND AND A GLASS OF BUBBLES IN OUR HAND, AS WE PONDER THE ARRIVAL OF A BRAND NEW YEAR. IT’S ALWAYS A LITTLE BIT EXCITING KNOWING YOU HAVE A SPARKLING CLEAN SLATE ON WHICH YOU CAN WRITE A FRESH SCRIPT.

W

hat will this year bring for us all? Either way, we have the unique chance to reset, refocus or reinvent as we head into the 12 months ahead. Hoping we can jam pack it with travel, precious time with family and friends, health and fitness, exciting projects, lots of fab food, a little more travel, some amazing new people, and did I mention travel? Happy New Year to everyone - buckle up! It’s sure to be another crazy and exciting ride!

FOTSUN never disappoints, with Port Macquarie awash with sunshine and fun over the four day weekend, kicking off on Thursday with the arrival of 4,000 live music lovers attending the annual festival held on the oceanfront sound stages at Sundowner Caravan Park. This sold out four day event was a massive success, with the impressive line up including headliners Gang of Youths, Montaigne supported by Urthboy, and Tash Sultana all rocking the stage for the happy crowd, who were seen happily wandering the town in crochet shorts, sunglasses and at their indy-fest best. Congrats to all involved - what an awesome event to kick of this delicious summer season in Port Mac! A glam night of the arts was held on Thursday 1st December at the Glasshouse, where winners of the Your Health Link National Photographic

34 greater port macquarie focus.

Competition were announced at the Opening Night of the Competition Exhibition at the Glasshouse. In its inaugural year, almost 1,000 entries were received from every state and territory in Australia. The exclusive program was developed by the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) and endorsed by the NSW Office of Preventive Health and the Healthy Kids Association. The exhibition aims to increase health literacy through the medium of photography, where community members are given a topic (Healthy Life Healthy You) to actively participate in creating visual images that represent health. A stunning public exhibition featuring photographs of category winners and all finalists was held at the Glasshouse on Friday 2 December and Saturday 3 December. Congrats to all of the category winners and to Stewart Dowrick and his diverse and dynamic team, both here and in Coffs Harbour, for a superb initiative and a fabulous night celebrating arts and health!

Happy 40th birthday to everyone’s favourite Canadian, Jeff Cowan, who was completely surprised by his beautiful wife, Kelly, with a surprise bash for 120 friends and family at the stunning new Sails Resort Pavilion on Saturday 3 December. Expecting to be heading out for a quiet dinner with friends, Kelly managed to orchestrate the surprise, with a resort room overlooking the new pavilion filled with all his favourite people -

SUPRISE! Guests, including Scott and Tara Mesiti, Lee and Celeste Wood, Mark and Mariane Power, Matt Jorgenson, Stewart Clark, Shelley Scully, Dee McLean, Melinda and Sam Dalton, Jasmin and Jasper Pengally, Em and Steve Birbich, Phil and Julie Jamieson and Catherine and Mitch Wells were among the many who came to celebrate with the man of the hour to wish him a very happy birthday. Guests enjoyed Jeff’s fave tunes, some seriously deadly lime margaritas, cheese and antipasto platters and lots of luscious sushi followed by a humongous chocolate mud cake, and perhaps a few beverages too! A ridiculously huge night filled with lots of love, laughs, dancing and a hilarious and heartfelt speech by Kelly with a slightly dodgy lemon reference, which will we not speak of in print ... ahem …! Huge love to both Kelly and Jeff, who will now jet off to Canada to continue celebrations in the Northern Hemisphere with Jeff’s identical twin brother, Seamus, and his Canadian folks. Bon voyage!

Congratulations to the gorgeous Carla McManus and Josh Reynolds, who were married on a gorgeous day in December at Lake Innes Vineyard and Little Fish Café - the ceremony took place in the stunning grounds of the vineyard, officiated by Brooke Bell. Carla looked radiant in her gown from Made With Love on the Gold Coast. Sarah J Hudson assisted Carla with the elegant styling of the celebration, including

gorgeous floral bouquets. The thirty special guests enjoyed an intimate seated reception and were entertained by Jake Davey, followed by a DJ, to dance the night away. Guests, including Zoe Murphy, bridesmaids Amy Easton-Piggot, Rachel Hamilton, Carla’s parents Narelle and Ross McManus, Josh’s parents Tony and Dianne Reynolds all enjoyed the celebrations, including the divine wedding cake created by Jess from Fika For Days. Dee Mclean of Sitting Pretty styled hair for the gorgeous girls, whilst Jess Tattersall did the makeup artistry for the bridesmaids. All the fun was captured by photographer Bayleigh Vedelago and was filmed by Wilson Visuals. Congratulations to a stunning pair, who honeymooned in sunny Noosa.

Well 2016, you certainly were a challenging one full of some crazy ups and downs, total joy and sadness. Welcome 2017, you shiny new thing - let’s hope this year is high on the fabulous stakes and brings everyone the love, light and energy they need. It’s new chapters all round, with our little one starting big school with big hopes and big boy ideas. Seriously hoping I can keep it together, at least until I waive him goodbye at the gate - if anyone needs me, I will be the one discreetly sniffling into my handbag in the carpark! ‘til next month!

Kate.

Saltwater Freshwater festival Be part of something extraordinary at Saltwater Freshwater Festival on Australia Day. Celebrate in the spirit of country where our rivers meet the sea and experience living Aboriginal culture on the Mid North Coast, home to the nations of the Gumbaynggirr, Biripi, Dunghutti and Worimi people.

Bago tavern A Place for everyone to enjoy Welcome to Bago Tavern.

We’re situated just a 20 minute drive from Port Macquarie in the historic town of Wauchope.

The award winning venue is renowned for offering something for everyone, from a playground for the kids, to large screen plasma televisions for the footy fans.

Along with a great restaurant serving well crafted modern pub food, a fantastic range of draught and packaged beers, an extensive wine list, and friendly professional staff, the Bago Tavern is truly your place to enjoy.

Enjoy live and free entertainment each Saturday night, bring the kids down and meet friends and family in our outdoor, undercovered area with kids’ play ground, or just relax and unwind in our air conditioned sports room watching your favourite sport on the big screen.

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.

The festival is the brainchild of the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance, an alliance governed by ten Local Aboriginal Land Councils from Karuah to Coffs Harbour.

Each year the event showcases some of the best Aboriginal talent in the country and of the Mid North Coast region, where the saltwater and freshwater meet. The festival also features exhibitions and workshops relating to the range of arts and cultural activities undertaken by Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance during the year, providing an enriching experience for visitors and locals.

Saltwater Freshwater Festival is back featuring Emma Donovan and some of our best national Aboriginal artists. Enjoy dance, story, language, ceremony, art, children and youth areas, workshops, yarn space and food from the heart of our saltwater freshwater communities.

Emma Donovan is headlining this year’s festival and is a passionate singer, songwriter and collaborative vocal artist, whose musical expression is a fusion of roots, reggae and soul. Her melodic style is widely known for her distinctive husky voice. Her lyrical content speaks of significant stories and personal accounts that she sings with confidence and pride.

The workshops to be held on the day will include: 1. Bush tucker tours with Uncle Mark Flanders.

Mark is a local Gumbaynggirr man who has been conducting Aboriginal cultural activities for in excess of 20 years.

2. Traditional dance workshops (male and female) 3. Didgeridoo playing workshops (men only) Please note that the festival is smoke, alcohol, glass and pet free.

Entry is $5 pp or $15 per family (4).

Saltwater Freshwater takes place on January 26th at the Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens from 10:30 am to 4:30pm.

For more information, visit www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 35

focusinterview.

As the Marketing & Club Grants Manager at Port City Bowling Club, Katy-Lee Waldron’s role is busy but very rewarding. Katy-Lee and her team, Easties Crew 4 You, love to assist the community - whether it’s through volunteering, supporting causes or holding fundraisers. There are some exciting fundraisers and community events happening at Port City in the New Year, and Katy-Lee was more than happy to share the details with us.

P

ort City Bowling Club has a remarkable team who like to help support the community and host fundraisers. Why are these activities important to the team - why do you like to

"give back"?

Port City has a long tradition of supporting the community over the years, and it’s become a part of the club’s culture. Our Easties Crew 4 You love being involved in the community; not only is it a nice break from what we do every day, volunteering can offer a new perspective to our staff - seeing people who are worse off than you are, yet still hanging in there, can help you see your life in a whole new light.

Recap 2016 for us. What were some of the community events Port City was involved with throughout the year?

This year was by far the biggest fundraising years we have had in a long time. Our staff were very active participating in not only club driven events, but fundraising days in the community also. Caleb’s Trivia Fundraiser, The World’s Greatest Shave, Mayor’s Sporting Fund, Walk to d’feet motor neuron, The Big Dig, Sand Mudder, Movember, Daffodil Day, UGLY Bartender were just a handful of events our staff supported throughout the year.

You have a few big plans for 2017. Firstly, tell us about the "Bowls for Balls" event scheduled for 25th - 26th January. What's the event in aid of, and what's on the agenda for the two days?

36 greater port macquarie focus.

“

have heaps of

We Bowls for Balls will complete their challenge wonderful prizes kick off the year’s as a way to continue supe th r fo and giveaways porting people who need fundraising initiatives e ag ur co en day, and we s es help and to keep raising for 2017, raising dr to s am all of the te ay awareness of blood canawareness and funds D ia al tr us up in A t of bi a cers and the help/funds for testicular and prosd ad to e them tate cancer. The barestill needed. fun.” foot bowls challenge On Saturday, February event will commence on 18th from 3pm, Paint the Australia Day eve at 2pm, Town will be joining forces with with 24 teams participating over the club and Claudia to provide you two hour sessions to complete a continall with an evening of eating, sipping and uous 24 hour game of barefoot bowls. painting, all whilst raising funds for a great We have heaps of wonderful prizes and cause. Guests will receive a glass of champagne giveaways for the day, and we encourage all of on arrival, paint canvas, supplies and artist dithe teams to dress up in Australia Day theme to rection to complete a beautiful creation. Tickets add a bit of fun. All of the funds raised for the are available from the Paint the Town website or event will be donated to Cancer Council NSW. here at the club.

For more information or to register your team, What else is on the agenda so far for 2017? see our friendly staff at reception or contact our We have an event in pipeline which will Bowls Co-ordinator Phil at the Club on 6583 be raising awareness of Juvenile Myositis, also 1133 or by email phil@portcity.com.au. referred to as “JM”. JM is rare and life-threatening autoimmune disease, in which the You also have a team member, Claudia, body’s immune system attacks its own cells and who's planning to climb Mt Kilimanjaro in tissues. The Cure JM foundation is very close February. Epic task! What does she hope to to our colleague Chris and his wife, after their achieve, and who is she raising funds for? second eldest daughter, Ellie, was diagnosed in Yes, our Finance Manager Claudia always February 2012 at age five, after being ill for 12 wanted to do a trek the year she turned 40. It months. was a personal goal to prove to herself that she After six months of treatment, Chris’s wife, could complete anything she put her mind to.

Aimee, found the Cure JM website. The ability However, after The Easties Crew attended the to connect with other parents changed everytop fundraisers event in Sydney for The World’s thing, as they realised they were not alone.

Greatest Shave, she was so moved by what the They connected with other Australian families, Leukaemia Foundation achieves and decided to

and Ellie was able to meet children going through the same battle she was facing. Ellie reached remission in 2016.

Port City plans to hold a fundraiser to create awareness of the disease, to assist Aimee’s passion for helping Australian families connect to the local resources and help available in Australia.

What's the most enjoyable part of your role at Port City Bowling Club?

That’s a tricky one, as I really enjoy all aspects of my role as Marketing & Club Grants Manager at the club. Not only do I get to organise all of our fun and exciting events and promotions; I also get to be involved in the club’s contribution to the community via the fundraising events we hold and the Club Grants Program, which Port City donates over $300,000 to each year. It’s a very rewarding job, especially when I am to award a donation that will change somebody’s life.

How can readers assist the club with its community work?

Readers can assist with the club’s community work by simply attending our club fundraisers.

How can we find out more info about what you do?

The easiest way to keep up to date with the club’s activities is to like our page on Facebook, check out our website, subscribe to club emails or read the latest copy of our club magazine, Pulse.

Thanks Katy-Lee. Interview by Jo Robinson.

greater port macquarie focus. 37

focusinterview.

3 Burners Cookin

AUSSIE LADS COOKIN ON 3 BURNERS HAVE TAKEN THE WORLD BY STORM, LITERALLY - WITH THEIR HOT TRACK, THIS GIRL, SMASHING THE EUROPEAN CHARTS AND ALSO HERE AT HOME. FOCUS SPOKE WITH ORGAN PLAYER JAKE ABOUT THE JOURNEY SO FAR AND WHAT’S STILL TO COME …

H

i Jake. When and how was Cookin on 3 Burners born?

We were all uni buddies. We all went to the same music school back in the late ‘90s, and it pretty much just started from us jamming together and the need for us to get out and play some gigs to pay our rent. Like most bands ... that’s how things mostly start off! I am the organ player in the band, on drums we have Ivan Khatchoyan and on guitar, Dan West. We managed to keep the band going.

We’ve had quite a few different journeys along the way; we’ve had different members and done all sorts of different things, and over that time we’ve had a lot of different special guests we’ve worked with. We’ve toured the world, and we’ve recently collaborated with DJs as part of our collaborative motto.

Tell us about some of the ventures you’ve been involved with …

Cookin on 3 Burners is all about collaborations, as we are a trio - and an instrumental trio at that. The vocals are special guests who come in and work with us, collaborate, and add the extra vocal magic. We’ve been working with some MCs as well, but we never really thought about this DJ concept or someone remixing our tracks …

So late last year, a DJ from France, Valentin Brunel aka Kungs, gave us a call and said, “Hey, we want to do a rework of your track; what do you think about that?” We thought, “Sure, no problem” … He sent us a bit of a mock up of what he was thinking, and we loved it. We didn’t think a whole lot more of it after that, until it starting racing up the charts in France, and from then on it’s just

38 greater port macquarie focus.

Cookin on 3 Burners is all tions , about collabora and io tr as we are a trio l ta en m an instru ls are ca vo e Th . at that come ho w special guests , us ith w in and work the d ad d an , te collabora .” ic extra vocal mag

“

caught on and has had great success.

And your latest track, Mind Made Up… We did it with a great artist from Finland called “Lenno”. It has recently been released here

by Warner Australia, and it’s a track from our catalogue, our 2014 album Blind Bet …

After This Girl catching us by surprise and the response we’ve received, we thought we’d better have a look and see what else can be reworked in the same kind of way.

So, is this the direction Cookin on 3 Burners is moving in now?

We are definitely staying in our classic Soul home - that’s our thing, and we’re not going to abandon that. But obviously, this is an opportunity that we definitely want to jump on. We’ve got half a dozen of our back catalogue songs that we feel fit really well and have paired them with a bunch of different DJs and producers from all over the world, to produce an album which will be coming out January 20th. While it is still Cookin on 3 Burners, it’s one of our many collaborations.

You’ve kicked off a national tour. Tell us about then songstress you’ve brought along for the ride?

Stella Angelico, who is an awesome sweet Soul vocalist - we lock in to what she does best. The beauty of bringing her along is we get to do a couple of her songs as well; it comes back to that collab thing we love doing. We get to

put a twist on her originals - just ‘cause we can!

If you could collaborate with any artist past or present, who would that be?

Prince is a huge influence of ours, and we would have loved the opportunity or in a dream to collaborate with him, but unfortunately that’s never going to happen! We are so keen on just getting the influence and the vibe from someone different who brings a new freshness to us. It doesn’t have to be the most famous person - just someone who has a great vibe and can bring something to the band.

What’s your fave track at the moment?

How Long Do I Have To Wait For You by Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings! RIP Sharon Jones.

Thanks Jake.

the plug!

Don’t miss Cookin on 3 Burners feat.

Stella Angelico + Special guests Friday 6th January, Laurieton United Services Club.

Tickets $25 Doors 7:30pm Starts 8pm

greater port macquarie focus. 39

Best Kept Secrets

40 greater port macquarie focus.

Best Kept Secrets

Located in the heart of the Port Macquarie Hinterland region is The Byabarra, a place to meet with friends or to sit and relax on our balcony, with endless valley views that will delight and surprise.

Our menu is driven by a love of quality food and wine, using fresh local produce. We also offer delicious sourdough bread and woodfired pizza.

Open Thursday - Sunday from 9am.

The Byabarra also caters for functions and events tailoring a package for your needs and budget.

Summer Forest Fun Want to know a secret?

NSW State Forests cover two million hectares of forest across NSW, offering a range of experiences that few others can match. There are roomy campsites, shaded picnic areas, tree-lined walking tracks and spectacular lookouts. The natural environment is centre stage, showcasing an abundance of unique Australian flora and fauna within spectacular landscapes. You can swim in a creek, hike up a mountain, chat around the campfire, or simply listen to the sounds of nature.

You can bring your car, caravan or campervan, you can pitch a tent anywhere you like, explore forest tracks on trail bike or mountain bike, ride a horse cross-country, 4WD and bring your dog too - yes, that’s right, dogs are welcome in NSW State forests.

Best of all, visiting NSW State Forests is absolutely free, representing one of the most cost-effective summer holiday escapes you can find. With over 125 forest-based dedicated visitor areas statewide, with a mix of visitor facilities such as picnic tables, BBQs, fireplaces, shelters, rainwater tanks, toilets and easy-access carparks, NSW State Forests are a “must-see” destination in your travels.

Your local State Forest is an unmissable stop on your summer self-drive outing, whether it’s for a few hours, a picnic or an overnight stay. An extensive network of roads and trails provide easy entry to State Forests, whilst walking tracks allow visitors to experience special places and nature at its best.

NSW State Forests provide beautiful forest environments for you and your family to “switch-off” and connect with nature. A range of information is available to ensure your next trip is a memorable one, including a NEW free mobile phone app called “VisitForests”, providing online and downloadable maps, photos and information on forest experiences.

With great places to explore, rest, learn, play or just get away from it all, come and experience a forest playground!

Visit us on the web: www.forestrycorporation. com.au/visit And share your experience: Facebook: Visit NSW Forests Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

1078 Comboyne Road, Byabarra 2446 p: 65871167 hello@thebyabarra.com.au @thebyabarra

Fancy a country wedding?

We do weddings for up to 100 guests.

Get married with the romantic backdrop of the Quintoc Ranges

The Byabarra is just 15 minutes drive from Wauchope, heading towards Comboyne. It has been recently renovated with a woodfired oven, new bar area and a family area where kids have space to run and play.

greater port macquarie focus. 41

Best Kept Secrets

The Port Macquarie Museum has a stunning new courtyard, which is the result of a partnership between the museum and the Forestry Corporation of NSW. Debbie Sommers from the museum and Sandra Madeley, Partnerships Leader, Forestry Corporation of NSW, share some insights into the project …

H

ow did the idea for a partnership between the Forestry Corporation of NSW and the Port Macquarie Museum come about?

Debbie: This exciting partnership came about through an idea by Margret Meagher from the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail project and Arts and Health Australia. Margret was keen to find an outdoor location for Forest the Koala sculpture, and she knew we were looking at ways to change our building entry and to raise the profile of the museum. She thought our Clarence Street front garden would make an ideal new home for Forest the Koala. Margret brought Forestry Corporation NSW and us together and in a very short time, a few hours in fact, we had agreed to progress our partnership.

Sandra: Our partnership with Port Macquarie came about through another mutual partner, Margret Meagher from Hello Koalas. We have been working with Hello Koalas from the beginning of the sculpture trail in 2014, with our sponsorship of Forest the Koala. Partnering with the museum in the year that Forestry Corporation is celebrating its 100th year was a perfect match.

Partnerships are a great opportunity to gain mutual benefits through collaborative projects.

The Forest Courtyard has provided the museum with a new visitor space, and it is a first step towards realising their exciting vision for a new entry. Forestry Corporation has been given the opportunity to display the wonderful features of our own locally grown hardwoods.

We are looking forward to continuing our partnership and working with the museum on some exciting interpretive projects.

What was the museum and the Forestry 42 greater port macquarie focus.

Corporation’s role in ensuring the Forest is evident in the detail of the finished product.

Courtyard was completed?

Both the museum and Forestry were more Debbie: Our role for the project was an than pleased with the end result! administrative one, and that meant lots of What benefit/s do you feel the completed paperwork! With our entire site, including Forest Courtyard will bring to both the the garden area, on the NSW State Heritage museum and the greater community?

Register, we had to ensure that The Forest Debbie: The Forest Courtyard is a welcome Courtyard development complied with asset to the museum. It has both local and State planning softened the impact of the regulations. At one stage adjacent Clarence House the project looked like it building development wasn’t going to happen, and brought it and st re Fo e Th as we had to convince our heritage listed Courtyard e th the Heritage Office building together. ed id ov pr s ha that it would not The Forest museum with a e, impact any possible Courtyard is also a new visitor spac ep archaeological welcome addition to and it is a first st g towards realisin remains that may the Clarence Street sion their exciting vi exist. Fortunately, the cultural precinct. We ” y. tr en w for a ne landscape architect for now have an outdoor the project, Steve Gorrell, exhibition space, which came up with a compromise brings the renewable design and after a visit from forestry story to the heart of Heritage Office staff, we were given Port Macquarie. the go ahead to proceed.

The Forest Courtyard is not only a Sandra: This project was funded by gift to the local community to celebrate Forestry Corporation. We engaged Steve Forestry Corporation’s centenary; it is a Gorrell, Landscape Architect, to design a community asset. It is a reminder that the space to fill a brief which included seating for timber industry in all its forms both past and visitors. Once both the Museum and Forestry present is important to our livelihood and our were happy with the design, we selected a future. The Forest Courtyard is a place to sit builder through a tender process. We were and reflect, explore and learn, or simply enjoy pleased to offer the job to local Bonny Hills and watch the world go by. It will facilitate builder Tom McCudden and landscaper Bill a new museum entry in the future. We are Lawrence. delighted to be custodians on behalf of the Having worked with Tom and Bill on community, and we enjoy seeing the pleasure previous projects (take a look at the new it brings to visitors of all ages.

Tallowwood picnic shelter at Coopernook Sandra: The resulting courtyard has certainly Forest Headquarters!) we were pleased to been beneficial to both the museum and offer this unique project to them. The respect Forestry. It has given Forestry an opportunity that Tom and his co-workers gave the timber to showcase one of the many uses for local

“

timber and provided an insight into the importance of our forests to communities past and present. The Forest Courtyard provided the space for the large interpretation board and map, which guides locals and visitors alike to some of the special places to visit in state forests.

What are your favourite elements of the courtyard (and why)?

Debbie: That’s a hard question to answer.

All the elements have special qualities and meaning. The magnificent Tallowwood pergola forming a forest canopy, the beautiful carved Blackbutt seats in a wave form showcasing their natural timber grain and connecting The Forest Courtyard with the nearby ocean and river and of course, the colourful koala sculpture, Forest, painted by Pauline Roods.

Then there is the engaging information panel with historic and contemporary images telling forest narratives and enticing visitors to explore and enjoy our local forests.

Sandra: Apart from the amazing elements of the timber pergola, seating and artwork on Forest, I have a special connection with the interpretation board. I spent hours searching our historic photo collections, including the Fred Mason Bailey collection, looking for the perfect images to include to tell a story. It was a tough choice! Each photo I looked at told a story. The image of a mother sitting with her sons at a regular bush camp, reveals an insight into the tough life of forestry workers and their families, while their expressions reveal contentment and happiness within their surroundings. It makes me feel privileged to be working in our state forests, as generations before me have done.

Thanks Debbie and Sandra.

Interviews by Jo Robinson.

Best Kept Secrets

squeeze more happy

into your holiday

Miss Nellie’s Café 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.

Check out

portmacquarieinfo.com.au

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

Local highlights, day trips, itineraries, loads of things to see and do plus articles to get you inspired and out exploring this summer!

Use #iloveportmacquarie to share your experiences Greater Port Macquarie

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@PortMacquarie Portmacquarietourism

greater port macquarie focus. 43

Best Kept Secrets

Lee Dixon B O N N Y

H I L L S

Image courtesy of Andy Smith Images

My family members: My rock is my stunning wife, Anya. I also have three beautiful girls, Daryan, Elenya, Kaylun and 3.5 grandkids.

Number of years living locally: 7 ​ .5 years in total.

How I came to call the Camden Haven home: After working with Jaguar in the UK, I was diagnosed with cancer - this put a handbrake on our lives. We had visited Port Macquarie on holiday and loved the lifestyle, so we landed in Port with a suitcase each, no house, no job and a container of our worldly goods. After a few weeks in Port with my sister, we rented in Lake Cathie and have lived in the area ever since.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: I​t’s stunning natural beauty and the 26 + G’Days we got every day when we are out and about.

Favourite café/restaurant: We love Brendon and the team at Oasis by the River - best steak on the planet.

Robyn Flanagan Family members: James, Caitlin and Corey - both kids live away at university, but love coming home to this area.

Number of years living locally: 30 years - really?

How I came to call Wauchope home: My mum and dad found this area - it was only a matter of time before we all moved up from Victoria and moved here from Queensland.

They loved the weather, the locals, and the friendliness of the area.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: Our proximity to fantastic places within a day’s drive - and the weather. Usually.

Favourite café/restaurant: Beechwood Store - great fun, close to home, a lovely environment

Best shopping spot: We have a bit of everything in the Camden Haven, with some amazing local boutique business owners that offer a different experience.

Best shopping spot: Any of the Co-op stores. Specialty grocery, fantastic department store, really great staff. The staff at the bottle shop at the grocery store are a real tonic after a busy week.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: I would check out the Creek to Creek walkway along Queens Lake.

Best entertainment hub: LUSC, Club North Haven, Kendall Club and Oasis by the River have all had some amazing events on over the past year.

Best place for families: We like to chill out at Pilot Beach Dunbogan or the North Haven/Kendall pool.

Must not miss while in the Camden Haven this summer: A day on a BBQ boat from Dunbogan Boatshed and choose your evening entertainment from - www.visitcamdenhaven.com.au

44 greater port macquarie focus.

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

W A U C H O P E

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: We love taking photos at Lake Cathie or Rainbow beach at sunset/sunrise and anywhere along the Beach to Beach walkway. The other obvious choice that MUST be experienced is the view from North Brother Mountain.

Best kept secret: The walk from Rainbow Beach Bonny Hills over the Boardwalk and through the bush onto the headland at Bartlett’s Beach just when the sun is about to go down.

Glenn Scott

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: Pappinbarra Valley - nothing like it! Worth a Sunday drive - rolling hills, dairy farms and the Pappinbarra River.

Best kept secret: Our beautiful river! Very underutilised, lovely boardwalk under the massive figs. On second thoughts; don’t tell everyone.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: It’s not really that new, but the maze at Bago Winery is fantastic.

Best entertainment hub: Hastings Hotel - lots of good music, good food.

Best place for families? Waterman’s Café on Bain Park is a standout. Enjoy excellent coffee, excellent food, and watch the kids play in the fun all-abilities playground.

Must not miss while in Wauchope this summer: The pool - it better be open by the time this comes out, please ...

Family members: My wife, Becky, and my three sons, Mitchell, Ashton and Lucas.

Number of years living locally: I​ grew up in Port Macquarie, moved away after finishing school in 1992 and returned in 2005 to raise my family here. Almost a local - 28 years!

Living in: Lighthouse Beach.

How I came to call Port Macquarie home: Port Macquarie is where I grew up. Apart from time spent working in Sydney and Tweed Heads, I have been lucky enough to call Port Macquarie home for a long time.

I have discovered the best thing about living here is: Port Macquarie is such a beautiful place, with some of the best beaches. I like being outdoors.

Favourite café/restaurant: All my local restaurants/cafés in the Lighthouse Beach area; we have the best neighbourhood centre, that is well supported by all the locals. Come out and check them out.

Favourite outdoor photographic spot: Anywhere along our beautiful coastline. The beaches are amazing, especially in the morning. The lighthouse would be one of my favourites.

Best shopping spot: I enjoy the beach and water, so any of our local surf shops, sports or outdoor stores. Buy local to support local is my motto.

Best kept secret: Fishing spots for Snapper.

Best new attractions locals may not have seen yet: Sunday sessions at Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club from 2pm, best view on the coast!

Best entertainment hub: Anywhere with live music, sun shining and a cold brewski.

Best place for families: Flynns Beach.

Must not miss while in Port Macquarie this summer: New Year’s Eve Blacktie & Barefoot Ball at the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club - going to be a cracker of a night!

Best Kept Secrets

focus_tourism

Janette Hyde from Port Macquarie Tourism Association

tourism UPDATE

Hibbard Sports Hibbard Sports Club has some great

events coming up - don’t miss out.

HIBBARD SPORTS CLUB

Menu is: Surf and Turf (Scotch Fillet) served with fresh vegetables.

WELCOME NEW YEAR! MANSFILED TO on A the Mannng GREATER PORT MACQUARIE IS READY FOR OUR HOLIDAYMAKERS.

This January, come and say hello to our Asian Chicken Salad.

Mansfield on Manning is a beautiful rural IT IS SO PLEASANT TOthe DRIVE AROUND OUR BEAUTIFUL BEACHES Hibbard sports club is now open for next party or get together. With Christmas friendly team, escape the heat, let the kids Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis. retreat offering luxury boutique accommodation.

AND THE HINTERLAND. IF THIS WEATHER KEEPS UP, WE WILL BE just around the corner it’s a great spot business. have a ball on the on-site playgroud, water Sticky Date Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce.

VERY TO on SHOW OFF OUR REGION. park or putt-putt. The bistro caters for Set PROUD on 16 acres the banks of theBEAUTIFUL Manning River, hold your Christmas and New year This December come and say hello to our Meals to served alternately. everyone, with delicious home style meals, our private properties have been to walking trail. Mefunctions with family and friends. Hibbards he Eatfour See and Do Guide is a south via adesigned nine kilometre friendly escapeThe thebistro heat, let the cookedteam, when ordered. is open for kidsAustralia Day create a peaceful to relax. for our locals andhaven visitors.for you andering around headlands, looping through club is the home to three prestigious must lunch and dinner every day. Lunch is from waterHave aSports have a ball on the on-site playgroud, Family Bowls Fun Day (Mixed You can pick up this very the lush Sea Acres Nature Reserve, ducking 12pm 2pm, and dinner from 5:30pm.

Each property has been individually decorated Triples)bowling including greens. lunch for Come $20 per down head. for a social park or -putt-putt. informative book at the Visitor in and out of rocky secluded coves and onto gameand or ask about competitions run Champagne orange juice our on arrival.

New Year’s Eve with sumptuous beds, crisp linen, TV and DVD, Information Centre in The Glassfine, powdery sand, you’d be pressed to find The bistro caters for everyone, with Bowls daily. starting at 10am. Bookings essential; The Band “Knackered” is playing from 8pm free Visitor’s wifi, radio andalliPod dock,a sizzling showers house, at the I-Kew Centre, Council more stunning coastal walk anywhere in the delicious style meals, when phone 6584 9276. until late.home We have a two coursecooked dinner for offices and libraries. and luxury organic toiletries. world.

There really is something for everyone at $30 per The head; Bistro bookings ordered. is essential. open for lunc and See you at Hibbard Sports!

Just needed to talk about the wonderful Tuffins Fields: the tourism industry, along with Come and restore your senses!

Hibbard sports. dinner everyday. Lunch is from 12pm - 2pm Christmas lights that are spread over the Port all the kids and adults that use the sporting Special offer readers of FOCUS …Tuffi Book a is elated that Father Haven andfor Wauchope.

Bingo every Monday and Thursday Macquarie, Camden and dinner from 5pm - 8pm. fields at ns Lane, Port Macquarie 2-night News hasweekend a map which is availbreak in oneDonnelly, of our cabins - from on behalf of the local St Agnes CathMeat Raffels Wednesday and Friday nights.

Hibbard sports club is a family friendly able on their website and can be downloaded olic Parish, has purchased the land in question.

31st January to 1st March - at the special rate of $400 your convenience. Even though at the time club. With a great outdoor but undercover We look forward to seeing you andfor your Port Macquarie-Hasting Council currently (normal price $500). Call Jane on 02 6553 1800 maintain the fields, and they have committed function area why not ask us about you family soon at Hibbard Sports Club.of printing Christmas will be over and we are eagerly waiting for the New Year to come, it to continue this role. is still worth a drive to see the trouble people New Members of Greater Port Macquarie have gone to make our town light up. Talking Tourism Association: a warm welcome to the of New Year’s Eve - check on the December following businesses/people, who have recentversion of What’s Happenings - it is available ly joined our association. Town Beach Beachon www.portmacquarieinfo.com. comber Resort, The Byabarra Café, Bakehouse New Website for Greater Port Macquaand Bar, Wyndham Vacation Resort Flynns rie: the new mobile friendly website Beach, Rosy Black - CSU, Naomi Hunter, Port www.portmacquarieinfo.com was launched on Macquarie Duffy Electric Boat Hire, Overall 15th December at the Billabong Wildlife and Photography and Orion on the Beach.

Koala Park. The information on the website is All of the members of the Greater Port so diverse. It is hard to believe that we have Macquarie Tourism Association are keeping such much to do in our wonderful area. Check the dream alive by contributing to the local it out and see the variety of things to do. economy. Please support their businesses.

Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk: one of the

T

highlights not to be missed for your visitors, or if you are in our area holidaying, is the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk. An easy 1.3 kilometre walk through the rainforest canopy, you’ll see forest birds and animals. Many wonders of the rainforest reside above ground level, so getting up into the canopy is the best way to explore it properly. Rising seven metres through the forest under-storey to the canopy above, Sea Acres Rainforest boardwalk provides the perfect platform from which to experience this busy habitat.

Coastal Walk: another activity not to be missed is the Coastal Walk. The town centre is connected to the majestic lighthouse to the

E ach pro been ind decorated - we sumptuous b linen , TV and wifi, radio an dock , sizzling and luxury o toiletries.”

“

Congratulations to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council on the colourful new signs letting motorists know to Slow Down - Kids Around - It’s Holiday Time. The signs are a great initiative.

ACTIVITIES HAPPENING IN JANUARY 6 -14 January Port Macquarie Golden Lure Tournament www.pmgfc.com.au 8 January “Jazz Goes Country” With the Cedar Creek Band www.bagovineyards.com.au Lots more activities - go to What’s On www.portmacquarieinfo.com greater port macquarie focus. 45

Best Kept Secrets

Players Theatre 2017 Season 2017 Players Theatre season kicks off with the classic Panto Puss In Boots.

Players Theatre are kicking off their 2017 season with the classic pantomime Puss In Boots, directed by Kate Chilvers, which runs from January 13 to 22 and featuring an excellent cast - purrfect entertainment for the school holidays. Our second show of the 2017 season will be the clever comedy Jack the Ripper - The Monster of Whitechapel, directed by Guenter Bieniasch, which will run from March 17 to April 2. Then comes the brilliant musical Into the Woods, directed by Tim Gibbs, followed by the One Act Play Festival. More details to follow regarding the remaining three shows of the 2017 season.

The One Act Play Festival will feature Lesly Stevenson (DAPA on Beaumont, Newcastle) an experienced adjudicator. For a minimal entry fee of $50 per play, you might just win the $1,000 award for Best Production. Many other awards to be won. Friday 9th June 2017 is our official welcome and opening for all participants, officials, adjudicator, and sponsors. Drinks and nibbles, mingling with fellow thespians, sharing aspirations and successes. Our 2017 festival is shaping up to be fantastic.

Make sure you register your interest early. Entry forms are available on our website: www.playerstheatre.org.au Theatre President Sue Morvan is always keen to welcome new members, and don’t forget we have a comprehensive costume hire service, which is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 12:30pm.

46 greater port macquarie focus.

Ken Little’s Wow! Here we are into 2017 already!

Happy New Year to all our valued customers.

We still have a great lot of summer fruits, including peaches, nectarines and plums in the stone fruits. Our green grapes are really delicious and the blueberries from Comboyne are so fresh.

On the vegetable side, we have local beans and the juiciest corn from Telegraph Point. Water spinach and shallots are also from the local area.

Don’t forget we have a great range of local and other products too!

Fresh herbs, honey, nuts, cheeses, yogurts, salad dressing and sauces, just to name a few.

Come in and see us soon. You will always receive a warm welcome.

Regards, Ken.

CREATIVE @GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY

2017 Summer Creative fun activities, workshops and events for all ages.

Visit glasshouse.org.au to find out more.

CRAFT

MASTER CLASSES

WHAT’S HAPPENING: SPROUTS: ART WORKSHOPS FOR KIDS Wednesday 11 January, 11am Saturday 14 January, 11am Wednesday 18 January, 11am Wednesday 25 January, 11am

FIBRE FRIDAYS: WITH RHIANNON SIMMONDS Every Friday in January from 5.30pm - 6.30pm Enjoy some creative craft with cocktails and friends!

WORK SHOPS

101

DRAWING WITH YOUR IPAD: WITH MIC REES

DIGITAL

ART

Saturday 7 January, 10am - 3pm

VIRTUAL REALITY PLAY Tuesday 10 January, 11am - 1pm Tuesday 17 January, 11am - 1pm Tuesday 24 January, 11am - 1pm

LOOK DRAW PRINT WITH JULIE PATERSON Starter class: Saturday 14 January, 9.30am - 4pm Extended class: Saturday 15 January, 9.30am - 4pm

CRAFT & Cocktails

CRAFT SPOT: WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTS Saturday 14 January, 1.30pm

PAINTING MASTERCLASS: WITH MICHAEL CUSACK Saturday 21 January, 9.30am - 4pm

Get Creative Founding Sponsors

Government Sponsors A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

THE ROSS FAMILY

To book: 02 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au greater port macquarie focus. 47

focusinterview

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS minds

MEG & ME

L

usanna and Ant, you are the dynamic duo behind local retail store and espresso bar Meg and Me. Please tell us a little bit about the business and what it offers.

Our business offers discerning customers a complete retail therapy experience. We have worked hard to be at the very top of our game in everything we do. The retail side of our business has expanded to incorporate both Australian and international labels, while still offering our customers a wide variety of price points to choose from. Our espresso bar is simply that - an espresso bar where we focus on delivering an outstanding coffee experience each and every time you visit us.

Can you tell us a little bit about your background and what brought you to Port Macquarie?

Lusanna: I grew up in the small tourist town of Richmond just outside of Hobart. Ever since I can remember, I was always “playing shops” and loved getting to know my pretend customers! I’ve always been quite creative, but also had a keen interest in business and was intrigued by the success of other people around me. One day, about six years ago, I asked Ant if he would “move to the mainland with me for twelve months”… the rest is history!

Ant: I have spent most of my life in Hobart, but was born in Bristol in the UK. Prior to moving to Port I was a courier in Hobart for 10 years and loved getting to know my customers over the years. After agreeing to Lusanna’s 48 greater port macquarie focus.

somewhat crazy suggestion of moving to in Port. Even though we’ve only been here the mainland, I decided that I would consult a relatively short time, we have made some the weather for Port Macquarie on a daily wonderful friends through our customers and basis, with the hope that we would love this also our staff. illusive place whose weather almost always Ant: For me, it’s the people. It’s my regular appeared perfect - needless to say, we weren’t locals and people who visit us from near and disappointed! far that make my job enjoyable and worth What was it that first inspired you to buy waking up at 5am every morning. I get to hear and manage this local business? great stories, meet great people and Initially I was looking for drink great coffee, every single something to do! It became day. clear very quickly that Lusanna, I imagine Ant didn’t have any getting your D o something intentions of returning product offering is e different . Ther e er to Hobart’s cooler right for your th t ou so much variety ere’s climate, so I needed target customer th , to choose from py co to to find something would involve ng no point tryi y ad re al e ar rs to occupy us. After great skill, along what othe , even on gi re ur yo in g spending a year or with a bit of trial doin having if it appears to be two back in real estate and error. Where success.” (which is very different do you turn to in NSW to back in Tassie), get inspiration for I decided that I needed stocking your store? to find another outlet for my I think once I realised that sales and business skills. When the I am never going to get it 100% opportunity to purchase my favourite shop right all of the time, I relaxed with in town came up, how could I say no? it and started following my instinct a bit What is it that you love most about more. Our business plan has always been to running your business? remain true to ourselves and not follow the Lusanna: For me it’s the flexibility that I have latest fad, whether that be in the fashion or the been able to create for myself. Right from the coffee world. I think that building relationships beginning, it was our intention for the business with and getting to know what your customers to be worth having, it must work for us and want is far more important than jumping on not the other way around. I have also loved every trend that appears in print or online, as that running our own business has helped us tempting as that is at times. become part of this fabulous community here What advice would you offer to other

“

people looking to open a retail store or café in a regional area?

Do something different. There is so much variety out there to choose from, there’s no point trying to copy what others are already doing in your region, even if it appears to be having success. Do your research. What does your area need, and does that need fit in with what you are passionate about? Educate yourself. Small business owners need to be across it all, from PR to HR, accounting to marketing, and if there’s something you are not an expert in, pay someone who is. Begin with the end in mind and have a clear vision of where you want your business to take you. Lay down good foundations and work hard to get where you want to be, but enjoy the journey.

Business can be tough, but it should be fun too!

And finally, if you could invite any three business people to lunch, who would they be, and why would you invite them?

David Walsh; Owner of MONA in Tasmania: David Walsh has single handedly put Tassie back on the map and is pushing all the boundaries. We could all learn a thing or two from David Walsh.

Mark Parker; CEO of Nike: Mark’s take home quote resonates with our take on business and life in general “Be a sponge. Curiosity is life.

Assumption is death. Look around.” We try to live by that every day.

Travis Kalanick; founder and CEO of Uber: because WE LOVE UBER! Thanks for your time, Lusanna and Ant!

Best Kept Secrets

Miss Pippi Household organiser As a 20 year local resident and active community member, I have worked with many people. Whilst volunteering at Mingaletta Aged Care, Leisure Link and Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard (to name a few), I identified the need for a service for a caring someone to assist people at their time of need. Whether it be helping busy mums or assisting older people to downsize or relocate into care, Miss Pippi is there when you need her most. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing and hearing the emotion from those I have worked with to help them to organise their lives.

Why Do you Need Miss Pippi?

I work with you to sort out your home, including paperwork, furniture, clothing. The important thing about my service is that I am flexible. If you want flowers at the grave of a loved one or help with anything in your home ... Miss Pippi can do it. One of my special people says she loves my phrase: “We’ll deal with it” - Sheila W, or another: “You are a wonder, Pip” - Tom M.

greater port macquarie focus. 49

Best Kept Secrets

Di Davison is one of many community-minded, hardworking, enterprising and talented locals who have been responsible for restoring the iconic Mrs York’s Garden in Port Macquarie. If you grew up in Port Macquarie through the 1960s and 1970s, you may have fond memories of this beautiful site.

O

thers may not be aware of this gorgeous oasis! The Friends of Mrs York’s Garden and their supporters have donated many hours and materials to re-establish the garden … it’s

well worth a visit!

Hi Di. Mrs York's Garden is an iconic local site - which a surprising number of people (including locals!) aren't even aware of.

What can you tell us about it?

The garden is located at the corner of Grant and Stewart Streets, Port Macquarie, overlooking the bar entrance and Town Beach.

The garden began in 1963 when Bertha (Amy Bertha 1894 - 1971) York decided to cross the road from her residence on the corner of Stewart Street to tame the tangle of kikuya, lantana and other weeds that formed a blight on this beautiful headland location.

Having already achieved a great deal in her working life, in retirement Bertha then set about, using mostly her own labour and money and ignoring the difficulties of the site, to create a beautiful botanical garden, that became a major tourist attraction for our town and which became officially dedicated to her name in 1968.

Following her death in 1971, the area fell in to disrepair, with most of the original garden removed.

A very industrious and enterprising group of volunteers, Friends of Mrs York's Garden,

50 greater port macquarie focus.

have donated a significant number of hours bees. We have officially signed on to close to to help restore the garden to its former glo3,000 hours of work done, but this does not ry. When and why did this group form? include the enormous number of additional hours The Friends formed in February 2015 under Glenys, Bertha’s Granddaughter, and our Site the PMHC Community Volunteer Place Making Supervisor have put in to sourcing and organising Program. This followed discussion the plants, her enormous contribution on the Facebook site “You’re to the preparation of the timber From Port Macquarie if You for our projects, the hours n Remember” ... where older of additional watering by The garden bega rtha residents raised the hope members, particularly in 19 63 when Be ) 94 - 1971 that something could Marg and Pete Thomas, (Amy Bertha 18 oss the cr be done to bring the the time spent at York decide d to de nce si ro ad from her re ewart area back to its former fundraising at BunSt on the corner of tangle of glory. nings sausage sizzles e Street to tame th d other Under the direction and markets, as well an kikuya , lantana ht of a PMHC Ecologist, it ig as the time taken bl a ed rm weeds that fo nd la was determined that the to make our produce ad he ul tif au on this be recreated garden would such as Jenny’s Lemon location.” be planted with the endemButter, craft, crocheted ic littoral rainforest species that and knitted items by Bev, are more sustainable and reflective Gladys and Cath, cakes and slices of the original vegetation found along by everyone, the PR, grant applications the East Coast of Australia - an ecosystem and admin work that I have been involved that will benefit the native plants and animals with … We certainly do have a wonderful, and form a connecting pocket with the Gondcommitted and hardworking group! wana remnant at Sea Acres.

Describe some of the work volunteers had to Roughly how many members does the group do to restore the garden. have ... and if you had to estimate, how Initially we removed weeds and grasses, before many hours' work do you think members terracing the steep banks to allow a safe working have provided to the garden? environment and to retain the soil and moisture.

We have 24 members, with 10 - 12 regulars We then mulched and planted the banks. attending our Wednesday morning working We continue to prepare and plant new areas

“

whilst watering, weeding and mulching planted areas. We have also worked hard in helping prepare and construct the structures and facilities we have added to the garden.

What are some of your favourite features of the garden now so much work has been completed?

I love the surprises that the native plants are giving us. Initially many residents were disappointed that we were not replanting the exotics and popular plantings of the original “floral reserve”. We hoped to show that we could still have a lovely colourful garden, with most of our plantings being examples of native bush tucker with flowers, berries and different grasses that are bee and butterfly attracting and great for the birds.

Our signature flower is the lovely pink native lasiandra (melostoma affine) that we have planted a lot of in the garden. There’s the glorious purple berries of the dianella, the stunning white swamp lillies, gorgeous flowers on the native hibiscus, the purple flush of the hardenbergia and those stunning coastal headland plantings of the yellow Diamond Head paper daisies and the scaevola … We hope that residents will see their beauty and decide to use them in their gardens too. I know I have!

I also love how we have provided a safe, attractive place for people to come back to and stay and enjoy, rather than just walking through.

For Bertha, her greatest pleasure was to provide

Best Kept Secrets

“

We are a community group established for Mrs York’s Garden, so have long term and sole commitment to the beautification and maintenance of this area.”

I can’ t forget that of on our first day , en rd ga clearing at the e on st e th d re we uncove d te na seat originally do aterfall W e th to ta uo

by Q at has Garden. That se of a s cu fo e become th ve that co al tle lit ul beautif ce ac ss .” all abilities can

“ a place for people to come and enjoy and take solace when needed. Her garden contained water features and ponds, the windmill driven waterfall, a lattice gazebo and seats. We very much wanted to achieve this too.

Our boat-themed picnic shelter created with the help of the Maritime Museum Slipways Hibbard boat builders and using all local timbers brings together many aspects of our early history, as the ships carrying the timbers came through the bar. It is a really very special feature that many members of the community are now enjoying.

I can’forget that on our first day of clearing at the garden, we uncovered the stone seat originally donated by Quota to the Waterfall Garden.

That seat has become the focus of a beautiful little alcove that all abilities can access.

Whom would you like to acknowledge for their efforts in restoring the garden?

We really are so indebted to locals Bob and Evelyne Lynch, who just over a year ago donated $5,000, which gave us a huge boost to keep going and enabled us to construct the steps. The March Family (Gwen, Bob, Lyn, Keith and Bruce and their families) also donated $5,000, plus the construction of the shelter by Keith's Construction Company, $2,000 donated by Jim Pearson will be used early next year for a low boardwalk over the wet area, and two Place Making Grants from PMHC have allowed us to put in the all abilities pathway to the Quota seat and more recently the entry sign, log seating and other signage.

We are enormously indebted to the Maritime Museum Slipways Boatbuilders (Hibbard) who have provided the skill, expertise, machinery and equipment that has enabled us to provide such beautiful, authentic structures to the garden, using seven different local timbers. In particular we thank Ron Window, who has liaised with us and used much of his own personal time, equipment and timber.

Malcolm McNeill has donated his own time to complete the plans for the steps and shelter for us and provide his expertise and knowledge. We cannot thank him enough.

All contractors have been wonderful to work with and have reduced their costs to help us achieve our vision. We thank Luke Seears Concreters, Cooper’s Mill Telegraph Point, Peter Berecry the Tree Fella (mulch), Grow Lush (soil), Norm Delaforce the Backhoe man, Bennett Steel, Peter Barlett (shelter roof), and donations from Bluedale Nursery, Macleay Valley Nursery and SNAP printing.

Thank you Jeff Walsh for lending us a sander and popping in to help out on a few jobs. Thank you Lance Pearson for always being there for the big jobs.

Last but not least, is Rebecca Doblo, Landscape Architect for PMHC. Her support and commitment to helping us has been critical to

our progress, and her willingness to listen to our vision is much appreciated.

The Friends of Mrs York's Garden held a celebration in November to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved. What was the feedback you received at the event - particularly from any of Mrs York's descendants?

The feedback received from the community, from visitors and through social media has been overwhelmingly positive, although some local residents initially had some concerns. Bertha’s family have been extremely supportive right from the start, and it is so special to have Glenys as our site supervisor.

In November 2015 we had four of Bertha’s grandchildren and some of their families present at the unveiling of the sign they donated. Three of those grandchildren came to our recent event, where Bertha’s daughter Shirley (now in her 90s) donated $5,000 for us to continue our work.

What will happen now that major works at the garden have been completed ... who will be responsible for ongoing maintenance and the upkeep of the site?

Ha ha … we have achieved a great deal, but there is still a lot to be done! We have commenced working in the waterfall area to recreate something special there, there’s further planting

along Stewart St, there is the boardwalk over the wet area, possibly some natural walking tracks and some regeneration of the bushland area towards Gaol Point. All of these were approved by PMHC in our Future Projects Plan in March 2015.

This is a secret still unravelling!

We are a community group established for Mrs York’s Garden, so have long term and sole commitment to the beautification and maintenance of this area. We are engaging younger school students in the project and will look towards broadening our membership in 2016 and possibly the option of a Saturday monthly working bee that would allow others to become involved. We are working closely with PMHC, but hope that the community will never stand by and see this area become an eyesore again.

Final say …

It’s a really rewarding and positive project to be working on, with a wonderful group of people who love coming to the garden to work and enjoy the friendships. It’s a real meeting point for people coming back to town for a visit to catch up, and it’s a place where we love having visitors to come and join us for a cuppa at the end of our Wednesday working bees.

Ring 0439 853 835 for further information re membership or becoming a sponsor and check out our Facebook site: Friends of Mrs York’s Garden.

Thanks Di. Interview by Jo Robinson.

Note: Photo bottom right is an old postcard of Mrs York’s Garden. greater port macquarie focus. 51

in Greater Port Macquarie Black Duck Brewery

Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding

Come down and relax at the brewery.

Enjoy some cool tunes, some craft beer on tap and local produce and nibbles.

We’re open 7 DAYS; bookings essential.

Phone 6587 5227 web: www.bellrowanvalley.com.au

Why would you be anywhere else?

Our cellar door hours are:

n Take to the hills and explore the hinterland, a great Aussie bush experience

n Wednesday to Friday 11 'til 6, n Saturday and Sunday 11 'til 4. n Other times you are welcome by appointment.

Call Al on: 0407 874 474 Address: 6b Acacia Ave, Port Macquarie.

Black Duck BREWERY

TRAIL RIDES AND TREKS

& BAR

Jetfighter

Majestic Cinemas

FEEL THE NEED FOR SPEED

Movies Come Alive in Port Macquarie n New Screens n New Foyer n New Candy Bar

Become a Top Gun Pilot for a day.

Our Pilots are standing by to escort you on the adventure of a lifetime in the Albatros L-39C.

This is the ultimate adrenaline experience.

Fly in an ex-military fighter jet with manoeuvres tailored to your needs from mild to wild.

Prices start from $1400.00 Choose your Mission: Web: www.jetfighter.com.au Phone: 1300 727 700 Email: broni@jetfighter.com.au

web: www.hydrogolf.com.au phone: (02) 6583 3200 Boundary St, Port Macquarie.

Open 7 Days

Join us on Facebook!

Phone: 6583 8400 Web: majesticcinemas.com.au

n Awesome ocean thrill rides n Ride on Waver Rider ,Port Macquarie's newest custom built boat n The smoothest and most comfortable seats in town.

Cut me out

n Whale Watching ( May to November ) n Jet Ski Hire and Exclusive Jet Ski Park PMS 293C

n No License Required

Buy 2 buckets of balls (value $17) and receive your 3RD BUCKET FREE. not to be used with any other offers

Fastest

portjet

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Hydro Golf & Putt-Putt

Join the Movie Club for great discounts!

Majestic Cinema's Select Series showcases a range of high quality content to engage the discerning audience. Hand picked for excellence.

We can make your dreams come true.

52 greater port macquarie focus.

n Daily 1hr & 2hr Trail Rides, 2 Day Pub Ride, Overnight Packages, 3 Day Trek n Beginners to experienced riders from 5yrs+ n Small groups with experienced &friendly guides n Shady, picturesque forest trails, abundant wildlife n Easy scenic 30 min drive from Port Macquarie n Happy, quiet, healthy horses; the best!

n 10% off your second adventure with Port Jet Phone: 6583 8811 Mobile: 0419 620 765 Address: Cnr of Town Green & Short Street, Port Macquarie www.portjet.com.au

Follow the yellow boat

PH. 6583 8811 Mob. 0419 620 765 Cnr of Town

+MOREschool

MORE

2012

+

Bellrowan Valley Port Macquarie Horse Riding Seaplanes

We’re open 7 DAYS, FABULOUS SCENIC FLIGHTS and bookings are essential. n Charter n Pilot Training n Whale Watching Phone 6587 5227 Passionate and professional, our Chief web: www.bellrowanvalley.com.au Pilot Judy Hodge has been flying seaplanes ■ DailyPort 1 & 2Macquarie hr Trail Rides.

Pub eight Ride 2years.

Days around for over ■ Tuition before andfor during every ride There’s no substitute experience!

With space for 3 horses, adult passengers equivalent ■ Quality beautiful(or scenery and weight), wing and a First Class& friendlyhigh guides ■ visibility Freshly baked damper window seat for everybody, our Cessna 182 refreshments after every ride. seaplane is without doubt the way to get a “high” on what Port Macquarie has to offer and discover our exquisite coastline.

1 Short Street, Port Macquarie Call Judy on 0404 684 212 Email: info@portmacquarieseaplanes.com.au TRAIL RIDES AND TREKS Web: www.portmacquarieseaplanes.com.au

Skirmish Bago Vineyards Down Under & InBago Maze addition to our paintball we now Takeoffer time Predator out to visitLaser.

BagoThis Vineyards, a tech is a high unique and exclusive pleasant experience offering a system in Australia to Skirmish diverse range of activities for all Down Under.

This is the perfect Party for Cellarnot Door, n Enjoy wine players tasting in younger orthe anyone ready to enjoy a local platter on theItpergola take the cheese step into paintball. is played overlooking the vineyards surrounds in the bush using the & same paintball scenarios but without the projectile. in the Vineyards – n Join us for Jazz FANTASTIC FUN,Sunday KIDS JUST Sunday 8th Jan and 12th LOVE Feb IT!!!

■ 7 DAYS ALL OCCASIONS n Explore and ■ lose yourself within the Bago Maze, the largest hedge maze in NSW ■ INDIVIDUALS WELCOME ■ ESTABLISHED Phone: 6585 7099 1993

■ PERFECT RECORD Open: daily untilSAFETY 5pm Address: Bago Vineyards, Bago Rd, Wauchope Phone: 1300 822 222. facebook: ‘Skirmish Down Under’ www.bagovineyards.com.au Check out our facebook page for monthlyWeb: specials, competitions and events web: www.skirmishdownunder.com.au

Centre of Gravity

Centre of Gravity Indoor Rock Indoor Rock Climbing & Dark Zone Laser Climbing & Tag Dark Over 70 different climbs to Zone Laser choose from plus our two storey laser tag arena. All

Over 703diff erent climbs today choose from for ages & up.

Open every during From ages 3Contact and up us to find out about the holidays.

Saturday NIGHTS - unlimited climbing and specials!! laser 7-10pm For more info: 6581 3899 Dark zone laser = IMMENSELY FUN! www.centreofgravity.com.au

Soul Surfing We make surfing easy, fun and unforgettable

Coastal Skydivers n Small groups or private lessons

n Kick start your surfing from $50

■ Jumps from 10,000 feet n Qualified and friendly instructors ■ Spectacular views of the coast n All equipment supplied, including ■ Tandems & freefall courses board hire phone: 0428 471 227 n Lots of support and encouragement web: www.coastalskydivers.com n 100% guaranteed FUN! email: jumpportmac@bigpond.com Phone: 6582 0114 Email: corey@soulsurfing.com.au Web: www.soulsurfing.com.au

52 Jindalee Port Macquarie For more Rd, info: 6581 3899

www.centreofgravity.com.au 52 Jindalee Rd, Port Macquarie

Terminal Cruise Terminal Cruise Dolphin Research Australia Inc.’s DIVE IN!

Free Boom Net Rides

Hydro Golf & Putt-Putt

The best of contemporary and vintage river n LEARN n CREATE n HAVE FUN n ON THE RIVER PRINCESS cruises. Our large, fast, modern cruiser this Summer! Presented by the has three decks and plenty of space to Marine Education School Holiday Program is coming to Port Macquarie web: www.hydrogolf.com.au move around. Choose from one of ourDolphin Research Australia Inc. and The Cruise Terminal Team. phone: 02welcome 6583 3200 10th and 12th January 2017. Suitable for ages 6-11yrs. Parents and guardians to join. river cruises: Bush BBQ, Eco History Cruise, Boundary St, Port Macquarie Family Fun twilight Cruise.

Cost: $40/person. Includes Learning session Craft, Boom-netting PLUS lunch Open 7 Days Our beautiful authentic Chinese Junk has Bookings & Enquiries river trips every day on the Hastings River.

Email: cruises@cruiseterminal.com.au Be lulled on one of our two hour trips – Ph: 1300 795 577 either a tasty fish & chip lunch cruise or a For more information about the program: www.dolphinresearchaustralia.com yummy morning tea.

Sunset cruises also available, and someBEST BOATS, BEST CRUISES, BEST PRICES. dolphin spotting on all cruises!

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

PRICES.

Cut me out

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

3x

bu uck ketss off ba alls for orr the pric ce of 2. not to be used with any other offers greater port macquarie focus. 53

greater port macquarie focus 53

focus_editorial with Robyn Buttler

WELCOME TO 2017 Welcome to 2017, for everyone in the Hastings and visitors to this beautiful part of Australia. Hope your Christmas was special and happy and there weren't too many donnybrooks amongst the family … Ha Ha!

A

GEING CAN BE INTERESTING! I celebrate a special “biggy” birthday this month that has affected me more than most milestones … UNTIL … before Christmas I walked in the door of Aldi’s (after showering and putting perfume on - relevant to the story) looking at the teabags, when three high school boys aged about 14 walked in and walked passed me, and one of them said, ”Oh, I love that smell!” I turned around and said, “That’s me!” He walked up to me and said, “Oh, yes,” and continued with, “I just love old people that smell nice”… His two friends ran off like scalded cats, but he remained and said, “If I was a little boy and you were my mother, I would never run off, because you smell so nice” ... then joined his very embarrassed friends.

Two ladies nearby were listening to all the goings on, and one approached me and said, “That was a back handed compliment!” To which I replied, “No, it was lovely, because when you think about it, at 14, 30 is old.” She agreed! I know what you must be thinking, but the young man just said what he thought, and to me this is “unusual” in this day and age, but very refreshing ... I am still smiling!

DOUGLAS VALE HISTORIC HOMESTEAD AND VINEYARD I know I am always giving a plug to this place, only because it is the best!

For visitors reading this, you may find it interesting to note it is the last completely volunteer run vineyard in Australia. I call 54 greater port macquarie focus.

it Port Macquarie’s oasis. I have actually spoken to people who have lived here for years and didn’t know it existed. They are always after new “recruits” to keep the place spick and span with gardening, mowing, cooking etc. They are open all weekend and Wednesdays ('til 3 o’clock) ... On the Oxley Highway, next door to Westport High School. I nearly forgot to promote the function I was asked to do because of my ”bragging”!

OPEN DAY: Saturday 21st January 2017, 9:30am to 2ish. Morning tea, Treasure Trove, BBQ, tours, wine tasting, and great entertainment by local groups and individuals … Only a gold coin donation. Ask for Brian if you would like to become a volunteer - you give back to the community, plus make some nice new friends.

SNIPPETS 1. An elderly lady rang me and complained about having a pizza voucher for $7.95 and when asked for the code, apparently it was that price for their app only; otherwise, if she didn’t have the app, it would cost $12.95. She said to the young fellow, "But I have you here now, so what is the difference?" He said, "It is a promotional voucher." How many elderly people in Port even know what an app is? (Maybe I am wrong!) But, she was so furious, she rang another pizza joint. Didn’t need an app, or voucher ... told them the story, so they made her two beautiful pizzas for a really good price. I don’t understand apps either, but a $5 difference is abit heavy on the

“anchovies”... well, pocket!

2. There is one person I would love to meet, and that is Maggie Beer. Love her persona and her “yummy food”. I had the occasion to ring Maggie’s office, as one of her products I tried didn’t come up to my expectations. To my surprise, a week later I received a hand written letter from one of Maggie’s staff, with a little bonus included. What class this woman has, and great PR too boot.

3. If you are in town on Friday 27th January 2017 at 12:30pm, Adam Bishop and an “ageing singer” (Magic2GetheR) will be performing a free concert at the Glasshouse in The Ross Family Room for one hour … All welcome!

4. It is sad when you think you have acquired a lovely apartment off the plans overlooking Town Beach, and then after weeks waiting for the contract, receiving the contract, and an email arrives a couple of days later informing you: "So sorry; we didn’t realise that someone else had ‘SOLD' that apartment to another client and the contracts have been exchanged, but we can offer you another one for $30,000 less …"

May 2017 be a much better year than the last - wasn’t it a corker? Numerology wise, it is new beginnings.

Remember: You cannot always have happiness, but you can always give happiness!

Happy New Year, everyone, from the recycled teenager! Keep smiling!

KOALA & WILDLIFE PARK

PORT MACQUARIE, NSW

YH HW WY Y-- B XLLEEY O OX B5566

WAUCHOPE WAUCHOPE 10 10 mins mins SYDNEY SYDNEY

BRISBANE BRISBANE JOH

BI

NN BBOO A A LLLL

A1

BILLABONG ZOO DRR G GD

PACIFIC HWY

KOALA & WILDLIFE PARK

NN

DRR YY D LLEE X X O O

PORT PORT MACQUARIE MACQUARIE 10 10 mins mins

O OX XLLEEY YH HW WY Y

-- B B5566

greater port macquarie focus. 55

focusinterview.

Bisko is a dog who’s travelled further than many of his canine friends – all the way from Greece, in fact! He’s also not frightened to compete in

the odd marathon to keep fit, and you can regularly see him running 5 km at parkrun most Saturday mornings in Port Macquarie. Bisko is one of the local Godson family members … his dad, Lloyd, is well known to many as both an aquanaught and teacher . i Bisko. What's your full name, and what does it mean?

Biskotouli Godson.

My nephew, Lorenzo, named me after a Greek children’s book that he loved. It means little sweet biscuit. I have about 50 other nicknames, and I respond to all of them - when it’s convenient.

How and when did you become a part of the family?

It was nearly nine years ago now. I was a little puppy, lying next to my sick mother on a mountain somewhere behind Athens, in Greece.

I was found by two dog-loving ladies, who 56 greater port macquarie focus.

promised me a good home. They stuck a picture of me on a telegraph pole, and a few days later I met my new family. It was love at first sight.

That same day, we moved into a home by the sea and started a new life together. I knew they were never going to abandon me; I could see it in their eyes.

How did you discover that you were actually very sporty and enjoyed a good run and swim?

Daddy Lloyd started running with me from day one! At first the distances were short, and he would end up carrying me home.

Before too long I was covering distances of 50 km in the Greek countryside and climbing some of the highest peaks! Mum and Dad are both

runners. They once ran a marathon to raise I dedicated my medal to all the strays in money for a dog shelter in Greece, which the world who deserve a second chance.

I thought was pretty nice of them.

I’ve also completed an Aquathlon Swimming came later for (swim and run). My dad me, despite living so close doesn’t like to talk about y, to the Mediterranean Sea. this race very much, da e That sam to in What are some of because I actually beat ed ov we m a se e the events you have th him out of the water. I by a home life w ne a d te taken part in, and did wait for him on the ar st and they ew kn I . er what were your beach though. th ge to g to results?

They classify me as a were never goin uld see abandon me; I co My highlight was senior these days, so I it in their eyes .” the Athens Classic stick to parkrun (5 km).

Marathon! As far as I Describe your know, I am the only dog personality and what you to have run this 42 km event. mean to your family.

My time was 3hrs:50minutes, but I I’m a pretty easygoing and loyal could have run it faster if it wasn’t for Dad type of guy. Being bilingual, I understand slowing me down. the word “walk”, and its synonyms, even Entering the Panathenaic Stadium and when they are spelled out in either Greek or hearing thousands of people cheering for me English. was one of the best moments in my life. A race When I was younger, I used to steal Daddy official tried to block me from entering, but the Lloyd’s running shoes and take them outside crowd went crazy. whenever I wanted to go for a run.

“

I love kids. My family is my everything, and I feel I am pretty important to them too. I sleep next to a young boy, Oliver, every night and he gives me so much love.

Some days, like when I run along Lighthouse Beach sampling people’s freshly caught fish, I have to stop and ask myself, “How did this Greek stray get to be here?” I must be one of the luckiest dogs alive.

Are we able to follow your achievements, or read more about you?

My family have made a photo book about me and I have featured in several magazine and internet articles. My mum, who’s a Vet Nurse, has recently started a Facebook page about my life, so she can raise awareness about adopting dogs, pet therapy and the best spots to rub us.

Look me up at @Biskotouli What is your vision for dogkind?

I dream of a future where dogs are encouraged in hospitals, schools and nursing homes as a means of therapy. Research shows that dogs can improve people’s social, emotional and mental wellbeing. I have seen the calming effect I have on people with my own eyes.

Thanks Bisko.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

greater port macquarie focus. 57

58 greater port macquarie focus.

focus _Travel

A

with Robyn Buttler with Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

BEST BED INTHE BUSINESS

new 5-star Sydney hotel has stolen its elan from Singapore’s hip hospitality vibe with cutting-edge design that recalibrates the way we regard and what we expect of on-the-go accommodation in the NSW capital.

What’s more, its location and room rates defy the city’s top CBD hotels, daring them to match the fuzzy feeling its genuine warm welcome and personal attention evoke. It’s Pullman Sydney Airport, brand spanking new six months ago and likely to become a kind of “my city club” for country visitors to town.

The Pullman draws you into its vast mutetoned marble lobby, defined by clean vertical and horizontal geometrics and soaring two-storeytall double-glazed windows. Sofas in the wide, uncluttered reception area are slashed sharp on the square, the overall ambience minimalist, unfussy, smooth, soothing. At check-in desks, baskets of help-yourself fresh green apples offer low-key confirmation your patronage is valued here, and accurately predict your spotless, crisp guest room.

Yet ... can you be seeing things? Across the foyer a big bright green dog sits solemnly between the staircase and the bar as if contemplating: “Shall I order an Aperol Punch or the Snoop Dogg gin & juice?” This quirky sculpture of Dogman joins another, of his partner, high-gloss red Rabbitwoman, lurking next to the lifts, and a formidable 2m bronze Dogman near the front doors. Art aficionados will recognise the cult figures, rendered in bronze, fibreglass and resin iterations, as Sydney’s trendiest sculptures, a statement that guests can expect a quirky, cool hotel. And so it is when I slip into my 13th floor room, fortified with full-height soundproof windows, and discover an architect’s nirvana of glass-fronted wardrobes, craze-pattern carpet and matching smoky room divider, timber-size floor tiles twinned with timber-look wall panels, a wide-winged armchair and luxurious freestanding bathtub. My king bed’s superb and the shower’s heaven: both rainfall and hand-held massage heads with good strong water flow.

My favourite touch: a generous magnifying make-up/shaving mirror, handily located, perfectly illuminated – a rare appointment! Small things, too, indicate respect for the guest: good quality

tea/coffee bags and “amenities” (as the industry quaintly calls in-room shampoos and bath gel) that are actually usable (in pliant tubes that avoid the irritating need to thrash tiny containers to give up their contents.) It all creates a terrific, complacent, feel-good sense: the ideal state of mind for departing, or arriving, passengers; an impeccable experience.

It’s no secret reaching Sydney Airport, domestic or international, from the city or indeed anywhere beyond, is an unreliable expensive quest at best, usually a scramble and with high potential for missed flights. For any significant travel, overnighting at an airport hotel is smart strategy; the Pullman’s the only five-star property here.

With rates from $229b&b it beats the cost and distance of CBD hotels in the $400+ bracket (and offers excellent, far more accessible undercover parking at $30pn). So use it also on arrival back from a long journey and during Sydney visits: it’s close to major summer attractions. Open Air Cinema at Mrs Macquarie’s Point, from Sat Jan 7; Sydney Festival incl Symphony under the Stars (Sat Jan 14) and Opera (Sat Jan 21) in the Domain; Rugby 7s Fri 3-Sun 5 Feb.

Pullman: 600m from domestic and 3km/international terminals; 191 O’Riordan St, Mascot; tel: 8398 4600; Mobius (change the name, it sounds medical!) Bar & Grill; 24hr room service, reception and gym/ fitness facilities; laundry/valet service; top connectivity; $7 airport shuttle (but allow extra time: it’s independently operated). NB: Travelling from the city via O’Riordan St, a GPS may fail to note a median strip blocking right-hand turns into Pullman, so use the airport freeway (M1/Southern Cross Drive). Coming from the airport it’s an easy left-hand turn in.

greater port macquarie focus. 59

ALL IMAGERY COURTESY OF MERAKI PHOTOGRAPHY

Sails Resort has a little secret...the most stylish and unique venue on the North Coast is now available for special event bookings.

The Pavilion is the newest addition in

retractable all weather awning filled with

the 15 million dollar refurbishment of the

tiny fairy lights perfect for your wedding,

resort.

corporate or special event.

Situated on the north western face of the

The venue including he courtyard and

resort with lush formal gardens leading

gardens is complete with sound and AV

to the edge of the bay. The Hamptons

system perfect for presentations, live

inspired Pavilion features a chapel to seat

music and playlists.

60 guests with verandas for a further 100

Locals can join us in the Pavilion over the

guests with capability to entertain up to 450 guests in the surrounding undercover courtyard and private gardens.

holiday break for the Sails Resort Summer Series with our Deck Chair Movie Nights in the Pavilion with Garden Bar at 5:30pm

Enjoy the lush surrounds and views across

till late every Friday evening in January

the water as you enjoy a champagne

perfect for the whole family. Or if you

or chilled beer from the garden bar.

are looking to chill waterside and enjoy

Ideal for live music, post conference

with a glass of vino and a delicious tapas

entertainment, seated dinners for

plate and some chillaxed beats from Ollie

up to 120, creative breakout spaces,

Broke and Andrew Stark with our Garden

art exhibitions, live performances,

Bar Grooves on Sunday January 11 from

celebrations and retreats.

2:00pm till late.

The venue has already been utilised for

This much sought after venue is taking

stunning water and garden weddings, birthday celebrations, product launches and Christmas parties.

bookings for 2017 and 2018. email functions_sailsportmacquarie@evt.com or visit us at www.sailsresort.com.au to

The courtyard area now features a

download our wedding, conference and

stunning water feature and a fully

special event packages.

W E D D I N G S • B I R T H D AY S • L A U N C H E S • S P E C I A L E V E N T S

What’s On

New all weather awning

SUMMER 2017

DECK CHAIR MOVIES IN THE PAVILION

DECK CHAIR MOVIES IN THE PAVILION

AUSTRALIA DAY POOL PARTY 2017

Friday 06 January from 5:30pm

Friday 13 January from 5:30pm

Thursday 26 January / noon – 6:00pm

Garden Bar, kids’ and snack menu from 5:30pm ‘til late.

Movie screens at Sundown Cost Free Entry.

Movie - The Secret Life of Pets

Garden Bar, kids’ and snack menu from 5:30pm ‘til late.

Movie screens at Sundown Cost Free Entry.

Movie – Monsters Inc

Live Tunes from Jackson James Trio. $1 Oysters, Pool Bar & Menu Family Friendly Event. Free Entry

GARDEN BAR GROOVES

DECK CHAIR MOVIES IN THE PAVILION

DECK CHAIR MOVIES IN THE PAVILION

WITH DJS OLLIE BROOKE & ANDREW STARK

Friday 20 January from 5:30pm

Friday 27 January from 5:30pm

Sunday 15 January 2017 / 2:00pm – 8:00pm

Garden Bar, kids’ and snack menu from 5:30pm till late.

Movie screens at Sundown Cost Free Entry.

Movie – Jurassic Park

Garden Bar, kids’ and snack menu from 5:30pm ‘til late.

Movie screens at Sundown Cost Free Entry. Movie – Frozen

Smooth tunes in the Garden Bar & Pavilion from 2:00pm.

Pimm’s & Lemonade Jugs / Tapas. Cost Free Entry

20 Park Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 I Phone 02 6589 5100 I www.sailsresort.com.au

shine this summer with colonial cobbler The easiest way to add an extra spring to your step: wear shoes that have some built-in shimmer. Whether you prefer silver or gold, Colonial Cobbler has an amazing range of shiny shoes to slip into this season.

Whether you are after high quality heels to complement a certain outfit, a pair of cute summer sandals or comfortable walking shoes, summer is a great time to have fun with your footwear and embrace the splashes of metallic and neutral tones that will add an extra layer of style to any outfit.

Gold and Silver are considered neutrals; metallics go with any colour outfit and are your best go-to neutral. While black can be harsh, white tacky and brown too earthy, soft gold or soft silver is perfect.

Metallics look rich and elegant; no matter how summery and chic you look in stylish

shorts or a sundress, you will always feel more elegant wearing metallic shoes. They add that touch of class.

‘Tis the season to make a statement with

you have

trusted brands such as Easy Steps, Ziera, ECCO, Sandler and more.

Pierre Cardin continues to accessorise

HOME NURSING GROUP

beautifully, with leather handbags and clutches in statement colours. You will love the feel of the leather textures in the Pierre Cardin range.

We have got the ultimate shoes for your perusal, whether you need that extra pair of comfy casuals for your holiday or the back to work basic for your return home, take the time to call in and say hi at the same time.

We look forward to seeing you soon at the Colonial Cobbler.

B

e where you want to be We all want to stay at home, enjoying our quality of life, and being surrounded by the people we love, for as long as possible. Home Nursing Group is passionate about helping you be where you want to be.

You have a choice Staying in your own home for longer 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.

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.

Services from as low as $15/hour Even if you are currently waiting for a package, Home Nursing Group offers other home care services from as little as $15/hour. Home Nursing Group can even offer you support with understanding the new system, including how to get an assessment and a place in the national queue.

Home Nursing Group can often more provide you with value r tte be d an t suppor ey take th nd A . ey on for m – Home ng hi care of everyt team will Nursing Group’s ces and make your choi decisions easy..”

“

A new national system is being introduced, called the “national queue”.

Once you are allocated home care package services, you decide and control which organisation you prefer to deliver your care and support.

Exceptional care in your home Since 1985, Home Nursing Group has been delivering exceptional home care.

We are fortunate that our community is served by an organisation dedicated to helping you live safe, healthy and happy lives in your own home for as long as possible.

Locally-owned and operated, Home Nursing Group is a full-service, high-quality provider.

They employ all their own staff, who receive on-going training and support. Home Nursing Group 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.

They are backed by industry leading intake, coordination and clinical teams in local offices 62 greater port macquarie focus.

across our 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!

Making choices and having control Almost all Home Nursing Group clients are eligible for Commonwealth support for their care costs. Home Nursing Group has low administration fees, and no hidden “exit fees”.

Home Nursing Group is currently offering free, no-obligation service reviews so you can learn how they compare with your current provider.

You can ask them about anything: how many Registered Nurses they employ, the skills of their worker and their ability to offer you peace of mind for all your care needs.

Home Nursing Group can often provide you with more support and better value for money.

And they take care of everything – Home Nursing Group’s team will make your choices and decisions easy.

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.

focus_interview

with Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

I

LEARN TO SWIM INSTRUCTOR AND POOL COORDINATOR

n our beautiful region, full of stunning coastline and with classes, including Junior and Senior Swim Squads, beaches, tranquil rivers and backyard pools, water Aquarobics, Learn to Swim programs, Adult Classes, School safety is incredibly important for kids and adults alike.

Classes and Carnivals and the occasional birthday party to At the busy Port Macquarie Pool, Swimwell Learn to juggle.

Swim Instructor and part-time Pool Coordinator Julie “The most challenging part of my job is teaching adults Davis teaches people of all ages the lifesaving skill of to swim, and addressing their fears and frustrations. It’s a swimming. very gradual process and requires a great deal of Originally from West London in the UK, encouragement. At the same time, it is also Julie moved with her husband and three very rewarding - and sometimes emotional daughters to Australia in 2003, after - when an adult swims five metres on deciding on a complete lifestyle their own for the first time,” Julie said. change.

Julie’s love for the water continues k It’s great to wor “We initially planned to move into her life outside of work, t en in an environm to Melbourne, but after a holiday including walking their dog along n ca e w y where every da d to Port Macquarie, we decided Lighthouse Beach, stand-up paddle ul co ch hi teach a skill w e th to move to the coast to enjoy the boarding out in the waves, or ve sa lp he potentially t.” ul outdoors, relaxing beaches and a enjoying a book on the sand. ad or ild ch life of a safe place for the girls to grow up.

“I love travelling to different We were going to stay for two years, places and visiting family in the UK. and we’re still here,” Julie said.

In 10 years’ time I hope to be doing Having been a competitive swimmer more travel while still teaching swimming, at the national level when she was younger, hopefully with fewer early mornings swimming has always been a large part of Julie’s though!” life. After arriving in Australia, Julie became qualified Wednesday is Julie’s favourite day of the week, with an Austswim Teacher of Swimming and Water when she teaches her beginner group of students between Safety Course, a Preschool Licence and as an Austswim the ages of four and nine how to swim.

Assessor, which allows her to train and assess new instructors.

“I can’t stress how important it is for parents to make water “I loved the hands-on approach to learning to swim here in safety a priority for their children and themselves. It is such a Australia compared to the UK. To be an instructor you need to vital skill, given where we live. be friendly, patient, have great communication skills, a sense “From infants to adults, the ability to swim lasts a lifetime of humour and definitely enjoy working with children.” and can lead to fun, smiles and lots of laughs. You’re never With the pool opening at 5:30am, the days are jam-packed too old to learn!”

“

5.30am

Open the pool and check the diary for the day ahead

6.00am

Have a cup of tea while checking squad attendance and administration

6.45am

Attendance for Surf Squad

7.30am

Attendance for Aquarobics

7.45am

Prepare breakfast for Squad children and myself

9.00am

Preschool Classes

11.00am

Parent and Bubs Classes

3.30pm Learn to Swim lessons and Junior and Senior Squad attendance 6.00pm

Adult Learn to Swim Classes

7.00pm

Close the pool, home to dinner and bed

greater port macquarie focus. 63

WELLBEING

BY T H E CA NC E R COU NC I L

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

SKIN safety

leaves NSW red-faced NATIONAL SKIN CANCER ACTION WEEK PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON SUN PROTECTION

C

ancer Council research shows fewer NSW adults are using hats to protect themselves from the sun and getting sunburnt on their face, head, ears and nose as a result.

The data from Cancer Council’s National Sun Protection Survey reveals that just 42 per cent of NSW adults wear a hat when exposed to UV on summer weekends, down from 47 per cent in 2003.

Tim Chapman at Cancer Council NSW Lower Mid North Coast said that with 237 people in Lower Mid North Coast expected to be diagnosed with melanoma this year, and 24 deaths expected, the results show that too few adults in NSW are understanding the importance of a combination of sun protection measures.

“A five per cent drop in hat usage over the past ten years may sound small, but any downward trend is a concern. This latest decrease shows that more than 240,000 people in NSW have stopped wearing a hat to protect themselves when exposed to UV on weekends.

“Fewer than one in five adults in NSW used three or more sun protection measures during summer, which is a real worry given the prevalence of skin cancer in NSW and across Australia,” continued Tim Chapman.

“Yet most skin cancers are preventable by the use of comprehensive sun protection. There can be a tendency for many Lower Mid North Coast adults to slop on some sunscreen and think they are protected all day long. But sunscreen isn’t a suit of armour. It should be your last line of defence - a hat, clothing, sunglasses and shade are also key to protecting your skin. ” The data also showed some worrying trends

64 greater port macquarie focus.

indicating that the lack of broad-brimmed hats was translating to the places on the body where people across Australia are sunburnt.

“The national research also shows that the face, head, nose, or ears are the most common places on the body that Australians get sunburnt, alongside the arms and hands,” Tim Chapman said.

“There’s no doubt that by neglecting a range of sun protection measures, including slapping on a broad-brimmed hat, all Aussies are putting themselves at risk of a potentially deadly skin cancer.”

Australasian College of Dermatologists' President, Associate Professor Chris Baker, said that dermatologists regularly treated skin cancers that could have been easily prevented through proper sun protection.

“Dermatologists see a lot of skin cancers on the face, ears, head and neck,” Associate Professor Baker said.

“These skin cancers are particularly concerning, because they can arise quickly and are more difficult to treat. Surgery is the most common treatment, with visible scarring often unavoidable. Other treatments include topical therapy for some early skin cancers through to radiotherapy and chemotherapy for more advanced cancers. Sadly, we don’t always get them in time.”

He also urged Australians to keep a close eye on their skin, know what normal spots they have and to keep a watch for any changes.

“It’s important to remember that skin cancer can be prevented and, if detected early, can often be successfully treated. If you notice any changes in size, shape or colour of an existing spot, or the development of a new spot, you should get it checked as soon as possible.”

SUMMER IS ABOUT BARING YOUR SKIN! IN ORDER TO LOOK YOUR BEST, YOU NEED TO READY YOUR SKIN, SO THAT IT LOOKS AND FEELS HYDRATED, CLEAR, SMOOTHER AND MAINTAINS A HEALTHY GLOW.

G

et savvy about protecting your skin. Make sure you use a broad spectrum sunscreen (protects against both UVA and UVB rays). Zinc Oxide is the

most natural, safe, yet highly ef-

Your skin will feel subtle, light and able to breathe with an even coverage and healthy glow, whilst gaining the protection it needs.

Many people don’t know the difference between a hydrator and a moisturiser.

Hydrators add moisture to your

fective ingredient offered in

skin - something that’s

specialised sunscreens.

especially important this

A higher SPF does not give proportionate protection. SPF 15 deflects 93% of suns burning ray;s whereas, SPF 30 deflects 97%.

Protecting our face

time of year.

ing It’s worth invest ted tin or ri in a supe ide ox nc zi a ith hydrator w ur yo n as based sunscree , as your m ea cr ce fa daily nefit be skin will greatly ” e. m co for years to

“

Moisturisers, on the other hand, act as a sealant.

They keep skin from losing moisture.

An expensive mistake is

is a different matter.

putting moisturiser alone

Simplyfying your routine is the secret to being diligent and preventing sun damage long term.

on dry skin.

Dry skin needs a hydrator applied first and best on moist, dampened skin, so that the hydrator can

It’s worth investing in a superior tinted

go further with less product. The skin will

hydrator with a zinc oxide based

soak up the desired moisture, then should

sunscreen as your daily face cream, as your

be sealed with a moisturiser and protector

skin will greatly benefit for years to come.

during the day.

Before

Back to school Checklist

After

By Charmaine Mills Uniforms P Books P Backpack P Shoes P Lunch box P I think all parents are familiar with the “back-to-school” routine before the beginning of any new school year. But in reality, no amount of new clothes, books or pencils will help your child succeed if they have an undetected problem with their eyes. A comprehensive eye exam should also be an important part of our back to school routine.

Dr Arianayagam

PER PERSON

Cutting Edge Nonsurgical Technologies Available at the Plastic Cosmetic Laser Surgery in Coffs Harbour The Cosjet Nd:YAG laser for removal of pigment, including melasma and tattoos.

Children can struggle silently with vision problems, as they are unaware that people don’t see things the way that they do.

Even a small change in vision can cause eye strain, headaches or blurred vision, which can be very distracting while in school.

The UltraFormer 3 for high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for skin-tightening in the face, neck and body.

If required, a simple spectacle correction can make a world of difference not only in academic performance, but also in a child’s ability to play sport and be confident interacting with others.

The Pentagon Grand CO2 Laser with fractional and cutting modes. Besides using for facial-rejuvenation, the Pentagon Grand comes with specialised vaginal probes for vaginal rejuvenation to assist in the treatment of premenopausal and menopausal vaginal atrophy.

It is estimated that almost 80% of learning at school is visual.

Make your child’s eyesight a priority this school year and arrange an appointment for a comprehensive eye test. With clearer vision, this school year could be the best ever!

100

*

$

The HIRONIC for CryoLypoLysis which involves non-invasive cooling of fat cells to induce fat breakdown in the treatment of stubborn fat deposits.

For more details on the above technologies, please contact: Phone: (02) 6651 5611 Email: info@pclscoffsharbour.com.au

Couples spa retreat Unwind together with a relaxation massage for 60 minutes in our doubles room and receive a glass of champagne on arrival.

An upgrade including a 15 minute soak or footbath for two plus fruit platter is available for an extra $75.

OFF

Frame discount for any 2nd Pair*.

CLAIM YOUR NEW OPTICAL HEALTH FUND BENEFITS TODAY!

PORT MACQUARIE 95 William St 6583 7333 PORT MACQUARIE 29 Horton St 6584 3948 WAUCHOPE 6 Bransdon St 6585 2393 *Conditions apply. May not be combined with any other offer. Not available with purchase of discounted offers or packages. Ask in practice for details.

Book your special spa retreat just for two at endota spa Port Macquarie, bookings essential (02) 6584 7888 endota spa Port Macquarie Shop 1, The Observatory Building, 40 William Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 t. (02) 6584 7888 e. portmacquarie@endotaspa.com.au

Conditions: Valid only at endota spa Port Macquarie. Offer ends 31 Dec, 2017. Subject to availability. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

Cannot be purchased as a gift voucher. Must be redeemed within one appointment. Bookings essential.

greater port macquarie focus. 65

JK HEALTHCARE

Mindfulness, connection and joy Cultivate more mindfulness, joy and connection in your life and with your kids through: • Life coaching and parent coaching • *NEW* Heart Intentions 2017 Program • *NEW* mindfulness classes, retreats and book club • *NEW* parenting workshops • Online classes • Retreats Sara is a Life Coach, Mindfulness Practitioner, Parent Coach and Educator. Life coaching and parent coaching can support you to find creative and realistic solutions to any issue affecting your relationships, career, well-being or parenting. Sara is passionate about sharing mindful strategies that make life easier and more enjoyable for parents and educators.

“I walked away from the session feeling refreshed, clearminded, and with a few clear goals tucked under my win. I felt ready to take on the world (or at least, my world). I also left with an armful of practical tips to get through each day in a calm and centered way … Perfect for a busy Mumma like me.”

- Jodie 2016

66 greater port macquarie focus.

JK Healthcare is owned by local Jodie Kennett, Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) with over 20 years’ experience. Also includes Lucy Johnston (APD), and now has over 12,000 clients! We provide education about dietary needs, including diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, heart disease, cancer, bowel disorders, food allergies and weight management.

As a CDE, Jodie can also offer advice regarding glucose meters and insulin pumps.

What is a unique about JK Healthcare?

Clear and realistic advice regarding your individual needs.

Locations in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Lake Cathie.

What other services do you provide?

Jodie conducts Insulin Pump Clinics for people with diabetes. Let us facilitate the purchase or upgrade of your pump, and educate regarding its use. We can also come and educate your staff.

Great for accreditation at organisations such as child care centres or schools. Why not include us in your staff health program?

What’s new at JK Healthcare?

Come see our new range of books for sale regarding health and cooking. To make an appointment, contact JK Healthcare on 6583 7717. For a FREE monthly newsletter, email admin@ jkhealthcare.com.au. Look for JK Healthcare on Facebook to get tips and recipes!

Kumiai Ryu port macquarie Join Kumiai Ryu Port Macquarie in 2017 and enjoy the many benefits of professional government accredited martial arts training with our dedicated team. Martial arts training will give your child or yourself greater confidence, focus and the skills to deal with life’s challenges.

Watch your child become more confident and excel in school, sport and life! Busy life? Then join one of our awesome programs and let us help you get rid of those unnecessary stresses! Try our introductory program in either Karate or Muay Thai - Kickboxing and receive two weeks’ unlimited training + a Karate uniform OR boxing gloves, both valued at $55.00 - all for only $49.95. 2017 enrolments being taken now! Go to www.krmas.com.au > locations > Port Macquarie Dojo and click on the offer to secure you place today! Limited places available.

Testimonials: “Our son, Travis, has just joined at age four. He absolutely loves it! Great friendly staff and Instructors. I would recommend KR Little Ninjas to anyone wanting their child to learn discipline and respect, as well as self-defence.”

Raymond Holbert.“Phoenix had a great first class in the Little Ninja Karate class. Everyone is so friendly, and Phoenix looks forward to his next class.“ Starsha Worth.

BE WHERE YOU WANT TO BE

AGED CARE IN AUSTRALIA IS CHANGING.

Now you have a choice who provides care in your home.

WE CAN HELP YOU. CALL US TODAY.

1300 698 693 exceptional care in your home

68 greater port macquarie focus.

www.homenursinggroup.com.au

focus_editorial

With Melanie Lock ND BHSc from The Hollow Port Macquarie

A lament MY FRIEND WANTS TO VISIT AN ASHRAM IN INDIA. NOT FOR A DAY-VISIT EITHER, BUT A FULL LONG-SERVICE LEAVE FUELLED, ROBES AND MALA-BEADS STAY. HE IS LOOKING FOR COMFORT IN DISCOMFORT, PRESUMABLY TO AWAKEN HIS INNER YOGI, BRAHMAN, SHAMAN, MONK. HIS QUIET, CALM.

N

o longer the vision of delusiondebt and a nice bathroom with polished marble al hippies, folks are travelling tiles. I want community and travel, I want my to raw 3rd-world countries to kids to ride their bikes to Timbuktu and be experience something you canhome by sunset. not buy in the West - freedom.

I want our streets lined with BMX bikes and And I totally get it. We have layered our lives in cricket bats like they were when I grew up so much cement render, that we’ve forgotten when parents didn’t have the latest season of how to have nothing. Our needs are com*CSI SVU at the forefront of their mind. Prime mercialised by wants and our wants Time TV in my childhood was A have us trapped in a concept of Country Practice, and the happiness, and the loop rolls only moderate creep in over and over. How will that was Bob Hatfield. we teach the young how And because we At what time in to have nothing, when fear our children n our lives whe it is something our st being ravaged te ea faced with our gr hly is culture fears? by anything that ar tm anxiety, nigh d an ge At what time in our moves laptops, an ill with ch we reach lives when faced with iPads, iPhones, uncertainty do ’?” ng hi ot ‘n our greatest anxiety, iTouch, Playstation, for nightmarishly ill with XBox have become change and uncertainty a safe refuge. A softer do we reach for “nothing”? option than risking abIn the West, if you have an duction and late afternoon inkling of discomfort or doubt you shark attacks. Our parents were need only reach for the closest distraction, at best oblivious to the whereabouts always on hand - our buzzing, dinging, flashof us kids at any moment in the ‘80s ing, vibrating mobile phone. We’ve forgotten perhaps the last of a long-line of disinterested how to do “nothing” and be “nothing”. Newelders who didn’t chase us with bottled water, age self-worth is measured by Facebook likes dairy-free snacks, mobile phones and capsicum and Instagram followers, where all you need spray. I am surprised I didn’t die by 12 … to do is buy a skimpy bikini and take a profile They had it so easy. picture of your butt (at the right angle).

And we had freedom. We moved in droves, I remember the old cameras (circa 1995) our knees and elbows melded with bitumen. when you inserted a 24 exposure film and No Instagram filters - just grubby feet, dirty hoped for the best. Hit and miss was an underfingernails, bike tracks and Vita-brits for days. statement, and “filters” were something you I hope the kids of today overturn modern put in your vacuum cleaner. My teenage phomedia fascism. I hope they have a gut-full, and to-albums are full of bad hair-cuts and crooked book into an Ashram in India seeking comfort teeth and though it may have burdened me in discomfort, presumably to awaken their inner once, I’m damn proud of every unfiltered freckyogi, brahman, shaman, monk. Their quiet, le, cowlick, and perm I’ve ever had. It was me. calm … and leave their phones at home.

And the “me” was my freedom. *Crime Scene Investigation Special Victims The same good friend asked me, “Where do Unit you want to be in a year?” And I sure as hell Melanie Lock ND BHSc didn't say I hope I had a mortgage, credit card The Hollow ~ Port Macquarie

“

greater port macquarie focus. 69

focusinterview.

BODY

MIND+

YOGI CHRISTIE CRISTOFORO FROM INNOVATE BODY MIND STUDIO AND DJ OLLIE BROOKE HAVE TEAMED UP TO BRING TO YOU A FUN DAY OF YOGA AND BEATS- SILENT DISCO STYLE! - AT THE WATER’S EDGE ON JANUARY 25TH.

C

hristie: how did you come up with the Body, Mind + Beats concept?

I’d love to say we are the first people to ever host a yoga “rave” as a “silent disco” event, but that would be untrue. I have actually participated and hosted events like this before moving to Port, and what I love about them is they are a real celebration where we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Often when we come to our mat it can be a very internal experience, but in these kind of events there is a real sense of fun, lightheartedness and community.

There are so many different events like this available in the cities, where yoga and movement evolves to a celebration, and I am so passionate since moving here about creating some of those amazing experiences in our region. Just because we live in a smaller community, does’t mean we can’t have access to events like this.

With a beautiful location at The Water’s Edge, what will the night consist of?

Body, Mind + Beats is a 4 hour “silent” (but not really) over 18s event. Each participant will be given a set of headphones for the duration to listen to the music and my class. We’ll do a 90 min flowing Vinyasa class whilst the sun is setting, and we’ll finish with some meditation.

After the class there’ll be food and drinks available for purchase (vegetarian options also) and Ollie will keep playing some amazing beats until 10:30pm to continue our celebration of movement with a little activewear silent dance party right on the Water’s Edge ... ‘Cause who doesn’t love going out in their active wear?!

Innovate Body Mind Studio has grown over the past year. Why are you looking

70 greater port macquarie focus.

forward to stepping outside the box the environment in such an awesome waterside to bring events such as this to not only location. Perhaps you’ll deepen your own Innovate members, but the general public? experience if you practice regularly. Above all, First and foremost, I really want to help we want everyone to walk away having had a grow the yoga community here in Port. The great time. practice of yoga is truly a gift and the teachings How will this pave the way for future not only transform your physical health, but events? they change your life in all aspects.

Our intention is to continue to put That’s my passion: to spread these kind of events on yearly: a that message. I’m sharing yoga celebration in summer this type of event because and a fitness one in winter.

It’s a very deep I think it’s unexpected Our studio also offers e seated part of th for what some might fitness training and ts to self that connec don’ t consider “yoga” is. If I my business partner, I good music, and can share a little piece Kerri Charnock, has else know anything of the yoga pie in a the same celebratory rt so at that generates th s of new and unexpected mindset towards healthy rm te of response in .” way, whilst also giving movement.

So keep your re tu na intensity or experienced yogis a eyes open for a winter completely new and multifitness “enter-trainment” sensory experience, then the event! event has served its purpose!

We will continue to run events How do you incorporate music into like this to inspire everyone and anyone your everyday practice? to step out of their comfort zone, move, I read this quote once: “Music is the only laugh and learn a little somethin’ somethin’. way to run away without leaving home”, Plus, Ollie is a super rad DJ, so it’s a great and it really resonated with me. Not because I opportunity to get him to play for us a few wanted to run away, but because the idea that times a year! music can transport you emotionally to another Ollie: are you a yoga regular? place without you moving a muscle rang true.

Ha ha! I guess I am now, though I’ve only I always practice with music. Sometimes it’s been practicing for the last couple of months. angelic with strings and harps. Other times it’s I can almost touch my toes - so I’m thinking Buddhist monks chanting, or even Hip-Hop or I’ll be doing headstands and all that stuff in chill out beats. another week or two …

What positives will people take away from What do you enjoy about being a part of the Body Mind Beats event? local events like this?

Our aim is that people walk away from this I really like the fact that the right music can event buzzing from the energy of the practice, make an event. People generally underestimate the music, the dancing and connecting with the power of music to impact on their sense of

“

happiness and contentment. I certainly don’t, and I always relish the opportunity to help people feel that little bit happier through music.

How is music good for the soul?

I’ve always thought music has a direct connection to the soul, and through the little bit of yoga I’ve been doing, I’ve been noticing the importance of connecting the mind and the body. I think music is one of the key agents in doing this, be it through dance or just emotion.

There are things you feel when you listen to great music that you could never explain through words. This impact is felt beyond the thinking mind and the effect it can have can be extremely profound.

It’s a very deep seated part of the self that connects to good music, and I don’t know anything else that generates that sort of response in terms of intensity or nature.

What music styles inspire you to be energised and ready to take on the world?

For me, it’s about finding music that connects to that deeper place inside - whatever that music might be. Plenty of my friends are into Death Metal and, while it doesn’t do anything for me, I can appreciate the energy of it.

So, for me that sound is deep and soulful House music. The generally softer nature of that music combined with the generally positive messages of the lyrics and that solid 115 bpm beat connects in a way that is very hard to articulate.

That’s what I love about music; it’s very personal and when enjoyed and consumed in optimal circumstances, it can put us in touch with aspects of ourselves that remain pretty much untouched by any other means.

Thanks guys.

s e v o L INNOVATE

B R E A T H E M E Y O G A M A T

D ō T E R R A

New Year workout Minute

T O P K N O T G I R L H E A D B A N D

with Kerrie Charnock Just because it’s holiday time doesn’t mean you have to stop your exercise routine.

Here is a quick 20 minute body weight program that will keep you fit through the summer holiday season!

O I L S K O M B U C H A

from Four Espresso

20 x push ups 20 x squats 20 x burpees 20 x lunges 1 x 1 min plank 1 x 1 min wall sit

S K U L L C A N D Y H E A D P H O N E S

Repeat exercises in order for as many rounds as you can in 20 minutes. Simple!

I N N O V A T E S I N G L E T

M I N D F U L

H E R B S

by Meegan Stephens

greater port macquarie focus. 71

72 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus. 73

74 greater port macquarie focus.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

JANUARY 2017

with Terri

Photo credit: Will Eades Photography

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Practice a little more patience with people. You are becoming annoyed easily by others, and this is leaving you vulnerable at sabotaging relationships. Not everyone is on the same wavelength as you are, but respecting their views will alleviate some of your current frustrations.

Turquoise is great for loving communication.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Time to honour yourself. Your sensitivity is increasing, leaving you more uncomfortable than ever before when you are amongst turmoil.

If you are surrounded by conflict, look inward at all your qualities and attributes that you like about yourself. This exercise will leave you feeling at peace, not affected by the turmoil.

Citrine shatters negativity.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Set some fresh goals for 2017, but be aware of your motive. Avoid focusing on fears, imagine having what you’re wanting and thank the universe for it, then forget about it. See how long it takes to materialise, then thank yourself for manifesting it.

Clear Quartz is a powerful amplifier; hold it whilst wishing.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Home life and career are likely platforms for big change in the next couple of months. This is why you have been reflecting on cycles that have repeated in your past. You have grown through most of the emotional challenges related to them already, so be fearless for your future.

Ruby shatters our fears.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

You are embarking on a journey of emotional self discovery. Avoid over analysing situations, or this could overwhelm you. Instead, allow others to be a reflection for your strengths and the weaknesses you need to work on.

Rose Quartz is the nurturing crystal of love.

CANCER.

June 23 - July 23

A more comfortable ownership of your reality can be anticipated, as you venture toward challenging and releasing previous fears. Arm yourself with the answers to your fears and enjoy how easy facing them will be.

Ruby helps to shatter fear.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23

It is time for you to speak your truth. If something has been weighing you down, release it. You can either talk to the person involved or telepathically talk to them. Either way will show results, and you can be more confident knowing where you stand.

Turquoise is great for heart felt communication.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23

Lighten up and laugh more! You have a good sense of humour, but are vulnerable at taking life too seriously at present. Be aware of your thoughts, as they are likely to be your own worst enemy at the moment. Mantra to yourself: “Other people’s thoughts are none of my business” for at least six weeks.

Aquamarine washes away self degradation.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 It is time to fulfil a dream you have carried for a long time or from a long time ago, but may not have had the means or opportunity to pursue it. Compile a list of everything needed to make it happen, and take action. Obtain a few things on the list, so you can avoid sabotage.

Clear Quartz will amplify your excitement and passion.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Great time for romance and rekindling old relationships. Reflect yourself in your partner by allowing them to show you what needs working on within yourself. So if your partner does something you are unhappy with, find out why you are unhappy with it.

Rose Quartz is the loving healing crystal.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Soul connections are going to be recognised, as well as talents and purposes that were destined for your life. Connecting to your gratitude for these things will bring further joy to your reality.

Relationships will give you validation to how nurturing your heart is.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love; give some to your loved one.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

You will benefit by acknowledging how good at manifesting things you are. When you forget about what you’re wanting, it appears, so try this technique. Go out into nature, think to your God belief and fill yourself with their love in the form of white light, then imagine having what you desire and thank them for it. FORGET IT THEN. Watch how quickly it materialises.

Citrine attracts an abundance.

greater port macquarie focus. 75

focus_motoring

with David Burghardt, Used Car Manager at John Oxley Motors

focus_business

Hadyn Oriti with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

MINDING YOUR

LOOKING FOR A PRE-LOVED VEHICLE ...BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START?

B

uying any car, whether new or preloved, can be a stressful task, but it certainly doesn’t need to be. If you’re happy to do a bit of research, and buy from a local reputable dealer, then your search can lead you to your perfect vehicle.

Before you purchase, consider the following: • Your budget - how much can you afford to spend?

• Do you have a lump sum, or would you prefer weekly finance payments?

• Your needs - what will you use the car for?

We can help with this decision.

• Insurance costs - these costs will vary between models. Also, like cars, insurance is not all the same; different companies cover different things.

At John Oxley Motors we pride ourselves on the quality of our vehicles sold and our after sale service. For us, a pre-loved vehicle must go through the below steps before it even hits the yard, so you can be assured of its safety and reliability.

• Full Registration Check of incumbent vehicles, which means as the new buyer you receive a clear title when purchasing.

• Written Off Vehicle Status Check.

• Full 100 point check - this is for a safety and mechanical check and service where required.

• Full Professional Car Detail.

By purchasing from John Oxley Motors, as a local dealer we:

• Provide a statutory warranty In NSW, when purchasing from a dealer a car that’s less than 10 years old and that hasn’t travelled more than 160,000 km carries a 3-month or 5,000 km statutory warranty (whichever occurs first). This also applies to demonstrator models.

• Ensure clear title and that nobody else owes money on your new car.

• Display the car’s basic information - year of manufacture, odometer reading and warranty details.

Not only that, we want your old car and will trade in most things automotive. We don’t rely on any third party pricing and can make decisions together on the day of purchase.

Come and speak to the Used Car Team today about trading in your car.

Throughout January, John Oxley Motors is holding its annual Floorstock Clearance Sale.

Not only will you receive exceptional value and service from our team, but you will receive a $200 Fuel Card for all used cars purchased and delivered in January and go into the draw for a $5,000 Travel Voucher* for all new or used cars purchased and delivered in January.

John Oxley Motors has been a family owned business since 1971, and our customers are an extension of this family. We are the authorised dealer for Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Skoda, Volkswagen, BMW and Jaguar Land Rover.

business THE YEAR THAT WAS ...

2016 SAW SOME INCREDIBLE DEVELOPMENTS AND GROWTH IN PORT MACQUARIE. CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY OFFICIALLY OPENED. JETGO COMMENCED DIRECT FLIGHTS TO MELBOURNE. WORKS HAVE BEEN UNDERTAKEN ON LAKE ROAD TO IMPROVE FLOW OF THAT CRITICAL TRANSPORT ARTERY.

W

hile not wishing to appear ungrateful, my wish list for 2017 includes:

Continued Council focus on economic development: putting economic development at the centre of its culture and approach has been transformative for Council. The Economic Steering Development Group provides a sounding board to Council recognising that with growth this community is better placed to provide jobs, services to the aged and a cleaner environment. Only economic development can ensure we all have access to the opportunities and services we need.

The orbital road: linking Ocean Drive south of the economically important precincts of the industrial area, medicine and education through to the airport is a priority. The Chamber and the EDSG believe this is an absolutely critical piece of infrastructure, needed to unlock the economic potential of those precincts and to ensure flood free access to the airport. The growth area of Port Macquarie is to the south.

We must ensure that the Lake Road precinct does not become a log-jam.

Single authority over foreshore: the realisation of the community’s vision for our foreshore from Town Beach through to Settlement Point is best served by a single authority with the funds to do what is necessary in a sustainable way. That authority, receiving the rents and profits from all of the commercial operations along the waterfront, should have the ability to develop further commercial operations where appropriate. It should also have a clear public charter to protect open spaces, ensure activation and engagement with the community. The Town Centre Master Planning Committee shows this approach works.

Completion of the Pacific Highway: having a connection to Brisbane of the same standard

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as we have to Sydney will really be a game changer; opening up this beautiful town to the Queensland marketplace.

Increased connections with Melbourne: the JetGo flights direct to Melbourne are wonderful, and we encourage people to take advantage of them. Businesses also need to think further afield and to look at opportunities that may be available to them in the Melbourne market. Most people in Melbourne wouldn’t have a clue where Port Macquarie is. We are virgin territory. Melbourne created Noosa and if we do this properly, it will be a key driver for this town’s growth and development.

Development plans for the Plaza Carpark and Food-For-Less sites: every city has their eyesores and derelict sites. We are no different.

However, the Plaza Carpark and Food-For-Less site together provide a wonderful opportunity for someone with capital and vision create a spectacular iconic development on our gateway site. That parcel of land overlooking Kooloonbung Creek and the Hastings River is crying out for visionary development.

Hopefully something can be worked through with Crown Lands and Woolworths to make it happen. The Chamber has had preliminary discussions with parties about the site’s potential, including addressing parking needs. Our fingers are crossed.

Maintain our sense of community: one of the wonderful things about Port Macquarie is the very strong sense of community. Most people moved here from somewhere else and many remark on the friendly greeting and easy networking opportunities they receive when they move here. We must work hard to preserve that.

Lisa McPherson, our Executive Officer, sadly moves on to pursue her own business interests. She goes with our best wishes and thanks. It only leaves me to wish all a very happy and prosperous New Year.

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3 ways to avoid a cash flow crash in 2017 In any business at any stage, cash is king. However, cash flow mismanagement is often the number one pain point for most SMEs and one of the highest causes of business insolvency.

A recent MYOB survey of SMEs revealed one of the biggest stress factors for business owners comes down to cash flow management, with 50% respondents opting to not pay themselves a wage one or more times in the past year as a result of cash flow issues.

Novaskill While those of us in business often say “I’d rather be fishing”, there are loads of dynamic young people who wish they were working.

work experience within your establishment at

Work experience is an important component of vocational training that allows students real exposure to the operations and day to day tasks within industry. Students who undertake work experience gain more from observation and practice in the workplace than can be provided in the classroom.

Please feel free to contact your local Novaskill

Register your interest to give a young person

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If any of this is sounding familiar, it may be time to nip your cash flow issues in the bud for 2017.

Thank you for your support.

Below are three factors we believe are crucial to ensuring your business has a healthy and sustainable cash flow.

Be aware of your cash flow cycles Plan out your year in advance by anticipating peaks and troughs of sales activity. If you can see where you may have lulls in your turnover, you can start to plan to address these before it is too late.

* Terms and conditions apply.

Standard entries 10 up until 16/3/2017. See website for details. LTPS/16/09286.

RTO CODE 6996

Have a solid billing system Having clear payment terms on your invoice and billing for the provision of your goods

www.novaskill.com.au and we’ll give you 10 chances to WIN a brand new tinnie and motor valued at $6,000*. office on 6500 1100 with any questions you may have regarding our work experience placements.

Anthony de Jager

and services quickly are integral habits to have in place to ensure you’re paid for your work.

Cloud Accounting programs such as Xero are great for managing this process.

Get some help where needed Consider getting some help with forecasting and budgeting, bookkeeping or debt collection. If you find that you don’t have the time or don’t have the expertise to manage your cash flow effectively, perhaps it’s time to harness some help from the experts.

So make a point of reviewing your key numbers regularly, looking forward and planning ahead rather than looking back and reacting, and you will be far more likely to avoid a cash flow crash in 2017!

focusinterview.

P R O P E L

Y O U R

B U S I N E S S

WORKSHOP

WHEN IT COMES TO MAXIMISING RESULTS IN YOUR BUSINESS, STRATEGIC CONSIDERATION OF KEY FUNCTIONS - ACCOUNTING, HUMAN RESOURCES, MARKETING AND THE REQUIRED SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES NEEDED TO RUN THESE - IS PARAMOUNT.

H

ow often though do you sit down and plan these functions congruently? As business owners, we often view these vital functions of a business as separate silos. While we might be strategically considering each one individually, we are not synergizing these silos to work together to achieve business growth.

Business specialists, Susan Judd Principal Consultant at HR Culture, Anthony de Jager, Partner at Wrights Chartered Accountants, Jane Hillsdon Managing Director at Dragonfly Marketing and Peter Vane, Business Solutions Executive, Mid North Coast, NSW Business Chamber have combined forces to show you how to do just this.

The Propel Your Business Workshop has been designed for business owners and managers who are motivated to make 2017 their best year in business yet.

This interactive workshop will demonstrate how to approach business growth by aligning each of these functionalities. By exploring a “typical” business case study, these industry experts will not only share their individual insights and expertise, but demonstrate how each function can work together to achieve a far more successful outcome.

Human Resources “It’s important for business leaders to align their people to their organisations vision,” says Susan. “When your team are guided into feeding your overall strategy with their day to day activities, you can achieve so much more synergy and productivity as a business.”

Susan will demonstrate how businesses can increase their profitability, purely by managing their people more effectively.

Accounting “Too often we see business owners who

have identified that they have a problem in are solid goals and measurement metrics in their business, but they just don’t know how place, marketing could be your key driver to fix it,” says Anthony. “As a third party, of business growth for 2017. we can offer a fresh set of eyes and specific Systems and Processes expertise that not only helps them identify It’s one thing to put a plan together to the source of the problem, but then how to fix or grow your business; however, that fix that problem as well.” plan won’t be any good unless someone is As a Chartered Accountant who accountable for putting that plan into strategically advises businesses about their action,” says Peter. numbers, Anthony is well placed Peter will be to show how identifying key demonstrating the numbers within a business NSW Business can instrumentally affect The P ropel s es n Chamber’s si u B r their financial output.

You n ee b as h p new online o Marketing Work sh usiness b r fo ed n ig system, Business “Marketing is an des ers

“

and manag

owners investment that any Propel. vated to who are moti r best business owner who This project ei make 2017 th s yet .” wants to grow their es management year in busin business should be making,” tool was designed says Jane. to help businesses “Too often we see businesses develop a consistent take a tactical approach to execution of their systems and their marketing, instead of a strategic processes. approach. When you design your marketing By attending the Propel Your Business activity to align with your business goals workshop, business owners and managers and then prioritise the measurement of that will gain more clarity and direction to shape marketing, you will start generating a return their operations for 2017. They’ll be able on your investment.”

Jane will demonstrate how aligning your marketing activity to your overall business goals can provide you with the confidence to invest in marketing. By ensuring that there

to not only define a strategy, but gain an understanding of how they are going to execute that strategy and make 2017 their most successful year ever.

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focusMotoring.

VEHICLE MAZDA MX-5 2.0L ROADSTER GT REVIEWED 03 DECEMBER 2016 DEALER PORT MACQUARIE MAZDA CONTACT DOUG WAY ACCOMPANIED BY MRS SLICK

MAZDA

T G R E T ROADS

WHEN THE FIRST GENERATION (NA) MAZDA MX-5 WAS LAUNCHED IN 1989, IT BRILLIANTLY MET A GAP IN THE MARKET FOR A MODERN TAKE ON THE CLASSIC SMALL SPORTS CAR. THEY KEY INGREDIENTS WERE LIGHT WEIGHT, BALANCED HANDLING, AND DRIVER INVOLVEMENT RATHER THAN STRAIGHT LINE SPEED OR MASSIVE POWER.

T

he NA was hugely popular and while the term “instant classic” may be over-used, it was definitely applicable in this case.

The subsequent second and third generation models were also excellent cars, and the MX-5 has gone on to become the best-selling two-seater convertible sports car in history. However, the later models didn’t generate quite the same degree of warmth and response from owners as the original. So the fourth generation ND was intended to draw inspiration from the NA’s character, as well as utilise industry developments over the last quarter century.

I was met at Port Macquarie Mazda by Doug Way, Sales Manager - a genuine car enthusiast, who really knows his stuff. It was very interesting to hear more about Mazda in Australia and some of the exciting developments, as well as learning more about the MX-5 specifically.

The test vehicle was the 2.0 litre GT Roadster, which looked fantastic in Soul Red. That colour is a very popular choice with MX-5 buyers, and it was easy to see why. The paint and finish techniques used provide a depth and sparkle that looked great and added to the instant appeal of the car.

The MX-5 is a vehicle where photos don’t do it justice - it’s beautifully proportioned and integrates the latest Mazda design cues with a classic sports car look. While it’s a fairly small car, it has a greater

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presence than might be expected from its physical dimensions.

It was a warm summer’s day in Port, so I started my drive with the top down. Of course. One of the first things to notice was what you didn’t notice - all the controls felt very natural and intuitively placed, so minimal adjustment was needed to immediately feel comfortable.

This is consistent with the design objective for the latest MX-5 of creating a “oneness” between the driver and car. This isn’t just marketing spin - you really do feel a high degree of connection as soon as you get in the car.

A recurring point with the MX-5 ever since it was launched has been whether it should have more power. Here’s my answer - no. Engine outputs of 118 kW and 200 Nm may not look like a performance car, but when combined with the light weight, close-ratio 6-speed gearbox, perfect balance and pinpoint handling, you have everything you need for maximum real world fun.

While the cabin was surprisingly quiet and calm, even with the top down on a very windy day, I was always very aware of my speed and the environment, which all added to the enjoyment factor!

Putting the top up was a very simple exercise.

Having a manual mechanism saves weight and complexity, and the top up/ top down operation

was quick and easy. It was also another nice aspect of the “analogue” nature of the MX-5 and that connection between driver and machine.

This shouldn’t be read as a lack of technology and features - there is an impressive list of goodies which in the GT specification includes climate control, heated leather seats, keyless entry, rainsensing wipers, a 7.0-inch colour touch screen with sat nav, and a premium Bose audio system.

After driving the latest MX-5, it becomes easy to understand why it has been so successful and why the current model won the 2016 Wheels magazine Car of the Year award. It won’t break the bank to own and run and on a “smiles-to- dollar ratio”, it’s an absolute winner!

As you’ll have gathered, I really enjoyed my time with the MX-5!

SLICK FACTOR*

We are fortunate to live in a beautiful area with a wonderful climate. The MX-5 convertible is a great way to enjoy our surroundings, especially in summer with the top down! * The Slick Factor is an unashamedly unscientific measure (on a scale of 1-10 helmets) of how likely you are, after parking the vehicle and walking away, to turn around and look back at it just because seeing it makes you feel good…

focusinterview.

AGED PENSIONERS 13 WEEKS TO APPEAL Ursula Boorman of Direct Advisers brings finance into Focus, to help you find your way through the money maze.

T

he New Year brings in new changes to the Aged Pension.

For many, the changes aren’t going to be a cause for celebration. The season for champagne, chocolate and cheer is behind us. Now is the time to check your details are correct or remind your parents or grandparents to do so.

It’s time to check your mail You will have received a letter from Centrelink in December with details about your Aged Pension. Carefully check your assets are correctly recorded and any assets you no longer own have been removed from the Centrelink record.

Aged Pension assets test changes are now law From 1 January 2017, the Aged Pension assets test is now stricter, and it’s important to know what this means to you. The Federal Government expects roughly 330,000 retired Australians to lose some, or all, Aged Pension entitlements overnight.

13 weeks to appeal If you lost your Age Pension on the 1st January, you have 13 weeks to appeal the decision. Follow the steps on the back of your letter to appeal, or contact us to seek advice.

Entitled to full pension?

If you’re a couple in your own home and you own assets of less than $375,000 (excluding your home) you should be receiving the full pension. For single homeowners, the threshold is $250,000. If you’re only receiving a part pension, it may be a mistake in their records.

Could you be $7,000 a year better off?

It’s important to seek financial advice.

We recently met a couple receiving a part pension but when we checked their situation, we found a simple way to make them $7,000 a year better off.

The couple retired 16 years ago and set up their accounts so that they were drawing a regular income, that maximised their Centrelink payment under the asset test.

As the years went by, and they spent their capital travelling the world, their Centrelink payment stayed relatively unchanged - but their assets reduced significantly.

When your assets reduce, you become income tested By checking how they were income tested on their allocated pension, and making some adjustments to where and how they draw their income, we dramatically increased their fortnightly Centrelink payment.

Direct Advisers can help you If you think you’re not receiving the right amount, the Direct Advisers Aged Pension Assist Service takes the hassle out of dealing with Centrelink. The fee is $330, plus $220 for the ongoing service through the year. We make sure your records are right and that your affairs are structured in the best way possible. Call us today on 6583 7588 to get started.

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.

direct advisors

greater port macquarie focus. 81

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Packing

SCHOOL LUNCHES

The start of a new school year for Port Macquarie kids means

preparing lunches five times a week for parents.

ancer Council NSW nutrition program Eat It To Beat It’s work in Port Macquarie shows parents are taking an increasing interest in the nutritional content of food consumed in the playground.

However, as the year goes on, many parents report that packing lunch boxes can be a chore, especially when it comes to getting the kids enthusiastic about healthy options such as fruit and vegetables.

Eat It To Beat It works with schools and parents to provide families with practical, simple, budget-friendly ways to increase their fruit and vegetable intake and pack fun and fulfilling healthy lunch boxes.

“Packing a healthy lunch box that your child will want to eat can be much easier than you think,” Northern NSW Nutrition Project Officer Juanita Nantes said.

“With a little planning and a few ideas you can create appealing, nutritious lunches that are cheap to create and simple to make.”

Let the kids help prepare and select, saving you time and getting them interested.

Eat It To Beat It healthy lunch box recipe ideas: Breads and cereals: top English muffins with diced veg (e.g. mushroom, capsicum) and sprinkle with reduced fat

cheese for a quick mini pizza.

Vegetables and salads: combine boiled potatoes, corn kernels, chopped apple and celery, and a hard-boiled egg, with combined seeded mustard and low fat mayonnaise or natural yoghurt for an easy salad.

• Meat and alternatives: combine leftover home cooked meat with hummus and grated carrot on pita bread; serve baked beans for something different.

• Dairy: freeze a tub of reduced fat yoghurt or custard and allow to defrost in the lunch box.

• Fruit: as a treat and to add more fruit and veg, make muffins with sultana, carrot, zucchini, apple, pear, banana or pumpkin.

Don’t forget a drink of water and a cooler bag and ice brick to keep lunch fresh and safe to eat.

A Beechwood Public School mother of one said, “I really loved the Eat It To Beat It handout which includes recipes and tips for healthy eating; this is so handy for busy mums. The kids can flip through and choose what they want to eat each day, and it’s a great incentive for them to eat healthy foods.”

Find out if your school is an Eat It To Beat It school, or get in touch with Juanita on (02) 6639 1306 or go to eatittobeatit.com.au.

how do you determine success?

Newman

Senior Technical College

In 2016 Newman students gained 68,729 hours of ‘hands-on’ work place learning.

96% of 2016 Graduates achieved ‘Positive Post School Destinations’.

Newman Senior Technical College was recognised as the best performing VET school in Australia at the 2016 WorldSkills Australia National VET in Schools Competition with six students qualifying out of the 12 VET in Schools categories.

• • • • •

Gold in Business Services Silver in Automotive Bronze in Retail Bronze in Information Technology Finalists in Retail and Construction

76 School-based Apprentices/Trainees in vocations including: Business, Human Services, Education and Care, Construction, Fitness, Hospitality Operations, Agriculture, Retail and Community Pharmacy and Warehousing Operations, Automotive, Engineering, Carpentry, Bricklaying, Furntiture Making, Electrotechnology, Civil Construction and Horticulture.

Early Entry offers to University Bachelor courses in: Nursing, Business and Educational Studies, Accounting, Applied Science (Outdoor Recreation and Ecotourism), Social Work and Criminal Justice.

Ou r resu me isn't padded. It's Powerful ! www.newman.nsw.edu.au greater port macquarie focus. 83

BACK TO SCHOOL

reaches

130 YEAR MILESTONE 2017 IS A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE IN THE LIFE OF PRESBYTERIAN LADIES’ COLLEGE, ARMIDALE, AND THE COMMUNITY IS CELEBRATING. IN 2017, THE PROMINENT REGIONAL ALL-GIRLS’ SCHOOL WILL TURN 130 YEARS OLD, HAVING BEEN GOVERNED BY THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH FOR SEVENTY-FIVE OF THOSE YEARS. PLC ARMIDALE HAS EXPERIENCED SIX DIFFERENT PHYSICAL LOCATIONS WITHIN ARMIDALE AND HAD NUMEROUS NAME AND GOVERNANCE CHANGES. n its milestone year, PLC Armidale will embark upon a new global initiative, opening its doors to the first cohort of girls enrolled in the newly created one-year, residential, intensive English language (ELICOS) centre and cultural familiarisation program. Entitled PLC Pathways, the new program officially opens its doors on February 6, heralding a new chapter in the colourful history of the College.

The recently appointed Director of PLC Pathways, Mr Christopher Spencer, is known to many in the diverse educational community as a well-respected educator, with exceptional experience in both independent and government schools. Chris shares his story with FOCUS, as the College prepares to embrace its new opportunity.

How have you settled in to your new role at PLC Armidale?

I’ll let you know when I have! I’m really relishing this opportunity to utilise a broad range of my experiences in teaching and leading to build a program from a philosophical foundation right through to classroom practice.

I have been familiar with PLC and many of the staff for a long time. That’s been really helpful, as schools are busy and intense places. It is a beautiful place to work and learn; it has a crisp, clean and fresh feel to it, and there is always the echo of girls singing and laughing going on somewhere! I’ve also been really thrilled to come on board at a time when the College has such dynamic, imaginative and decisive Christian leadership.

What makes this program different to the usual English Language Centres?

Our program is fully residential in an environment which specialises in girls’ education. So, we have freshly renovated boarding facilities, a beautiful campus, a long history and focus on pastoral care and strong connections to a community, which is stable and welcoming. Comprehensive language acquisition is the goal, but the means by which that is achieved goes far beyond the classroom.

Secondly, the course is designed for our girls to thrive in Australia, not simply achieve a score in a language test. We provide a deep understanding of Australian culture and strongly

develop 21st Century learning values, such as critical thinking, enabling engagement with the Western tradition. Our aim is for our girls to be informed, insightful and decisive as they move into adulthood.

How will the program operate at PLC Armidale?

The majority of the girls’ curriculum is focused on language acquisition through studying real, substantial and engaging content, so we will be addressing challenging subject matter over a range of key learning areas. At the end of the course, the girls will enter into mainstream schooling prepared for the Australian educational environment. Our Pathways’ girls, like our Australian students, will be involved in co-curricular activities like sport, music, Chapel and community service.

Our goal is for our girls to be at home at school, and we’re working hard to make that possible. We have staffed the Austin boarding house with high achieving young women, many of whom themselves are studying at UNE and some of whom are Mandarin speakers, to ensure our girls are not hindered by any

language barrier when it comes to pastoral care.

Where are the girls coming from, and what age will they be?

Initially, our girls are coming from mainland China and are in the middle high school years.

However, we have already had expressions of interest from elsewhere in Asia and Europe, so we may well end up with a wonderfully diverse cohort of students in the very near future.

What benefits will the program bring to PLC Armidale and the wider Armidale community?

Education intersects social and business worlds, so the benefits of having another international connection will bring a range of positive outcomes for the community. Quite apart from the economic flow on into the local community, our girls will have enhanced opportunities to develop networks and friendships abroad. And having this global mindset brings many of its own rewards, of course.

Thank you very much for your time, Chris, and all the best with the new program.

Happy Anniversary PLC Armidale!

C E L E B R AT I N G 1 3 0 Y E A RS I N 2017

SCHOLARSHIPS for 2018 NOW OPEN APPLICATIONS CLOSE 17 February 2017 EXAMINATION DATE 27 February 2017 In alliance with PLC SYDNEY

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Hastings Family Day Care Providing Early Education and Care for children across the Hastings.

Does a new career with some free modules towards a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, sound interesting?* A Family Day Care business is an opportunity to establish your own successful early education and care service, whilst earning an income working in your own family environment.

Established in 1977, HFDC has a reputation for providing a high standard of early education and care guided by the National Quality Standards and the Early Years Learning Framework.

To assist your success, HFDC is committed to providing inspiration and support tailored to suit your individual requirements. We offer: • experienced local early childhood professionals to guide you in establishing your own early education and care business • a network of existing educators willing to liaise and share their knowledge and experience with you • a choice of your own days and hours of operation

“What stands out in my Family Day Care career so far is the chance for me to have positive input into children’s lives, being able to use my training and “life skills” to the best advantage by contributing in a meaningful way to the FDC community to which I belong.”

Registered Educator

Hastings Family Day Care is recruiting now!

Visit www.stagnesparish.org.au/sjfs email hastingsfdc@sjfs.stagnesparish.org.au or Phone Sandra on 6583 4660 or 6583 6464 *Eligibility criteria applies.

greater port macquarie focus. 85

BACK TO SCHOOL

Inaluxe 2017 Calendar www.earthgreetings.com.au

Back to school

Laptop Mobile Desk www.typo.com.au

Charger on the Go www.typo.com.au

Yumbox www.bentoland.com.au

Inaluxe 2017 Diary

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Clubmaster Optics

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Premium Hardtop Backpack www.smiggle.com.au

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Clarks School Shoes www.clarks.com.au

BACK TO SCHOOL

Port Macquarie performing arts As we head into the New Year, it is time for children to choose the after school activities that will make them laugh, learn and develop in 2017.

Dance is an incredible discipline for a child to experience. Dance is fun; it allows children to explore their creativity and express themselves. Through dance, children become more confident in themselves, discover the rewards of working in a team and forge life long friendships.

At PMPA, we have passionate, qualified, caring staff that nurture your dancers development throughout their years of training. Our state of the art studios are safe for young dancers bodies to train in and form the perfect home for the positive, joyful, nurturing learning environment you will find when choosing PMPA. We offer a wide variety of styles, let your child try Jazz, Tap, Hip hop, Classical Ballet, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, Acro Dance,

Twinkle Toes & Kindy Gym. We have boys Hip Hop classes and a new Hip Hop/Tap Combo class for boys who want to extend their skills. We focus on celebrating our dancers individuality, unique skills, different body types, creativity and musicality rather than building a strictly competitive learning environment.

We keep our dance families informed about upcoming events, fees, student progress and make it easy to ask questions and get involved in our dance community. Our costumes are all hired for performances with no need for parents to sew any performance attire. Our dancers have the opportunity to work with industry professionals through masterclasses and tour Australia and the world with our range of performance opportunities including our NYC tour in 2018 and Disneyland in 2020.

Enrol online to try dance for FREE today!

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BACK TO SCHOOL

BE

AMBITIOUS & ENROL NOW

Check out your local TAFE campus during January to learn

about the new and exciting courses in 2017!

During the week of 16 - 21 January 2017, Port Macquarie and Wauchope TAFE Campuses are open for extended hours, as part of a state-wide TAFE week. TAFE Week is your opportunity to discover a treasure trove of study options at your local TAFE, explore career options and meet teachers, support staff and local employers.

As part of the Hastings TAFE celebrations, there will be a number of opportunities to meet the teachers, explore the campuses, learn more about the courses and enrol for courses in 2017.

There will be information sessions held at Port Macquarie Campus on 18 and 24 January, and an information day at Wauchope Campus on 25 January. TAFE teachers will also be out and about in the community, at shopping centres, local parks, pools and market stalls promoting their courses and providing opportunities to enrol.

• Business - you can test your skills on the keyboard and sit a typing test normally worth $50 • Arts - you’ll learn how to make felt and form it into a creative masterpiece Student Experience and Learning Infrastructure Officer for Wauchope TAFE Deb Saunders is excited about the prospect of building on the success of December’s Open Day. “TAFE staff love being a part of the Wauchope community. Since I have joined TAFE earlier this year, I have realised how versatile and broad TAFE is. We offer many courses to help people follow their passion and turn that passion into a career. Open week and enrolment days gives us the opportunity to showcase how we can help be a part of their journey.”

• Construction - learn how to build a stitch and glue canoe

Information sessions will be held at Port Macquarie Campus, Widderson St, Port Macquarie on 18 and 24 January, and at Wauchope Campus, Young St, Wauchope on 25 January, from 10 - 2pm. Teaching sections on both campuses will be have extended opening for all enquiries from 16 January onwards.

• Fashion - where you’ll get some hands on experience in the art of embellishing

Check us out at northcoasttafe.edu.au or call us on 1300 628 233.

Wauchope Campus are also offering free workshops, run by industry experts at their Open Day. These include:

OPEN WEEK STARTS 16 JANUARY

Discover incredible courses, get career advice, meet our teachers and check out our campus!

BE AMBITIOUS Port & Wauchope Campuses all sections open for enquiries 16 – 21 January - open extended hours.

Port Information Sessions 18, 24 January. Campus tours from Student Central @ 3pm, BBQ and music Wauchope Campus Open Day 25 January, BBQ, music.

All Welcome

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Extravadance Studios CSU ACCOMMODATION After accepting an offer to study at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Port Macquarie in January 2016, Taylor needed to find accommodation.

Having lived in Lismore her entire life Taylor was hesitant about relocating: “I was nervous about moving to a town where I didn’t know anyone!”

After finding a room for rent on csu.studystays.com, listed by Leanne, Taylor organised to inspect the room. “It was great, I met Leanne and we hit it off straight away, and I moved in the following week,” recalls Taylor.

Leanne agrees: “I had friends who rented out their spare room last year to a CSU student, so I thought ... well, the kids have grown up and left and I’ve got this big empty house ...”

“I’m so glad I advertised the room; the extra money has really helped with the bills, and it’s nice having someone else in the house.”

With over 750 new and returning students coming to study in Port Macquarie in 2017, CSU is inviting enquiries from people wishing to rent rooms to students, and students looking to rent a room or to share accommodation.

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

ExtravaDance Studios is ready to explode into 2017!

Fun, family friendly, and affordable! If this is what you are looking for in a school, then ExtravaDance Studios is the dance school for you!

We are different at ExtravaDance Studios. We pride ourselves in building self-confidence and teamwork that doesn’t revolve around competition, but still provides professional, yet affordable classes that are fun. All dancers are given the same opportunities and form a special part of the ExtravaDance family. Our students come to class every week because they love to dance, and they leave with a smile on their face and a spring in their step.

Classes cost as little as $7, with a combination of packages available. Students interested in performance are able to be a part of our Performance Teams and to have private lessons with any ExtravaDance teacher.

Classes are held in fully equipped professional studios in Port Macquarie and Wauchope. Qualified, fun and friendly teachers offer classes for boys and girls of all ages (preschool to adult) in Jazz, Classical Ballet (RAD), Hip Hop/ Break Dance, Tap, Jazz/Funk, Contemporary and Acro. Students are encouraged to be the best they can and to be proud of their own achievements.

We are now accepting enrolments for 2017 and have more classes to choose from. Come and join the ExtravaDance family for fun, fitness, friendship or fame! You will love what we do!

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?

F5148

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

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BJP

P H Y S I E CELEBRATES 125 BJP PHYSIE Celebrates 125 years in 2017. With girls from 3 - 83 getting into the Physie spirit, it’s never too late to join a club near you.

T

he BJP Physie history ...

Long before exercise became a growth industry, Bjelke-Petersen Physical Culture was keeping Australians fit and healthy. In fact, it’s been established in Australia for 120 years! Of course, what is done now is not the same as what was done back then.

It’s now as contemporary as the music we exercise to, and there is a strong dance element.

But the principles of the exercise are still the same: building aerobic fitness, muscle strength and tone, good posture, and increasing flexibility, balance and co-ordination.

Bjelke-Petersen Bros. began in 1892 as a medical gymnasium in Hobart started by Hans Christian Bjelke-Petersen, born in Denmark.

(Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, former Premier of Queensland, was his nephew, but he never had any association with the company.) The success of the gymnasium spread to Sydney

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and Melbourne and in the early 1900s, the group instruction method of physical culture was developed and taught in many leading colleges in Sydney to boys and girls.

In 2017, BJP Physie, as it is now more commonly known, will celebrate 125 years, the longest ever running female sport. The local clubs within our area: Port City, Bonny Hills, Camden Haven, and Wauchope, will be a part of a 125 celebratory production that will take place at Quidos area on the 24th June. The local clubs will be performing in the production with other clubs from all over Australia, with a total of 3,000 students of all ages showcasing Physie and celebrating our 125 anniversary to a massive crowd of 10,000 people.

The 2017 BJP Physie year kicks off in February, with classes available for all ages and dance abilities. Physie is the only dance sport available to girls and women that involves all dance elements in one class, such as ballet,

e If you would lik e or m t ou d fin to ie for about BJP Phys have or your daughter ving gi of t ever though ease pl lf, se ur it a go yo ve gi don’ t hesitate to ur yo d us a call and fin local club.”

“

jazz, hip-hop, aerobics, basic pilates and for the senior girls, contemporary. Our routines are age appropriate, and the best part is there is no on going costume costs. Unlike many years ago, Physie no longer has the fake tan, massive hair and ridiculous makeup criteria for the younger age groups. In 2017, why not take up Physie yourself?

The ladies’ classes are always a great way

to stay fit and have some much needed time out - not to mention the social aspect is always fun.

Competitions are not compulsory, and ladies do not need to wear leotards.

You are never to old to start physie and we look forward to seeing you at Physie in 2017.

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COWARRA park PRESCHOOL AND LONG DAY CARE

W

hat does Cowarra Park offer to the local community?

Cowarra Park Preschool is a purpose-built centre with an incredible outdoor environment. Built on a spectacular one-acre piece of land, the environment is spacious, stimulating and a natural playscape for learning.

With a highly qualified and experienced team of educators implementing learning programs in each room, children are thoroughly supported in their learning and development.

Also, in response to the growing use of technology within our everyday lives, Cowarra Park provides families an insight into their child’s day and their current learning through digital correspondence.

What makes Cowarra Park a leading childcare centre?

Here at Cowarra, we promise to offer children and families high-quality education and care - a place where children feel safe, valued, respected and where families feel a sense of belonging in their child’s care environment.

At Cowarra Park, we believe in the importance

of a highly qualified and experienced team of educators who are dedicated towards supporting children’s learning through nurturing and positive relationships. Educators within each room are focused on the building of relationships between children and families and believe in the importance of providing a stimulating learning program. A learning program based on children’s interests, questions and curiosities, where important literacy, numeracy and scientific concepts are explored daily and where lifelong learning is encouraged.

Tell us about the recent extension?

In January 2017, we will have an additional room within our centre. In keeping with the existing environment, this room is spacious in its design and has been thoughtfully designed to cater for the appropriate age group, which in this case is children between the age of six months to two years.

Within its design, the room offers three different sleeping zones to support the needs of children in this age group, as well as a stimulating play and learning area.

In terms of the overall centre, this new addition will mean that our programs and

resources across all four rooms will be increasingly individualised to the children within that room allowing them to spend quality time with children of a similar age.

Why is Cowarra Park unique?

To begin with, the outdoor environment is truly amazing! With such a large space, children from the older rooms can explore and interact - utilising the materials such as sand, dirt and water, challenging their climbing abilities, making music with hand-crafted timber instruments, setting sail in the boat, and escaping to another world with their imagination.

Having technology now an important part of everyday lives, each room is equipped with a laptop and internet access. In our two preschool rooms, an Electronic Whiteboard offers the opportunity to further children’s learning in an

interactive and visual manner.

What can parents expect from their child throughout their education at Cowarra?

Being a part of the learning program here at Cowarra, children will build confidence and important learning dispositions that will support their lifelong learning and throughout their transition to school. They will be thoroughly supported in the establishment and maintaining of respectful relationships with their peers, and friendships will begin to evolve.

With such a lively culture of learning within our environment here at Cowarra, children will not only build their knowledge based on their own interests, questions and curiosities, but will also learn from others through the intentional planning by our educators to ensure learning opportunites are endless.

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,

MADDISON M c K i t t r i c k WAUCHOPE HIGH SCHOOL We’re fortunate in the Hastings to have many students achieving amazing results in their studies, and Maddison McKittrick from Wauchope High School is no exception. At the time of going

to print, Maddison is spending six days on beautiful North Stradbroke Island, completing some geography fieldwork - the result of her hard work in this year’s Australian Geography Competition. Maddison is one of

just 16 students from across Australia who have been selected for this expedition …

i Maddison. Tell us a bit about yourself and family… What grade are you in, and how many siblings do you have?

I live on a small farm in Ellenborough with my family. We’ve lived here for fourteen years now. I’m the eldest of three, with one brother and one sister. I am currently studying the first term of my HSC at Wauchope High School.

Earlier this year you entered the Australian Geography Competition. What activities did you have to complete as a part of this competition?

The Australian Geography competition is in the format of a national exam, organised by the Royal Geographical Society of Queensland and the Australian Geography Teachers Association.

It covers a wide range of geographical skills and topics. At Wauchope High School we are encouraged to enter competitions such as this, as they allow us to compete at higher levels than is available to us in our direct region.

You and your brother (Owen) were both awarded High Distinctions in this comp you in the Senior Division, and Owen in the Intermediate Division. Congratulations!

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sts My main intere in geography lie in the field of y human geograph d an s ic demograph s.” ie et ci so global

“

How did you feel about this result?

Thanks! I was really happy about this result.

My brother and I both enter the Geography Competition every year, but this year was by far the hardest.

So to achieve a High Distinction, I was extremely pleased, and so was he.

My geography teacher, Mrs Allison Munro, and the head of department, Mrs Donna McGufficke, have both been very supportive of me both in geography and in my wider school pursuits. Their help and support have been a major factor in my achievements.

Sometimes I think they’re even more excited about my result than I was!

Because of your result and also due to the quality of your assessments at school throughout the year, you’ve now been offered the choice to enjoy the 2016 Geography Big Week Out. This event is only offered to 16 students from across Australia, so tell us what it’s all about?

Where will you be travelling, and how long will you be away?

The Geography Big Week Out is six days of

geography fieldwork and experience. The event started in 1995 and has been held in a few locations. This year it is being held on North Stradbroke Island, in Queensland.

What do you hope to learn/ achieve while you’re away?

Meeting other students who enjoy and excel at geography will be a great experience.

This will be the first time I have ever stayed somewhere where I know absolutely no-one!

The experiences that we will be taking part in and the knowledge that will be given to us will hopefully be useful in the rest of my HSC course. I’m sure there will also be time to explore and enjoy the island.

Four students from the Big Week Out will be chosen to represent Australia at the 14th International Geography Olympiad in Belgrade, Serbia, in August 2017. Why would you like to be one of those lucky students that is chosen for this event … and how do you rate your chances of being selected?

The chance to represent my country would

be a great experience in itself. The chance to do this while doing one of my favourite subjects and in such a beautiful place would be amazing. I am sure that the other fifteen students attending will be of a very high quality, but I’m willing to work hard to try and secure a spot.

What is it you most like about geography … What particular fields of interest do you have in this subject?

My main interests in geography lie in the field of human geography - demographics and global societies. As part of my preliminary geography course, I completed a major assessment known as the Senior Geography Project. This was an open ended task, and I chose to investigate the effects of socioeconomic status on educational results in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.

What are your future career goals/dreams?

I don’t have any concrete goals as yet.

However, I will probably study at university and the fields of education and humanities are of interest for me. Careers in education, psychology or social work are some options that I would consider.

Thanks Maddison.

Interview by Jo Robinson.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Congratulations to Year 12 - 2016

T Creative combo at Port Macquarie Performing Arts Looking for something fun for your primary school age performer to do next year? Sick of being a taxi after school for your creative kids who want to try everything?

Port Macquarie Performing Arts are making it easy for parents with our new Creative Combo program for 2017. We want to share our our love of dance, drama, singing and the arts with as many young people as possible!

Creative Combo brings qualified dance, drama, singing and visual arts educators together to give local kids a well rounded arts experience, with the convenience of one venue, one time and one afternoon a

week. This lively, creative learning program will give your child the chance to explore all aspects of the arts in a fun, friendly learning environment!

Our Creative Combo Program consists of FOUR Creative Arts classes combined in one learning experience, one afternoon per week.

Kids will make their way through a series of classes with a break in the middle for a snack and bathroom break.

Throughout the program, students will have the opportunity to learn dance, drama, singing and visual arts with caring, passionate and qualified teachers who excel in each of these areas, giving all students a well rounded arts experience.

A

W O R D

F R O M

T H E

P R I N C I P A L

he staff and education community of Wauchope High School wish to acknowledge the wonderful performance of the HSC class of 2016.

They have not only improved the overall academic standing of the school in 2016 but have also demonstrated that they have developed the skills and capacity to make a significant contribution to their community and beyond in coming years.

A large number of our students were able to secure places at University in the course of their choice through our early entry program. The advantage of this program is that it ensures a student a place at university before they sit their HSC examination enabling students to put aside any concerns about placement. This can have a very positive effect on many students and allows them to enjoy their studies and prepare for the HSC with less anxiety and therefore greater focus.

In 2016 approximately 30% of our HSC students achieved an early entry offer into one or more courses at the University of New England with approximately 25 % of students receiving an early entry offer into courses at Southern Cross University. Some of these students have also been awarded scholarships to support their take up and completion of their chosen University program.

Some performances of special note must include our 2016 Community and Family Studies class, where 4 students (40% of the class) achieved either a Band 5 or 6 with Karlie Rumble and Tahlia Wellham both achieving a Band 6 in this subject.

A large number of students achieved Band 5 and or 6 in this years HSC across a broad range of subjects and they are all to be congratulated on this outstanding effort. The number of individual students achieving a Band 5 across one or more subjects grew significantly in 2016.

The 2016 Dux of Wauchope High School – Chloe Housman has achieved an outstanding result in the HSC this year. Chloe was awarded a Band 6 in Biology, English (Advanced), Food Technology, Mathematics and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education. She also achieved a Band 5 in Chemistry. This outstanding performance has ensured Chloe of a range of University options with an ATAR of 97.6. Congratulations Chloe and well done.

We congratulate all of the class of 2016 and wish them well for the future.

— Glen Sawle

Chloe Housman The 2016 Dux of Wauchope High School ATAR of 97.6

Wauchope High School Nelson St, Wauchope NSW 2446 Phone (02) 6585 1400 www.wauchope-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

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I

ntroduce yourself and tell us how you came to call Port Macquarie home …

We are Bianca and Aimee. We both moved to the Port Macquarie area to be with our partners. Aimee is from the USA, and I'm from Sydney.

What’s your background with creative arts?

Aimee studied at Armstrong Atlantic State University in the USA. She has worked in primary schools, art workshops, and student art clubs. Aimee developed a creative arts program in her community back in Georgia, which had great success, so she wanted to create something similar here in Port Macquarie. Aimee also gives private drawing and painting lessons. She has worked at Wauchope Public School and St. Joseph’s Primary School. She now runs Paint The Town Australia.

I have been acting on stage since the age of 12. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Drama. Early on I worked in summer camps in New York, directing theatrical shows with kids, then on returning to Australia I was asked to work in programs run by the Department of Education including the Stage Right Drama Camp, The Multicultural Playwrights program and Primary

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THE PERFECT SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITY FOR YOUR KIDS IS CAMP - A CREATIVE ARTS, MUSIC & PERFORMANCE SCHOOL. BIANCA IS ONE OF THE CREATIVES BEHIND THE SCHOOL. Play Day, which I have now brought from CAMP stands for Creative Arts, Music and Sydney to the Hastings region.

Performance school. It's a holiday kids’ camp Who else makes up the CAMP team and for ages 7-12 (or Year 2 to Year 7) which what are their areas of expertise? runs for five consecutive days over the school We have Khristina Joy joining holidays. Kids can come any day they us these holidays for music. like ,or even the whole week.

Khristina teaches at the We run it in school times, Conservatorium of Music 9am - 3pm, to coincide Mid North Coast, where with those parents who They also take a CAMP is held. Khristina still need to work over home with them s have is from Sydney, where the holidays. big smile . Parent go to told us their kids p she was a professional What are the slee bed earlier and band singer and different creative they’re really well while singing teacher and facets covered at e ppos doing CAMP. I su running her ukulele CAMP? t!” we wear them ou club. Her passion is to We cover visual arts, see people discover how music and drama. brave they are and commit Talk us through a typical themselves to a song. Since day at CAMP … being in Port Macquarie, she has Everybody arrives by 9am, ready to been very busy with commencing two all begin the first lesson. The day is divided singing and all playing ukulele groups into two - three lessons, and each day is UkeClubJAM and Z Chords - and leading different. For art, they might do clay work, the CHUMS ukulele group in Laurieton. She painting or another creation. also teaches ukulele at the Camden Haven For music, singing and ukulele are on the Community College. Khristina loves to share agenda this time around. the joy of music and the ukulele experience.

And drama includes film work, play building What does CAMP stand for, and who is it and improvisation. aimed at?

Each day is so varied. One of the best

“

things to come out of attending CAMP is the friendships everyone develops with one another.

Do the kids have something to take home at the end of each day?

They always have an art piece to take home with them. Sometimes the kids will do a drama or music performance for the parents at pick up time. And then there's the education they get from each lesson. They are constantly learning. They also take home with them a big smile. Parents have told us their kids go to bed earlier and sleep really well while they're doing CAMP. I suppose we wear them out!

How can our readers find out more and register their kids?

Parents can search for our Facebook page CAMP - Creative Arts, Music and Performance School and "like" our page for updates.

We have a website camp.portmac.wix. com where they can find the booking site link and contact page to get in touch with any questions. All bookings are done online, so that we can make sure we have enough art supplies ready for each day. We are located at the Scout Hall in Hollingworth Street, Port Macquarie.

Thanks Bianca.

CONGRATULATIONS!

The Parish and College communities congratulate year 12 students and their dedicated teachers from:

MACKILLOP cOLLEGE YEAR 12 2016

ST JOSEPH’S REGIONAL COLLEGE YEAR 12 2016

ON outstanding results in the 2016 NSW Higher School Certificate High ATARs Mary Shelley Lauren Bartie Jade Conway Allegra Trevanion Blake Johnson Daniel Middleton Jasmin Lund Tahlia McLennan Natalie Cheers Kathleen Cutajar James Ting Sebastian Nocelli Diana Smith Hannah Newman Anthony Lutton Jade Dulovic

99.35 98.20 98.15 97.20 97.15 96.55 96.20 96.10 95.80 95.35 95.00 94.65 93.85 93.85 93.40 93.25

Emily Sheridan Courtney Irwin Shannon Neville James Gallagher Jak Dobbyns Max Lower Jordan Munro Emma Carney Helena Thomas Erinn Smith Ellie Kable Thomas Rogers

MACKILLOP COLLEGE A Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie T (02) 6583 2632 E pmac@lism.catholic.edu.au

93.25 93.15 92.35 92.30 92.05 91.40 91.30 91.00 90.80 90.35 90.30 90.30

HSC All Rounder Lauren Bartie: Band 6 in each of her HSC Courses HSC Top Achievers Natalie Cheers: 4th in the State in English Standard Kathleen Cutajar: 6th in the State in CAFs Mary Shelley: 9th in the State in Studies of Religion II, 20th in the State in PDHPE Danys Narendri: 2nd in the State in Indonesian Background Speakers

Nominations & Selections OnStage (Drama) Individual Performance Isabella White Group Performance Summer Crowhurst Emily Holley Hannah Post Jessica Towle Callback (Dance) Alecia Smith Encore (Music) Liam Coelho ArtExpress Millicent Sarks

ST JOSEPH’S REGIONAL COLLEGE A College Drive, Port Macquarie T (02) 5525 4100 E sjrhport@lism.catholic.edu.au

Shape Industrial Technology, Design & Technology and Textiles & Design Sean Bailey Makailah Jessop-Ryan Monica Worth InTech Industrial Technology – Timber Mitchell Gray Mitchell Paterson Jack Steinmetz Connor Tamblyn Jamieson Williams Extension History – Extension Essay Prize History Teachers’ Association – Certificate of Excellence McKenzie Kirby-Brown

www.sapss.nsw.edu.au

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HERITAGE Christian school

SCHOOL & FAMILY HAND IN HAND

Before Heritage Christian School came into being, a group of

Christian parents had a vision to build a school that honoured God and provided students with a Christian education.

N

ow celebrating over 33 years in Christian Education, Heritage has been an educational light in the Port Macquarie community since that vision became reality back in 1983. So much of what we have achieved as a school community is built on the dedicated hard work of those people who came before us so many years ago.

Building upon this solid foundation, it is exciting to see the enormous changes that have taken place at our school over the past six years. There is not one aspect of the school that has not been exposed to a new culture, to a renewed vision and heartfelt desire to “get it right”. Our Principal, Mr Geoff Brisby, has been a driving force behind these changes. While reflecting on his own experiences when he was a student himself, he recalls that school could appear irrelevant, uninteresting and something to endure, rather than enjoy. It is this that motivates Mr Brisby to try and approach education differently. For him, it is about creating an

98 greater port macquarie focus.

educational community that reflects real life, values learning and embraces God’s desire for us. It is about honouring God in all we do, and honouring students, staff and families as the people God has raised up to be a part of Heritage. We seek to engender within our students firstly a love and a passion for life, and to then build that passion into the life of the school in a way our kids can appreciate and value. To hear our students laugh and cry, struggle with the hard things and fly free in the good things, we know they are growing to become resilient and impacting young people in society. Ours is the task of moulding young lives, in whose hands the future is held.

When visitors come into the school for the first time they almost always comment about how much they like the “feel of the school”, or that there is something very special about the place that they have not experienced in other schools. These comments often occur after they have observed the relationships between the students, and between the students and staff.

Watch and enjoy!

What our visitors When visitors e th to in e For further information are recognising is m co time, st fir e th r fo or to arrange a school our unique culture, ol scho ays w al t os m al tour, please contact Mrs which is so precious. ey th t how comment abou Kim Clucas in our school We would love the “feel much they like office on (02) 6583 8277, for you to visit our of the schoo l...” or call in to talk to one of website (www.heriour staff @ 33 Mumford tage.nsw.edu.au) and Street, Port Macquarie NSW watch our short video 2444. presentation. This brief WE ARE NOW ENROLLING FOR video captures just a glimpse of KINDY, YEAR 7 AND OTHER GRADES our school community and what our FOR 2017. PLACES ARE LIMITED. students really think about Heritage!

“

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Valerieanne

BYRNES NAUTILUS SENIOR COLLEGE

Traditional learning outcomes at school aren’t achievable for everyone - for an array of reasons. Nautilus Senior

College seeks to address this issue for students in Years 9 and 10 who have already been - or who are at risk of - becoming disengaged with the current school system. Valerienne Byrnes, Principal at Nautilus, tells us more …

H

i Valerieanne. Introduce us to Nautilus Senior College...

Nautilus will be located within the current Community College at 77 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie and commences operation on the 30th January 2017.

How does Nautilus differ from other colleges?

Port Macquarie and the broader Mid North Coast is blessed to have a range of fantastic schools; however, there is evidence that for some young people, an alternative is required.

Young people who are not academically inclined have not been finding success in the current education system, and the reasons for this are many and varied.

Nautilus Senior College is an alternative, independent, non-denominational, special assistance school which will focus on wellbeing and personal development of its students. We will be offering the mandatory subjects differently, and the students’ vocational interests will be linked with their passions through project based learning. Many of these characteristics are offered elsewhere, but at Nautilus we will be offering

small supported classes, using community spaces.

We will not have a school uniform, there will be no bell, and the school environment is very flexible, not dominated by a rigid timetable or curriculum.

How was the need for such a facility identified locally?

The Community College researched youth school completion rates, suspensions and family feedback about the plight of young people who are “different”. Our experience in our current youth outreach programs throughout the Mid North Coast, plus consultation with local youth agencies, parents and guardians showed us there was a need for alternative approaches to youth development. Nautilus Senior College will be one of eleven Community College auspiced alternative schools for disengaged youth across NSW. What is the teaching ethos of Nautilus?

Nautilus Senior College has been created to offer an educational program that listens to, respects and partners with disengaged young people. The philosophy and practice underpinning this approach engages with the learners’ immediate reality to create a welcoming beginning. We promote that every day is a new

ReSkill•UpSkill•MultiSkill at SkillsLink Fees range from $0 - $2300 according to qualification and eligibility Short Courses also available RSA • RCG • First Aid White Card • Food Handling Computer Basics Office Admin • Hospitality Visit our website for details

ICT10115 ICT20115 FSK20113 CHC33015 CHC30113 CHC43015 CHC43315 FNS40215 CHC42015 BSB42015 BSB41515

Certificate I in Information and Digital Technology Certificate II in Information and Digital Technology Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways Certificate III in Individual Support - Aging/Disability Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care Certificate IV in Disability Certificate IV in Mental Health Certificate IV in Bookkeeping Certificate IV in Community Services Certificate IV in Leadership and Management Certificate IV in Project Management Practice

Start Feb & Mar APPLY NOW This training is subsidised by the NSW Governmentt

www.skillslinktraining.com.au

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

6583 7288

admin@skillslinktraining.com.au

day and we adjust our engagement to be whole person, whole family and whole community. We dedicate ourselves to assisting students to remove or manage life’s learning barriers, which vary for each student.

At Nautilus we strive to have students focus on their own achievements, and to allow them to self-generate commitment to their own future.

By building on the present and encouraging each student to envisage their future, the Nautilus program gives every student the greatest chance to succeed to the best of their ability. The adult learning environment of Port Macquarie Community College, of which Nautilus is a part, offers an opportunity for these young people to be immersed in an adult learning world. Here they are expected to adjust to making decisions and taking responsibility for their learning, and they will be respected like everyone else for pursuing this sort of pathway of learning.

Who will be your inaugural team members?

Our teaching and support staff come from a wonderfully wide range of backgrounds incorporating start up knowledge and leadership, alternative education and project based learning, vocational education and youth at risk expertise.

Marcel Hennes, Andrew Lord, Deb Tougher, Lloyd Godson and Katrina Humble will help make our youth outreach program even greater. They are an amazing group of individuals who are passionate about what they do. Of course, the school also benefits from the staff of the community college, who are looking forward to the expanded team.

What is the eligibility criteria for students?

Nautilus is for students who are not engaged in education or who are at risk of disengaging.

They are students who need an alternate pathway to experience success. It is too difficult and misleading to generalise; however, every student accepted must demonstrate a desire to come and must demonstrate a desire to learn. We will commence with Years 9 and 10 in 2017 and then will expand our years subject to student demand and needs. The college will also provide a transitional class for those who are not engaged in work and may be considering Year 11 for 2018.

How do students enrol in the college?

Enrolment information is available on our website: www.nsc.edu.au or come to the college for assistance.

Thanks Valerieanne.

• Need a school that understands that life is not always easy?

• Want a learning environment that caters for your needs?

Year 11 transition program also available for 2017

Years 9 & 10 ENROLLING NOW Term 1 Monday 30 January Learn more at our website nsc.edu.au or phone 6583 7288 greater port macquarie focus. 99

focusabode.

property guide

100 greater port macquarie focus.

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THE CREST - ROB TATE FAMILY HOMES

Flooring in all living areas is anco a 600 x 600 Bi Lappato semite tile polished concre s le Ti ile rt lo from Co ing til e th e; yl St With ly provides a high in the durable surface s.” ea ar fic high traf

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rob tat e H O MES h i g h

q u a l i t y

h o u s i n g

Rob Tate Homes is the longest established, locally owned building company on the Mid North Coast.

C

hrissy Jones has had the pleasure of viewing their new Display Home - “The Crest”, Lot 347 Crestwood Drive, Port Macquarie, that is open to view and for immediate sale. Features abound, from the modern facade to the centrally located, open plan living area that seamlessly incorporates lounge/dining/ kitchen and outdoor entertaining spaces as one, to the three step cornice and shadow line skirting used throughout

“The Crest”.

An ideal family home; having four bedrooms, media room, a well appointed butler pantry and laundry with side access, double garage with remote-control panel-lift garage door, ducted air-conditioning, and ceiling fans, the home is a great design.

Entry to the home is via an exposed aggregate drive and pathway to a tiled

portico. A timber and glass panelled entrance door opens into a hallway that welcomes and guides you through the home. Flooring in all living areas is a 600 x 600 Bianco Lappato semi-polished concrete tile from Colortile Tiles With Style; the tiling provides a highly durable surface in the high traffic areas.

greater port macquarie focus. 101

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A stunning 200 x 600 Redwood ed in tile has been us the of l ne the kick pa ed as us so al d an island the of the splash back adds it l; al w kitchen rear .� th m ar w d texture an

“ Left of entry is the spacious, light filled master bedroom with soft carpeting underfoot from Port Floorworld, ceiling fan, pendant lighting, walk-in his/hers robe with full length dressing mirror and an en-suite. The en-suite has floor to ceiling white tiling - a shower recess hidden away behind a feature tiled wall that has a vanity with above bench hand basin and a vertical vanity mirror. Parkland views are readily available through the bank of windows in the master bedroom, but privacy is provided via blinds supplied and installed by Shades

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2000.

Continuing along the hallway, past a wall mounted cabinetry which not only adds a touch of class but creates a space for ornaments, family photos and also has a storage cabinet, the home opens into the combined lounge/dining/kitchen/outdoor entertaining space. Custom built cabinetry is a feature, with a TV wall unit the centrepiece.

An office or home computer desk has been

built-in on one wall, conveniently located alongside the kitchen.

KITCHEN Designed and installed

by Designer Living Kitchens, the kitchen is a fantastic addition and is the hub of the home. An Essa stone island bench divides the kitchen from the living areas and has storage cabinets and drawers plus a dishwasher one side, houses the double stainless steel sink with flick mixer

and doubles as a breakfast bar on the other side. A stunning 200 x 600 Redwood tile has been used in the kick panel of the island and also used as the splash back of the kitchen rear wall; it adds texture and warmth.

Up to the minute appliances, including Blanco gas cooktop, range hood and oven have been centrally placed in the back wall and are surrounded by under bench and overhead cabinetry. Side wall cabinetry, comprising cupboards top and bottom encase the refrigerator space, which has a pantry cupboard

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alongside and also has a conveniently of the indoor living area, creating one placed bench-top with tiled splash back large, open space that melds indoors and shelving overhead for storage of with out. Another advantage of the condiments. outdoor area is its accessibility from Tucked away behind a cavity sliding the media room and one of the wooden door is the well bedrooms. appointed butler’s pantry, FAMILY BEDROOMS/ complete with its own MEDIA ROOM oval bowl stainless Three good s as gl A twin set of steel sink placed in sized family/ r ke sliding stac y L-shaped cabinetry. guest el et pl m co doors open A low-set window bedrooms, all the on two sides of , ea is cleverly placed, with built-in ar g in liv indoor e, rg la e allowing in lots wardrobes on g tin ea cr melds of natural light. with plenty of open space that t.”

Adjacent to the hanging and indoors with ou butler’s pantry is shelving space, the laundry, that has soft carpeting further purpose built underfoot, ceiling cabinetry in a space saving fans and downlighting, L-shape. A glass sliding door gives have been incorporated into easy access to the side and rear yard the floor plan. Bedrooms two and from the wet area. three are placed either side of the family OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING AREA bathroom, whilst bedroom four is found “The Crest” has utilised its footprint alongside the kitchen and could also be expertly; a fantastic example of this is a study if desired. The media room is the tiled, outdoor alfresco entertaining found at the rear of the design and can area. A twin set of glass sliding stacker be closed off for privacy. doors open completely on two sides

“

h i g h

q u a l i t y

h o u s i n g

greater port macquarie focus. 103

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h i g h

BATHROOM Very comfortable and well laid out, the family bathroom has a wall mounted vanity with above bench, rectangle hand basin and wide vanity mirror, plus both a shower and bath. The shower is screened on two sides, has a hand held shower rose and a smart tile drain in the floor for easy drainage. Adjoining the shower recess is the deep bath tub, that is encased in a feature tile and has an opaque glass window placed above, allowing in natural light. Stainless steel towel rails, down lighting and heat lamps all add to the comfort.

Overall, “The Crest” is a fantastic layout - a home built to enjoy and built to give the owner a carefree lifestyle. Interior Designer Michelle Burton of Designing Divas has pro-

104 greater port macquarie focus.

q u a l i t y

h o u s i n g

About the Builder - Rob fessionally styled the home Tate Homes for presentation and also e th Rob Tate Homes designed the kitchen ng ni Adj oi is ss ce re are custom builders and bathrooms. Rob er ow sh that b, tu th ba with a huge range Tate Homes utilise the ep de the at ure of design concepts. services of a fantastic is encased in a fe aque They are able to offer team of qualified and tile and has an op ed ac pl w do in glass w you the flexibility to trusted local craftsmen in above, allowing alter, upgrade and and proudly support natural light .” customise their plans local suppliers from the and inclusions to suit your local area. budget, lifestyle and family If you are dreaming about requirements, whether you are your next or first home, give building your first home, a family them a call today, or drop into the home, or an investment property. display home in the prestigious Crestwood They offer many services, including a free Estat. The team is ready to help you fulfil site inspection by their qualified and highly your dream.

“

experienced staff, an exclusive Home Owners Manual, BASIX certification including an Energy Efficiency report, Bushfire Risk Assessment report and handle all Council Application requirements.

A Rob Tate home is a home that is built for you and built to last.

From The Builder - Rob Tate Homes Tell us about your business … How long have you been operating?

Rob Tate Family Homes has been established on the Mid North Coast for 37 years. We have built over 1,000 quality homes in that time and provide employment for over 34 people on our team, and all materials are sourced locally.

You will have peace of mind knowing you are choosing a builder who has a consistent

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INTERIOR DESIGNER MICHELLE - DESIGNING DIVAS

e The quality of th , gn si de l overal d finish. construction an gs tin Shadowline skir e , th bs m ja or do d an s, feature wall tank gas d un ro rg and unde andouts storage are all st in ‘The Crest’. ”

“ reputation for excellence in design and construction, with modern multi-award winning designs, including the prestigious HIA “Top Homes Award”.

Our clients will experience the benefits of dealing directly with the builder, not a sales person, providing you an open two-way communication during the entire construction.

Our team are here to guide you through every aspect of the construction of your new home.

How has your business evolved over the years?

Strong demand for affordable quality homes has seen the company expand over the years to take in areas north and south of Port Macquarie.

What type of construction do you specialise in?

Rob Tate Homes specialist in high quality housing, Eco System Homes, granny flats and investment homes, including duplexes and villa units.

FOCUS is featuring your new Display Home - “The Crest “. What are the standout features of the residence in your mind?

The quality of the overall design, construction and finish. Shadowline skirtings and door jambs, the feature wall tanks, and underground gas storage are all standouts in “The Crest”.

How do prospective clients contact you?

They can deal direct with Rob by phoning 6585 5102 or call into the new display home - Cnr of Verde and Crestwood Drive, Port Macquarie.

Thanks Rob.

greater port macquarie focus. 105

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foot notes.

Benjamin Allmon

B E NJA M I N A L L M O N I S A Q U E E N S L A N D BA S E D AU T H O R / M U S I C I A N/J O U R N O, W H O I S C U R R E N T LY R E C R E AT I N G T H E E P I C J O U R N E Y H E U N D E RTO O K I N 2 0 0 6 W H I C H I N S P I R E D H I S M E M O I R , F O OT N OT E S . A F T E R M O R E T H A N A D E CA D E O F T RY I N G TO M A K E I T I N T H E M U S I C I N D U ST RY, B E N WA S G E T T I N G D E S P E R AT E A N D A S H I S F O R M E R BA N D M AT E S S E T T L E I N TO S E N S I B L E CA R E E R S, H E GAV E I T O N E L A ST S H OT A N D R E C O R D E D H I S D E B U T A L B U M .

I

n homage to the Deep South bluesmen who walked and played their way to Chicago, he decided to trek 1,000 km of Australian coastline. Kissing his girlfriend goodbye, he sets off with a guitar, a sleeping bag and a heroic miscalculation of what he’s getting into.

Ben is a journalist by trade. He has a column in Punchnel’s, and his work has appeared in RACT’s Journeys Magazine, Jetstar Magazine, The Writer and Aurealis, to name a few. A songwriter with twenty years' experience, he’s a member of APRA, the Australian Songwriters Association, and is an accredited audio engineer, as well as being an active member of the Gold Coast writing community.

He has some great local stories about the Port Macquarie area, including having his first radio

Kissing his girlfriend off by good e, he sets ping ee sl a with a guitar, bag and a heroic hat of w miscalculation .” to in g in tt ge he’s

“

interview there. Following is an excerpt from Foot Notes: Nano-fame.

Two women approached me in Bonny Hills’ tiny shopping precinct.

“Are you that guy from the radio?” the first one asked.

“That’s me,” I said, smiling.

“Heard you yesterday,” she said, her tone solemn.

“Right, right. Talking to Fiona. They tried getting me off after five minutes but I had the microphone in a death grip,” I said, hoping to get a smile.

I didn’t.

“This is the guy I was telling you about,” she said to her friend, who was staring at me with no expression at all. Then the first woman turned back to me and adopted a similar stare. It was

unnerving. What was expected of me? Sing a song? Tell a story? Start krumping?

“So, Bonny Hills …” I started, not knowing how to finish.

I should give them something good.

Something witty.

Something they could tell their friends.

“Bonny Hills, eh …”

I had nothing.

I panicked, and went for the weather.

“Beautiful day.”

“Oh yeah,” said one.

“Mmmm, beautiful,” said the other.

“Thought we might have had a bit of rain last

night,” I added.

“Oh yeah,” said one.

“Mmmm, looked like,” said the other.

We stood there, swamped in renewed silence.

“Didn’t, though,” I said, after a bit.

“No,” said one.

“Mmmm,” said the other.

It had gone beyond all human endurance.

“Well, ladies, I better get back to it. Sydney, you know …”

“Bye,” said one.

“Bye,” said the other.

I walked on, thinking that fame isn’t what it’s cracked up to be.

Foot Notes is available exclusively at Bookface in Port Macquarie.

Waste matters Drop off your household problem waste for recycling

Your local Community Recycling Centre (CRC) is NOW OPEN. You can drop off: Port Macquarie Hastings CRC: Port Macquarie Waste Gas bottles and

Paint

Fluoro globes and tubes

Car batteries

Hours: 8am–4pm every day Macleay Valley CRC: 638 Crescent Head Road, Kempsey Hours: Mon to Fri: 7am–4.30pm; Sat to Sun: 9am–4pm

Household batteries

Motor oils

Other oils

This project is a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy. Visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au

106 greater port macquarie focus.

*Only household quantities 20kg or 20L for free, other amounts will incur a charge.

Smoke detectors

KEMPSEY Shire Counci

For more information visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au/recyclingcentres

focus_editorial

Bronwyn Newton from Port Macquarie Landcare

UPDATE

A HAPPY NEW YEAR LANDCARE IS ON THE WAY TO A HAPPY NEW YEAR. THIS GREAT AUSSIE INVENTION – LANDCARE – IS SPREADING AROUND THE WORLD.

H

ere in Australia, Landcare will get $100 million from the Federal Government, following an agreement with The Greens.

All this good news means 2017 is the ideal time to donate yourself to Landcare.

Landcare delivers great value, because so much work is done voluntarily. And it is quality work by experienced people with local knowledge.

It’s done by people like you, who enjoy being active in the open air.

Landcare groups are sociable and fun. Port Macquarie Landcare Group has about 160 members from all walks of life, so you will surely make friends when you join.

It’s true that Landcare is for everyone farmers, people in towns and cities, school kids, families. Every community can benefit from having a Landcare group.

In Port Macquarie we look after bushland reserves within the suburbs, and we run a native plant nursery.

We learn about plants, wildlife, soil, and ecology, and this enables us to help improve our environment. The aim is a better quality of life for all of our (human) residents, as well as (other) animals.

There’s much more to it than recognising and removing weeds. We try to bring back our natural areas to their original condition, as they were before unsustainable human activities damaged or degraded them.

Most of us live here because we enjoy the environment, with its beautiful greenery and interesting wildlife. So it’s a no-brainer to

make sure we keep these natural assets in good shape.

In doing this, our group offers many choices, from nursery and bushwork, to administration, publicity and maintaining equipment. You can try them all.

We will equip and protect you so that you enjoy your bushland experience: we have the latest on how to deal with bities, unfriendly plants and the weather.

So, how does our group run, and why do people become Landcare volunteers?

Firstly, there are no handouts! Volunteer Landcare groups are self-funding. We compete for grants from all levels of government and from corporations or benefactors in the community.

Currently we have a six-year project funded by the NSW Environmental Trust, and each year we have to meet targets and complete tasks, before the next payment is made. Only wellrun and competent groups can get and keep large grants like this.

People who volunteer with us see that we have an effective way to care for our environment. So they have donated themselves to Landcare, bringing their time and their skills.

It takes time for nature to respond to our TLC, but it surely does, as you can see at Blair Reserve, Yarranabee Creek, Widderson Street Reserve and many others.

As you read this we are on our summer break, but we would love to hear from you in the New Year. You will be very welcome in our group. Please check out our website www.landcareportmac.com.au or contact us by email on info@landcareportmac.com.au Contributed by Julie Ho. greater port macquarie focus. 107

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McGrath E S TAT E AG E N T S

CERTAINLY, SUCCESS CAN BE ASSESSED

BY NUMBERS AND BY THIS MEASURE McGRATH ESTATE AGENTS IN PORT MACQUARIE EXCELS, WITH AN OUTSTANDING RECORD OF SALES THROUGHOUT THE LOCAL REGION, INCLUDING MANY WHICH ESTABLISHED NEW SELLING-PRICE BENCHMARKS FOR THEIR SPECIFIC STREETS OR AREAS.

I

n terms of properties sold, the year 2016 saw McGrath consolidate its position as one of Port’s absolute leading real estate professionals, the brand’s unique marketing processes ensuring that days on market remained minimal, as premium prices were consistently achieved at sale.

But perhaps a more appropriate measure of success might be in terms of customer satisfaction? Real estate is very much a “people business” and clients’ best interests must remain paramount at all times.

Honesty and service are not just words at McGrath; they are woven into the fabric of the brand’s culture. From the initial point of contact, to the appraisal and through to the final settlement, each and every McGrath agent is accountable for representations which must be fully transparent and must always be supported by factual information.

Time and time again, clients return to sell their homes through McGrath, knowing that

108 greater port macquarie focus.

they will receive the finest service available that, in order to respect its obligations to anywhere and totally confident that clients, a growing enterprise needs to McGrath will secure, for them, monitor its resources, taking all the very best possible prices necessary steps to ensure at sale. that it has numbers in Investors also its team, sufficient to again, e tim d an e m return to McGrath, honour all promises Ti clients return to appreciating the and to fully maintain through sell their homes that significant benefits its level of services. ing McGrath , know of the brand’s And success e the finest they will receiv comprehensive does not go e anywhere service availabl property unnoticed.

As it ident and totally conf , re management and grows, the business cu ill se that McGrath w best legendary “six-star” attracts recognition ry ve e th , em for th .” le sa at service. McGrath from other active possible prices Property Management professionals in the grew by over fifty percent region; individuals who during 2016 and true to its ultimately may seek to align word the business increased its themselves with such a fresh, divisional staff accordingly. positive and winning approach.

But there is no better measure of In the past month or two, McGrath success, than recognition and respect: Property Management has welcomed Initially for the business to recognise new member, David Blanch, with Tammy

“

Hutchinson also scheduled to join the team in mid-January.

Recent additions to the McGrath sales team include selling agents Nathan Owen and David Geary, with more new arrivals to come in early 2017.

McGrath Port Macquarie is growing. A matter of numbers, perhaps, but also a certain sign that the team is doing something right: Delivering market-leading services, whilst utilising exclusive state-of-the-art marketing strategies, to achieve market-leading results in the shortest possible time.

The entire team extend a vote of thanks to their loyal clients, for the support and the trust placed with them throughout 2016, and extend best wishes to all for a healthy and prosperous 2017.

It really costs no more to use the best, so why not call one of the friendly McGrath team today?

Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter E: copywritingbyrb@bigpond.com

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greater port macquarie focus. 109

focus_archives

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110 greater port macquarie focus.

rom the early 1880s the timber industry was a major employer and income source for the population of the Hastings. A newspaper report in 1882 described the Hamilton mills: “… The sawmills are the largest of their kind northward of Sydney, until the border of Queensland. This mill … turns out 45,000 superfeet of hardwood per week, which are manufactured into all the styles of timber required by the Sydney market, such as flooring, weatherboarding etc … The buildings of the mill are extensive and the works comprise two steam engines, three circular saws and two vertical frame saws. There are about 30 men employed … A steam punt working with gear brings about 25,000 superfeet of logs on each trip and from this supply, the sawmills are kept going …”

By 1894, Hamilton had grown to include its own school, post office and dance hall.

Mill workers were encouraged to build their own cottages from materials supplied by their employer. Hamilton also sported its own football and cricket teams made up of mill workers.

Numerous other mills opened up across the Hastings supplying timber to centres both in Australia and overseas, and it is not surprising that two of the six aldermen elected to the first Port Macquarie Municipal Council in May 1887 were sawmill operators.

The Hibbard family sold their interests in the Hamilton saw mills to The British Australian Timber Company Ltd in 1911. For much of the time, the Hamilton saw mills was the largest single employer in town. However, sometimes the mills were closed due to plant breakdowns and poor river access for shipping. In June 1921 the saw mills closed for an indefinite period, with all employees given a week’s notice, and in March 1932 the Hibbard mill had only operated for six weeks of the year.

Saw milling was dangerous work. In 1895 a Hamilton mill employee was injured whilst cutting palings: “… Mr T. Fry was cutting palings on one of the circular saws when one of his fellow employees threw a board on to the heap from whence it bounced on the back of the saw and on to Mr. Fry’s face, knocking him down and severely disfiguring him …”. Some injuries were fatal, such as those of Edward Meehan, who was killed instantly in 1907 when a long piece of timber got caught in the circular saw, inflicting a wound to his lower neck.

When the mills closed for the final time in 1958, its 21 mill workers were producing over one million feet of sawn timber each year.

Visit Timber! the exhibition and The Forest Courtyard at the Port Macquarie Museum for more stories about our rich timber history. The Museum is open Monday to Sunday throughout the holidays.

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• A TRUE RARITY •

RIDGEVIEW

ESTATE

WAUCHOPE REAL ESTATE

T R O Y

M C K I N N O N

A flawless blend of acreage home sites, mountain vistas and wide open spaces ... The Ridgeview Estate name is quickly finding its way to the top of the list for those seeking visionary architectural living in an exclusive estate.

T

he licensee of Wauchope Real views that are on offer.

Estate, Troy McKinnon, fills us The future of Ridgeview: in on this exciting new estate in We are expecting work to commence early King Creek. in the New Year, which is very exciting for all So Troy, can you tell our involved with Ridgeview. readers a little bit about this estate and Currently there are 14 blocks with contracts what makes it so unique? exchanged, with another three currently under Location, elevation and presenoffer. This is quite amazing, considertation! These three words ing that currently we are selling come straight to mind vacant grassed paddocks! It's when being asked this a is k truly a testament to the King Cree question. potential that Ridgeview highly sought The Ridgeview r Estate holds. It's going after location fo Estate comprises to our to be an exceptional people moving untry 39 lots, which area; it offers co estate and one I know ral includes five blocks living and that ru le many people can't wait whi fronting the Narran escape feeling, to be a part of. sy ea River and ranging in still remaining an We are seeing a to in size from 4,000 m² 15 minute drive .” variety of buyers, from ie ar Port Macqu to 6.5 ha. All blocks professionals in the area to boast amazing views of families ready to settle down surrounding mountains and on their own acreage and build consistent breezes due to the their forever home. We even have elevated aspect of this estate. floorplans available at request, that have King Creek is a highly sought after been drawn up by a local builder to suit the location for people moving to our area; it blocks on offer at Ridgeview! offers country living and that rural escape When can people inspect these blocks? feeling, while still remaining an easy 15 minute I am able to show people around Ridgeview drive into Port Macquarie.

Estate by appointment; please contact my The blocks are NBN ready and have undermobile on 0407 002 317 and book in your ground power, town water, mobile phone preferred time.

I am also out there on Saturday coverage and sealed road to driveways. These mornings from 9am - 11am, so feel free to stunning blocks are quite rare in the fact that they all present as cleared open blocks drop by. nothing to block out or interrupt the incredible Thank you Troy.

“

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Affordable

Y

DAMIAN KING C E L EB R ATES ANOTHER SU C C ESSF UL YE AR ou’ve recently been recognised as one of the Top 5 Agents in the Laing+Simmons Group, to what do you attribute this

with someone’s home. I love the fact that most of my clients end up being my friends, and trust that I’m on their side and have their back. It’s important to treat people with respect and to be reassuring that you are success? looking after one of their biggest assets in life I think I just really enjoy my job and I have like it is your own. always believed that if you are passionate Tell us about your Client Appreciation about what you do, this will fuel your actions Evening, why did you decide it was and make you better at your profession. important to do something like this This train of thought yielded great on an annual basis for those results in my previous career most valued to you? in bodyboarding, and As I said, a lot of my seems to be having the ct fa e th clients end up being my ve lo I same positive result in that most of friends and without them my real estate career. up I would be nothing. I my clients end I think that living in a s, nd ie fr being my want to make it crystal on small town like Port and trust that I’m clear just how much I ve Macquarie also has their side and ha appreciate them, and its benefits, when you their back .” being able to have this do a good job for your annual celebration allows clients people spread the me to give thanks to all.

I invite word and this tends to have clients who I have already done a snowball effect, which has business with, and I think that this is also been a factor in my success. a great way to demonstrate that I am not What do you feel are your strengths? just forgetting about them after I’ve done the Smart negotiation and listening to job. I love it! my clients needs. At the end of the day most What is your customer service people employ real estate agents to help philosophy? make them more money when selling their home; I believe I have the necessary skill and You employed me, I work for you! experience to get the results my clients are How do you maintain a healthy work/life looking for. Due to having experience dealing balance? with sponsors in my previous career, these Real estate can be an intense industry; skills have been carried over in to real estate. you definitely need to have a way to release Having good product knowledge and keeping stress or you will burn yourself out. To keep a calm under pressure when it comes down to healthy balance surfing is my release, and as the wire is essential for good negotiating. a result of getting in the water on a regular What is your approach to building basis, I feel I am better and more effective successful client relationships? at my job. Surfing is in my DNA, and I get so Trust and integrity. This is a long term career much out happiness out of riding waves. for me and it is a huge thing to be trusted Thanks Damian.

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Call today to arrange your personal sales consultation P: 1300 55 70 75 greater port macquarie focus. 113

114 greater port macquarie focus.

Smarter Property

earl’s turf What is Lawn Solutions Australia? (LSA) LSA’s growers and Lawn Solutions Centres have the best performing grass varieties for gardens, parks and sports grounds in your area, and can supply everything else you’ll need, from premium soil underlay to fertilisers.

LSA’s industry leading accreditation system gives you peace of mind that wherever you live, you receive the same high quality of advice, turf and customer service. All our turf suppliers and their personnel go through the same rigorous training and are also AusGAP Certified.

10 Year Lawn Warranty Our unique 10 Year Lawn Warranty certifies that turf supplied by your LSA member has been grown and harvested to stringent standards, is free of weeds and disease on delivery, and will perform to its maximum potential in its new environment.

Highest Quality Grass Varieties All turf supplied by LSA growers are grown under the International Turf Grass Genetic Assurance Program and our Purity Guarantee Assurance Seal. This means you get guaranteed quality turf backed by our warranty, and customer service that meets our strict protocols.

WANTING TO BUY IN PORT MACQUARIE, BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE OR WHAT TO BUY? Call our professional Buyers Agent today to help get the best deal for you.

We house hunt and negotiate great deals for buyers.

Have you set your property goals for 2017?

If it is all too hard, then we can help you set and achieve your property goals this year. We have been working hard over the years helping our clients all over Australia to secure properties that meet their needs and obtain their long term future goals. Our clients often comment how happy they are after engaging our services, as you don’t know what you don’t know when it comes to property.

If you are amazed at how other people are building their property portfolio and want to build your own nest egg, then consider what we can do for you.

It is our expertise that gives our clients the property edge ...

WHAT WE DO: WE HOUSE HUNT and NEGOTIATE FOR BUYERS • Reduce the risk and stress of buying your dream home or investment property • Keep you safe • Save you valuable time and money • Use professional research to determine a property’s real market value • Negotiate contract terms for the best deal • Access to property not advertised to the general public • Access to qualified Property Investment Advisors So if you too want your happy ever after ... Then give us a call and let us show you how it’s possible to have your home and investment properties too.

greater port macquarie focus. 115

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

SHOES OPTIONAL - LIFESTYLE ESSENTIAL PURCHASERS ARE SAYING “Everything is just there. You can walk out your door and head off to the Glasshouse or across the road to the beach and the cafes, this is just so exciting and convenient, can’t wait!” John “We love orion for the stunning location and the lifestyle that surrounds Orion”. Allen and Jan

A rare beachside opportunity Location | Lifestyle | Beach side living Starting from $395,000 116 greater port macquarie focus.

IMAGINE living in a brand new

apartment across the road from the Beach.

IMAGINE

no lawns, or spending your weekends maintaining a big property!

IMAGINE increasing your time to

live this rare beachside lifestyle.

This is all about reducing the mundane and increasing your lifestyle in the best location in Port Macquarie.

Come and experience this relaxed theme at the Orion display building located on site at 50 William St. The display building will give you an idea of the high quality fittings, open plan living, and the fantastic vibe of being on the Town Beach strip.

The commercial on the ground floor is anticipated to bring an upmarket cosmopolitan feel, completing the town beach strip as the place to be. As the saying goes ‘the early bird gets the worm’, so don’t wait till completion, because there’s a good chance you will have missed the boat.

OUR LATEST VIDEO Check out the website www.oriononthebeach.com.au to view the latest video that has everyone buzzing at just how stunning the surrounding lifestyle is!

TOW N B E AC H A PA R T M E N T S

1800 223 768

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.

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SU

CC

ES

S

NATIONWIDE PROPERTY BROKERS

SALES TEAM SET THE BAR HIGH LOCALLY & NATIONALLY

2016 HAS BEEN A VERY PRODUCTIVE YEAR FOR THE TEAM AT NATIONWIDE PROPERTY BROKERS (NPB). THE SOLD SIGN WENT UP ON MANY OF THEIR UNIQUE AND EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES. IN PARTICULAR, THE BERMUDA BREEZE DEVELOPMENT IN LIGHTHOUSE BEACH WAS AN OUTSTANDING SALES ACHIEVEMENT, WITH ALL STAGES NOW SOLD PRIOR TO COMPLETION! CHRISSY JONES CHATTED WITH THE TEAM TO FIND OUT HOW THEY ACHIEVED THIS AND MORE IN 2016 AND WHAT THE PROPERTY FUTURE LOOKS LIKE IN PORT MACQUARIE AND SURROUNDS …

ell us about your team …

We have a small passionate team who bring a range of skills to the table.

Arcadia Loughland is the licensee, providing great motivation and support for the whole of the NPB team. Renae Sandell spent many years in a major real estate franchise in Sydney and handles sales support and compliance. Ailsa Ross is our main sales agent, handling considerable enquiries and negotiating sales agreements.

Her strength is communication, getting to the heart of purchasers’ and vendors’ needs. Donna Madders comes from a project management corporate background and does an awesome job of supporting our off the plan purchasers as they move through the process to occupancy and/ or finalising tenants. Jodie Neil has a property development and creative background, moving between sales, marketing and brand design. As individuals, our unique skill sets help to create a team determined to succeed.

Why has Bermuda Breeze been so successful?

Firstly, the team at NPB have worked very closely with our purchasers to make the process of buying off the plan a simple and easy process.

The level of interest was very high, because the development had the right mix between a desirable location, award winning builder and 118 greater port macquarie focus.

high quality inclusions as standard. Purchasers floor apartments. Construction has commenced, have been very positive about the location, with around 70% sold. The dedicated team at commenting on the lovely leafy reserve that Nationwide Property Brokers are determined to surrounds and the short walk to beach, shops see this completely sold out before completion, and popular school. Not to mention, a crèche just which is estimated to be in the later part of 2017. across the road for young families starting out!

The development has suited both investors What properties do you have on and a range of home buyers, your books in 2017? including first home buyers We will have a great range who are very excited to of off the plan townhouses, own a new property as t We have a grea e th house and land packages their first and get the f range of of e us ho s, se and dual income properties. various rebates back. plan townhou d an es ag ck pa Much of the stock that we Secondly is the and land operties. manage is not advertised.

Orion on the Beach dual income pr k As such, our large database development located Much of the stoc not is e ag that we man of clients are given the at 50 - 52 William advertised .” first opportunity to hear St in Port Macquarie. about our latest off the plan This has been a highly developments before the general emotive project to work on public, providing them with the for the whole team. There is no benefits associated with getting in early. question that this site is in a stunning Do you have any other large developments location, with northern park and ocean still available in Port Macquarie? views that will never be built out. We are all We have two larger developments that the proud to come down and work in the display team at Nationwide Property Brokers are currently office each day, providing purchasers with an working on in the Port Macquarie region. idea of the relaxed coastal feel that will be Orion.

Firstly, the development at Toorak Court is Our recent video that we posted on Facebook located in a great location, in that it is central to has been a point of conversation for many of our the hospital, university, industrial area and Coles purchasers, who say that it gets to the heart of Supermarket, YET tucked away in a quiet cul-dewhy they have bought into Orion. sac. This development has ground floor and first Does Nationwide just operate in Port

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Macquarie?

As the name suggests, we have developments located across Australia from Sydney, Newcastle, Coffs Harbour to various locations in Brisbane, Victoria and Western Australia. The properties we have available range from large off the plan apartment complexes to individual house and land packages, and anything in between. We work closely with long term clients, helping them buy their new home or to build their investment portfolio. To do this requires identifying key locations that have good growth forecast, solid rental returns and surrounding infrastructure investment.

So how does Nationwide Property Brokers give back to the community?

This is a great question. We have worked with a range of great community organisations, with our most recent one being Camp Quality. We have just recently set up an Orion on the Beach fundraising page on everydayhero. We will be donating $50 for every purchaser who provides a testimonial as to why they love Orion on the Beach. However, it has started to grow from there, with people who follow our Facebook page donating just because they believe in the cause.

Our goal as a team is to reach $1,500 so if you are interested in contributing to a good cause, then check out the link on our Facebook page.

Contact the team Ph: 1800 223 768.

Email: info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com

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1800 223 768

Rare in town deep water frontage

Expressions of Interest

5 3 2 • Grand sized entertaining areas all facing North across the water.

• Deep water frontage, private jetty and dry boat docking for multiple boats.

• 5 generously sized bedrooms and 3 modern fully tiled bathrooms.

• Downstairs guest wing that can double as rumpus rooms or alternatively a ‘work-fromhome’ option.

• Large Northern waterfront room with glass concertina walls.

B.1.02/18 Lord St, Town Beach • • • • •

$499,000 2

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Stunning beach side location on the Town Beach strip.

Stone kitchen bench tops and quality finishing’s throughout.

Underground secure carpark and lockup storage bay.

Potential oasis for the busy ‘lifestyler’ or investor.

Residents will have ample lifestyle choices with 2 local beaches at their doorstep, variety of retail shops, with quality bars and restaurants just a stroll away.

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Inspect: Contact Agent 1800 223 768 Email: info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com

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Inspect: Contact Agent 1800 223 768 Email: info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com

Location Shot

Vacant Block in Prime Location

Contact Agent

Quiet Yet Convenient Location

$379,950 2

Easy walking distance to the beautiful Shelly beach Desirable easterly rear aspect.

Elevated to capture those summer breezes Close to schools, shops and the CBD Build your dream home today in this very desirable location

Inspect: Contact Agent 1800 223 768 Email: info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com

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• Perfect for first home buyers and investors alike • Great design promoting the easy living lifestyle • Kitchen showcases stone bench tops • Air-conditioning as standard with timber flooring throughout the home • Located only minutes from key infrastructure

Inspect: Contact Agent 1800 223 768 Email: info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com

We have brand new stock nationwide

info@nationwidepropertybrokers.com www.nationwidepropertybrokers.com 50-52 William St, Port Macquarie 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.

TA5100898

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greater port macquarie focus. 119

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