Issuu

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Feature Story

A Midsummer Night's Dream

JULY 2017 // issue 140

Jarryd

Madden

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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 2017 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the July issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

here have been some wondrous sunsets and sunrises these past few weeks, which makes the cool change of winter slightly better to cope with here in Port Macquarie. Brilliant pinks, dark oranges, and misty blues - it’s a photographer’s dream, if you are up early enough to catch the rising day. With whales passing by in huge numbers, you can easily see them from a number of vantage points around the shorelines and hill tops - but if you want a slightly closer look, then we suggest you jump on a boat with one of the fabulous cruise companies down on the river. Anthony and the team from Port Jet recently acquired the Cruise Adventures business, and will be expanding their water activities and options. It’s an exciting time for the water front vendors, with Port Jet, Cruise Adventures and The Cruise Terminal offering a range of cruise options. The magic of where we live is easy to enjoy, so

get out and enjoy it! Meet the new team members! We gathered the whole crew and grabbed a photo, so that we could introduce you to the newest members of the FOCUS team. Joining the sales team are Sarah Dunstan and Emily Dwyer - welcome! Sarah is standing to Jay’s right and Emily to her right. We look forward to an exciting year here at FOCUS. On the Cover Our cover features well known dancer Jarryd Madden, who’ll be visiting the area to teach some classes at Port Macquarie Performing Arts. Jarryd performs with The Australian Ballet, but he’s originally from Wauchope. Photography supplied by Daniel Boud. In this Issue It must be the month for visiting dancers, as Brendan Bradshaw from the Melbourne

City Ballet (who, coincidentally, is also from Wauchope) will perform with his company in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Glasshouse. The Glasshouse will also host John Wood and Julie Nihill of Blue Heelers fame this month, as they perform in the fabulous play Bakersfield Mist. John spares some time to chat to us, while on the road touring … Local running identity Charlie Maher stops by to tell us about the Indigenous Marathon Foundation and how it’s helping to change lives locally, while entertainers Brooke McClymont, Adam Eckersley and King Coyote fill us in about their upcoming gigs. And don’t miss our special Education and Training feature this month, which showcases many of our area’s leading educational institutions.

WHAT’S ON GLASSHOUSE 02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE

SCHOOL HOLIDAY fun!

ECLIPSE Monday 3 July, 7.30pm Eclipse – a show when the impossible is made possible… the largest dance and illusion show touring Australia in 2017.

ERTH’S

PREHISTORIC AQUARIUM

Tuesday 4 July, 6.30pm Wednesday 5 July, 10.30am & 1pm The dinosaurs are coming! This truly immersive dinosaur show recreates an exciting, extinct underwater universe the kids won’t want to leave!

BAKERSFIELD MIST BY STEPHEN SACHS

Saturday 15 July, 8pm Starring John Wood, Bakersfield Mist is a hilarious thought-provoking comedy-drama that asks what makes art, and people, truly authentic. Based on a true story.

IN THE GALLERY Entry is free

Gallery opening hours Tue - Fri: 10am - 5pm Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm Public Holidays: 10am - 4pm

GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY www.glasshouse.org.au @glasshousepmq #glasshouseregionalgallery #glasshousepmq

OPERATION ART

2017 TOURING EXHIBITION

BEING TIWI

on view 1 July - 27 August

on view 8 July - 3 September

This is an important visual arts exhibition that focuses on creating a positive environment to aid the healing and recovery process of young patients. Toured by the Arts Unit of the NSW Department of Education.

Being Tiwi brings together prints and paintings by nine artists from Australia’s Tiwi Islands. Toured by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.

Helen Hwang, Underwater Cat, Strathfield Girls High School. Image courtesy of the artist and Operation Art.

Maria Josette Orsto, Kulama, 2010, Japanese-style woodcut, Museum of Contemporary Art, purchased with funds provided by the MCA Foundation, 2015, Image courtesy and © the artist.

EXPERIMENTAL PRINTMAKING

STARTS IN AUGUST

BOOK NOW!

August: 9, 16, 23, 30, 6pm - 8.30pm September: 6, 13, 20, 27, 6pm - 8.30pm Join Wendy Stokes each Wednesday for eight weeks exploring a range of experimental printmaking techniques. Eight week class packages available. greater port macquarie focus. 3

Jarryd Madden in William Forsythe’s In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated. Photography Daniel Boud

The Pas De Deux Dimity Azoury and Jarryd Madden in Coppélia. Photography Jeff Busby

focusinterview.

Madden ENCOURAGED BY HIS DANCE TEACHER MOTHER, JARRYD MADDEN STARTED DANCING AT THE AGE OF THREE AT HIS LOCAL DANCE SCHOOL IN WAUCHOPE. JARRYD NOW RETURNS TO PORT MACQUARIE, WHERE HE'LL OFFER KEY WORKSHOPS AT THE MID NORTH COAST FESTIVAL OF DANCE ... rowing up, did you always love performing? Can you tell us a little about your childhood and your mother's influence? I think beyond performing, I've always had a passion to entertain. I like to take people away from the everyday and get them lost in something completely different. So that overriding passion of entertainment, over the years, focused down into ballet. My mum is an incredible person; she and my father have always gone without, so that my brother and I could follow our dreams. She use to be a dancer in Sydney, then when I was about three, my parents made the country change and moved to Wauchope, where she started teaching at the local dance school, Francessca Louise Academy of Dance. When I was very young, I used to follow her into the studios while she taught and my old Principal, Miss Francessca, noticed me and told my mum "You better put a pair of ballet shoes on him!" The rest is history. After growing up in Wauchope, how did you find the transition to Melbourne as a teenager? It's funny, it was the easiest thing and the hardest thing, all at the same time! I came from a very small family, living in a country town, to train full-time in ballet down in Melbourne. It was very easy to follow my passion, but the hardest thing to leave my family and friends behind! I moved out of home when I was only 16. In hindsight, was I mature enough to move out of home? Probably not. But I dived headlong into it and think I've come out the other side a better man. 4 greater port macquarie focus.

What advice would you give to your young term contract, because they needed another self? person to fill the spot of a dancer who had just I actually don't think I would give my younger retired. So I didn't know if I was going to be in self any advice. I've ended up where I've always the company after that season finished, or go wanted to be, so I wouldn't actually change looking around for another job afterwards. But anything. Maybe my advice would be just to my boss (Artistic Director and retired Principal keep on doing what you're doing! Artist David McAllister) was very happy with my Do you have any techniques to calm your work ethic and dance quality. So he extended nerves before performances? my short term to full-time contract. Happy days! No real techniques as such. If there's anything What does the future hold for Jarryd that makes me feel calm, it's that I am unique, Madden? Couldn't tell you! Not because I can't; I just just like everyone else is unique. Even though have no idea. I have lots of different passions ballet dancers are chasing the same career and outside of dance; it's just dancing the same steps, we all deciding on which one I do them uniquely individual. want to pursue. So when I'm out on stage, Right now I'm tossing I'm dancing this my way, I've been in a up if I want to become a and no one else will dance lot of ballets firefighter, study animation, it the way I do. So, there is by well known choreographers and become a teacher or act ... confidence it that. have danced in some One of my good friends from To date, what do you feel amazing theatres the ballet company recently have been your biggest around the world. became a policeman. Maybe career highlights? But one role that I'm I'll join him and become I've been very fortunate in very proud of was partners! Like Starsky and my career so far. I've been in my first lead role in a Hutch, or 21 Jump Street. a lot of ballets by well known three act ballet.” How would you describe choreographers and have yourself in three words? danced in some amazing I use to do karate while theatres around the world. I was training. And whenever our Sensai spoke But one role that I'm very proud of was my to us and we had to answer with either yes, first lead role in a three act ballet - that being thank you, hello ... anything really, we would Franz in Coppélia. Our company has its own say, "Osu". It was kind of like a mantra. It means version choreographed by our founding Artistic (among many other things) Patience, Respect Director: Dame Margaret "Peggy" Van Praagh. and Appreciation. A great philosophy to carry in That was one of those times that I really had to life, and something I try to be every day. So short tell myself how "unique" I am. answer: I'm patient, respectful and appreciative. Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker … Do you What does the support of fellow dancer/ feel this was your stepping stone into The partner Amy Harris and daughter Willow Australian Ballet? mean to you? It really was! I joined the company on a short

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I'm so very lucky having Amy in my life. She is an amazing person, who inspires me every day. Her talent, dedication and work ethic are a constant inspiration to me. Because of her, I always try my hardest at whatever I'm doing. But beyond that, she is the most amazing, caring mother to our little girl! I couldn't do what I do without my beautiful family. They make me want to be a better person every day. Can you talk us through your approach to health and wellbeing? I don't really have any grand philosophy or a perfect ratio of how to live life. But I think as long as you enjoy what you do and you're around people you care about, then that's all you could ever wish for. Having a child grow in front of my eyes reminds me that life's too short to do things you hate. What’s one thing you can’t live without? My girls! x Thanks Jarryd. Port Macquarie Performing Arts Port Macquarie Performing Arts celebrate the opening of their new dance studios with the 2017 Mid North Coast Festival of Dance from July 13 - 15. Featuring dancers from The Australian Ballet, this three day event for dedicated dancers will be held at the Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium and is open to all dancers aged five years and above. The festival will culminate in the Grand Opening Ceremony at 11:30am on Saturday 15 July, where the ribbon will be cut by Australia’s longest serving female Principal Ballerina, Lucinda Dunn. Book your dancer's place, at this not to be missed. event at pmperformingarts.com Thanks Jarryd.

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It used to mean the one we keep aside. The one that we ‘reserve’ for ourselves. They were revered and anticipated yet never expected. The reason for that is only in the great years, the perfect growing seasons and when all the oenological planets aligned would a Reserve wine be released.

BAKERSFIELD MIST. What happens when an educated, somewhat pretentious art expert meets an ex-bartender who lives in a trailer park to discuss a “junk shop” find she purchased for a few bucks? See Bakersfield Mist at the Glasshouse ...

Sadly, large wine companies (lets call them refineries) started to put the term ‘Reserve’ on anything and everything from the sweet sickly to the soulless detritus peddled on to the unsuspecting public. Why did they do this? Their souls are equally matched to the wines they were producing. At Cassegrain the word still has meaning and you can be assured that when you see Reserve on our wines they are wines of distinction, our flagships, our children that we are damn proud of. The 2015 Reserve Shiraz had humble beginnings in a small vineyard in Orange NSW. Orange is an incredible viticulture quality centre of excellence. However, Orange also has environmental challenges so we always cross our fingers, grit our teeth and hope for positive planetary alignment. The anticipation for this Shiraz each year is intense and finally 2015 saw all aspects fall into place. After 4 years of pining for a Shiraz worthy of bearing the title ‘Reserve’ the wait was finally over.

BROOK AND ADAM. Husband and wife duo Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley are teaming up for a special “Winter Warm-Up” tour. FOCUS chats with them about their love story and how their music careers have led them to now share the stage …

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The 2015 Reserve Shiraz is the amalgamation of John Cassegrain, Chief Winemaker and son Alex Cassegrain, Senior Winemaker’s love for wine and vision to nurture and create a truly remarkable ‘Reserve’ Shiraz. “It is a winemaker’s responsibility to respectfully craft what nature has provided us. The fruit was beautiful and analytically on point. We wish that we could say that we performed alchemy to produce this beautiful creation but frankly we didn’t. We nurtured the fruit through processing and sent her into her natural metamorphosis. She took care of the rest, exactly what a special wine should do” said John. Alex added “We watched her change and grow through youth then nervous through her adolescence. She has matured into a beautiful cool climate Shiraz strong and confident, yet elegant and underscored by an air of grace”.

YOU CAN ENJOY A TASTING OF THIS EXQUISITE WINE AT OUR CELLAR DOOR.

Don’t deprive yourself – She is visiting but for a short time!

LAWN BOWLS IS FOR EVERYONE.

Many may not regard lawn bowls as a sport for all ages and skill levels - but Ken Paulsen and Jack Lewis beg to differ. These two players both bowl at Port City Bowling Club...

R EGU L A R S 10. what’s on for July 24. eat local restaurants 34. out to lunch with Susie Boswell 37. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 40. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 53. starguide with Terri Hall 68. tourism with Janette Hyde 103. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 105. landcare with Bronwyn Newton.

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

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

2015 Reserve Shiraz

“Truly this is reserve as it was always intended. Keep her aside.” www.cassegrainwines.com.au

greater port macquarie focus. 5

focusinterview.

B R E N D A N B R A D S H A W

a Midsummer N I G H T ’ S

D R E A M

A principal dancer and creative choreographer with the Melbourne City Ballet, Brendan Bradshaw hails from Wauchope. From a small country town to the world stage, Brendan’s talent and hard work has led to many opportunities … and he’s very excited to be returning to our area as Oberon, King of the Fairies, in Michael Pappalardo’s adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream …

i Brendan. You're originally from Wauchope! What do you remember most about growing up and beginning to dance

there? Yes, I moved to Wauchope when I was three years old, and I began ballet lessons as a six year old (because I wanted to do whatever my six month older niece did) under the nurturing eye of Francessca O'Donnell, where I stayed until I moved away to full-time dance school at 16. You've danced for a few companies over the years, including the Australian Ballet School and the Queensland Ballet, but ten years of your career were also spent in New Zealand. How did spending this length of time in another country ultimately influence your skills and career? I was extremely lucky. Before leaving Wauchope, I hadn't left NSW really, then after graduating from the Australian Ballet School, I joined the Royal NZ ballet and in the first six months there I was fortunate enough to do a six week tour of the U.K. I couldn't believe a little ballet hopeful from Wauchope was performing on the world stage. Not only did I get to tour extensively throughout NZ, but I also toured China, America, France and Australia. 6 greater port macquarie focus.

You've been with Melbourne City Ballet since 2014 and you're not only a principal dancer with the company, but also a creative choreographer. What led to the decision to work in dual roles? Do you enjoy both roles equally? I've always been keen on the idea of creating pieces, and I had created a few short works for the dancers in NZ, but last year I was so lucky to create my first full length production, Dracula on MCB, and I was long list nominated for the Australian dance awards for choreography, which I am totally thrilled about. I do enjoy both roles, and they both can be equally rewarding in many different ways. You'll be visiting the Glasshouse with fellow dancers and production crew for Michael Pappalardo's production, A Midsummer Night's Dream. Describe the character you play in the production and what you most enjoy about his personality. I'm playing the role of Oberon; he's the King of the Fairies. He is quite a dominant character; he has a master plan to make everyone in the forest happy. Unfortunately, he trusts Puck, his cheeky servant, to implement his plan. Puck is a mischievous character and also doesn't have the best attention span and manages to get everything mixed up - which of course leads to mayhem. Oberon is a great role, and quite different

to the other characters, as he is the serious young budding ballerinas and male dancers character amidst all the comedy and chaos! to see this level of entertainment in their A Midsummer Night’s Dream is own towns and will hopefully give such a comedic, charming them some inspiration and Shakespearian tale. How motivation to continue on true to the original story their own dance journey. is this production? How much are you a is Puck us vo It's our Artistic looking forward to ie ch is m doesn't so al d an Director, Michael revisiting your old r te ac char tention at st be e Pappalardo’s, adaption stomping ground? th ve ha es to get of the story. He has All my family still span and manag up ed done a fantastic job of everything mix ads to live in the area, so it le which of course picking and choosing means the world to mayhem .” the best parts of the me to be able to bring story that highlights what I've aspired to be core elements and creates from a young age back to a coherent production that my hometown. is perhaps a little less complicated Last year performing Romeo than the original story, and therefore the in Romeo and Juliet and now this audience can follow it easily and become year with A Midsummer Night’s Dream more wrapped up in the magic! means I get to show everyone my different If you had to describe the production in interpretations, which is incredibly exciting. five words, what adjectives would you Thanks Brendan. Interview by use? Jo Robinson. Photo (centre) courtesy of Magical, enchanting, comical, beautiful, National Photography. cheeky. What do you feel regional audiences will plug! most enjoy about A Midsummer Night's See A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Dream? Glasshouse on July 8 at 7:30pm. A full cast, full-length ballet, with beautiful Tickets adults $48; conc./U16 $42. costumes - a quality production that is rarely Visit www.glasshouse.org.au or call the Box seen outside of metropolitan areas. It will be Office 6581 8888 for details. a treat for young and old and a delight for

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ULTRAGRAFIK FINE ART Local artist Beric Henderson invites you to visit Ultragrafik Fine Art Gallery, a new shop in town bursting with sophisticated contemporary artworks for home and office. Searching for something different? Beric is an award-winning artist and loves richly detailed evocative art that people can connect with. All of the art shown at Ultragrafik, whether created in-house or by selected artists, has a visionary and unique quality. Ultragrafik offers a range of imaginative original art, limited edition signed prints, gift cards, and souvenirs for sale. Ultragrafik Gallery is conveniently positioned within the Colonial Arcade, just a minute’s walk from Port Central, the Glasshouse and cafés. Upcoming exhibitions: Ultragrafik will present a rotating series of art exhibitions; check for updates on Facebook. 1 - 21 July. Mysterious Landscapes - enigmatic art by local artists. 12 August - 7 September. Icons - striking celebrity portraits by David Brooker. 9 September - 12 October. Amazing Drawings and Prints - by local and Sydney artists. In addition to larger works, a wide selection of attractively priced small original artworks are available. The Gallery is open 10am - 4pm, Tuesday to Friday, and 9am 12:30pm Saturdays. Entry is free.

WITH THE RHI REBELLION Our favoutire Sustainable Goddess Rhiannon Simmonds has workshops to fill every Saturday of the month - and help the planet while you’re at it!

uly Kicks off our first round of SUSTAINABLE SATURDAYS "Sustainable Saturdays". DIY Produce Bags - I cannot live without These Saturday workshops my produce bags; I'm sure you will feel will be informative and fun the same after you make and use a few for families wanting to make yourself. a step towards being more 8th July 10am - adults - $25. environmentally friendly! CRAFT CLUB In these short workshops we will Fundamentals of Pom Poms use recycled materials, Pom Po's and Tassels, natural materials and everyone's dream. Make a environmental whole bunch and string practices to reduce them together, or use our carbon as a key chain! In these short ill footprint. The workshops we w 12th July 10am aterials , workshops will use recycled m open to all ages ls be trial run natural materia l - $10. ta and environmen our throughout ce DIY PAPER practises to redu July, with hopes t.” in pr WALLETS ot fo carbon to bring more Paper wallets are so workshops in the much fun to make - a future! few folds and some Our Craft Club stamps to show off your hopes to bring mums and personal style. cubs together for a couple of hours 13th July 10am - tweens and teens of craft, chats and of course, tea! - $20. SUSTAINABLE SATURDAYS SUSTAINABLE SATURDAYS DIY Grocery Tote - say no to plastic and FUNDAMENTALS OF UPCYCLING. take a fantastic tote instead. A little intro into the world of fashion 1st July 10am - adults - $20. up-cycling! Say no to fast fashion this CRAFT CLUB season and up-cycle a style of your own! Fundamentals of Weaving - all the how 15th July 10am - adults $35. tos of weaving; leave with a finished wall CRAFT CLUB - SCRAP STAMPS hanger. Scrap Stamping, not to be mistaken for 5th July 10am - open to all ages - $15. crap stamps. DIY CLAY PINCH POTS The ends of the carrots and celery that Air dry clay is the best. Whip up a few we pop into the worm farm are actually pinch pots or ring stackers! great for stamping! 6th July 10am - tweens and teens 19th July 10am - open to all ages $25. $10

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DIY JUMPER SOCKS Learn how to make your very own socks from an old jumper! 20th July 10am - adults - $20 CRAFT CLUB - BEE FRIENDLY SEED BOMBS Have nothing to do on these rainy days? how about throwing some seed bombs around? 26th July 10am - open to all ages $10 DIY SCRAP RUG Learn how to stitch together a wonderful rug or throw from scrap material! 27th July 10am - adults - $35 SUSTAINABLE SATURDAY T-shirt Tights - this is a great up-cycle for all those stretched out tees! Perfect for yoga class or kicking around the house. 29th July 10am - adults - $30 I told you July's workshops are amazing! If you're interested in booking into some of these workshops or need some more information, please email Rhiannon at rhirebellion@gmail.com Each participant will leave with one completed project and workshop notes to make more at home; payment for each workshop will need to be finalised prior to the workshop. Some workshops have limited seating, so get in quick! Please know that your cubs are welcome at ALL workshops; we understand that sometimes that's just the way things are. Plus, there will be plenty of ladies around to give out cuddles. Can't wait to see you all at the Craft Palace. Rhi. XX

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focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

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LAKE CATHIE POTTERY OPEN DAYS

Have a go at the pottery wheel, make a pinch pot, or simply watch a demo and browse pottery wares. Now open for sales and tuition. When 1, 2, 9, 16th July. Where 20 Evans Street, Lake Cathie. Email lakecathiepottery@gmail.com Website www.lakecathiepottery.com.au Contact 0414 274 760

WOMEN’S ADVENTURE SUMMIT

Explore Your Outdoor Passions and Discover A Love For New Ones “Connect, Unleash, Equip and Surprise Yourself” The Summit is an all inclusive, choose your own adventure, threeday mammoth weekend, where all ages and levels of fitness are welcome. It’s the perfect event to inspire you to expand your “Can Do” list, try something new, ignite your inner adventurer and Travel - Play - Live. When Aug 31 at 12pm to Sep 3 at 12pm. Info http://www.travelplaylive.com.au/womens-adventure-summit Where Camp Elim Forster, The Lakes Way, Forster.

QUEEN TRIBUTE SHOW

The world’s premier Queen tribute show, Queen: It’s A Kinda Magic, will take fans back to the glory days of Freddie Mercury and his iconic band, Queen. When 22nd July. Time: 7pm. Contact Glasshouse Port Macquarie: 6581 8888.

GIMME 5 FOR KIDS CHARITY GOLF DAY 9 Hole Ambrose - dress in your favourite footy team colours. 12:30pm registration + BBQ for 1:30pm Shotgun Start. Teams of three players. Proceeds to GM5FKs. When Friday 14th July. Cost $25 pp. Contact Kew Pro-shop: 6559 4596.

21 WORLD LAMINGTON DAY Hastings Coffee Co. @ The Westport Club Join us at Hastings Coffee Co. on Friday 21 July, as we celebrate World Lamington Day. Enjoy our special Lamington Day menu, made fresh in-house by our artisan bakers, paired with a coffee from our talented baristas. When Friday, July 21, 7:30am - 10pm. Website http://www.thewestportclub.com.au/event/worldlamington-day/2017-07-21/ 10 greater port macquarie focus.

HOLIDAY COAST CREDIT UNION GREATER PORT MACQUARIE BUSINESS AWARDS Tickets for the Gala Dinner to take place on Saturday 29 July are now on sale. Book your seats to celebrate, network, relax and enjoy a great night of food, wine, company and entertainment. When 29 July 2017. 6:15pm. Where Port Macquarie Panthers. Theme Black tie - black and gold. Tickets Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce info@portchamber.com.au (02) 6583 4412

BLUES AND BBQ FESTIVAL SAVE THE DATE! Music festival, food trucks and loads of BBQ! Feature event - the Buffalo Trace Australian Barbecue Wars, with over 80 teams competing on site at Sundowner Breakwall Park. Info http://www.bluesandbbq.com.au/ FREE EVENT When 9 September 2017. Where Town Green Port Macquarie.

• THE 2017 • MID NORTH COAST

WEDDING EXPO A DIFFERENCE • • MAKE

M.A.D

THE 2017 MID NORTH COAST WEDDINGS EXPO WILL BE HELD SUNDAY 23RD JULY. NOW IN ITS 17TH YEAR, THE MID NORTH COAST WEDDINGS EXPO IS STILL THE PREMIERE EVENT FOR BRIDES AND GROOMS LOOKING TO FIND THEIR DREAM WEDDING TEAM!

PORT MACQUARIE

J U LY F U N D R A I S E R S Event: Bago Jazz. Date: Sunday 9th July. Details: Gates open at 10am. $10 per person or $35 per family. Entertainment: Blu Hypothesis, Big Band Theory and Dinner with Milton. Food: BBQ and assortment of other goodies available. Other: Face painting and other children's activities. Charity Raffle: includes a keyboard, vouchers to the Hasting's Coop, Waterman's, The Bybarra Café, plus loads more.

Event: Bill's Fish House and Bar. Date: Friday 21st July. Details: Tickets $145 for three course meal, includes all beverages. Entertainment: Mat Brooker. Guest Speakers: Nicholas Marchesi, Founder of Orange Sky Laundry and Luke Anderson, an inspiring local with an amazing story to share. Other: charity auction, including a getaway to Lord Howe Island, artwork by local artists, a signed and framed NSW Blues Jersey, plus loads more.

ith over 60 of the region’s most talented and creative wedding vendors, the Mid North Coast Weddings expo is a not to be missed event! Our vendors include florists, bridal stores, reception venues, wedding cars, makeup and hair stylists, photographers, wedding planners, celebrants and stylists. The expo also plays host to the largest and most comprehensive bridal fashion parade in the region, with over 65 of the latest wedding and bridesmaid dresses showcased along with the latest in bridal accessories, jewels and floral adornments. Our fashion parade will be once again MCed by the gorgeous Karen Pini and will

feature the Mid North Coast’s top four bridal stores: RSVP Bridal, Coffs Harbour; 2 Love & 2 Honour Bridal, Forster; Beverley’s Bridal Store, Laurieton and Divine Bridal & Formal Wear, Port Macquarie. The newly renovated auditorium of Port Macquarie Panthers will be bursting with all the wedding inspiration our loved up couples can handle! We will have live entertainment, gorgeously styled spaces and ceremony set up, the latest wedding trends, life size love signs, FREE gift bags and thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes to be won. Mid North Coast Weddings Expo Sunday 23rd July 2017 11am to 3pm, $10 entry.

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focusinterview.

What happens when an educated, somewhat pretentious art expert meets an ex-bartender who lives in a trailer park to discuss a “junk shop” find she purchased for a few bucks … A find, moreover, that she believes is the work of famous artist Jackson Pollock? John Wood stars as Lionel Percy in Stephen Sach’s story Bakersfield Mist, along with former fellow Blue Heelers co-star Julie Nihill. A funny, moving and entertaining play, Bakersfield Mist appears at the Glasshouse on July 15 …

ow did you discover the concept behind Bakersfield Mist and become involved with the production? That was what actually interested me when I read the script - the concept of the story. It’s apparently based on a real series of events; I read it almost two years ago, and I was very keen to do it. I believe it had been offered to a very well-known actress, who didn’t even get around to reading it - and I then suggested a number of names, including Julie Nihill. Julie, of course, was with me in Blue Heelers for 12 years. She came to my 70th birthday last year, the Director of the play was also there, we got talking, Julie got the script, and almost immediately said yes … As I would think any actress who read the role would. It’s the most interesting part for a woman I’ve ever read! It’s a beautiful play. How would you sum up the story, without spoiling the ending? Without giving anything away, it’s essentially a play about a woman who lives in a trailer park, who buys a painting at a junk shop for very little money, and somebody tells her they think it’s a “Jackson Pollock”. Of course, everybody gets very excited about it, and she gets a big arthouse and international research firm to send an expert out from California to have a look at it. I won’t tell you what he finds out or thinks about the painting … But needless to say, they’re at loggerheads on all sorts of things! It’s

12 greater port macquarie focus.

a play about the meaning of art, beauty in the eye of the beholder - and what does it matter anyway … As long as you like it? Along with all the theories and themes of art, there’s also the battle of genders, class … It’s a very funny play! Not side-splittingly funny, but it’s constantly amusing, with a lot of laughs, and there are a lot of insights about human nature as well. It sounds a lot like “different worlds colliding” … and on that note, what can you tell us about your character, Lionel Percy, and the world he comes from? Well, Lionel’s a bit up himself! Whereas Maude [Julie Nihill’s character] - who lives in a trailer park and is an ex-bartender - is pretty down-to-earth. Lionel comes from a world I don’t particularly understand - although I’m aware of that world where everything is intellectualised to the nth degree. He uses a lot of big words and he’s very educated, but I think Maude would see him as a bit of a wanker. He’s an interesting character - he’s a teacher, lecturer and an author; he’s also been the Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. His life has revolved around art for many, many years … What would you say your favourite part of the whole production has been? It’s the first time I’ve had to employ an accent for years, so that’s been a challenge. The play itself is challenging; the sort of dialogue Lionel has is so convoluted and wordy, I’ve had a lot of trouble learning it. The delightful thing is where the laughs come - it’s terrific. But, it’s also very moving;

there are moments within the play that are months - or even years - before something just monumentally touching. The more you you’ve made goes to air. Sometimes you never learn about both characters, you realise they find out whether people like it or not! both have immense flaws and hurt in their (Laughs). This is not true of Blue Heelers, of lives. It would seem he’s had a pretty rugged course, because I literally can’t go anywhere in childhood, and she’s had a pretty the country without being recognised. rugged marriage. Both of them The little place we stopped at in have come from failed the country this morning to marriages and have been have a cup of tea were so t through pain and hurt shocked that I walked ou It’s a play ab of … There are actually into their bakery, it took ng the meani e ey e th moments during the them a few minutes to in art, beauty d an er ld play where people are calm down … ho of the be r te at m it es Final say … just shocked at what do what ng as lo s A … ay Bakersfi eld Mist is they say to each other yw an not so intellectual that …I won’t tell you how it you like it? ” it’s frightening; it’s an finishes, but there are a intelligent play, beautifully lot of twists and turns. written, the audience It’s a very interesting response tells us that we’re night in the theatre. All of the performing it fairly well, and it’s very audiences have been fabulous so far. funny and worth a night out! Don’t miss You’re well known for your work in it, whatever you do. television - including Blue Heelers Thanks John. - as well as on stage. Do you have a Interview by Jo Robinson. preference for what types of acting you Photos (top and bottom right) by Jodie do? Hutchinson. I don’t mind at all! When I was younger, I preferred the theatre … But over the years, I leaned that television could be just as much fun as working on the stage. plug! The great thing about working on stage is that you can get instantaneous reactions from See Bakersfield Mist at the Glasshouse on the audience; if the audience thinks something July 15th, at 8pm. is funny or moving and reacts, for an actor Tickets adults $50, conc. $45, youth <25 that’s most gratifying. $32.50. Visit www.glasshouse.org.au or call With television, you can sometimes wait the Box Office 6581 8888 for more info.

“

greater port macquarie focus. 13

focus_local recipe

Dark Chocolate FONDANT with Chocolate Espresso Beans & Amaretto Cream

Image of the month. Title: Freshly harvested aubergines. Photo by: Matt Gilligan. 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

AT ’ S I N

ENGLISH SPINACH Featured in almost every cuisine of the world, English spinach is said to have originated in Persia. It grows all year round in Australia, but is in peak season over the cooler months. The soft green leaves and stems of English spinach are all edible, and can be used raw, steamed or stir-fried, making it an easy-to-use and versatile vegetable that pairs perfectly with many dishes. Look for bunches with bright green, crisp leaves and thin stems. Thicker stems usually indicate that the leaves will be leathery and slightly bitter. It is low in calories and packed with anti-oxidants, vitamin C, folate and beta-carotene, and a good source of iron and dietary fibre. English spinach tastes delicious tossed in a little butter, or try it with one or two of these complimentary ingredients - fetta, ricotta, garlic, eggs, cream, chicken and walnuts. For a quick easy dinner, wash, drain and chop a bunch of English spinach leaves and stir through penne pasta with crisp pancetta, crumbled goats cheese and a squeeze of lemon. English spinach is grown locally in Soms vegetable garden at Bago Vineyards and are available to purchase at Ken Little’s Fruit and Veg in Port Macquarie.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 8) Dark Chocolate Fondant Ingredients 100 g Dark Chocolate 100 g Butter 100 g Caster Sugar 3 Whole Eggs 3 Egg Yolks 10 g plain flour or gluten free flour Amaretto Cream Ingredients 200 g Mascarpone Cream 60 g Icing Sugar 30 ml Amaretto

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14 greater port macquarie focus.

Zebu Bar + Grill Phone (02) 6589 2888 1 Hay St, Port Macquarie

method Dark Chocolate Fondant 1. Melt butter and chocolate together over a double boiler 2. Grease eight oven proof ramekins (175ml) 3. Dust the inside of the ramekins with some flour 4. Beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale 5. Fold through chocolate, sift plain flour on top and fold through - spoon into ramekins 6. Rest mix overnight in fridge or one hour in freezer 7. Bake @180°C for the 10 - 12 minutes 8. Enjoy! Amaretto Cream

WHERE

Executive Chef Trent Webber

Whisk all ingredients together until combined and smooth. Garnish with chocolate coated coffee beans.

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ollowing on from recently being awarded by leading online financial comparison site, Mozo, Home Loan Credit Union of the Year, bcu has been announced as Money Magazine’s Investment Lender of the Year and ranked in the top three of Australia’s best Credit Unions. Canstar have also recognised bcu for outstanding value across its variable and fixed rate home loan products, for both investors and owner occupiers. Canstar is Australia’s biggest financial comparison site, and to be recognised for bcu’s lending products highlights just how great these products really are. Taking in to account more than just the headline rate, these independent experts review features, benefits and fees and charges

to arrive at a holistic view. Often consumers will only look at the "hot" headline rate, and ignore other important factors to consider, such as annual fees, lock in periods or access options. At bcu, they believe in offering fair products that are mutually beneficial for both the customer and the credit union. Mozo’s Kirsty Lamont said, “This year’s winners have earned a spot among the top 10 per cent of home loans in each award category, which is no small feat given that our banking experts reviewed over 500 home loans from 89 lenders. Our Experts Choice Home Loan Awards are designed to recognise the providers that are leading the pack in terms of the value they deliver to home loan customers. “Home loan repayments are often the biggest hit on the household budget, and this is why it’s so important for borrowers to know where to look to ensure they’re getting the

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Peta Pinson

N O M I N AT E S A S M AYO R A L C A N D I D AT E Hastings businesswoman and Camden Haven resident Peta Pinson has officially nominated with the NSW Electoral Commission for the upcoming Mayoral by-election for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

ow that campaigning for the position of Mayor is officially underway, I am looking forward to meeting more members of the community to hear firsthand what residents believe is important as well as discussing the priorities on my radar,” Ms Pinson said. In line with the strong theme of her first campaign in September she has promised to stop unnecessary rates rises in the Port Macquarie-Hastings Local Government area. “I will oppose any rate rise other than the NSW Government mandated rate peg,” She said. “History has shown this Council is addicted to introducing Special Rate Variations (SRV’s) as the first course of action in addressing community issues rather than managing ratepayer money efficiently. My view of the future is that rate rises

are not necessary if Council ceases its wasteful practices.” “Ocean Drive is at the top of my list for infrastructure. This road has vital importance to the connection between the Camden Haven and Port Macquarie, yet it has been put in the too hard basket for the past 4 years by Council.” “I know the delay has seen the budget for this project blow out by millions of dollars, but Port Macquarie-Hastings Council needs to stop the delays and start moving towards commencing the work necessary to expedite this vital link that will address traffic congestion.” “One particular community project that I see as a priority is the investigation into the feasibility of a tidal pool for Port Macquarie. The project has so many benefits to the wider community in the social, health and economic arenas,” Mrs Pinson said. “The community has made it clear it would like to see an asset like

a tidal pool on our coastline and I fully support finding ways to make this happen”. “I will also be investigating into parking solutions especially around the hospital precinct and I am committed towards finding ways to create more parking in the Port Macquarie and surrounding areas. “I strongly believe accountability and transparency of Council to the community is especially required in order to build trust and create a partnership. Council has been slow to respond to the real needs and priorities of the community and business across the LGA and it is time that changed. “Importantly if elected on 29th July I will have an ‘open door’ policy to the Mayor’s office so that anyone can make an appointment to discuss what is of importance to them in order to stay connected and informed of the community’s requirements”.

“The Mayor needs to get out and talk to community and business groups to understand community priorities and how they see they should be delivered by Council. If I am elected I will be doing exactly that because I believe our future growth needs careful planning and real input from those who live and work here,” Mrs Pinson said. Finally Peta Pinson encourages every voter to think hard about the choice they make for the future Mayor’s role. Our community will be forced back to the polling booths again by November for a second by-election if an existing Councillor is elected as Mayor. Another by-election to fill the vacant Councillor position would be at the cost of nearly $400,000 to the ratepayer. By voting for a new approach, fresh thinking and a community voice, Peta Pinson is committed to represent the Hastings local government area as your new Mayor.

greater port macquarie focus. 17

focusinterview.

focusinterview. Brock Bentley.

Brendan Harris.

Terry Wright.

LL DISTRICT - KENDA

GARDENERS S P E A K E R S DAY If you have a passion for gardening and horticulture and enjoy socialising with those who have

similar interests,

the beautiful picturesque village of Kendall is the place to be on July 29. ichard Cullen tells us that the Kendall District Gardeners Horticultural Speakers Day will provide an opportunity to listen to some interesting and knowledgeable speakers on various gardening topics … while local creative Brock Bentley plans to attend the day to showcase his metal sculptures and plant frames, at the same time networking with others in the horticulture industry. Hi Richard. When and where will the Kendall District Gardeners Horticultural Speakers Day take place? On Saturday 29th July (last Sat in July), 10am - 3:30pm at the Kendall Hall. How much will entry to the event cost? $15; includes morning teas plus four speakers. Introduce us to the speakers and their topics at this year’s event … Speakers include: 1. From Sydney, Diego Bonetto, on edible and medicinal weeds to identify and grow. 2. Tony Moore from Port Macquarie - local butterflies in your garden. Tony is a veterinary oncologist. 3. Brendan Harris from Greenbourne Nursery, Wauchope, on scented and colourful plants. 4. Terry Wright from Diamond Beach, 18 greater port macquarie focus.

on rainforest plants in your backyard, concentrating on bush tucker and rainforest wildlife. He has an impressive Aboretum and will show how us to photograph them. Finally, to finish off the day, we have a panel of the four speakers for Question Time. As usual, there will be plant stalls, unusual rainforest plants from Rivendell Nursery, steel garden structures made to order by local metalworker Brock Bentley, and more. What refreshments will be available at the event? Lunch available on site is extra; at our event in 2015, 130 roast dinners were served - or bring a picnic lunch to have in the hall grounds or nearby Community Garden. Nearby are Kendall fast foods, the Club, Miss Nellie’s Café, or pick up a pie etc. from the new owners of Kendall General Store. Where can we find out more info? Give me a call on 6556 9615 or email riccullen@bigpond.com Thanks Richard. BROCK BENTLEY Hi Brock. How did you come to call the Camden Haven area home? I grew up in this area and lived here for 12 years, before moving away to a small country town for several years. I’ve recently moved back to the area. What's your school/education history?

I left school just before the final exams. I never took much of an interest in the education system or how it went about teaching; I found that I learned more in my first few years of work than I did in the previous 12 years of school. You have a background in working with metal. Where did this begin, and what has been your career development to date? Not long after leaving school, I landed a job with a steel and fabrication business, where I was lucky enough to have a few good teachers - who took the time out to teach me what they knew and the value of taking pride in your work. I’ve tried many different jobs over the years, most of which were in the building industry. You now have an interest in using metal in more creative ways. What are some of the items you're keen to try your hand at making? After trying a few different things, I’ve landed back where I started, with a newfound sense of creativity for working with metal. I’d like to combine this with my passion for horticulture, to develop both unique and practical garden art and appliances. How would you define "quality work" when you're discussing welding and metal work? Quality for me boils down to how well you

apply your skill and knowledge to your work, while being able to adapt to the unknown. As far as I’ve come with welding, quality is all about consistency and precision, while maintaining the right depth when fusing steel together. We'll be able to meet you and see your work at the Kendall District Gardeners' Horticultural Speakers Day on July 29. What are some of the items/products that you plan to bring along with you on the day? Initially the designs will be basic, to get a feel for what people are interested in and gather ideas from those in the horticultural world. I’ll be aiming to bring garden trellises, plant frames and a few sculptures. I’m looking forward to collaborating with other people with more experience in horticulture, to gain more ideas. What are your creative dreams/plans moving forward? In the future, I hope to network with other creative minds, while constantly improving my skills and expanding into new areas. Where can we contact you? You can contact me via my email at Instinctivedesigns9@gmail.com Thanks Brock. Interview by Jo Robinson.

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focusinterview.

GIANG DUONG HAS A COLOURFUL BACKGROUND, AND SHE’S NOT ONE TO SHY AWAY FROM NEW EXPERIENCES, LEARNING DIFFERENT SKILLS AND SEEKING FEEDBACK FROM OTHERS. THIS IS APPARENT IN GIANG’S PHOTOGRAPHIC WORK … HER LOVE OF AND APPRECIATION FOR NATURE AND THE JOY SHE EXPERIENCES FROM HER SURROUNDINGS HAVE LED HER TO CAPTURE SOME SIMPLY WONDERFUL IMAGES DURING HER TRAVELS …

i Giang. What part of the beautiful Greater Port Macquarie area do you call home, and how long have you lived there? Home is a little house on the hill, amongst the gum trees in King Creek, with my mob of wallabies. My husband, Rod, and I have lived in King Creek for the last ten years. We moved from Sydney to Red Hill, Telegraph Point in 1989, and lived there for eighteen years. We love the magic, serenity and beauty of life in the bush. Please share some of your back story with us ... Where are you from originally, and what led you to the Mid North Coast initially? I was born in Saigon, Vietnam. I grew up during the Vietnam War. My late father and my mother held senior positions in the South Vietnamese Government, internal affairs and education, respectively. After the fall of Saigon in April 1975, my parents were persecuted by the Communist regime, and being their children, we were also subjected to the same retributions. I fought silently against the Communist propaganda 20 greater port macquarie focus.

and brainwash, whilst completing my tertiary Rod and I have explored a large part of study in education. Every day, I witnessed the Australia over the years. The country is so brutal oppression, cruelty and indoctrination by awe-inspiring and amazingly beautiful. Taking the Communist regime to the people of South photos of the places we have visited is my way Vietnam. That drove me to flee Vietnam, with to hold on to them. That sparked my interest no fear of death. in photography. After several attempts over Three years before retirement, I seven years, I finally escaped completed a course in Digital by boat in April 1982. I Photography with TAFE NSW of ll fa was processed in Pulau - North Coast Institute. I After the il pr A in Bidong, Malaysia, always love learning, and Saigon s were and was approved photography enables me 1975, my parent e by the Australian persecuted by th e, to continue to learn, to m Communist regi Government to reappreciate and see the and being their also settle in Sydney, as world around me, with a e children, we wer me a boat refugee. That very new perspective. sa su bjected to the was, and will always How do you feel retributions .” be, the happiest day of your background has my life! Freedom at last! helped you develop as a Why the Mid North Coast? photographer? In 1987, Rod and I took a year off I continuously work hard at work to sail to The Whitsundays from improving my craft and art, through Sydney. When we returned to Sydney, action learning, and from studying the work twelve months later, Rod gained a position of master photographers. Like a “sponge”, in Port Macquarie. I guess, I followed love to I am open to new perspectives, styles and the Mid North Coast! techniques. I seek critique and feedback about Where did your interest in photography my images from mentors and friends. That has begin? enabled me to “grow” in my photography

“

journey. What do you most like to photograph (and why)? Our life in the bush in Red Hill, Telegraph Point, taught me to love the Australian bush, landscape, flora and fauna. This love has deepened with every trip we’ve made to the various corners of Australia. Naturally, I am drawn to landscape and nature photography. I also enjoy macro/close up photography of flowers, insects, textures, things that, if you take a moment to observe, will reveal their true beauty. You've just recently returned from a trip to the top corner of Australia. What were some of the places you visited? We explored the Far North Coast of Queensland during our recent drive. We visited Mission Beach, Atherton, Yungaburra, Cairns, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation and Cooktown. On the return trip, we explored Mareeba, Innisfail, Kingaroy and the Bunya Mountains. What do you feel were some of the highlights of the trip? “The Big Three”! I had never seen a cassowary in the wild, so I was determined to look for one. There were plenty of road signs around Mission Beach,

“

Seeing and feeling encapsulate the essence of my photography. I love the mood, emotions and lines created by the natural light. I devote time and attention to the editing process, to evoke the magic or beauty of the place or the moment, that I have captured with my camera.”

alerting drivers to watch out for cassowaries. The day we were leaving Mission Beach to go north, we made a quick deviation to Etty Bay. Camera in hand, I kept my eyes peeled for this “mythical” animal. Before Rod could stop the car, I spotted one cassowary at the end of the bay. My heart was thumping fast; I was so happy to finally see one in the wild! “Cassie” did not disappoint; he posed for me for one and a half hours! The next day, whilst in Malanda, I was intrigued by the road signs, alerting drivers to tree-kangaroos. Another “mythical” animal! Armed with a “local tip-off”, we set out to the “secret” location. Before long, we spotted a Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo, with his very long tail, up in the canopy of a large tree, munching leaves. What a find! Yungaburra also claims to have lots of platypuses in a local creek. I definitely had to see one in the wild! As we began our walk along Peterson Creek, a playful platypus was hunting for food in the fresh water. We spotted two others on that day! How lucky was I to find three unique Australian animals in the wild, in three consecutive days? How would you describe your "style" as a

“

Our life in the bush in Red Hill, Telegraph Point, taught me to love the Australian bush, landscape, flora and fauna. This love has deepened with every trip we’ve made to the various corners of Australia.”

photographer? Seeing and feeling encapsulate the essence of my photography. I love the mood, emotions and lines created by the natural light. I devote time and attention to the editing process, to evoke the magic or beauty of the place or the moment, that I have captured with my camera. I have also been experimenting with intentional camera movement. I embrace every opportunity to challenge myself whilst having fun learning photography. What photography groups/communities are you involved with, and how have these helped you as a photographer? I have been a member of Port Macquarie Panthers Photographic Club since 2013. The club has implemented contemporary initiatives

to encourage and facilitate collective learning amongst members. We also learn from our photography outings, informal chats about photography, and from sharing resources. Many experienced photographers in the club are mentors to club members. I also belong to a special interest group called the “Masters”. We study the work of a chosen Master photographer. This is where I have to step out of my “comfort zone”, to create images, different from my “usual style”. Everyone in the group is passionate about their photography; we enjoy comparing notes and exchanging ideas at our regular meetings, after presenting our “homework”. Where can we see more of your work, or find out more about you?

I will be presenting my portfolios at the Club’s Portfolio Evening on Tuesday 26 September 2017, at Port Macquarie Panthers Club, starting at 7pm. Port Macquarie Panthers Photographic Club will be holding a photographic exhibition at Masterpiece Framing and Art Gallery throughout November and December 2017. I will have a number of prints at this exhibition. Come and see our members’ beautiful and diverse artwork. We welcome guests at our club meetings, on the second and fourth Tuesday evenings of the month at Port Macquarie Panthers Club, starting 7pm. Thanks Giang. Interview by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 21

focusinterview.

DRIVEN BY LOVE AND PASSION FOR HER CULTURE local artist and Birpai

woman Ang Marr-Grogan chats to FOCUS about her latest projects AND WHAT’S ON HER AGENDA FOR NAIDOC WEEK …

t’s been 12 months since we caught up; what are some of the projects you’ve been working on? This past year has been a busy one, with study, travel, work and family commitments. Earlier this year, I worked in collaboration with Indii Swimwear to create a limited edition swimwear line featuring my Saltwater Dreaming design for the Indigenous Global Fashion Show in Melbourne. I also joined the National Aboriginal Design Team, and I am currently working on a couple of projects with them. Things take time in the design world, and I hope to be able share more of my work with NADA later this year. Creating imagery for organisations is another area of work, and recently I designed artwork for both Deloitte's and BMD Group’s Reconciliation Action Plans. A number of organisations have begun engaging artists and commissioning artwork for the RAPs as a commitment to being culturally responsive, so I’m looking forward to more creative work in this area. Community based work is one of my passions, and I like to donate my time to at least one cultural community connect project a year. These are “love jobs”, and finding the time is difficult, but important. I recently completed a large mural with the students 22 greater port macquarie focus.

able to teach this sacred and important at Huntingdon Primary School for their new language in the community? multipurpose and after school care centre. Yes, I'm currently completing my Certificate My next project is a Wauchope Soccer Club II in Gathang Language at Port Macquarie initiative to design some artwork for their club TAFE. I'm very passionate about the revival canteen; I’ll be coordinating and driving the of language, and I've been inspired by my artistic component of the project and working Aunty Rhonda Radley to take on a teaching with students at Wauchope High School. position in 2018. Learning and being a part of Tell us about the Nyirrun Wakulda Art a language sharing circle Exhibition… is an extremely powerful Nyiirun Wakulda, which and spiritual experience, means “Together as One” in and I look forward to being my traditional language of I’m currently able to share my language Gathang, is a collaborative completing journey and knowledge Aboriginal art exhibition to my Certificate II in with others. celebrate NAIDOC Week, Gathang Language at What are your plans to showcasing canvas art, Port Macquarie TAFE. celebrate NAIDOC Week? woodwork, weaving and I’m very passionate My NAIDOC Week glassworks. about the revival of celebrations are starting It's a Jacaranda House language ...” early this year, with the Creative Hub initiative that I Jacaranda House Creative am coordinating to showcase Hub’s “Our Languages local Aboriginal artists. The Matter” Children's Art exhibition is a free community Competition opening event and being held at Sea night on Thursday 29th, followed by a cultural Acres “Spirit of the Land” room until Friday day with the students at Huntingdon Primary 14th July and features artworks from 10 local School. Friday night is the opening night for the artists. It’s a first for the area, and it's a great Nyiirun Wakulda Art Exhibition, and then I'm opportunity to view and also purchase some heading over to Kempsey for the Indigenous local Aboriginal art. Fashion Show on Saturday night; my design You’re currently studying traditional work in collaboration with Indii Swimwear will language. Do you have intentions of being

“

feature on the night. I also like to attend the family fun day that the Bearlay Interagency put on every year; this year it's being hosted by Birpai Local Aboriginal Land Council, and it’s a great day for the wider community to attend and celebrate our culture in music, song, dance and art. This past 12 months have been incredibly busy. What are your goals for the next? I’m hoping to continue working towards my first large solo exhibition. Unfortunately, with existing work and family commitments, it’s been difficult to create. I’m really hoping to find some creative downtime “just for me” and explore my love of silver and jewellery design. I’ll also be continuing working in collaboration with Vana Ford from Vasnas Designs, and the committee at Jacaranda House Creative Hub Inc to support local artists and children in the area to explore their creative interests and talents. Lastly, where can we, follow, view and purchase your works? I operate a private art studio from Jacaranda House Creative Hub in Wauchope and welcome visits by appointment. My work can also be viewed on my social media pages, Marrang Art by Angela Marr-Grogan on Facebook and Instagram, as well as my webpage: www.marrangart.com.au Thanks Ang.

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JOHN OXLEY ŠKODA 130 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie (02) 6588 8555 LIC 7571

SmartLink is compatible for selected apps with the latest smartphone version of iOS and Android. ◊Safety technologies are not a substitute for the driver’s responsibility of the vehicle. Leather appointed seat upholstery has a combination of genuine and artificial leather, but are not wholly leather. Warranty terms and conditions at skoda.com.au.

^^ °

greater port macquarie focus. 23

homemade pumpkin soup from quaylime bar & grill

24 greater port macquarie focus.

Holidays. Salty’s have the perfect location to treat yourself to some much needed time out from the hussle and bussel of daily life. With perfect water views, soaking up the sun and enjoying a glass of wine or cold beer has never been easier, match that with delicious meals and you have the perfect lunch or dinner. Think of Salty’s when booking your next function or birthday party, talk to us today about the perfect package to suit your needs. Licensed Seared Kingfish, crispy grape, pistachio, Family friendly beetroot, artichoke and almond puree. Indoor / outdoor dining

Slow cooked sous-vide Milly Hill Lamb Rump with roasted root vegetables, roma tomatoes and a rich jus.

The te Salty’s

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841 Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm. Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

Kingfish carpaccio, fingerlime, chorizo and radish

zebu bar+grill

Summer is just around the corner Zebu to soak up the pre holiday atm with cracking water views and blue

Enjoy the quintessential taste of summ glass of vino or a muddled mojito team some succulent oysters or crispy duck s whilst listening to some live tunes from talented musicians. If it’s something a l

aqua at the westport club

zebu bar+grill

Sitting in the comfort of Aqua restaurant overlooking the Hastings River sets the scene for what is to be a culinary experience available to all. Our focus for embracing locally produced and sourced ingredients plays on the history of our location, the original grounds of the Hastings Co-op. Aqua restaurant relives its past through its current menu.

Keep the fires burning this winter; treat yourself to a night in Zebu

A tender slow cooked Sous-vide Milly Hill Lamb rump sits upon a bed of roasted root vegetables, roma tomatoes and a rich jus. A simple combination that warms the belly and when accompanied with a gorgeous glass of Reserve Shiraz and one of our handmade desserts, your night will be complete. Make your reservations today and Relax with Us at Aqua.

If you really can’t decide - call for one of our 30 handcrafted cocktails - they are sure to help make the decision that little bit easier!

Grill with Emma and the team from 6pm, and ponder the delicious new winter menu from Executive Chef Trent Webber, which includes Scallop Agnolotti or try the Milly Hill Lamb Loin and finish with a decadent chocolate fondant pudding. Head Chef Trent Davis.

Diary Date: Sat 19 August, 6:30pm, Masquerade Charity Ball - $85pp. Step on to the red carpet for a good cause and celebrate 10 years of glitz and glamour with a glass of bubbles on arrival, canapés, main and dessert.

refined you are after, head to the grill f degustation menu with five hand craft from Executive Chef Adam Tait matche wines sourced from across Australia. St decide? Be tempted by the King Fish C with fingerlime, chorizo and radish pai crisp Andrew Thomas Six Degrees Sem

irresistible! Diary Date: New Year’s Eve - Bring i Year in Sin City Style with a night in Zebu Commis with dancing girls, blackjack and po

Chef Mitchell See page 21 for more info! Skrinnikoff

Live entertainment by Quantum Souls. Tickets online www.123tix.com.au/rydgespmq/events

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

25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie 6588 7201 www.thewestportclub.com.au/aquamenu Lunch 7 days - 11:30am - 2:30pm. Dinner 7 days - 5pm - 8:30pm.

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

Execu Adam

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Ma 6589 2822 www.zebu.com

Hundred day dry aged steak with a compound butter.

Braised Veal Shin, fried bamboo shoots, roasted spring onion, cassava

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

restaurant synergy

the corner restaurant

Where food and service work in harmony.

At The Corner, we’re all about fresh, beautiful dishes that are perfect for casual and social dining.

"NEW WINTER MENU."

We know how important great coffee is, and our experienced baristas proudly serve Campos Coffee from 7am ‘til close, 7 days a week.

Synergy Restaurant and 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.

greater port macquarie focus.

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

Our family run restaurant offers seasonally driven dishes with fresh flavours; we’re all about appealing and flavoursome food that is perfect for finer dining. Our chefs celebrate the highest quality of local ingredients in every dish and support local and regional producers.

Chefs Benn Grieves and Tim Grieves

We look forward to sharing our love and passion of food with you.

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

11 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie 6583 3300 threecrownscorner@outlook.com Open 7 days from 7am. Closed Sundays from 2pm. greater port macquarie focus. 25

The Kramer: German hot dog with homemade sauerkraut, caramelised onion and mustard

Smokey BBQ Bourbon Pork Ribs

carlos & co cafÉ

Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant

Welcome to Carlos & Co Café. Our sunny outdoor setting overlooking the river is the perfect place to relax with a delicious Holy Goat coffee or a smoothie ... Maybe a Corona with your burrito for lunch, or a glass of shiraz with your Moroccan lamb sandwich. Our new season menu is out soon, with soups and German hot dogs, as well as traditional breakfasts. We make our own salsas and even ferment our own sauerkraut. With our friendly staff, eclectic music mix and great food and coffee, you can chill out by the water. It’s the vibe; it’s all about the vibe.

July welcomes Rib Fest Thursdays to Port City!

We have a great spot for breakfast or lunch by the river. Enjoy a traditional Benedict, or try our specialty, Huevos Rancheros, Mexican style eggs poached in salsa. Maybe a breakfast waffle stack with bacon and scrambled egg, or a vanilla waffle with fruit and cream.

Enjoy our Smokey BBQ Bourbon Pork Ribs served with Sweet Potato Wedges, Salad and a schooner of beer for $20. Upgrade to a craft for just an extra $2. Available lunch and dinner until September 14th 2017. If ribs aren’t your thing, then why not try one of the dishes off our new menu, such as the Pearl Cous Cous and Roast Vegetable Salad served with a Greek yogurt and roast beetroot puree. Yum! Enjoy and relax at Port City, your locally owned club!

73 Clarence St, Port Macquarie (02) 6583 9009

Port City Bowling Club, Owen St, Port Macquarie 6583 1133 www. portcity.com.au

Open early, six days. Closed Tuesday.

Open daily, Serving lunch and dinner.

THE tapp

Luna Bonita

The TAPP is Panthers new "industrial" social bar and eatery, which overlooks the scenic Hastings River - serving a range of modern snacks and tapas. Luke Renton (F&B Supervisor) describes his inspiration for the TAPP Menu as creating "social food" - fresh, tasty, easily shared amongst family and friends (creating a communal dining experience). Open daily from 11am with FREE entertainment every Thursday - Friday - Saturday from 6pm and Sunday from 2pm - showcasing both local and touring musicians.

Authentic Mexican dishes, amazing flavours and a fresh, friendly and exciting atmosphere.

1 Bay Street, Port Macquarie 6580 2300 portmacquarie.panthers.com.au Open daily, Sunday - Wednesday: 9am - 2am; Thursday - Saturday: 9am - 3am.

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Food & Beverage Supervisor Luke Renton

Head Chef Adam Sinclair

Check out our opening times below: Monday and Tuesday - closed. Wednesday and Thursday - Lunch from 11:30am - 2:30pm and dinner from 5:30pm. Friday - Sunday - Breakfast from 8am, Lunch from 11:30 - 2:30 and dinner from 5:30pm.

Alex, Mireya and Carlos

Corner of Clarence and Horton Streets , Port Macquarie 6584 6555 Mon - Tues: Closed. Wed - Thurs: Lunch from 11:30am - 2:30pm, Dinner from 5:30pm. Fri - Sun: Breakfast from 8am, Lunch from 11:30 - 2:30, Dinner from 5:30pm.

LOVED

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I LY

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

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

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

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

“

22 new england focus.

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

new england focus. 23

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download...

NOW ONLINE + FREE

URBAN GRAIN BAKERY Urban Grain Bakery is now offering catering - we have our delicious pies, sausage rolls and quiches all in mini sizes; however, we actually offer much more than that! We have a selection of cold and hot canapés, as well as dessert canapés too. From smoked salmon on dark rye sourdough to prosciutto mozzarella bites, along with vegetarian options such as beetroot and goats cheese crostini, we do have your needs covered. Whether it’s for a special birthday party, or a meeting at work or a cocktail party, we will be able to help you. Like all of our items in the store, our catering is also made on site, with as many ingredients sourced locally as possible. New at the shop we have house made hot soup available (even our stock is made from scratch!) from Monday to Friday, which comes with a slice of one of our house sourdoughs. We also have a special pie on this month, which is our “Near River Produce” pork, apple and “Black Duck Brewery” cider pie. Our outdoor seating now has chalk tables that kids and adults alike can draw on, which are set beautifully in the winter sun - perfect for the school holidays! If you have any enquiries, please come in and chat to one of us in the store, or call 0423 545 258 or send an email enquiry to info@urbangrainbakery.com.au - wholesale enquiries welcome.

VIEW THE MINIMAGS ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGPMQ GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

greater port macquarie focus. 27

focusCoffee.

with Em from FOUR Espresso

CAFE R E V I E W.

FOUR ESPRESSO.

A W ELCOM ING, WA R M A N D DEDICATED TEA M INSTA NTLY M A K E YOU FEEL AT HOM E W H EN YOU ENTER TH IS COR N ER CA FÉ .

LV's ON CLARENCE. W E H AV E A FR IEN DLY TEA M OF TA LENTED BA R ISTA S: H A N NA H, SA M A R A, A LLY A N D SIG

Overlooking the revitalised intersection on the corner of Murray and Clarence Streets sits FOUR Espresso, where you can watch the passing traffic while sipping your coffee or catch up with a colleague over a delicious healthy meal. Em and her talented barista, Nathan, easily make you feel comfortable, and you know you are in good hands. FOUR Espresso is already winning a local and loyal following with their simple, healthy meals and snacks, along with amazing coffee and beverages. FOUR Espresso pride themselves on catering for

everyone - vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free and refined sugar free. Their salads and fruit bowls are made from fresh produce each day that are delivered from Kenny Little's Fruit and Veg and bagels from local suppliers Black Market Bagels. This dedicated local team are passionate about the food and coffee they serve up. Come and try a house made Budd Chai, or maybe a tumeric infusion is for you? So pop in; they are open from 6:30am Monday to Sat and 7am on Sunday.

We serve exclusively Bassett espresso, a rich chocolate, mixed berries, stone fruit and toffee flavoured espresso. Paul Bassett is a world champion barista, who designed this blend. Our staff receive personalised training to learn the latest techniques and update their already amazing skills! Aside from the coffee, we also serve locally made herbal teas, Mindful Herbs - “Products are hand blended by myself

with all the love and good vibrations! I am a passionate herbalist and Naturopath and have made my teas with the best organic herbs, and I have created my blends so they not only taste beautiful, but also have a medicinal effect.”- MEEGS. Little Chai Co rooibus and loose leaf chai produced by our very own Ally - traditional style masala chai, which is a blend of spices, black tea and honey. Strain the tea yourself, to see the spices and savour their aroma.

Tea REVIEW. with Vicky from Café Buzz

Café Buzz, Peach Tree Walk, Port Macquarie Remember when you would go into a café for a cup of tea and you would be served a mug of hot water with a tea bag in it? From the day we opened BUZZ, we have carried our own sourced range of loose leaf teas. You can enjoy teas from all over the world. Even the BUZZ TEAm loves to sit down together and enjoy a chat over a cuppa. We serve all our teas in fine bone china cups and saucers ... Is there any other way to enjoy the calming pleasures of tea? Tea has progressed so far from “black tea, milk and two”. At BUZZ, we serve a delicious range of black 28 greater port macquarie focus.

teas, green teas, herbal teas and tisanes. Not only can you enjoy BUZZ Tea in the café, you can obtain a bag or two to enjoy at home. We even sell the tea pots we use - new ones, of course. The two most popular teas we serve are our Sri Lankan English Breakfast and our chai. Chai continues to grow in popularity and will warm you to your toes. If you need help, please ask when you order. One of our TEAm will be delighted to introduce you to new flavours. You can also check our range online at www.buzzcoffee.com.au in the tea section.

Coffee Scene.

CafÉ BUZZ.

Peak COFFEE. The Peak Coffee Brew Lab is the perfect place for coffee lovers.

We love our coffee … And it shows in our

We are a dedicated team of local coffee professionals with many years of experience in the coffee industry. Locally owned and operated, we roast all of our coffee on-site.

Whether your preference is for espresso, filter

This allows our customers to experience their beverage just as it is intended to be served. We are constantly challenging ourselves to improve our products and scour the globe in search of the best quality green beans from direct trade sources.

passion for the industry. or cold brew, the Brew Crew are here to help.

For nearly 14 years, Café BUZZ in Peachtree Walk has opened its doors every morning, except Sunday and public holidays. To do this, we maintain your standards. At every opportunity, we purchase from our many local suppliers.

range for you to take home and share with

The old-adage of shop local is vital to our local economy. The more you buy from BUZZ, the more we spend with our local suppliers. I would love to list them, but it would take pages! We have local businesses we have dealt with since the day we opened. We do this to ensure the best quality produce. When you eat your food in our café, you can taste the Mid North Coast in every bite. That special taste you will enjoy every time you drop in.

7979 for a free delivery of coffee, tea, chai,

Many of the products we use in the café are sold in our retail section. We offer a huge

your family and friends. Think macadamia oil, nuts and butter. Think jams, chocolates, salts, cereals, as well as the best selection of fresh roasted coffees and loose leaf teas. If you are working in the CBD, please call 6583 hot chocolate and food. See Vicki to open an account, to make it even easier.

Peachtree Walk, 9/72 Horton St, (02) 6583 7979 Port Macquarie www.buzzcoffee.com.au

30 Jambali Rd, Port Macquarie (02) 6581 2677 www.peakcoffee.com.au

FOUR ESPRESSO. PADDOCK TO PLATE. LV's is a café focused on sourcing produce from LOCAL farms and suppliers and design their seasonal menu around the inspiration from the local farmers and produce available. They're so passionate about fresh, local produce, they have recently purchased their own farm in Rollands Plains to grow vegetables, pasture raised pigs and have 500 egg laying chickens, to supply the best open range eggs to the hungry people of Port Macquarie.

The team at LV's are so excited to start this journey with their customers and start a real change as to what we as consumers eat and knowing where and how it has been grown.

If your first stop at FOUR EPSRESSO is just for coffee - then aficionados, prepare to be won over! Serving up the freshest in your daily roast, FOUR is the only outlet of PADRE coffee in NSW. Originally from East Brunswick and now also in Noosa, PADRE Coffee is a fresh and appealing daily roast.

diverse, accessible and ever-changing range of premium single origin and blended coffee beans, which they're proud to source from traders and farmers all around the world that know the value of quality and believe in ethical and sustainable production.

PADRE coffee is roasted in small, loving batches, juggling time, temperature and airflow to create a fulfilling flavour profile for each bean. 1/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie (02) 6583 9009

The dedicated roasting team put all of their time and energy into the curation of a

Cnr Clarence & Murray Sts, Port Macquarie. (02) 6583 3983 greater port macquarie focus. 29

Adele & AMY SONGBOOK Australia’s brightest new singing star “Bloom” brings to you the songs of two amazing artists, Adele and Amy Winehouse.

Companion Bakery What can customers look forward to seeing on your winter menu? We love winter; it's the season for serious comfort food! We offer a changing selection of beautiful soups with a speciality bread to match, and of course, our enormously popular Reuben. Craig has also prepared indulgent sweet offerings, like our decadent, gluten-free 70% pure Belgian chocolate mousse cake with pecan praline, and individual chocolate soup pots with a hazelnut frangipani pastry scroll and Frangelico custard. Looking to the future, what plans are in store for Companion? Looking forward, we will be introducing a new and exciting salad bar menu (while still keeping a few favourites), more mouth-watering specialty

30 greater port macquarie focus.

sandwiches, but most importantly, a rewards program for our sensational customers! Can you tell us what your best sellers are and why? The salad bar remains a local favourite, along with our chunky steak pie selection. We also struggle to keep up with our authentic Tiramisu and gluten-free pear and almond cakes with passionfruit glaze. Our sourdough, which takes Craig 60 hours from start to finish, and is made exclusively by hand, has a cult following ... Especially the roasted beetroot, carmalised onion and caraway seed. I think making our own pastry along with everything else from scratch makes a difference you can taste. We use quality ingredients, no mock-cream or premixes, and put a whole lot of love into what we do.

Both artists amassed a legion of fans the world over, and together have sold in excess of 20 million albums. Backed by an all star band of musicians, featuring former members of The Jon English band, The Angels, The Bad Loves and many more iconic Australian acts, this amazing show is sure to thrill the toughest of sceptics. The show is not a tribute act; it’s a celebration of amazing songs, brought to you by a young lady with a voice beyond her years, and a superstar band.

Latest Testimonials: Melinda Schneider - six time Golden Guitar award winner: "Amanda (Bloom) is the next generation of amazing vocalists; I adore singing with her!” Lindsay Field - John Farnham Band - "Some voices take a while to flower - this one is in full Bloom. The heart, integrity and skill are clearly apparent in this fine lady. It is a pleasure to sing with her and a delight to listen." Lizottes Newcastle - “The Adele & Amy Songbook had them singing and dancing in the aisles; with a band of great players and an amazing vocal performance by Bloom really doing justice to these artists, it was truly a night to remember.”

Bloom herself has just returned from a string of shows performing with John Farnham’s band, John Paul Young, The Chantoozies, Eurogliders, and more.

The Basement Sydney - “A sublime performance by one of Australia’s finest vocalists - she won over the sold out audience with ease and confidence after just one song.”

She was also recently asked to open the World Cricket Series, performing to a worldwide audience with the Qantas Choir. This show has been wowing audiences across Australia; don’t miss your chance to see this incredible event.

Tottie Goldsmith - The Chantoozies - “Amanda’s (aka Bloom’s) voice; there has to be four octaves there. She has perfect pitch, she has a powerful voice, a beautiful presence and she has incredible work ethic,”

Morgans cimb Seaside Classic The Morgans CIMB Seaside Classic is an exciting week of golf for amateur players. Across the week there are events for Juniors, Seniors and those in between. The three feature events are the Junior Seaside Classic on Sunday 30th July, the Women’s Seaside Classic on 1st and 2nd August and the Men’s Seaside Classic on 5th and 6th August. Across the week there are over eleven thousand dollars worth of prizes to be won, thanks in large to the principal sponsor, Morgans CIMB, and many other local

supporting businesses. The Port Macquarie Golf course is shaping up to be in excellent condition for the event. Registration can be done online at: www.portmacquariegolf.com. au or at reception. State of Origin Game 3 is just around the corner, and all fans are welcome to come along to the club and support your team for the final game night on Wednesday 12th July. There will be prizes on offer, happy hour throughout the game 7:30pm to 9:30pm and complimentary finger food at half time.

greater port macquarie focus. 31

d of

and

d we

the

focusinterview.

Husband and wife duo Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley are teaming up for a special “Winter WarmUp” tour. FOCUS chats with them about their love story and how their music careers have led them to now share the stage …

busy with our bands. This was the perfect opportunity for us to get together for these eight shows that we’ve so far booked in. On to performing together, what is the vibe like for you guys? Adam: It’s great fun! There’s a lot of different aspects to it; we’re both used to playing in big bands, Brooke with her sisters, and I’ve always played in a four or five piece band with fantastic musicians. The first few times we did it, we felt rather exposed ... Once you get past that, it sounds so different. It becomes its own thing altogether and once you allow that, it’s really satisfying. There’s a lot of room and space to explore different things; it’s a lot of fun. And for these particular shows we take the time and opportunity to tell stories about the songs and we have a joke; Brooke takes the p*ss out of me, basically. Writing songs together, how does this differ to writing with your sisters, Brooke, and your band mates, Adam? Adam: We’ve always loved writing together, whatever project. I’ve written with Brooke on the McClymonts stuff; there’s only one, I think,

We both know how each other kind of operates , so we s and th ng re st r know ou and we s, se es kn ea w our the in t can try to mee .” re he ew m middle so

“

ey guys. How did you meet? Tell us a bit about your love story … Adam: To cut a long story short, Brooke just took a while to get some taste about her, because we’ve actually known each other since we were about 15 years old. It took her about 10 years to see how handsome I really was. I used to harass her back then and tell her “One day I’m gonna marry you, Brooke”, and she’d yell at me back and make rude remarks about my hairdo and stuff like that. It was a tremendous mullet, I’ll add! She did not appreciate the mullet, I had the V8 panel van, I was a mechanic, and she would ride past my house going to school and I’d harass her, but I got the last laugh. Brooke: I didn’t like him at all. I used to ride 32 greater port macquarie focus.

past his house on my way to school. He left school at 16, so he’d party all night. Basically, he’d rent his parents’ house out, and it was like a party house; he’d still be awake from the night before when I was riding to school, and he used to yell out, “I’m gonna marry you one day, Brooke McClymont”, and I used to yell out, “In your dreams, mullet head”. I couldn’t avoid him! And yes, he did have the last laugh - ‘cause I ended up marrying him! Sharing children and your love for music must be something very special for you both … Brooke: It’s our life! Sometimes we look at it and go, “OMG, this is crazy; this is what we do for a living!” We are really lucky; we love it, we enjoy it, we’re both obviously very creative and we love to write songs. Individually we’ve got our own things going on, but doing this together is a real treat, ‘cause we have been so

that made it. Brooke’s written on quite a few Adam Eckersley Band tracks as well, and we’ve written for other people. We enjoy it, ‘cause we don’t have to be light with each other; we can be really honest. It’s not necessarily that we are nasty to each other, but it’s just you don’t have to waste time worrying about what the other person thinks. We both know how each other operates, so we kind of know our strengths and our weaknesses, and we can try to meet in the middle somewhere. We’re lucky enough to be one of your stop offs on the “Winter Warm Up” tour. Will we be hearing a mixed bag of originals and covers? We do some Adam Eckersley Band stuff, we do some McClymonts stuff, there’s some stuff that Brooke and I have written together that’s new. We also do some covers that are our favourites - some we do in our bands individually, and others - this is the only place we do them. Thanks guys.

plug! Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley “Winter Warm-Up Tour”. Sat 29th July. Tickets $30 - www.laurietonclub.com.au Doors 7:30pm. Starts 8pm.

greater port macquarie focus. 33

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

JILL POLLARD T H E P O L L A R D FA M I LY H A S B E E N SYNONYMOUS WITH SWIMMING POOLS I N P O RT M AC Q UA R I E F O R M O R E T H A N 40 YEARS. SUSIE SHARES AFTERNOON T E A A N D L O T S O F L AU G H S W I T H T H E C O - F O U N D E R O F A N E N T E R P R I S E T H AT ’ S BECOME A LOCAL HOUSEHOLD NAME.

hat a wag! I’m having fun, laughing with Jill Pollard as we pore over crammed photo albums, scrapbooks and newspaper cuttings spread across her dining table, snacking on a strawberries and chocolate high tea she’s prepared and sipping from swirly gold china mugs, a gift for her birthday a fortnight ago. I’m captivated by my guest’s infectious, rascally sense of humour and joie de vivre: a refreshing unaffected feminine personality who’s achieved much in 44 years in Port Macquarie - yet who, everyone comments, maintains the warm naturalness and generosity that are her notable, very attractive, qualities. What a surprise to meet her, this doyenne, one of those women always dressed immaculately (given to elegant monochromes), reminiscent of Hollywood’s Debbie Reynolds in the star’s heyday: petite frame, gamin face, sparkling blue eyes, soft wavy fair hair and, if I may say so, a shapely pair of pins. (Quite coincidental to my private observation, she’d early on offered me detailed exercise tips for my own legs for first thing in the mornings, demonstrating with a semi-high kick.) Her limbs are fit from a lifetime practising elite physical culture, tap dancing, walking, yoga

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and, perfect for a Pollard, swimming. What a hoot she is! Given to japes, she plays a couple of tricks on me over a few hours, catching me out, and once breaks spontaneously into song, prompted by a topic of our chatter. Photos taken when she turned 60 show a crowd of 30 or so girlfriends behaving as if it’s an 18th birthday party, scandalising the citizenry of Flynns Beach. The streets there were startled by the posse of women, well fed and “watered” at lunch at then iconic Tommy’s Restaurant - led by Tommy himself in full Scottish kilt and waving a wand (if you didn’t know Tommy, just ask anyone) parading in the centre of the roadway wearing tiaras, trailing balloons and blowing whistles in a cacophony of cavorting to celebrate Jill’s milestone. You’d had a few wines? “Oh yes, we all had. I didn’t know it but Marguerite Black had organised the Salvation Army Band to come and play, so we had to march!” The hullabaloo was such an assault it caused one frustrated resident to lean out a window and shout: “SHUT UP that [swear word] noise!!” The occasion and commotion made the front page of the paper, Jill recalls with an impish grin. At another birthday lunch, at Sydney’s Otto, radio’s John Laws photo-bombed her ... in fact, wherever this woman goes it seems a little ray of sunshine and merriment follows

her path. And does she go places! But let’s start from whence she came. Jill Noble, from the Cronulla area, met her future husband, apprentice builder Kevin, at a dance in a nearby suburb, both in their late teens, she a typist in a legal office at Circular Quay. The pair married in early 1966 shortly before her 21st birthday and lived in a flat behind his mother’s house when Jill had their first two boys, before moving to an old house nearby that Kevin then renovated. In 1973 the young couple, by now with three sons under six, struck out in their work truck for Port Macquarie. Kevin set up as a builder. To start, they slept in a friend’s garage. The 1930s home on Lord Street (pictured) they then bought for themselves was rudimentary at best. “When we first looked at it I said ‘Oh’, ’cause I’d left a nice big home, in-ground pool, all my family and I had no one. And it was a mess.” (By contrast, the Pollards’ remarkable current home is uniquely bijou, a work of Kevin’s art exquisitely decorated by Jill – again, in striking monochromes of black and white with touches of beige, gold.) “You should see what Kevin did with that home!” Jill remembers, gazing at an “after” picture of the Lord Street house. His skills transformed it into a beauty adding, again, a swimming pool. And: “He was doing swimming pools as a sideline ... and the pools took over! They became so popular, we became so busy, we concentrated just on the pools. The business expanded.” The expansion, in 1975, to the corner of Hay and Gordon streets (where the Pollard Pools shop, still there, later opened) was a landmark event. Kevin built display pools and a spa for a gala launch. Jill’s first office, though, was a mere grass-thatched hut on the site. Landscaping and garden design was becoming trendy and Kevin had branched out into pool landscaping “so it was an island theme. The mayor, Bob Woodlands, came and did the

official opening; my niece was a mermaid seated on a rock, we had palm trees all around and everybody in grass skirts, even the big fat men!” Jill’s face lights up at the memory. “I’ve had a busy life,” she muses almost to herself, leafing through the albums. Indeed, by this time the couple had four boys: Lee, Rick, Dean and Mark. As well as being a wife and mother to the brood and working in the business throughout the couple’s career, she came to enjoy a packed social calendar encompassing the ambit of life in the growing town and community. A photo triggers a recollection: “Here,” she points out, “Fund-raising at the races in Rio Week. Kevin and I and another couple ran a beer, wine and champagne stall to raise money for charity. It was a warm day, so it was busy,” she smiles. She was involved with Nippers:”I used to do the recording for them; all the boys were in it. That was my Sundays.” She belonged to the VIEW Club. “It was a night-time club, a lovely group of ladies, an enjoyable time. We put on several skits [raising funds for disadvantaged children].” (The women in blackface surrounding Jill as “Fanny La Rue” wouldn’t be p.c. today, but who doesn’t have mementos from another era we’d rethink now!) “Then I joined Heather Eldridge, who had a physical culture team, and it was the first ladies’ team in Port Macquarie. She was a very good teacher and we ended

up competing in Sydney: we were called The Dream Team! Then, the tap dancing: a bunch of girls, we did shows at the old RSL Club in Short Street.” How did she manage this, with four young boys? “Well that’s what I liked: some girls’ company. Yoga was great too; it was good for the body and now in recent years I’ve done tai chi. It’s wonderful, a little less strenuous, less demanding. We go down into the Town Green park under the big fig tree on a Sunday morning.” She discovers an old theatre program. “Look here,” she exclaims, “Leader of the Pack was a musical we did, 1996 at the Civic Centre, where the Glasshouse is now. I wasn’t a singer, they wouldn’t let me do that! I was only in the background, not one of the main ones.” She was though, one of the principals in a nude calendar of 12 local women we find among the albums, shot by a young Focus magazine in 2007. Two years after her triumphant 60th, Jill was photographed in what looks like her birthday suit gazing out to the ocean atop North Brother mountain, tastefully draped in a buttercup yellow pashmina-style shawl and discreetly placed sprigs of wattle. The dozen daring women raised heaps for the Fred Hollows Foundation. It’s a lovely portrait, I tell her. “Not really,” she says, matter-of-fact. “Here’s a photo of Betty Allman ...” Jill “and a lot of other girls, helping out” worked with the fund-raising chairwoman of Hastings Cancer Trust, founded by local oncologist Dr Stephen Begbie who’d review where aid was needed. “The reason we were doing it was because it stayed in our region: Wauchope Hospital needing something, or Kempsey. That’s why I was quite passionate about doing it.” There are even pictures of Kevin dressed up in wig and costume, induced to partner his wife on a stage to raise funds for the Junior League he coached. While their own family was growing and thriving, Pollard pools thrived. Maybe 2000 of them, Kevin estimates when I inquire, until the pair retired ten years ago, passing the business to their sons. Just some are the pools at Rydges, Sails, the Observatory Hotel, Breakwall Caravan Park and at Kendall. (Kevin

also devised a rope system to prevent koalas drowning in pools, Jill tells me.) Pollard won five national awards and dozens of state and regional awards. In 1988-89 their display pools won the Australian Pool of the Year Award both in NSW and nationally. The couple was recognised on their 50th wedding anniversary in February 2016 with congratulatory certificates from the Governor-General, NSW Governor, Prime Minister, NSW Premier, and our Federal and State MPs. Jill was honoured too with the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Award. In retirement they’ve travelled extensively, and earlier alongside Kevin’s participation in golden oldies Rugby: NZ, South Africa, and to the roof of Europe, Egypt and the Nile. Recently, a river cruise: Prague, Budapest and so on. Jill reckons her husband enjoyed the trip mainly because his technical mind liked observing the intricate operation of the 64 locks the ship passed through. At home, she likes to visit the “oldies” at Maryknoll House and continues to volunteer: among others, for the past 13 years as a tourism ambassador at the Glasshouse information centre, advising visitors what to see and do. She’s signed up as a library volunteer starting next month. We’ve chatted so long darkness has fallen. As I leave, Kevin, equally genial and relaxed, shows me round the entertainment courtyard he built for the couple’s now direct family of 22. There are two massive dining tables to seat the horde, one outdoors, one sheltered; an imported antique pool table; a barbecue, fireplace and hand-painted trompe l’oeil; a beautiful hardwood long-bar he handfashioned, with brass foot rail; and a pond extending into the under-floor area where the fish swim beneath a glass panel, lit at night Bora Bora-style. It’s a warm family home. As Jill sums up: “Kevin and I are really privileged and proud to have had these years with our sons in the business, and also to be blessed with our four lovely daughters-in-law and our 12 amazing grandchildren.” susieboswell2017@gmail.com

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mark Vincent “YOU RAISED ME UP” TOUR 2017

3 ACE Awards, 2016 Best Male Vocal and Best Male Performer Mark Vincent ... Australia's most loved 23 year old is bringing his stunning new show to the Glasshouse.

Be mesmerised by the astonishing power and beauty of what is hailed as the best Tenor voice in Australia, when Mark Vincent brings his new show You Raised Me Up to the Glasshouse next month. Mark’s career has gone from strength to strength. He is the only classical artist in Australian history to have released six studio albums and a Greatest Hits collection by the time he was 20 and has sold one million albums. Last year saw Mark performing to sell out audiences around Australia in his own show. In August he began rehearsals at the Sydney Opera House as Freddie in the highly successful stage musical, My Fair

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NATIONAL STAGE RECITAL TOUR Andrey Gugnin returns to the Australian stage in National Recital Tour.

play for audiences across this beautiful country over two months.”

Lady, directed by Dame Julie Andrews. His performances in My Fair Lady continue around Australian capital cities in 2017.

The winner of the 2016 Sydney International Piano Competition of Australia, Andrey Gugnin, will return to deliver his captivating National Recital Tour in celebration of the competition’s 40th anniversary.

Mark’s repertoire in his show will include Somewhere, This is the Moment, Music of the Night, On the Street where you Live, Funiculi Funiculla, Time To Say Goodbye, Nessun Dorma, and many more...

Russia’s Gugnin was the most impressive performer in the competition, taking out four prizes in addition to his overall first placing last year. He will tour six Australian states and territories, offering performances at some 32 venues.

Reviewer Peter McCallum noted of his winning performance: “Gugnin's nervy, energised and involved playing, high technical development and feel for Prokofiev's imaginative scope, from the dreamy and romantic to the spiky and grotesque, made him the clear winner." - Sydney Morning Herald, 24 July 2016.

“As soon as I heard Mark’s voice, I knew I had found my Freddie!”- Dame Julie Andrews.

Since his stunning Sydney win he has been in high demand around the world as a soloist, chamber musician and festival artist. But he is eager to perform for Australian audiences, commenting, “Australia has provided many pinnacle moments for me and my career. It’s a pleasure having the opportunity to work with the Sydney International Piano Competition again and to

In December, Mark will be touring the UK with Katherine Jenkins that will include performances at the Royal Albert Hall. This might be the last time Australia sees him, as his career skyrockets!

The National Recital Series is part of the Sydney International Piano Competition’s celebration of 40 years in 2017, showcasing some of the competition’s most highly regarded artists around the country. Andrey Gugnin will perform a recital at Kendall School of Arts on Sunday 16 July at 2:30pm. Tickets $35 adults/$20 under 18 year olds) are available from Alvena Ferguson 0401 608 240 or alvenamary@outlook.com

focus_eat

Lou Perri from the Stunned Mullet

TAKING STOCK. MOVING HOUSE - AND OFFICE … THERE’S NO PAINLESS WAY TO DO IT, IS THERE? AMAZING HOW MUCH WE HOARDING HUMANS CAN ACCUMULATE, ISN’T IT!

fter amassing a 12-year collection of paperwork for the restaurant, it was time for a major cleanout. As is often the case when hauling out dusty boxes and folders and perusing their much-neglected contents, one does tend to get distracted from the purpose of sorting and packing by moments of nostalgia for the times gone, evoked by the pages at hand. Long gone team members - where are they now? Old menus … ancient history in fact - um, breakfast menus? That was indeed another lifetime. Being reminded of old processes and systems, the people and milestones of the past few years brings a perspective to the present. As is part and parcel of running a small business, perspective is something that is all too often elusive. As we ricochet crazily from day to day, month to month and year to year - often in survival mode, it is almost impossible to garner any sense of what’s been achieved over time, the tangible realisation that hard work has paid off, and the slow and steady metamorphosis over time where a business evolves and grows from a fledgling thing to a mature individual with a life of its own. It is often only through retrospect, and finding oneself in an unavoidable situation such as moving or winding up a business, that we are forced to pause from the frenetic daily responsibilities and really take stock of where we are right now, and what it has really taken to get there. By heaving those old manuals into the recycling bin and knowing with the greatest of certainty how redundant they are from

how our business runs now - we have tangible evidence of how much we’ve grown. Shredding those archives from the early days is cathartic in so many ways - the pure relief that comes from still being around after all this time ... The fact that we have survived past the point of amnesty and no longer have to keep stuff. And then there’s the realisation of how significantly the world has changed over the time that we’ve been running our business - countless documents that once were painstakingly posted and sorted and filed are now digital, not to mention software and systems … Who knew that we would be looking incredulously at our collection of disks and CD roms and wondering what on Earth to do with them? Saying all this, I’m certainly not advocating moving house and office as a purely cleansing and restorative process. It is still as painful, frustrating and tedious as moving basically always is …. Hmm, which one of the top three life stresses is it? But as one small business owner to others out there, I would most definitely recommend somehow taking a moment to pause from the mad day to day merry go round of merely staying up and running to take stock of where you started and how you’ve evolved and grown. The learning curve is quite spectacular. And most of all, in this world where we don’t get our annual bonuses or appraisals or ever know for sure that we are on the right track, we need to give ourselves a pat on the back for still being here - at the very least open a bottle and say cheers to surviving! greater port macquarie focus. 37

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Ken Little’s IN JULY July is the winter month. We have decided to feature our local produce this month, so come along everyone, and support our local growers. “Remember: fresh is always best locally.” From the Telegraph Point area we have cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbages - both red and green. The majority of our fancy lettuce always come from Tracey and Mark at Beechwood. Bok choi, pak choi, choi sum, gai choi, snake bean, water spinach, lemon grass, galangal root, shallots, sweet potato are all grown near Wauchope. All our regular customers will know we only buy our bananas from Coffs Harbour. The flavour is always top quality. Add a slice or two of avocado, some tomatoes from Ricardoes, and you can’t go wrong. Most of our herbs are grown at Lake Cathie and Port Macquarie. We source our organic garlic mostly from Wauchope and Bellingen.

VICAR OF DIBLEY 2

B O R N AGA I N

Players Theatre Port Macquarie is excited to bring you The Vicar Of Dibley 2 - Born Again from July 28 to August 12. Directed by Simone Sherrin, this brand new production brings you all your favourite characters from the hit TV show and much more. Claudia Giblin recreates the magic as the Vicar - Geraldine Granger after her outstanding success in Players’ smash hit 2015 production.

We often have locals coming to the back door with samples of their produce, asking us to buy.

The remainder of the original Players’ Dibley cast is back- as well as a few new characters, who all add to the hilarity of this small village. In this stage production, we kick things off with the wedding of Alice and Hugo, complete with Teletubbies and a dress inspired by Thomas the Tank Engine. Then Geraldine is wooed by a tall, handsome visitor to Dibley, and romance is in the air. However, Cupid’s arrow seems to take a few twists and turns, as the Vicar finds herself the love interest of the Chairman of the Village Council - David Horton. Luckily for the Vicar, all the village is keen to celebrate the arrival Hugo and Alice’s baby with a christening to remember. The show ends with a rather spectacular performance by the Vicar, which you won’t want to miss. So book now at Players Theatre or the Glasshouse box office for Vicar Of Dibley 2 from July 28 to August 12.

Whenever local products are available and the quality is good, we always like to buy from these growers. Ken.

There will be additional matinee performances on Saturdays at 2pm, as well as Shows on Friday and Saturday night at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm.

There is some fruit grown locally too. Kiwi fruit is grown in Comboyne and oranges are from Pembrooke and Moorland. When in season, we buy mandarins, tangelo, persimmons from Wauchope. We also buy limes and lemons when they are available from the Comboyne area. Our honey is from Elands and Macksville.

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Kate WOOD-FOYE

from Rydges and Sails Resort Port Macquarie.

Below. Kyle Kliousis, Mitch Wrigley, Doug Stephens, Richard Bate

Below. Little Oliver Godwin with Dad Michael at the Cars 3 Premiere at Rydges Photo Credit Meraki Photography

Below. Jodie Firth & Sandra Thompson @ High Tea Below. Lyndon & Candice Tapiolas, Julie & Paul Berry & The JB Memorial Ball at Rydges

Below. Victoria and Sarah Hudson & Alicia Watson @ High Tea

Photo Credit Meraki Photography

SOCIAL/SCENE

right. The ladies loving High Tea

Photo Credit Meraki Photography

YOU KNOW THINGS ARE BAD WHEN YOU ARE EATING A SMALL ELEPHANT’S BODY WEIGHT IN CHOCOLATE EACH NIGHT AND SETTLING INTO SERIOUS HIBERNATION. YIKES! SO HAPPY TO GIVE THE WINTER SOLSTICE THE BIG SHOVE OFF AND BID A NOT SO FOND FAREWELL TO THE SHORTEST AND COLDEST DAY OF THE YEAR! HAPPILY, IT’S ONLY UPWARDS AND ONWARDS TO SUNSHINE FROM HERE!

groovy green Kombi, a naughty Nemo, inflatable iced donuts, hundreds of beach balls, deck chairs and bean bags, live tunes and tequila infused cocktails welcomed a crew of 170 revellers, as they joined together on a chilly Friday in June for the JB Memorial Beach Ball, to celebrate the late Jacob Berry. The event raised funds for the CSU Scholarship created by the Berry Family, the university and the team at Rydges in Jacobs’s name. This was no ordinary ball - no ball gowns or tiaras, and certainly no stuffy seating plan or formalities. The chilled out guests wore boardies and beach babe bling and were welcomed by a fantastic line up of local and visiting musos, as the community rallied together to kick start the fund. Chris Rose, Ryan McMahon, Reggie D and Michael Spooner and The Day Trippers literally rocked the venue, until DJ Chris Van De Linde hit the decks until late. Family friends, Jacobs’s buddies and workmates joined with the beautiful Berry family and the CSU SRC team to shimmy up a storm in his memory. The crowd played Pun Wars, 100 Board and created a memory board, grabbing plenty of snaps in the photo booth provided by Matt J of Pose It. Guests included Julie and Paul Berry, Candice and Lyndon Tapiolas, Debbie Ross and Craig Watson, Jess Oxley, Doug

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Stephens, Chelsea Richards, Kayla Stevens, Kylie Kliousis, Richard Bate, Mitch Wrigley, Matt Martin and Shae Glanville. Aerosol Artist Sigh Luxton and girlfriend Katie rocked grass skirts, as Marc Minor of Harcourt’s auctioned off a piece of Sigh’s awesome artwork created on the night. A whopping $25K was raised from the event, and a series of uni events leading to the night arranged by the awesome CSU SRC team of Ruby Simmons, Ashley Hendry, Grace Stephens and Clara Koch. Such a fun night, too many crazy cocktails with a cracking rendition of Hotel California shared with old friends. Cheers to you, Jacob! The little ones had a riot of fun at Rydges recently, at a party of another kind, with 130 kiddies and their parents gathering for a crazy night of Cars 3 fun at the red carpet premiere party, presented by Rydges and Majestic Cinemas. Party pies, fairy bread, flowing chocolate fountain, hundreds of balloons, photo booth and paparazzi fun! Lightning McQueen fans big and small hit the premiere party, followed by a private screening at Majestic with choc tops and popcorn-a-plenty. Guests included birthday boys Matteo, Kalan and Axl, Laura and Damian Noble, Sam Clifton, Michelle, Rose and Thomas Newman, Oliver and Michael Godwin, Charlee and Patrick Lawlor to name but a few of the racing fans. Kachow! Congrats to Brad and Jessica Hodge and Ryan

and Hiedi Moore at Moore Brewing Co, who held their opening night recently at the new facility in the industrial area. Guests, including Hayley and Ross Dwyer, Matt and Bianca Adkins, Ashley and David Evans, Liz and Stefan Hostettler, Jeff and Kelly Cowan enjoyed some ales and tales from the new establishment, with some cracking eats and tunes to follow over the weekend. Wishing the crew all the best with their new venture - predicting many a boys’ night will be spent enjoying their signature brews and barbecues! High tea hit a high note on a sunny afternoon in June, as a bevy of almost 300 hundred beauties descended upon the Bayside Event level at Rydges for an afternoon of fun, fashion and fundraising at the 8th annual High Tea on the Hastings in memory of Rachel Flakus. Over the years the event has raised over $50K for Camp Quality, led by the amazingly dedicated Natalie Junge and Irene Mifsud. These gorgeous ladies joined forces with the Rydges event team to present the day with 300 hundred lovingly hand baked cupcakes made by Rachel’s beautiful mum, Pam Madden, for each of the guests to take home as parting gifts. Guests dined on sweet treats, including dark chocolate brownies, lemon scented butterfly cakes, raspberry macaroons, fluffy scones with Bago Bluff Strawberry Jam from the Hastings Coop Department Store, lashings of cream and delicious

World ParTea. Warm pastries and cucumber sandwiches were gleefully washed down with Cosmopolitans and French Champagne. Guests were entertained by Gabi and Tony from Chill Factor and enjoyed a Mother/Daughter makeover for the Miller family, who shared their family’s cancer journey and Camp Quality experience. Guests included bride-to-be Camilla, birthday girl Kaityln Cutliffe and Mum Leonie, Rinnie White, Jenny Wehlow and the Ploddettes, Donene Tunbridge and the Lunchalot crew, Jodie Firth, Sandra Thompson, Dee McLean, Victoria and Sarah J Hudson, Vicky Brady, Rani Tink, Katherine Harris, Tiffany Scutts, Vicki Bates, Leanne Burbridge, Alicia Watson, Rachel Lehman and the Miss Motivator crew, Connie Porter, Melinda Dalton, Emily Pitt, Kristy Roberts, Jane Boydell and Hayley Soady. Congrats to the ever stylish Kodie Shipway, who won Best Dressed, and the gorgeous Simone Lake for Best Fascinator. A super fun afternoon that turned into a delightfully silly Saturday evening for some. Cheers to Camp Quality, ladies! Adios winter chills, tonsillitis, fevers and frostbite! After a crazy session of events, I can happily say we are on the countdown to a little mid-winter break! Seriously hanging out for sunshine, sandy white beaches and the crystal blue waters of the South Pacific … Just what the doctor ordered!

focusinterview.

Marina Commencing at 7pm on Wednesday 2nd August at the Glasshouse Theatre, the Hastings Cancer Trust is delighted to present Marina Prior in Concert for one very special unforgettable evening.

ecognised as to local cancer patients, those caring Australia’s leading for them and also those treating them. lady of musical Since 2005, almost $1,000,000 has theatre, Marina been raised and granted by the Trust has consistently to cancer related projects, and for that delighted concert we thank the local individuals, groups and television audiences alike with her and businesses who have made this sparkling soprano voice. possible. As well as being thrilled by seeing Within Australia, one in three Marina Prior perform live, you also have men and one in four women will be the opportunity to meet her backstage diagnosed with cancer by the age of as part of an intimate gathering after 75. Government funding for cancer the concert. Limited Premium tickets services is critical; however, particularly are available for this post show meet in regional areas, this funding can and greet with only go so far. The Marina, which will be Hastings Cancer Trust held in the Ross Family helps to fill the gaps, Studio from 9pm to so that local cancer All profits from the evening 10pm. Drinks and patients receive better will be put to work refreshments will be treatment and care. providing relief and provided. Over the years the services to local Importantly, the Trust has funded a projects selected by concert forms one of range of important the Trustees, based the major fundraising technical and on their value to the activities for the educational services, local community.” Hastings Cancer Trust, as well as new a local not-for-profit medical equipment. organisation providing One recent project funding directly back to cancer projects provides a terrific example of how local within the Hastings/Macleay community individuals can help others by sharing via the annual Hastings Cancer Trust their particular story and experience. Grants Program. The project is called “Our Stories” All profits from the evening will and with the help of a local former be put to work providing relief and journalist, it provides a writing and services to local projects selected by the storytelling outlet that benefits local Trustees, based on their value to the people affected by cancer. Everyone local community. who has been touched by cancer has While there are indeed many a story... A very personal story. This excellent national charities who spread project helps people to write down the value of their work across Australia, their thoughts, create messages for the focus of the Hastings Cancer Trust family, pay tribute to others and is different. Our fundraising activities acknowledge the support of service are aimed exclusively at delivering value providers.

“

Helping people share their unique life journey can be incredibly powerful, supportive and encouraging. It is always comforting to read that other people are walking a similar path and that we are not alone. If you or your organisation would like to donate, partner or engage with the Trust and make a difference for the cancer patients, carers and clinicians in our region, then please contact us via email at hastingscancertrust@gmail. com or on Facebook at Hastings Cancer Trust. For more information on the activities of the Trust, please visit hastingscancertrust.org.au Finally and most importantly, we would like to thank and acknowledge our wonderful Gold Sponsors, being First National Real Estate Port Macquarie, John Oxley Motors, Holiday Coast Credit Union and Bodilines Surf Street Skate & Stage for making this Marina Prior Concert possible and also for their invaluable ongoing support of the Trust. So come and enjoy a wonderful night out at Port Macquarie’s premier entertainment venue, sit back, listen and delight in the remarkable and unique voice of Marina Prior, knowing you are supporting the treatment and management of cancer in the Hastings/ Macleay region.

plug! Ticket Prices are adult $80, members $75 and premium $135. For bookings, call the Glasshouse on 6581 8888 or visit glasshouse.org.au for more details. greater port macquarie focus. 41

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focusinterview. IMAGE COURTESY OF MERAKI PHOTOGRAPHY IMAGE COURTESY OF THE MIL

IMAGE COURTESY OF FAB PHOTOS

D E C A D E

O F

Masquerade G l a m o u r Over 1,800 guests have enjoyed an evening at the Rydges Masquerade Charity Ball for Hope Shop, celebrating its 10th year at Rydges Port Macquarie on Saturday 19 August.

he event has grown from a small but glamourous gathering of 65 guests to a gala event for over 220 each year, complete with live bands, dancers, performance artists, ball gowns, stunning masks and live entertainment, mystery and fun. Themes have included Great Gatsby Roaring ‘20s, Hollywood Glitz and Glamour and traditional Venetian Masquerade, with this year’s theme - Diamonds are Forever - promising plenty of sparkle to celebrate IMAGE COURTESY OF MERAKI PHOTOGRAPHY

a decade of fundraising for this wonderful cause. Rydges Area Director of Sales & Marketing and event founder Kate Wood-Foye is delighted with how the event has grown. “This year is very special to the Rydges and Hope Shop teams - the ball celebrates a 10 year partnership that has generated a huge amount of hope and many thousands of dollars for those in our community who need it most. “This event was the very first of its kind to be held at the hotel - it has been a delight working with the Hope Shop and their IMAGE COURTESY OF FAB PHOTOS

dedicated event crew over the years to raise the glamour stakes and some serious funds for our Hastings community.”

D IA M O N D S , A R E FO R EV ER TY EN PL G PRO M IS IN O F SPA R K LE E TO CE LE BR AT F O E D A EC D A FO R FU N D R A IS IN G L FU ER D N O TH IS W .” SE CAU

“

Roger Munro, CEO of Hope Shop, is honoured and humbled with the community support surrounding the event. “Sue and I would love to thank Kate and

Rydges especially for their efforts and passion for Hope Shop and the local community. A huge thank you to the businesses and people who have partnered with Hope Shop in their support of our local community and its needs. We have raised over $90,000 to date, which is outstanding.”

Tickets are strictly limited and available at www.123tix.com.au/ rydgespmq/events IMAGE COURTESY OF FAB PHOTOS

greater port macquarie focus. 43

focusinterview. FOCUS CHATS WITH LOCAL ROCKERS KING COYOTE ...

up ...he hooked us y ar nd ge le with and sound engineer ill , who W producer Rick ra fo ed was nominat ork on w s hi r fo Grammy ng View’ Incu bus’ ‘Morni record .”

“

here did King Coyote begin, and who makes up the band? King Coyote started in a garage, next to a creek called Crocodile Creek, with a bunch of mates enjoying jamming together for no other reason then to play some Rock ‘n’ Roll and hang out. It was as clichéd as it gets, I think ... Other than Crocodile Creek; that was ours. Where did the name King Coyote orignate? Basically, we were throwing names back and forth after the band made its jump into a more professional state ... Sort of couldn't really find one that defined how we saw ourselves as a band. Then one day it came to us, and everyone was psyched ... In its own way it’s relative to all of us, but in completely different respects. Coyotes originate from California, an ode to where Stevie G was born and raised, and we all wanna chance to be kings in our own ways, it was catchy, and we could visualise some cool art for it too. In a nutshell, how would you describe your style? It's hard to say, really. We mash a lot of stuff, - we have Blues, Jazz, Grunge, Surfer Rock, Punk, Stoner and some heavier moments, so it’s an amalgamation of all our favourite bands and whatever our inspiration is at the moment the song takes form. It’s funny how that works, but in simplifying it I’d say that straight Rock ‘n’ Roll is all anyone needs to know. Who does most of the writing, and where do you draw inspo from? The best part is each of us work so well

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together, and at different parts of the writing process. A lot of the initial ideas for structure, key and melody are from Sunny, then he brings it to James, and James turns the idea into a more complex creation. Then it comes to the whole band, and LA Steve creates the backbone ... It’s so flowing and cruisey, and we don't have any bickering. We all just seem to work for the song and accept and respect each other’s opinions. You’ve had some influence from Phil Jamieson. What’s been his role with King Coyote? Yeah, Jamo was involved more so with our last project, which had some other members including Luke and Josh Hall. But, he's always there for advice, he's honest; plus, whenever he's available he's down to jam, which is rad ... He's got Grinspoon's GTBL 20th anniversary tour on at the moment, so he is bizayyyy. Hopefully catch them at either Newcastle or The Enmore ... so psyched. You landed on the cover of LiveLoud recently. Tell us about that … Yeah, it was pretty cool actually. Got some love on the back of a show supporting Nick Oliveri (QOTSA,Kyuss) with some other local bands, including Royal Chant, Merkin, Roy Rose and Beauty and the Beast ... Thanks again too Adam Barbuto and Black Duck Brewery for putting on such a rad event. Yeah anyways, we got some love from that, they contacted us to feature and cover the mag the edition after another epic port band, Dumb Punts, had featured in it ... We were really stoked to get such positive feedback, and it’s already opened up some doors for us, so

thanks to LiveLoud Mag supporting local acts in Sydney and surrounding regions - really cool people. The end of July sees you guys heading to Sydney to record. What are you looking forward to about the process, and when can we expect new music to be dropped? Yeah, speaking of PJ, he hooked us up with legendary sound engineer and producer, Rick Will, who was nominated for a Grammy for his work on Incubus' Morning View record. Also working with legends like No Doubt, NIN, Grinspoon, Jimmy Barnes and Cold Chisel - look him up; his career is incredible. PJ got in contact with him for us, and we locked in mid July to record a double, plus a couple of live tracks, which we are really excited about. As far as the process, we are excited about every step; it’s going to be out of control. Hopefully we will receive the tracks before August, then we will be doing a couple of film clips to support the tracks, then we will release, party, play shows, work, play shows, party and so on - ‘til nobody wants to hear it anymore ha ha! Each of your fave songs of all time and why? Stevie G - The Beatles - Help! Because the movie by them with the same title blew my mind. The song is awesome, and my drumming is inspired by Ringo Starr. Simple, tasteful and suits the song. Jimmy 2 Shoes - Van Halen - Dreams. It’s stupidly epic, so cheesy it’s uplifting, and the end guitar lead is so sexy.

Sunny - The Rolling Stones - Jumpin' Jack Flash. Song of my childhood; the whole reason I wanted to be in a Rock ‘n’ Roll band. What upcoming gigs can we catch you at both locally and nationally? We are waiting on confirmation for two shows in Port Macquarie in August through Port Macquarie Gigs and Events, whom you can follow on Facebook to keep up to date with shows around the area. We also have shows booked for Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle and up north on the Gold Coast and in Byron Bay - just getting together the art and finalising the last couple of shows, then we will put out an announcement. So, head over to Facebook and follow King Coyote to get updated on our dates. Also follow us on instagram @king_coyote to keep an eye on us. Also down for House partiiiiieeeessssss! Anything else you’d like to share with our readers? We will be doing some rad film clips with some great videographers, including Port's Zane Wilson of Wilson Visuals and Sam Hunter from Samuel Hunter Photography, that will require “actors/actresses” to be in on it (no experience required). If you're psyched to dance round with face paint and body paint on while we shoot some film of everyone and be a part of the storyline, then make sure you follow us on Facebook and Instagram and put your name down when we ask everyone ... We will put on a fun day for everyone! Thanks guys.

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focusinterview.

Lucinda Worthing-Shore At just 14, Lucinda Worthing-Shore’s dedication to dance, hard work and talent has reaped rewards … She’s been presented with an amazing opportunity to further her dance studies at summer school in London, with the Royal Ballet. But, travelling to London for a lengthy period is an expensive proposition, so local photographer Melissa Hogan is helping Lucinda to realise her dreams …

i Lucinda. You're a Kempsey girl (now living in Sydney). What are some of your favourite memories from your time living in the Macleay

Valley? My favourite memories are with my friends. Kempsey is a small town, so when we had a break during dancing, we would go to the shops or go somewhere nearby. I also have great memories with my younger brothers. I still often see them, but they usually come to Sydney more than I come home, because I most likely would have rehearsals/ performances the same time they come to visit. Where/when did your dance journey begin, and who was your first teacher? My first teacher was my mum, Danae Shore; she owns and is the Principal of Danae Cantwell School of Dance. Mum often brought me to dance classes when she was teaching. I was about 18 months old when I started to join in. I have been dancing for basically my whole life. What led you to move to the "big smoke"? In 2015, a nearby dance studio was holding workshops with Lucinda Dunn, who had recently retired from the Australian Ballet Company. I am also named after her. I wanted to go full-time at Tanya Pearson Classical Coaching Academy, because that is where she was trained, and I wanted to be a professional ballerina just like her. I then started travelling from Kempsey to Sydney for a few weeks during 2015. I was offered full-time at the end of 2015 and made the big move to Sydney in 2016. It was a big 46 greater port macquarie focus.

step from just some after school classes to eight hour days. I'm now halfway through my second year level at Tanya Pearson Classical Coaching Academy. What's your favourite style/type of dance? At Tanya Pearson Classical Coaching Academy, we do three main styles of dance - classical, contemporary and character. My favourite is classical, because I just feel free when I am dancing. You've been awarded a scholarship to attend Summer School with the Royal Ballet in London, commencing July. Congratulations! What does this opportunity mean for you personally? Thank you! This means so much to me. Ever since I was really young, I've wanted to go to the Royal Ballet. It's a big dream of mine. I am so excited to start at the school; I have never been to London, let alone Europe, before. I still can't believe that I got it! What do you hope to learn/experience in London? I just hope I can get as much information from all of the teachers there. I really just want to have fun and also work hard. I would love to come back to Australia with knowledge that I haven't been told before and possibly improved technique! What are your future goals/aspirations as a dancer? My dream is to be in a company anywhere in the world. Personally though, somewhere in Europe would be unbelievable. Europe is so beautiful and full of history, and it would open up such great opportunities for me being in such a cultural part of the world. Where can we find out more about you/

I was

Ever since was only 14. She had follow your journey? e really young, I’v My super supportive been accepted into the wanted to go to big family keeps everyone the London Ballet’s a Royal Ballet. It’s updated on social am Summer School on a I e. in m dream of media, and so do all of at t ar st to scholarship. d te so exci my friends. I also have I presented the idea the school ...” a Go Fund Me account of taking a series of to support my journey to photos of Lucinda to be London: produced into posters, prints https://www.gofundme.com/ and canvases. ahcrrb-help-lucinda-dance-in-london I wanted to donate 100% of the About $2,355 has been donated, proceeds of the images to add to their Go and I am so grateful to say that. I also Fund Me account, to assist in the flights and sometimes give updates from my social other expenses that will be involved to help media! Thanks Lucinda. Lucinda realise this incredible dream.

“

i Melissa. How did you come to meet Lucinda and her family? I had been working on a project, with the focus being on dance, and I had mentioned to my husband I wanted to work with an up and coming dancer. About a week later, I saw a picture of Lucinda in an article on the front page of another publication. I contacted her mum and told her about my idea to photograph Lucinda on the beach, and both Danae and Lucinda have been so enthusiastic and grateful from the very beginning. Please explain the photo shoot you organised with Lucinda, and how the photos you’ve taken will help her realise her dream of travelling to London? When I read Lucinda’s story, I was in awe of her talent, and I just could not believe she

How can readers purchase your photos, and help to support Lucinda’s goals? The 16 images are available to view on www.melissahoganphotography.com under the clients section / Lucinda Worthing-Shore or; I can be contacted at melissahoganphotography@gmail.com for a price list and the opportunity to own one of these beautiful images to support Lucinda and her family. Where can we see more of your work, or contact you? To view more of my work, you can go to my website: www.melissahoganphotography.com or Facebook (Melissa Hogan Photography) and Instagram (Melissa Hogan Photo). I can also be contacted on: melissahoganphotography@gmail.com Thanks Melissa. Interviews by Jo Robinson.

COLONIAL COBBLER Stay warm this winter with the best selling A’RCOPEDICO range of quality shoes. This is no ordinary brand of shoe. Born in Portugal after many years of research, countless hours of testing and a desire to create comfort and quality like no other, the A’rcopedico label is world renowned for its scientifically proven comfort present in each shoe. The brand has revolutionised comfort footwear on a global scale, with the development of a patent featuring an orthopaedic sole with correct arch support, that in turn protects the central pillar of the spine of the wearer. The formula was set, and the A’rcopedico brand quickly won over European consumers with the comfort and feel each shoe provided. Fast forward to now and manufacturing

for world-wide distribution, all designs are lightweight with cushioning, perfect for walking, travel and leading a busy lifestyle. The shoe is ideal for wearing for an extended period of time, walking and hiking, and allowing for sufficient blood flow through each foot. The brand is also conscious of using ecological materials in its production and being environmentally friendly. With superior elasticity providing unique comfort, the A’rcopedico range is perfect for travel, durability and longevity. Come and experience the comfort for yourself. Winter styles in-store include boots, slip-on court shoes and stylish mules with an ankle strap. Visit Colonial Cobbler today. A’rcopedico, where comfort is 100%. scientifically proven.

greater port macquarie focus. 47

WELLBEING B Y K RY S T Y N A Z AWA D Z K A , S O M AT H E R A P Y

THE RISK OF

you and

ENERGY WORK MASSAGE.

Narelle McArdle (Chapman), Diploma in Remedial and Sports Massage. Narelle has had 17 years of experience working with sporting groups. Narelle recommends a SPORTS MASSAGE for problems resulting from sport such as tennis elbow, golfers elbow, hamstring and quad tightness, calf, hips and shoulder problems.

HABITS COUNT EVERY DAY THOUSANDS OF AUSTRALIANS WAKE TO DEBILITATING CHRONIC PAIN - MONTH AFTER MONTH, YEAR AFTER YEAR.

What is Sports Massage? Sports Massage is done with the principal mandate of returning you to your desired sports activity with the same or even a better level of function. Sports massage can include more aggressive techniques that approach muscles more deeply and specifically. Sports massage will often utilise a variety of modalities, such as Remedial, Trigger Point Therapy Myofascial and Deep Tissue Work. Primarily, the difference lies with function; that is, returning you to your favourite activity in optimal time. What are the benefits of a Sport Massage? *Improve power and performance by increasing muscular flexibility and joint range of motion. *Prevent DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). *Correct alignment to prevent injury. Narelle has a simple philosophy: “Massage can improve everybody’s quality of life”. Contact Narelle by phoning 0410 655 998. www.energyworkmassage.com.au

Book now by downloading the new branded app. See Facebook.com/energyworkmassage to register for promotions and see availability. Act now for the introductory offer 90 minute massage.

hronic pain affects lives! Anybody who has ever had to live with pain knows how insidious and soul destroying it can be. Various factors are causing the body’s misalignment, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility. But far too often chronic pain, and basically anything that happens in your body, is tied to ageing. Habits Count Habitual physical stresses affect the body’s alignment. A history of sitting hunched over a desk or continually carrying a briefcase pulls the shoulders and neck out of line in relation to gravity. With repetition, the body sticks in that position, even if it is not engaged in the activity that caused the misalignment. The body’s connective tissue system called "fascia" glues together, and the whole body becomes out of balance. Fascia connects different parts of the body. Therefore it can “drag” tension, restrictions and pain in any other direction. Habitual movement patterns, caused by physical trauma, "embody" dramatically.

For example, a person who has fractured a leg tends to walk in an unbalanced way to protect the injury. The irregular movement pattern can become the body’s normal way of moving, long after the injury has healed. As ageing continues, more and more of these physical and emotional patterns become embodied in the connective tissues (fascia) and we lose flexibility. Fascia’s restrictions became a source of tension to the whole body, and they have a cumulative effect. The body gets caught in a trap - the more misaligned with gravity we become, the more tension and stress we experience and the more energy we expend holding ourselves together. The body shortens and stiffens, and we age more rapidly. Somatherapy Treatments Highly specialised manual treatments aim to reverse these processes and boost the patient to a new state of health. Treatment integrates Myofascial Release Techinques, a relatively new addition to the physical therapies and Frequency Specific

begins in

Microcurrent (FSM) Therapy, which is a unique physical therapy, pioneered and used in USA for over sixteen years. Myofascial Release Therapy is very effective for persistent muscle pain and realignment of the body. It is an extremely mild and gentle form of manual stretching and lengthening of the fascia, unwinding the tissue’s holding patterns and facilitating structural alignment. FSM Therapy works on the principle of biological resonance. Microcurrent frequencies resonate with biological tissue and improves cellular bioelectric activity, reversing abnormal structure of the tissue. The effects are long lasting, and the healing of tissue is more complete. The body stores the trauma of our lives in muscular rigidity, thereby keeping us stuck in the past. When we release tension in our body and align ourselves with gravity, we take a new stand in life. This allows us to be at ease with ourselves and in harmony with our relationship to others and our planet.

thi s is

coo

GROUNDED ORIGINAL NATURAL YOGA MAT IS DESIGNED IN AUSTRALIA TO SUIT ALL STYLES OF YOGA.

ith a reversible feature to complement both a stable, sweaty vinyasa practice and a more nurturing restorative practice.

mats 48 greater port macquarie focus.

One side combines the moisture absorbing and slip reducing properties of natural tree rubber open cell construction, with the edgy grip of natural jute fibers. The other side provides a more supple, soft layer of natural tree rubber and cotton.

Mukti Mats are manufactured under ethical workplace standards - completely sweatshop free. Mukti Mats are made from biodegradable, non-Amazon harvested, natural tree rubber, jute and cotton ... They're the most natural mats for yoga you can get. The good stuff: Toxic-free softening process No foaming agents No PVC and plasticisers Eco yoga mat available at the Hollow Store or www.muktimats.com.au

Number 1 Cause of Blindness Macular Degeneration has been given more focus with the passage of Macular Degeneration Awareness Week. Given that Macular Degeneration is the main cause of blindness in Australia, it is something we should focus on all year round. So, what can we do to protect our eyesight from this damage? One in seven Australians over 50 experience symptoms of Macular Degeneration. The effects of Macular Degeneration can be devastating in terms of loss of vision. Affected patients lose the ability to read, drive and recognise faces. However, once identified, there are methods to reduce the progression of the disease and treatment options. Very early Macular Degeneration may not produce any symptoms at all, so it’s important to get checked for this condition regularly. Symptoms of Macular Degeneration may include difficulty reading small print and shadows or distortion when looking at straight lines or drawings. Don’t ignore any symptoms, and make the best possible diet and lifestyle choices. A diet rich in omega three, vegetables, "healthy oils" and low in fatty oils can make a difference. Studies have also shown that appropriate multivitamins play a significant role in preventing Macular Degeneration. To ensure you’re well looked after, come in for a full vision and eye health check. By Margaret Lam B Optom UNSW, OA, CCLSA, OSO, IAO, Adjunct Senior Lecturer School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science (UNSW), State President of the Cornea and Contact Lens Society of Australia for NSW (CCLSA), Ophthalmic Medicines Prescriber Postgrad Cert Ocular Therapy (UNSW), State Councillor for Optometry Australia NSW/ACT Division (OA)

DOUBLE CHIN Getting rid of the dreaded “double chin“ without surgery! The latest breakthrough in fat removal in the chin is the injection of “BELKYRA“ Deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. The double chin (submental fat) is a collection of fat below the Platysma muscle (a pair of muscles on the front and sides of the neck forming a “corset“ for the deeper structures in the neck) which causes significant distress to those affected, as it is a very obvious defect and adds to ageing of the face. After exhaustive trials in the USA, Belkyra is now available in Australia, strictly for use in reduction of submental fat. The treatment consists of three or four injections at two monthly intervals. Each injection takes about 30 minutes, and topical anaesthesia is used. As the removal is permanent, accurate injection of the drug into the submental fat is required. Patient selection is also important, as Belkyra works best for patients with moderate submental fullness and good skin tone. There is a small risk of side effects, but these are minimal and temporary. For more details, please contact us or go to our website.

Come in and say hello to the team!

We may look different, but the things you love about us aren’t changing. PORT MACQUARIE

PORT MACQUARIE

WAUCHOPE

95 William St 6583 7333

29 Horton St 6584 3948

6 Bransdon St 6585 2393

greater port macquarie focus. 49

focusinterview.

Ivana

MOUDRY CHINESE MEDICINE

Ivana, Sarah and Heather aim to provide solutions for women’s health issues using a variety of methods, including Chinese Medicine, yoga and nutrition support. This cohesive team of experts is also planning a Women’s Wellness Workshop on August 20 ...

sing Traditional Chinese Medicine to support female reproductive wellness and promote natural fertility isn't just for those experiencing problems. How can it be used for every day better health? You don’t need to be experiencing health problems to benefit from this medicine. In fact, having regular wellness treatments and balancing hormones ensures the body’s natural cycles and any individual requirements are well supported to help achieve optimum wellness - maintaining inner balance is invaluable throughout life. After all, you wouldn’t dream of showing up the day of a marathon and expect to finish without training and preparing for it well in advance. The subject of hormone imbalance has left many women fearful and confused. What are the most common issues you target at the clinic? The most common issues with respect to hormonal imbalances that we routinely treat are: heavy and/or painful periods, irregular cycles, spotting, high FSH, low progesterone, insulin resistance, PCOS, endometriosis, fertility concerns, pregnancy support, emotional issues such as PMT, anxiety and depression, digestive issues and headaches. You are planning some workshops around these issues. What will you focus on? We are excited to be offering a Women’s Wellness Workshop on 20 August 2017. This will be a comprehensive workshop which will empower women to take charge of their hormonal health. It’s an invaluable opportunity to learn techniques and self help tools to balance not only hormonal health, but to bring one’s whole being into

50 greater port macquarie focus.

balance. Sarah will be teaching specific type of qi energy yoga poses to help women through the phases of a woman’s cycle. She will also be teaching some simple and easy to remember techniques to reduce tension and stress that only take a minute or two and are easy to fit into one’s day. Heather will teach women what foods are beneficial at various times of a woman’s cycle, and I will be demonstrating self acupressure techniques. There will also be a relaxation/meditation component to the workshop. Bookings are essential, as spaces are limited. FOCUS readers can take advantage of Earlybird pricing during the month of July by calling 6582 7906 to secure their spot. We also hold “Inner Balance Tea Relaxation” sessions on the first Sunday of the month. Each month we have a particular focus tea, along with a guided visualisation/relaxation session allowing self reflection and inner balance. Our next gathering is 6 August at 10am. In September we will be conducting another Labour Preparation Workshop, teaching women and couples how to prepare for and what to do to help start labour. Participants will be taught easy yoga poses that can be done at home to help open and prepare the pelvis, acupressure points to ease the pain of contractions and alleviate anxiety, and food therapy that is most beneficial at this time. As a Chinese Medicine physician and acupuncturist, you also support women though the In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) using your practices. Has this practice been proven? Yes. Scientific studies have confirmed that Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

can improve fertility and pregnancy rates by: regulating menstrual cycles; improving ovarian function; improving sperm count and motility; reducing stress and anxiety; normalising hormone and endocrine systems; improving blood flow to the uterus; strengthening the immune system; decreasing chances of a miscarriage, significantly increasing IVF success rates. Research also shows that acupuncture and acupressure treatment during labour and delivery encourage a more timely and efficient labour, and a reduction in medical interventions. I have been able to track a success rate in my clinic of around 80% for women who follow our recommended preconception treatments. However, many women come for treatment once they are already on the IVF journey. There is still a lot we can do help increase their chances of success, just by reducing stress and increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and creating a receptive environment for implantation. Presently I am also conducting some research myself. We are currently accepting women into our Laser Pregnancy Pilot Project. The criteria to be accepted into the pilot project is one or more of the following: • age 40+ • one or more unsuccessful IVF cycles (with a diagnosis of poor responder or poor embryo quality) • FSH 10 or higher • AFC (antral follicle count) 6 or lower • AMH 1.0 or lower Women who are interested in being part of the Pilot Project can contact Ivana on 0432 417 677 or ivana@portacupuncture. com.au Thanks Ivana.

focus_interview

with Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

SONOGRAPHER AT PORT MACQUARIE ULTRASOUND

TWENTY NINE YEARS AGO, A SEA CHANGE BROUGHT JILL KEATING AND HER YOUNG FAMILY TO PORT MACQUARIE.

ut it was a career change a decade later that gave Jill the opportunity to shape a work life balance she is truly passionate about. “We moved to Port with three small children in 1988. We couldn’t see the point of working for 48 or more weeks of the year to have a four week holiday, when we could live in a lovely place like Port and feel like we were on holiday all the time,” said Jill. As a Registered Nurse and Midwife, Jill started work at Port Macquarie Private Hospital, until she changed careers to become a Sonographer in 2000. “Changing career paths from nursing and being given the opportunity to study a Diploma in Medical Ultrasound is something for which I am grateful. It didn’t come easily though. Combining family, work and study was quite challenging at times.” As a Sonographer, Jill has worked across obstetric and gynaecological, general sonography and vascular and musculoskeletal ultrasound. She feels fortunate to have worked with her wonderful colleagues Maryanne Smallwood and Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Ray Hodgson 10 ten years. “Dr Hodgson is the founder of the organisation Australians for Women’s Health. He is passionate about improving the health out-

comes of women and babies in Nepal and other lief and joy as they see the little heart beating!” third world countries. The level of maternal and Jill also enjoys teaching and mentoring fetal mortality in these countries is appalling,” students. One of the biggest changes over the said Jill. years has been the improvement in technology, Jill joined the team on a trip to Nepal in with smaller, lighter machines and improved 2012 to teach midwives basic scanning skills image quality. to identify “at-risk” women in remote villages 3D imaging is most commonly used for those where there are no antenatal or birthing first baby images and it has also enabled facilities. sonographers to identify ovarian “This allows women to be cysts and tumours, as well as transferred to a town or assess fetal abnormalities To be a city for the birth, and like cleft palate and lip. sonographer hopefully avoid compli“To be a sonographer en’s dealing with wom ty cations,” said Jill. dealing with womrtili health issues , fe “The main objective s en’s health issues, ire requ and pregnancy is to assist the health fertility and pregs, ill good listening sk r care workers to learn nancy requires good ou a sense of hum of al the skills necessary listening skills, a sense de t and a grea d an g in to improve health of humour and a great nd understa ” y. outcomes for their comdeal of understanding th empa munities.” and empathy in times of Back in Port Macquarie, sadness,” said Jill. the organisation is raising funds Jill and her husband, Ron, also to build a Mothers’ and Babies’ Hosset up the Camel Safaris business in pital in earthquake ravaged eastern Nepal. Port Macquarie, a memorable, challengPeople can “buy a brick” for $50 to help ing and rewarding side step from her usual the team reach their goal. life. Locally, Jill finds it incredibly rewarding to see And in 10 years’ time, Jill plans to be happily women who have struggled with fertility come retired, bike-riding, cooking, travelling with in for an ultrasound and find there’s finally a her husband, and looking after grandchildren. baby on the way. “The apprehension turns to re- “Growing old disgracefully,” adds Jill.

“

MY DAY 6:30am - A bike ride or walk with our two dogs, Kappy the happy Kelpie and Penny the Bitzer. 7:30am - Breakfast with my husband and the usual round of household things. 8:30am - Start my working day at Port Macquarie Ultrasound. A varied day of women’s health scans. Everything from gynaecological issues to fertility and pregnancy. 1:30pm - Quick lunch break. Often urgent “squeeze in” scans, or following up interesting cases. Fast tracking urgent reports and liaising with Dr Hodgson. 2:00pm - Back to work for the afternoon. More scans. 6:00pm - Home again after a quick trip to the supermarket. Love a walk again to clear my brain and get my body straightened out after a day of scanning and looking at the computer screen. 7:00pm - Dinner. Catch up on emails, news, reading, chatting to friends. Stretching and light weights to straighten my body and improve posture. 10:00pm - Off to bed. greater port macquarie focus. 51

Organic Belly Hi Jonas. You are the proud new owner of Organic Belly here in Port Macquarie. Tell us what you have in store for the shop? I’m excited to be able to continue Craig’s great work! Organic Belly was established 10 years ago and soon became very popular among locals, as well as visitors. I used to shop here myself! Always enjoyed coming in looking at the big selection of health food and lifestyle items. Being a chef and interested in cooking things from scratch, the bulk food section was my main area of interest. I will make some changes to the shop. So far, the layout has changed. Getting lots of new stock in - both products that were stocked before and new lines. I’m also talking with a friend, who is a nutritionist, to come and work

with me; then we can provide good advice about all the products, as well as give good service. A smile and friendly service is high on my priority list. Working on adding a little health food café - tea, coffee, smoothie bowls, healthy treats and some light lunch options. Tell us about some of the products ... We have a big range of products. Things to make you feel and look great! Everything from shampoo, lotions, teas, bamboo clothing, cleaning products, treats and even second hand surf boards! We still have a little play area for the young to enjoy while Mummy, or Daddy, shops. I am looking forward to meeting our exisitng customers and many new ones.

ENDOTA SPA The 1st July 2017 marks the one year anniversary for my mum, Lurrene, and myself having owned endota spa Port Macquarie. There have been many ups and downs along the way, but that is just another memorable moment in our journey. When we took over the spa, I was in Year 12 doing my HSC, so the initial set up was taken care of by Lurrene. Through that time there have been a turnover of staff, leading to my first ever interviews of potential employees. Time management is another aspect I have learned, not only focusing on my tasks at hand, but my employees. The support and passion that Lurrene and I share for wellness of individuals is brought into

our business. I have learned to not get bogged down over issues that arise in the workplace. Feeling like you are the only one that is going through the situation is just not true. Being in a franchise like endota, we are continually reminded that we are a part of a family and chatting to the many wonderful successful business owners, I was enlightened that they have all once gone through similar issues that I have been through. Sharing hard experiences with people that surround you won’t seem like a weakness; it will make you a stronger person. The next year for endota spa Port Macquarie will be amazing! We will be closed for a week on the 17th July 2017 to redo our reception area. Drop by to see our beautiful new space.

July Offer Complimentary eyebrow wax with any Soothing Stones Massage valued at 35* Soothing warm stones gently help to release pressure and tension from the body. Perfect for a cold Winter’s day.

*Conditions: Eyebrow wax and massage must be redeemed together. Only valid at endota spa Port Macquarie. Valid July 31, 2017.

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with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

JULY 2017

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You are embarking on a journey of emotional self discovery. By reflecting yourself in others, you will notice your own strengths to be proud of, and your weaknesses needing attention and change. Loving yourself and not judging yourself will assist you enormously. Rose Quartz is the crystal of self love.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 To satisfy some of your restless energy, try to become a little more physically focused. Do some rigorous exercise and sweat out the frustration. Fill your mind with empowering compliments at least five times a day for the next few weeks, and see the difference you will make for the better. Turquoise is the crystal of empowerment.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 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.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

A more comfortable ownership of your reality can be anticipated, as you venture towards 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.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23

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.

If you are feeling suspended at present, try reflecting on the last twelve months and release any undigested emotions. You are approaching big changes, as you are discovering what your role in the bigger scheme of your life is at present and the more negativity you release from your past, the more rewarding your future will be. Jade is great for self worth and healing.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

June 23 - July 23

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.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23

Listen to your wise words that catch your attention when you are counselling others, as these are the words you are most needing to hear. Be kind to yourself in thought, as you may be vulnerable at entertaining negative self thoughts. As your mind is currently creating the steps you will be walking in a few months, kind thoughts now will ensure a more rewarding future. Clear quartz empowers us.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 Time for change is at hand. Set some goals and if fears spring up, don’t be afraid to take hold of them and reshape them so you are in control of them. If you don’t clear your fears, they could present potential sabotage for a rewarding change. Find something to stimulate your mind at the moment to break bad habits of negative self thoughts. Turquoise is great for self esteem.

October 24 - November 22 Love yourself as much as you can in every way, so you know you deserve the best of the best. You are freeing yourself from any patterns that are self depreciating, to ensure you will have wonderful rewards in the near future. Avoid sharing your weaknesses or faults with others, as this only humiliates you. Self love will attract beautiful rewards. Turquoise is great for self esteem.

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

Try not to be challenged by feeling different or not knowing where you fit in. You are a natural born leader of people and in order to guide others, you will need to stand out, or they wouldn’t notice you. Hear your wise words that catch your attention, as these same words will be the answers to your dilemmas. Danburite is wonderful for channelling.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

You are gifted at manifesting. If you can acknowledge this talent and be grateful to yourself for this special gift, you will enhance your ability and discover even more good luck in life. Try regular goal setting and see what a powerhouse at this you are. Think about what you want and then fill your being with the excitement of having it, and then forget it with gratitude. Citrine attracts an abundance. greater port macquarie focus. 53

focuseditorial.

The awe inspiring Mel Lock from the Hollow

Sarah G A L E

Yin, Zen, Kefir, Falafel

TO THE SEASONED YOGI AND HEALTH ENTHUSIAST, THESE WORDS ARE MOST LIKELY THEIR FIRST LANGUAGE; AND SHOULD YOU FALL INTO ONE OF THE AFOREMENTIONED DEMOGRAPHICS, YOU MAY WELL BE WONDERING WHO THIS ROOKIE JOURNO IS?

phoebe's "yoga ki t" ...

Phoebe & her delish breakfast

Mexican Fiesta ...

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y name is Sarah, and I’m a selfconfessed untrained, undernourished, and a little-too-indulgent soul ... and until recently, these words were a foreign language to me. But for three days at the "Comboyne Hideway" I drank kefir, ate falafel and went in search of my Zen, and this is my journey "Coming Home" ... I was more than pleased to find myself driving through the winding hills and lush greenery upwards to the Comboyne Hideaway - a modest and humble residence hidden on the Comboyne Plateau, where I was gleefully welcomed by Phoebe from Nectar Creative Therapies and her wing-woman, Laura. They showed me to my well-appointed room, with panoramic views of the entire Combine Valley and beyond. Literally, it took my breath away, and made for the inspired head space I needed for the next three days at the retreat. Already nested at the end of my bed was a hand-made bag filled with carefully chosen items for my stay, including a blended essential oil from Kate at Gumboots by the Sea, bath tea bag and lavender eye bag made by Phoebe herself. To say I was already feeling Zen is an understatement. This was a simple gesture of "giving", and I felt received and cared for - a pleasant contrast to the busy world that continued to bustle back home. Each day began with a Yoga session to get us moving. After a long Yoga sabbatical, I was feeling way out of practice, but Phoebe’s confident and gentle manner was exactly what I needed to stretch my loins and get my stiff body moving again. I was relieved that it wasn't only me feeling tense and unoiled; this wasn't a retreat full of highly skilled yogi posers (phew!) It was a group of everyday women taking time out from their busy lives for themselves, for that ever elusive "me time". There were no rules, or expectations of skill level, and you certainly didn't have to know your "Mudras" (the positioning of fingers for yoga and mediation, for those who - like me - was

yearning to know). We came from different generations, locations, walks of life, but we were all there sharing one common bond - and that was to experience a retreat and better something about ourselves. And that felt mighty good! If you’re a foodie, you would’ve been in Whole-Food Nirvana. Paul and Ash from Allswell inspired us with their incredible cuisine during the retreat, boasting a flavoursome and gut friendly degustation at every meal. Each breakfast, lunch and dinner was an absolute feast, with generous options of vibrant green smoothies, house-made organic sourdough, coconut yogurt, and belly warming porridge with every trimming you could possibly imagine. The food was a mass of vibrant colour and texture, and we were visibly excited to sit down at every single meal. Not only were we treated with their soul food, we also partook in a cooking class, creating a Mexican feast that would impress the fussiest amigos. Our meals and breaks were accompanied by warm cups of organic herbal tea by The Hollow, delicious chai and coffee. We felt at home and it was a delight. I left the retreat feeling a little overwhelmed and a little apprehensive of returning to the "real world", even after only three days. I felt like I was healed, or repaired, though I didn't realise how busy and broken I had felt arriving. Nectar Creative Therapies and Allswell have announced their next retreat, which will be taking place in Crowdy Bay 12th - 15th October 2017. So far in the pipeline, Phoebe has planned a herbal tea making workshop with Mel from the Hollow, "Find Your Light" meditation with Kate from Gumboots by the Sea, Lydia from Internal Instinct will be running a sourdough bread making workshop, Phoebe will be running your daily yoga sessions, along with a yoga/dance fusion class. There'll be a Stand Up Paddleboard yoga class and paddle, wildflower walk at Diamond Head, beach picnic, massages, and an intention setting writing class. Phoebe says she has so much she wants to offer, so follow her on Facebook for updates and announcements over the next couple of months. wwww.fb.com/nectarcreativetherapies Namaste x

focuseditorial.

Taking in the panaromic view...

Here’s a breakdown of how the retreat went… Thursday 2pm: Arrival; I was greeted by the delightful Laura, Phoebe’s right-hand girl through the retreat. 3pm: Flow yoga class - a sequence of flowing postures, connected by breath. 4pm: Welcome circle and meditation - guided by Kate from Gumboots by the Sea. 6pm: Dinner - hommus vegetable pie encased in chickpea flour pastry w/ kale salad and vegan cashew pesto. 7pm: Free time - this time was spent getting to know the rest of the retreaters - on your own with a book - or whatever you felt compelled to do.

Friday 7am: Flow yoga class - a sequence of flowing postures, connected by breath. 8:30: breakfast buffets, including locally made sourdough, Allswell orange cinnamon vanilla muesli, coconut yogurt, avo smash, miso mud (a different take on Vegemite ... tahini and dark miso), Allswell green dream smoothies. 9:30: Health-talk with Naturopathic powerhouse Melanie Lock from The Hollow Store, who educated us on health, cutting the BS and living a balanced life whilst creating food rituals to honour your digestive system, allowing your body to heal. 11:00: Brunch - raw tahini and passion fruit slice (paleo), organic tea from the Hollow Store 11:30: Free time. 1pm: Lunch - handmade pumpkin falafels, sweet potato chips, locally made kimchi (bottled culture) apple fennel slaw, green tahini, ajvar paste ( roasted eggplant + capsicum). 2:00: Creative writing workshop. 3:30: Afternoon tea - yummy banana coconut yogurt muffins topped with nut butter, organic tea from the Hollow Store. 4:00: Free time. 5:00: Cooking class - Mexican Fiesta. 6:30: Dinner - roasted pumpkin wedge topped with Mexican spiced black beans, pico de gallo, charred corn salsa, pickled onions, crumbled Marrook farm feta, guacamole and cashew cheese. 8:00: Yin yoga - a series of passive poses, held for 3 - 5 minutes each, in order to access deep

layers of fascia and guided meditation. 9:00: Free time.

Saturday 7am: Flow yoga class - a sequence of flowing postures, connected by breath. 8:30: Breakfast - breakfast buffets, including locally made sourdough, Allswell orange cinnamon vanilla muesli, coconut yogurt, avo smash, miso mud (a different take on Vegemite ... tahini and dark miso), Allswell green dream smoothies. 9:30: Day trip to the majestic Rawson Falls, with six different types of lush rainforest to discover. I was in awe of its beauty… (Note: enjoy the way down; it's coming back that will give your legs a real workout!) 12pm Lunch: at the Rawson Falls picnic area, sweet sesame broccoli + edamame quinoa salad with roasted baby beetroot. 2pm: Afternoon tea - raw tahini and passion fruit slice (paleo), organic tea from the Hollow Store. 3:00: Free time. 5:00: Creative dance workshop - well, this was fun, with painted faces and in our brightest attire we frolicked around and learnt some new dance moves from Phoebe and the other retreaters. It was a blast to watch each participant let go and express themselves. 6:00: Dinner - tonight's dinner was a special one. I teamed up in the kitchen with Paul and Ash; we delivered Indian chickpea curry with Lebanese rice (a much cherished family recipe of Ash) cucumber raita and my delicious yogurt flatbread topped with nigella seeds. 7:00: Meditation with Phoebe. 8:00: Free time.

The Girls!

Nourishing Breakfast Bowl ... Paul & Ash from Allswell

Sunday 7am: Flow yoga class with partner work. 8:30: Breakfast buffets, including locally made sourdough, Allswell orange cinnamon vanilla muesli, coconut yogurt, avo smash, miso mud (a different take on Vegemite ... tahini and dark miso), Allswell green dream smoothies. 9:30: Check out.

greater port macquarie focus. 55

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low muscle tone

Muscle tone relates to the amount of tension a person has in their muscles when they are relaxed.

uscle tone allows us to hold postures and move between different positions. Low muscle tone is a term used to describe muscles that have less tension or appear floppy. Presentation of low muscle tone can vary from a floppy baby who has trouble holding up their head, to a child starting school who has difficulty sitting still when writing.

Muscle tone helps children to hold themselves in different postures. Strengthening core muscles is essential in children with low tone and is essential to ensure that they have a strong, steady and stable base of support to develop fine motor and gross motor skills. If low muscle tone is not identified and addressed in infants or young children, it can lead to longer term difficulties,

including decreased Children with low muscle engagement in school and tone need to exert more A child can be sport, motor coordination energy to activate their very strong and fine and gross motor muscles and may have and exert a lot of , er ev w skill. Parents can encourage ho ; er w po difficulty holding a static t be no ay m children to warm up their ey th posture. For example, and on one st to le ab muscles prior to engaging these children can struggle do a sit up .” or g le in activities that require the to sit still for meals or at child to sit still and concentrate. school, as it is easier for them to move and use lots of muscles Muscle tone cannot be changed; for short periods of time rather however, through Occupational than hold a certain group of muscles in one Therapy and Physiotherapy input, muscles position for a longer period. can become stronger. This strength will assist in Muscle tone and muscle strength are different compensating for the low muscle tone, to help things. A child can be very strong and exert a support your child in continuing to thrive and lot of power; however, they may not be able to meet their milestones. If you are concerned about stand on one leg or do a sit up. Children with your child’s muscle tone, contact our clinic to low muscle tone can: have poor endurance for book an assessment with one of our therapists at physical activities; complain that they don’t have All Together Therapy on (02) 6583 4063 or email any energy; have poor posture when writing; be referrals@alltogethertherapy.com.au a chronic slumper; and struggle to sit still or sit For more information on child development on the floor. They may also avoid activities that topics, follow us on Facebook @ they are not confident at, even if they appear to

“

be athletic.

alltogethertherapy. greater port macquarie focus. 57

focuseditorial.

MODERN Orthodontic treatment has become more effective, comfortable and discreet than ever before, with major advancements in technology in recent years. ith today’s computers having the processing power to generate complex digital models and 3D printing becoming more commonplace, your experience at the orthodontist might be considered out of this world compared to what you remember. We spoke with Dr Darin Ballard, a Specialist Orthodontist, about some of the changes he has seen in the profession in recent years. What have been the most recent advancements at the orthodontist? By far the biggest change has been the use of clear aligners, sometimes referred to as invisible braces, which is now popular with patients of all ages. Traditionally orthodontics has been considered a treatment for children and teens, yet today one in four orthodontic patients in Australia are actually adults. The advancements in materials and 3D printing have brought this treatment method to the forefront of modern orthodontics. Digital imaging and modelling now also make it possible for your orthodontist to develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients of all ages. When ready for treatment, images gained from low radiation Cone Beam CT scans enable the viewing and predicting of tooth movements and jaw structures, which can be shared with patients to explain the treatment options and even produce images that predict the final outcome. Scans are also used to create digital working models to produce custom made aligners or high precision robotic made wires. How are clear aligners different to braces? Clear aligners are transparent pieces of custom-moulded plastic that sit over the teeth and gradually “hug” them into place over time. Typically, costs of treatment are similar to traditional braces, and this technology is now able to address most orthodontic problems. 58 greater port macquarie focus.

Modern braces with tooth coloured or clear ceramic braces and metallic wires are visible, but offer an alternative to traditional metal braces. Costs are typically more than both traditional braces and clear aligners. A range of additional orthodontic appliances may be used before, during or after the use of aligners or braces to form a complete orthodontic treatment plan and to achieve desired results. Who should fit clear aligners or braces? Whether clear aligners or braces are being fitted, they are both options that can be considered as “tools” to achieve necessary tooth movements, jaw alignments and bite corrections. How these “tools” are used remains a very large component of orthodontic treatment. All specialist orthodontists are dentists; however, in Australia only about 3% of dentists are specialist orthodontists with degrees from Australia. Only a fully qualified specialist orthodontist has the training, experience and expert knowledge on how to use these “tools” to provide the best results for your orthodontic treatment. Dr Darin Ballard is a Specialist Orthodontist at Port Macquarie Orthodontics and Taree Orthodontics with dental and masters degrees from Sydney University. He is an active member of both the Australian Society of Orthodontists and the Australian Dental Association. Right now, Port Macquarie Orthodontics is offering free Invisalign for Teen consultations. Book yours today by visiting: www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au or call 6583 8425. Robot pic. Precision robotic made SureSmile wires. Aligner pic. Custom made clear Invisalign aligners.

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Country Nails SNS dipping powders create a far lighter, more natural covering for nails. Repairs. Restore. Refresh - healthy nails. Beneﬁts - odour free, strengthens, prevents damage to real nail, durable, glossy ﬁnish. Full set from $65.

fresh food fresh fashion

fresh IdeaS

ACU Massage

(Reﬂexology - Foot massage)

Special Offer $75 Detoxing & Reﬂexology

Reflexology is a natural healing art, based on the belief that there are reflex areas on the feet corresponding to all the parts of the body, including major organs. Applying pressure to the specific areas on the reflex areas on the feet, Reflexology helps to clear out congestion, release blocked energy & improve circulation. It promotes the immune system and assists prevention against disease. It may help relieve pain associated with migraine, sinus problems, digestive problems, back problems, tension and stress.

crossroads Denim Bed Bath N’ Table

At crossroads we believe that your denim should fit you, not the other way around! We’re passionate about putting fit and style at the heart of every decision we make, and our new denim range is no different. Meet our crossroads team members, who test-drove the range for us and will help you find your perfect pair … Prices start from $29.95, and every style is available in sizes 8 - 22. Find the fit that flatters you with crossroads denim!

On Bed Luca Queen Quilt Cover $149.95 Della Queen Sheet Set $129.95 Odessa Linen Cushion in Mustard $59.95 Glimpse Textured Cushion $49.95 Arctic Faux Fur Throw Mink $129.95 On table Two-tone Squat Cylinder Vase in Grey $9.95 Modern Edge Drop Vase $19.95 On Floor Metallic Planter Large $39.95

Factorie Trawler Knit $49.95 Bella LS Off Shoulder Dress Navy $39.95

Wok Eva

Chicken Laksa Seafood Laksa Combination Short Soup

The Coffee Club Purchase any meal from our exciting new menu and receive a free small standard hot drink of your choice.* *T&Cs - not valid with any offer, promotion or VIP membership. Must mention offer to receive discount.

focusinterview.

WITH PORT JET CRUISE ADVENTURES

After two years successfully building their business, Port Jet owners Jodi and Anthony Heeney have taken the next step forward - purchasing the long established Port Macquarie Cruise Adventures. he new avenue to their local business will enable the couple to expand and further grow, bringing exciting adventures on our beautiful waterways to both locals and visitors to our region alike. Chrissy Jones caught up with the busy couple, to find out more … What's a typical day at Port Jet Cruise Adventures entail? An early start at 7:30am! We get down to the office and start work. Preparing the boats ready for the day, answering phones, taking bookings, and check in our first ride of the day. At this time of the year, that is usually a Whale Watching Cruise. For the rest of the day we run River Cruises, more Whale Watching Cruises, Ocean Blast Thrill Rides, and we also offer Jet Ski Hire. The day is finished off with our famous Sunset Cruise. Best part of your job? Definitely meeting people from all over the world and providing them with an experience that they will never forget! Why ride with Port Jet Cruise Adventures? Whether you are looking for a tranquil cruise along the Hastings River or an adrenaline-fuelled thrill ride in the great blue - there's something for you. Our trips and activities are among the top things to do in Port Macquarie. Just take a quick look on TripAdvisor to see why! We offer a fun range of trips and activities on both the Hastings River and off the coast of Port Macquarie, including: sightseeing along the Port Macquarie coastline and Hastings River, allowing you take in some 64 greater port macquarie focus.

of Port Macquarie’s attractions from the water; whale from the cold feeding areas to warm, shallow waters watching along the coast of Port Macquarie; and thrill for mating and calving; they have done this for over rides for adventure seekers and families looking 50 million years. Newborn calves need a warm for fun things to do. environment to be born into, as they are Charters for corporate or private born without a protective blubber layer functions, including romantic beach under their skin and would freeze to on getaways or private beach party The most comm death quickly in cooler waters than drop offs are also offered. Plus, encounters are we have on the Mid North Coast Whales; we have jet ski hire in our with Humpback of NSW. s of the own 9 hectare jet ski park. No they are the star ney With beautiful estuaries and ur licence or experience required! annual whale jo sparkling ocean, the Greater Port of t as Co st along the Ea What’s your favourite ey th e Macquarie region is one of the us ca be , Australia cruise? and er at w e best places to see dolphins and th of t leap ou At this time of the year, hands r.” ai e Humpback Whales on the NSW th in ll ro down it’s Whale Watching! North Coast. What's the new addition going For an unforgettable experience, join to add to your business? a whale-watching cruise with Port Jet Cruise Purchasing Cruise Adventures allows us Adventures and explore the Port Macquarie’s to do river cruises and add versatility to Port Jet. ocean surrounds for Humpbacks, Southern Rights It gives us more variety and allows us to cater for and other whales. Between May and November, these everyone. majestic mammals migrate in their thousands along our It's whale watching season - have you seen many beautiful coastline. lately? The most common encounters are with Humpback The whales have been awesome so far this season. Whales; they are the stars of the annual whale journey Saturday the 24th June was National Whale Counting along the East Coast of Australia, because they leap out Day, and 352 whales were counted on that one day of the water and roll in the air. from Tacking Point Lighthouse. This was the highest Whale watching cruises depart daily from the Short number seen in Australia on the day, making Port Street Wharf when the whales are migrating, and Port Macquarie the best place in Australia to watch whales! Jet Cruise Adventures offer daily dolphin watching river Tell us a bit about whales; why do whales cruises all year round. Join us for a truly unforgettable migrate? experience on our beautiful waterways. Most migrate to meet their need for food and suitable calving places. They travel long distances, Thanks Jodi and Anthony.

“

in Greater Port Macquarie BAGO VINEYARDS & BAGO MAZE Take time out to visit Bago Vineyards, a

“IT’S ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE!”

We’re open 7 DAYS; bookings essential. Phone 6587 5227 Web: www.bellrowanvalley.com.au

unique and pleasant experience offering a diverse range of activities for all n Enjoy wine tasting in the Cellar Door, enjoy a local cheese platter on the pergola overlooking the vineyards & surrounds

n Take to the hills and explore the hinterland, a real Aussie bush experience n Daily 1hr & 2hr Trail Rides, Overnight Packages, 2 Day Pub Ride, Chicks in the Sticks, 3 Day Trek, 3 Day Kids Camp. 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 Join us for Jazz in the Vineyards – Sunday 9th July and Sunday 13th August n Warm up with a brisk stroll through the Bago Maze, the largest hedge maze in NSW

Phone: 6585 7099 Open: daily until 5pm Address: Bago Vineyards, Bago Rd, Wauchope Web: www.bagovineyards.com.au

BELLROWAN VALLEY HORSE RIDING

TRAIL RIDES AND TREKS

BLACK DUCK BREWERY

MAJESTIC CINEMAS

Come down and relax at the brewery. Enjoy some cool tunes, some craft beer on tap and local produce and nibbles.

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

Why would you be anywhere else? Our cellar door hours are: n Wednesday to Friday 11 'til 6, n Saturday 12 '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

& BAR

PORTJET 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.

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. To book and for session times head to our website Web: majesticcinemas.com.au Phone: 6583 8400

HYDRO GOLF & PUTT-PUTT Web: www.hydrogolf.com.au Phone: 6583 3200 Boundary St, Port Macquarie. Open 7 Days

n Whale Watching ( May to November) n River Cruises and Sunset Cruise n Jet Ski Hire and Exclusive Jet Ski Park n No License Required n 10% off your second adventure with Port Jet Phone: 6583 8811 or 0419 620 765 Address: Cnr of Town Green & Short Street, Port Macquarie www.portjet.com.au

CUT ME OUT Buy 2 buckets of balls (value $18) and receive your 3RD BUCKET FREE. not to be used with any other offers

SEE EVEN MORE AT WWW.52THINGS2DO.COM.AU

greater port macquarie focus. 65

Big & Beautiful Old bottlebutt

Billabong zoo new aviary

Just a short drive from Wauchope or Port Macquarie is a wonderful visitor attraction known as Old Bottlebutt, a grand and ancient Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) tree located in Burrawan State Forest. Old Bottlebutt is unique in shape, its large flared “butt” having a massive girth of over 16 metres. This giant of the forest is the largest recorded Red Bloodwood in the world.

Wedge-tailed Eagles now have a spectacular new aviary at Billabong Zoo in Port Macquarie. If you haven't visited the zoo recently, you will also see a new lion enclosure for two African Lions, as well as a purpose built home for two adorable Fennec Foxes, with an undercover viewing area. The zoo is very proud of its newest koala joey - Holly - now at home in the Eucalypt branches in the Koala Breeding Centre. Billabong Zoo: Koala and Wildlife Park - is a multi-award winning zoo, with over 80 species and over 200 animals carefully located throughout the ten acre shady gardens. You can experience Animal Encounters, where you can get upclose (bookings essential) and also enjoy free Zoo Keeper talks thought the day. As "Ambassadors for Wildlife", Billabong Zoo care for 13 endan-

Old Bottlebutt is the main feature on a beautiful 600m loop walking track, beginning and ending at the Burrawan picnic area (shelter, tables, carpark, toilets). The walk features remnant rainforest, an oasis under a canopy of overhanging Bangalay Palms, and winds its way over foot-bridges along an easy-grade track.

Old Bottlebutt is a special place, somewhere to linger and enjoy the sounds of nature. A viewing deck enables visitors to rest and gently experience the forest environment. Getting there: From Wauchope travel 10km south on the Bago Rd and turn left onto Internal Break Road then follow the signs. From the Pacific Highway, take the Bago Rd exit (south of the Port Macquarie turn off) and drive until you see the Old Bottlebutt sign. Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week including public holidays and is free. Find out more: www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit Facebook: VisitNSWForests Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

Set in 10 acres of lush gardens with over 80 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. Rain or shine, Billabong Zoo is a great day out where you can get up-close to Australian & exotic animals.

66 greater port macquarie focus.

gered species, including lions, Snow Leopards, cheetahs, Red Pandas, Spider Monkeys as well as Australian animals such as koalas, wombats, crocodiles and reptiles. Delicious hot food (breakfast and lunch), snacks, ice cream, coffee and drinks available at the great Zoo Café. Souvenirs, gifts and retail therapy in the popular Zoo Shop. Billabong Zoo is always fun for the kids and educational for everyone. Open every day: 9am - 5pm. Rain or shine. Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie - it’s more than a great day out. It’s the best value zoo in Australia. Located at 61 Billabong Drive, just off the Oxley Highway (two minutes from the Pacific Highway). For full details, visit www.billabongzoo.com.au or call 6585 1060. Photo by Jennifer Baker.

ZOO TALK FREE presentations throughout the day. UP-CLOSE Book a personal animal encounter. ZOO CAFEÉ ZOO SHOP

Isabell Moran, Beads 2017, acrylic paint on gumnuts, size variable. Image courtesy of artist.

Aboriginal Culture arts Our culture, our connections, our stories is an exciting exhibition of the recent artwork of graduate students from the Aboriginal Cultural Arts courses from the TAFE NSW Wauchope Campus.

Hibbard Sports club Welcome to July at the Hibbard Sports Club. We are very excited to announce that we now have our very own Courtesy Bus! Phone us at the club on 6584 9276 and speak to one of our friendly staff members for more details. Whatâ€™s on at Hibbard Sports Monday: bingo 1pm. Tuesday Night: trivia starts at 7pm. Wednesday & Friday nights: meat raffle from 6pm; tickets on sale from 5pm. Wednesday & Friday nights: members draw at 6:30pm. Thursdays: buy one meal $10 & over and receive a second one free. Kids eat free Saturday and Sundays. Come and check out our daily board special in our Bistro and ask out our sensational pizzas.

Over the past few months, the students have come together to further enhance their creative artistic skills, bringing together the body of work which explores their cultural heritage, identity and connection to one another in a vibrant diverse range of individual and collaborative works. Beyond the artwork themselves, the exhibition has provided the artists with a unique opportunity to hone their professional practice, exhibition development and gallery curation skills. Artists featured in the exhibition include: Isabell Moran, Angela Roberts, Maria Ritchie, Verqelle Fisher, Lisa Travers, Patricia McInherny, Casey Roberts, Natasha Chatfield, and Leah Bale. The Glasshouse Regional Gallery would also like to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of Jacky Beckhurst and Lorrae Oâ€™Brien, which has made this exhibition possible. This exhibition continues the strong working relationship between TAFE NSW and the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, with previous collaborations in 2005, 2011 and 2014.

Check out

portmacquarieinfo.com.au

The Glasshouse Regional Gallery would like to acknowledge the support of TAFE NSW for this exhibition.

Our our connections, our

culture, stories

ENTRY IS FREE (Gallery closed Mondays)

ON VIEW 30 June - 30 July This exhibition continues a special partnership between TAFE NSW, the Glasshouse Regional Gallery and local Aboriginal artists. Glasshouse Regional Gallery supporting arts within our community.

Greater Port Macquarie

@PortMacquarie Portmacquarietourism

Isabell Moran, Goanna, 2017, acrylic on plywood cut out. Courtesy of the artist.

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE REGIONAL GALLERY 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au greater port macquarie focus. 67

focus_tourism

Janette Hyde from Port Macquarie Tourism Association

tourism UPDATE

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JULY WINTER IS A GREAT TIME TO TREAT YOURSELF TO A DRIVE THROUGH THE HINTERLAND. SOME OF THE STATE’S BEST NATURE EXPERIENCES ARE RIGHT THERE WAITING FOR YOU.

iscover picturesque river systems, a coastal rainforest with walking platforms amongst the trees and over 40,000 hectares of National Parks and State

Forests. Some of the highlights include a drive through Wauchope and up to Comboyne, dropping in for lunch at Byabarra Café, Bakehouse and Bar. (If you decide to take the drive early July, the café will be closed until 13th due to the Hyndmans Creek Bridge Replacement.) On the way, why not drop in to Miss Nellie’s Café at Kendall, or Oasis by the River in North Haven, and then back in Port Macquarie pay a visit to Sea Acres Rainforest. All experiences not to be missed. If you decide a river cruise is more to your liking, Camden Haven River Cruises offer an enchanting waterway prolific in wildlife - many types of birds, dolphins and turtles, stunning scenery and great fishing. Meanwhile, back in Port Macquarie we are very lucky to have two businesses offering different experiences on the water. The Cruise Terminal operates the River Princess and the authentic Junk, with its famous fish and chip cruise. Cruise Terminal offers many different experiences, including a historic river cruise or a fun boom net ride at twilight, or the “must do” lunch BBQ cruise and a delightful winery tour. Port Jet Cruise Adventures offer a broad range of water activities, including river cruises and ocean dolphin watching, hiring a jet ski from Port Jet and experiencing the dedicated 9 hectare jet ski park. There is also another option for an adrenaline-powered thrill on the Waverider. Both businesses offer excellent whale watching experiences. The Duck One of the town’s most popular locations on

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Clarence Street has reopened the doors. Going under the name The Duck, it is run by Black Duck Brewery Owner, Al Owen. The Duck offers a range of locally made beer, as well as other beverages and food. It will be closed Mondays but will open from noon until late every other day. Ulysses was a great success. A big thank you to the local organising committee, headed by Robert Johns and Margot Russell. The Model Boat Expo is happening on 8 and 9 July at Port Panthers from 9am. The Expo has been meeting in Port Macquarie for over 20 years and is always a great display for model enthusiasts, young and old. The display of Navy boats is always impressive. The Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association is increasing its profile in the region. We welcome these four businesses, who have recently become members. Long Point Winery and Art Gallery is a charming take on the traditional vineyard. They offer wine tastings, local art and delicious products from the Hastings hinterland. At Long Point, the wines are produced from the grapes grown on the estate. Narimba Lodge is a small motel situated in a quiet location next to the Hastings River. Eastern Tour Services have a unique experience on offer. Never have you had the best of both worlds in one holiday! Exclusive escapes to Port Macquarie and Lord Howe Island. Crowd Staff - another new business to our region. Jobs are automatically matched to workers’ skills and qualifications. CrowdStaff is 100% free for employers. They enable employers to instantly find and book skilled and educated local workers who are doing, or have completed courses, related to the job vacancy. Check out What’s On www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au for more information on happenings in our region.

focusinterview.

Lawn Bowls is for Everyone!

Many may not regard lawn bowls as a sport for all ages and skill levels but Ken Paulsen and Jack Lewis beg to differ. These two players both

bowl at Port City Bowling Club; they’re skilled, hardworking … and are keen to represent the sport at state level in coming months. But regardless of whether you wish to compete at this high level, or play socially, the sport has something for everyone … This will be one of the toughest at I competitions th it’s ; ed ay pl have ever wlers bo n ve se st the be to that are selected e stat represent their ).” SW N (QLD and

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K E N PA U L S E N ow did you become interested in lawn bowls? I first became interested in lawn bowls when watching TV coverage of the 1980 World Bowls Championships in Frankston, Victoria. I decided I would play bowls one day when I was a little older - it took 15 years. I had moved to Canberra in 1993, and lawn bowls came up in a conversation with a group of friends. I said that I planned to play the game one day and before I knew it, I was invited to play a social game the next day. That first game changed my life; I was hooked on bowls. What do you most enjoy about the sport? Lawn bowls is a great sport, where you can enjoy the camaraderie of a social game or the challenge of a more competitive championship or tournament game. It’s a game of physical and tactical skills (a bit like an active chess game). You need the physical skills to play a variety of shots to ensure your bowls are closer to the little white “Jack” than your opponent, whilst at the same time, the tactical skills to anticipate what shots your opponent might play and try to limit the risk of your opponent getting closer to the “Jack”. What club and competitions do you play for? I initially played lawn bowls in Canberra at the Belconnen Bowling Club from 1995, until I retired from work in 2006. During this period I was constantly on the bowling green, developing my bowling skills. Along the way, I was fortunate to win numerous A.C.T. State and club Championships. Selection in the A.C.T. State representative team was also a proud moment. By far my best memory of bowls in Canberra was winning the A.C.T. Grade 1 pennant

competition with my club mates - the first time the club had won a grade 1 pennant - we celebrated for days. In 2008, I settled in Port Macquarie and joined the Port Macquarie City Bowling Club - a great club with a friendly atmosphere. I have been lucky to play lawn bowls with, and against, some great local, state and International bowlers. Some highlights have been winning several championships with my coach and mentor, Bryce Stewart, and sharing pennant successes with my grade 1 team mates. By far my most memorable moments in bowls have been as a member of the NSW State Senior team, winning several Australian Senior Sides championships. What are you most looking forward to? I’m looking forward to playing the Grade 1 State Pennant Finals with my team mates in Sydney in early August. I’m currently preparing for the upcoming state team selection trials in July, and then playing with the NSW State Senior Team in the Australian Championships to be held in South Australia in October. What do you hope to achieve bowling-wise in the next 12 months? I’d just about sell my soul to win the upcoming State Grade 1 Pennant final in August with my bowling mates, and I wouldn’t object at all to winning another Australian Senior Sides Championship with the State team. However, it’s not all about winning in bowls; the real achievement comes from enjoying playing the game of lawn bowls with friends and helping newer bowlers discover and develop their game. Why would you encourage others to play lawn bowls? Lawn bowls is a very inclusive game that can be played by people of all ages and varying physical capacity. It’s not an expensive game to

play and you can play at what ever competitive level you like (social, championship, tournament or representative level). There is nothing more relaxing than standing on a bowling green on a beautiful day in Port Macquarie, enjoying the challenges of the game and the camaraderie of others players. All bowling clubs provide beginner coaching and have practice sets of bowls you can initially borrow to try the game - it’s just a matter of making a phone call to your local “bowlo”.

JACK LEWIS

ow did you become interested in lawn bowls? My father took me into Wauchope Country Club to have a go when I was 14 (he had been playing the sport for four years prior to this). What do you most enjoy about the sport? I like the competitive aspect of the sport, and the whole age variety. What club and competitions do you play for? I played six years for Wauchope Bowling Club and now currently play for Port City Bowling club, and it is my first year playing in the Australian Open. You have some pretty hefty matches coming up, including state level representative bouts. What upcoming matches are you most looking forward to (and why)? I'm mostly looking forward to playing in the U/25s 7-aside in Queensland, as it is my first crack at wearing the NSW blues colours, and I want to do the best I can. What do you hope to achieve bowling-

wise in the next 12 months? Cement a spot in the U/25s state team. Tell us more about the U/25s 7-aside match you'll be playing in Queensland ... What date/s will this match be held, and what town will the vent take place in? This match is held on the 27th and 28th of July. But the venue is TBA; as far as I know, it is in Brisbane. How tough do you feel the competition will be at this event? This will be one of the toughest competitions that I have ever played; it's the best seven bowlers that are selected to represent their state (QLD and NSW). What do you feel you will need to do to earn yourself a place in the state U25s team? I just need to play to my ability to achieve this and prove that I deserve to be in the team. If you manage to earn this position, what will it involve? As far as I know, there are three tests (similar to State of Origin NRL) and it's the best of three. What is your bowling trademark? I have been known to be a good touch bowler … So this means a quick green is easier for me, because I get a good feel for the weight and feel how fast it is running. Why would you encourage others to play lawn bowls? There is not really an age limit on who can and cannot play, and it is a great sport that is open to all abilities. Thanks Ken and Jack. Interviews by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 69

focusinterview. Maria Josette Orsto, Nguiu, 2008, lithograph, Museum of Contemporary Art, purchased with funds provided by the MCA Foundation, 2015, image courtesy and © the artist.

It’s important to note that Tiwi nt to culture is differe nal gi ri bo mainland A oms st cu r ei Th culture . Th e. e are not the sam es at sl word Tiwi tran ’.” le as ‘one peop

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Located north of Darwin, where the Arafura and Timor Seas meet, Bathurst and Melville Islands are home to the proud and independent Tiwi people.

Artworks produced by these unique people have been the inspiration behind Being Tiwi - a Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) touring exhibition, which will be on display at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from July 8. The

exhibition showcases some of the first prints created by residents of the islands in 1969, along with more works recently acquired by the MCA. Many artworks feature the red, white and yellow ochres found on the islands. Natasha Bullock, Senior Curator at the MCA, is inspired by these works …

i Natasha. As a Senior Curator with the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, what does your role involve? As Senior Curator, I work across the collection and exhibitions, with particular responsibility for the overall MCA Collection. It's a wonderful job, and I love working at the museum. There are so many good people with great expertise and a love of art at the MCA. There's never a dull moment. How did the concept behind Being Tiwi evolve? Keith Munro (co-curator) and I first looked and discussed what was held in the MCA Collection. There is a significant series of about forty prints from the Tiwi Islands held in the MCA Collection. These are some of the first prints made by Aboriginal artists. As historically and artistically important, we treated these prints as the cornerstone for our exhibition, and curated a show around them. Who are some of the artists represented in 70 greater port macquarie focus.

the exhibition? Artists include Timothy Cook, Bede Tungutalum, Raelene Kerinauia, Pedro Wonaeamirri, Nina Puruntatameri, Maria Josette Orsto and Cornelia Tipuamantumirri. What can you tell us about the unique "Tiwi" way of life? Where is this culture located? It’s important to note that Tiwi culture is different to mainland Aboriginal culture. Their customs are not the same. The word Tiwi translates as “one people”. The Tiwi Islands are made up of two islands: Bathurst and Melville Island. On those two islands are three art centres, where many of the artists make their work. From Cornelia Tipuamantumirri, whom they call the “old lady” - because she even remembers a time as a child where she travelled around the island in a canoe - to Bede Tungutalum, one of the most senior artists working on Bathurst Island, the approaches and interests of these artists is vast and specific to them and their interests. Cultural maintenance is important. To this

Maria Josette Orsto, Kulama, 2010, Japanese-style woodcut, Museum of Contemporary Art, purchased with funds provided by the MCA Foundation, 2015, image courtesy and © the artist.

end, a number of the artists in this exhibition are teaching the next generation. Describe some of the artworks in the exhibition ... At Jilamara Arts Centre, for example, the artists do not use acyclic paint. Ochre is the material of choice and specific to their customs and rituals. While artistic approaches are unique, the artists’ interests in ceremony binds their life and their work. Tiwi culture is categorised by two major ceremonies: Kulama, which celebrates life and the initiation of young men; and Pukumani, which celebrates death. At the heart of these two ceremonies is Jilamara, or body design, the marking of the skin, or in the old days, the scarring of the skin. The Tiwi paint up for ceremony, covering their bodies in specific designs that are individual to them and their totems. In this exhibition

you will see diverse aesthetic approaches to the representation of Jilamara, Kulama and Pukumani. There will be a curator talk about this special exhibition on July 8. What topics/points will the talk be covering? The curator will give a guided tour of the artworks in the exhibition. Thanks Natasha. Interview by Jo Robinson. Photo of Natasha by Daniel Boud. See Being Tiwi at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from July 8 to September 3. Being Tiwi Curator Talk - Saturday, 8 July, 11am. Being Tiwi is organised and toured by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia. The exhibition is supported by the Visions Regional Touring Program, an Australian Government program aiming to improve access to cultural material for all Australians.

focuseditorial.

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• Seafood, seaplanes and sparkling at Whalebone Wharf Seafood Restaurant • New Botanic Wine Garden - the Glasshouse the renowned Whalebone Wharf Seafood forecourt precinct has another great eatery, Restaurant has some indulgent new dining with the newly opened Botanic Wine Garden. packages to romance your loved one. “The Perfect for pre-or post-show dining, with Decadence Package” includes a seaplane flight cold-meat platters, cheeses and shared over Port Macquarie’s coastline, landing on the dishes such as the slow-cooked lamb Hastings River and disembarking at shoulder for two. Delicious dishes Whalebone’s wharf. Once inside, are served up in a funky, enjoy a seafood platter, a industrial style space. www. bottle of sparkling wine and botanicwinegarden.com.au a fresh bouquet of flowers, Find out more Events plus a return transfer. Cost information at ie ar qu ac tm is $495 per couple. For • New Chef at Monthly www.por something more amusing, Sundays at Near River info.com .au” the “Love Bus Kombi Produce - a new Farming Package” includes transfers Chef will be cooking up a from your residence in a Love feast from the paddock at Bus Kombi, a seafood platter, monthly events at this pristine bottle of sparkling wine and a fresh hinterland farm. Join in farming bouquet of flowers, all for $310 per couple. activities and pick your lunch from field www.whalebonewharf.com.au grown vegetables and pork. 10am - 2pm, • New Chocolate Shop at Bago Winery includes a sit-down lunch. June 18, and July 2 chocolate and wine-pairing will warm up the and 16. www.nearriverproduce.com insides, with the opening of a chocolate shop • The Ekam Yoga Festival, 2 - 3 September at Bago Vineyards. Port Macquarie’s famous find some inner peace with yoga, music and “chocolate lady”, Tash from Baba Lila, now a health and living expo at Port Macquarie’s sells her homemade Russian heritage recipes, largest yoga celebration. Held over two days which are infused with native flavours. Greg at the Francis Retreat, the program features the winemaker and Tash have created some 20 teachers with specialised classes, talks, truly spectacular pairings; try a wild lime meditations, accommodation and meals. chocolate and a chardonnay, then enjoy the www.ekamyogafestival.org.au views over the stunning valley and get lost at • New waterside venue for Artist Market - Port Bago Maze. www.bago.com.au Macquarie’s colourful and eclectic market • New Farmers Table and Mystery Tours for has a new home at the Maritime Museum, a Foodies - Frankie’s Travel tours have launched stunning water-side venue. There is now more a range of new tours for foodies. On 15 July space to meet over 45 local craft makers, there’s a paddock to plate “Christmas in artists and bakers from the hinterland to the July Farmers Table Tour”, including a farm sea. Fourth Sunday monthly, 9am - 1pm. gate visit to Australian Pasture Fresh, rustic

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food festival

SOUTH BANK PARKLANDS • BRISBANE SAT-SUN 15-16 JULY

Noosa’s annual food festival suffered hiccups a couple of years ago but Brisbane, meanwhile, has staked a strong claim on behalf of south-east Queensland to stand alongside Australia’s other two leading food festivals, in Melbourne and Adelaide. Travel Editor Susie Boswell previews this month’s event.

elebrity chef Paul West, Lifestyle-TV star of River Cottage Australia (premiering on SBS weeknights from Monday July 3) is cracking my Three-Spot Crab claws for me, releasing the tiny critter’s sweetest meat onto my lunchtime plate. He’s just finished cooking us up a feast of tender Moreton Bay Bugs on the adjacent waterside barbecue as well. And he’s added big handfuls of tiger prawns to create a gorgeous coral-coloured crustacean cornucopia. I’m dining elbow to elbow with the passionate sustainability star, looking out over the southern waters of tranquil Pumicestone Passage on Moreton Bay on Brisbane’s northern coastline. We’re seated side by side so best for both of us to take in the views across to Bribie Island here at the jetty of the Oyster Shed. The historic site dates back to a prodigious oyster farming industry in 1875, now nestled at the edge of rolling lawns out front of landmark recreation rendezvous, the very splendid, sprawling Sandstone Point Hotel. Then the Shed’s executive chef, Nick Lockyer (interestingly, ex the top beef- and lambgrowing territory of Tamworth/Walcha) brings us oysters, fresh and Kilpatrick, crumbed

72 greater port macquarie focus.

calamari, tempura prawns, salad dressed with herbs from his kitchen garden, fresh-baked baguettes and unsalted butter, and chilled dry white wine. Hang on Nick! Where’s the caviar? Queensland’s winter sun warms us sufficiently that we’re down to shirtsleeves and there’s a sense of overwhelming peace and plenty as we chat about the “real food” ethos that’s pervaded the State’s populous south-east sector. West is ambassador for the Moreton Bay region at this month’s 9th annual Regional Flavours food festival at South Bank, on the western shore of the Brisbane River edging the city’s CBD. MASTERCHEF’s THREE AMIGOS + MIGUEL He’ll be joined by five colleagues representing other south-east regions of the state that are joining with Brisbane in the festival, including Poh Ling Yeow (Logan Food Ambassador), Matt Golinski (for Gympie) and, lesser-known nationally but another remarkable sustainability advocate nonetheless, Glen Barratt, for the Lockyer Valley - the rich food bowl lying to the west of Brisbane, between the city and Toowoomba. The others are Jason Ford (for South Burnett) and Peter Wolfe (for the Sunshine Coast). But that’s far from all: Brisbane’s cachet has grown such that the supremos themselves

– MasterChef’s Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston have been enticed to grace the Main Stage with their own cooking demonstrations, alongside smiling Spaniard Miguel Maestre from Channel 10 stablemate The Living Room and a fifth main TV personality, chef and author Tobie Puttock. In all, more than 30 chefs and cooks will deliver 50 free cooking demonstrations featuring Queensland produce across four different stages over the weekend. A second stage area is designated the Sweet Escape, featuring desserts and sweets, with demonstrations from the likes of modern sweets maestro Darren Purchese, Brisbane’s own MasterChef 2015 runner-up, Georgia Barnes, and several other highly-acclaimed names. The third of four demonstration stages, named The Hunting Club by Meat & Livestock Australia, adds a bistro and features live carcass breakdowns as well as cooking presentations by four leading chefs featuring red meat specialities. It’s also the space to catch up on Brisbane’s booming craft beer scene, with discussions between beer expert Matt Kirkegaard and four of the best Queensland brewers: Ballistic Beer Co (Salisbury), Balter Brewing Co (Gold Coast), Fortitude Brewery (North Tamborine) and 4 Hearts Brewing (Ipswich). And it’s at The Hunting Club where the nightime action, under lights, can be

found. One the eve of the festival, the club will be open from 5pm till late, and on both Saturday and Sunday nights too. The fourth and final stage, Queensland Taste, flies the flag for the growing regions with Paul West, Poh Ling Yeow and their colleagues at the demo benches. Alongside the celebrity chefs and cooks will be a Marketplace where more than 80 farmers, artisan and small food producers and wineries - with 20 wine-tasting stalls - will set up shop. AN URBAN PLAYGROUND Enter the 17ha urban oasis of South Bank Parklands via a magnificent tropical-bright bougainvillea-draped arbour stretching high above a meandering 1km-long sheltered walkway. Its precincts include a 2000-capacity amphitheatre, rainforest walk, scenic riverside promenade and cycleway, picnic and barbecue areas, green spaces, tranquil nooks and around 100 eateries and bars in all - Brisbane city’s answer to other cities’ beach, dining and parks districts opened 25 years ago on the site of the former World Expo ’88. Also the site of the Brisbane Wheel, it’s reached by ferry cat or via

Brisbane’s “Eat Street”, Little Stanley Street, on its landside edge – the street/avenue itself hosting a couple of blocks of some 30 of the permanent cafes/restaurants, and the location of pop-up weekend food markets. Additionally, the area is adjacent to a cultural precinct of theatre, arts and educational institutions including the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, and the State Library. An advisory note: the food festival lawns are separate from the man-made beach, pools and “aquativity” area popular with Brisbane families which can be, shall we say, overwhelming. The official statistics report that the aquatic precinct attracts near enough to 1,000 visitors a day ... and it certainly seems so to those of us who’ve marvelled at the high intensity, and sounds, of the action there on a sunny Queensland day. I and some companions were recently given a preview of a Regional Flavours daytime picnic experience, our gay lemon-and-white outdoor mats and matching beach umbrellas set up on the lawn at the river’s edge, yet close enough to the string of five fantastic restaurants who’ll offer pop-up dining at River Quay on festival weekend - whose menus we plundered in a progressive feast of five delectable courses, plus wines and craft beers, naturally. We relaxed back in elegant fold-up natural timber Adirondack chairs and lounged on cushions, drinking from “keep cups” in the form of plastic stemless wine glasses. (Festival patrons may buy the cups for $4, entitling

NE OF THE MOST important “ingredients” executive chef Glenn Barratt insists on having to hand is his mobile phone. It’s his hotline to the farmers and food producers of the Lockyer Valley, whom Barratt encourages to tell him what’s cooking: what crops and produce are best and freshest every day. Barratt orders it for immediate delivery and creates his menus around the harvest. That’s if it’s not already growing in his own expansive kitchen garden - a lush landscape that sits each side of the entrance pathway to his Wild Canary Botanical Bistro - itself offering the opportunity of plucking a banquet direct

them to try a great range of tasting drops from various wine outlets.) We ate: Chipotle braised Darling Downs beef brisket sliders (courtesy of The Jetty), Wagyu bolognese with braised Darling Downs wagyu brisket, stozzapreti and parmesan (Popolo), king prawn taco with avocado and kale (Stokehouse Q), fish and chips (River Quay Fish) and pork belly and raclette croque-monsieur, Kingaroy pork belly ham, wholegrain mustard, béchamel and sautéed leeks (Aquitaine Brasserie). I’ve never had a tasting or small dishes menu to equal it. Organisers boast that Regional Flavours is the biggest free food festival of its kind, that there’s nowhere else in Australia where visitors can see so many top-calibre chefs and food experts in one location without having to buy a ticket. Leisurely lunches can be had at River Quay and the Picnic Patch with treats from the Marketplace stalls or gourmet dishes prepared by the pop-up restaurants and kitchens. There will be free live music on two stages, and activities for children. See the comprehensive program and plan your weekend (arrive early for best seats) at regionalflavours.com.au/ whats-on. ACCESSIBILITY: South Bank is a 15-minute walk from Brisbane’s CBD and home to unique bicycle-powered taxis called Green Cabs, providing a fun and environmentally friendly way to get around the precinct or across to the city. There are two CityCat terminals and a ferry terminal in the Parklands and three CityCycle (bicycle hire and drop) stations. There is undercover car parking on Little Stanley Street; on-street metered parking on Grey and Little

Stanley Streets; two train stations and a bus station on Grey Street. For more information and a map of the South Bank Parklands go to www.visitsouthbank.com.au WHERE TO STAY: We stayed at the remarkable Marriott Hotel on Queen Street, City, a major festival sponsor. The hotel is close to Eagle Street Pier, another scenic dining precinct, on the banks of the eastwards arm of the river. Enjoy intimate views of the Story Bridge: you can climb it now, like the Sydney Harbour Bridge; its nightly illuminations offer a pretty view that can be enjoyed from the Marriott’s lavish swimming pool terrace. The hotel’s notable for its beautiful rooms, exceptionally courteous staff, bountiful breakfasts and seafood buffets on Friday and Saturday

evenings. We also enjoyed a fantastic laksa compliments of Marriott’s executive chef, a keen exponent of featuring fresh local produce high up on his menus. We were indulged in the Executive Lounge with all its special privileges: recommended. (I always investigate the fee for Exec Lounge upgrades: invariably they offer so many valuable bonuses: newspapers, magazines, complimentary canapés and evening drinks, 24/7 coffee/takeaway and refreshments, private breakfasts and dedicated service to your requests are just some of the benefits.) See the Marriott website for images, deals, details. Photos: Susie Boswell; Brisbane Marketing; Visit Moreton Bay.

from the sweet sun-kissed soil. A former workmate and housemate of popular Matt Golinski, Barratt helmed a number of Brisbane’s well-known dining destinations before settling on his current spot with its opportunity to emphasise seasonality and sustainability. Wild Canary (named for the soaring self-sown Canary Island Date Palm that pierces the roof at the front of house) is set behind an award-winning garden centre and plant nursery separate to Barratt’s herb, fruit and vegie garden, at Brookfield, to Brisbane’s extreme west – handily close to the abundant Lockyer Valley. Open breakfast/lunch seven days. Fully licensed.

HE CHANCES ARE, when you buy vegetables from the local supermarket or greengrocer, they were grown, harvested and shipped from south-east Queensland’s Lockyer Valley. The region, lying between Brisbane and Toowoomba to the west, boasts that it sells over 110,000 tonnes of fresh produce worth more than $250million for Australian dinner tables every year. Mid-year, it supplies 95 per cent of all of Australia’s winter vegies: caulies, carrots, cabbage and all. The diversity of the region’s range of top quality vegies, fruit, meat including pork and bacon, fish, poultry,

smallgoods, eggs, dairy, honey, wines and more is astonishing. As well, it produces wonderful organics and value-added speciality products such as vegetable stock and roasted sunflower and pumpkin seeds. There are roadside stalls, farm gate trails, market days, orchard visits, factory tours, cooking demos, jam making, picnic spots and places to stay, 60 to 90 minutes from central Brisbane. We visited 9Dorf Farms at Lilydale for morning tea where we chased around with pasture-raised chickens, plucked plate-sized Murray Cod from the aquaculture vats and bottle-fed poddy calves.

greater port macquarie focus. 73

1 Market Freshness Blackmarket Bagels at the Wauchope Farmers’ Market @blackmarketbagels

2 National Park Addicts @hopoverto

3 Wauchope BJP Physie Club @wauchopephysieclub

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Bodilines Surf & Street

Harrison’s Jewellers Bench has been in Wauchope for four years. Paul and Linda are passionate about what they do, have been in the jewellery industry since the mid ‘70s, and have 80 years’ experience between them. Paul and Linda are manufacturing jewellers doing remodelling, repairs and custom made jewellery to order. Harrison’s Jewellers Bench has relocated recently to 68 Cameron Street, Wauchope, to a much bigger and brighter shop, where they sell beautiful jewellery and gifts from around the world, sourced from Spain, France, Italy, to name a few. To celebrate the new shop, Harrison’s Jewellers Bench will be having a sale from Saturday 15th July until Saturday 22nd July, so come in for a browse and a chat; we look forward to seeing you.

Established in 1993, Bodilines is located at 64 Cameron Street, Wauchope and proudly service not only the town of Wauchope, but also Port Macquarie and surrounding towns. We proudly stock a range of general fashion, surf wear, street wear, skate wear, dance wear and formal clothing. We also stock skateboards and accessories. Brands we stock include LKI, Globe, Capezio, O’Neill, Unit, Studio 7, Miss Anne, Carve, Emu, Lizzard, Ocean & Earth, SIN, Jet Pilot, Old Guys Rules plus much more. Our customers come from all around the region, and our store is positioned with convenient street parking. If you can’t find what you are looking for or need that special or out of stock item, contact us and we will do our best to get it for you.

68 Cameron Street, Wauchope 6586 4044

64 Cameron St, Wauchope 6585 2562

Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm and Saturday, 9am - 12pm.

Mon to Fri, 9am to 5:30pm and Sat, 9am to 1:30pm.

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Harrison’s Jewellers

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S at u r day 1 s t J u ly Wauchope Community Markets & Arts Bazaar

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National Breast Cancer Foundation

very which way I look this month there seems to be a massive focus on business, new business, growing and expanding business, businesses that are moving premises, and businesses that are taking the leap to the

8am - 6pm - “Real Men Wear Pink” Day hosted by Wauchope Soccer Club @ Fairmont Gardens Fields, Fairmont Drive We are now approaching the business awards season and are seeing lots of our own not only entering for the sake of it, but really putting up a worthwhile fight. The

Hastings Hotel presents Sydney Hotshots 8pm - 10pm

gala event on July 29 will see the champagne flowing, as

S u n day 2 n d J u ly

we celebrate all the effort that goes into business in our

next level. Wauchope certainly is getting down and dirty

region. I have my fingers crossed that we have a good

in building the best community possible (sometimes quite

selection of Wauchope based businesses amongst the

Grown & Gathered Marke

literally, after all the rain we have had).

finalists and winners again this year. Good luck to everyone

9am - Hollisdale Hall, 1493 Pappinbarra Road, Pappinbarra

who has entered, and no matter what the outcome, be

Indoor Markets Wauchope RSL Club

Mud is being flung around, concrete is being poured and fences are being erected in copious amounts throughout the industrial area. We are seeing a huge

proud of what you are achieving.

assortment of businesses taking up residence and setting

around here? But, when I run my eyes over the list of

up for the long term. It is a real eye opener to drive around

those who have thrown their hats into the ring as Mayoral

the back streets of Wauchope’s industrial area and take in

candidates to date, three out of four are Wauchope based.

just what really is going on behind all of those big roller

Knowing if they are the right candidates well, only time

doors and chainmesh gates.

will tell, but at the very least we can’t deny the fact that

In the last month, we are really excited to have heard

10am - 2pm

I’m not sure what it is that we have in the water

we are being incredibly well represented. I wish each

S at 8 t h & S u n 9 t h J u ly Wauchope Yesteryear Truck & Machinery Show Wauchope Showgrounds, from 9am both days

S u n day 9 t h J u ly

about the phenomenal boost Bundaleer has received in

and every one of you all the best in your quest to help

their quest for expansion. Knowing the lengths that you

build an even stronger community and thank you for

need to go to, to submit an application for government

being brave enough to stand up and be counted. I, for

Sundays @ Near River

funding, I wholeheartedly applaud Bundaleer’s forward

one, am incredibly proud to have had the opportunity to

10am - 4pm, 1466 Pappinbarra Road, Hollisdale

thinking board and management in securing an

partner with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council on many

unprecedented $8.5million to add into the $30million

different projects over the years, and I look forward to an

project. I’m sure that this expansion to their already

increasingly bright future.

massive footprint will be the largest Wauchope has ever

Until next month; keep shining bright.

Wauchope Farmers’ Markets

seen.

Tanya.

8am - noon, Wauchope Showground

S u n day 2 2 n d J u ly

greater port macquarie focus. 75

THAN A

STOR

• MORE

RDWA

Hilberts Hardware “If Hilberts don’t have it - nobody does!” The trusted name for over 50 years for all your general and industrial hardware, Hilberts Hardware have got the lot. The new renovations to the building are almost complete, giving the store a whole new look and the ability to add more to the extensive range on offer. Hilberts Hardware now stock a new range of lighting and electrical, as well as clever storage and shelving solutions suitable to many applications. Specialising in industrial and engineering supplies, including safety and welding equipment including a wide range of work boots, abrasives, bolts, stainless general hardware, industrial and LP gas, plus saw milling supplies. Not to forget the ladies and the home cook, there is a wide selection of kitchenwares, and the home gardener is also catered for, with just about everything you need to keep your garden neat and tidy.

43/45 Hastings Street, Wauchope 6585 2400 Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm; Saturday, 8am - 12pm.

Momentum 4x4 your loca l 4x4 speci a lists The rumours are true! Momentum 4x4 is on the move, but only to across the road at 206 High Street, Wauchope. Look out for the newly painted orange building in Wauchope in July. Momentum 4x4 is an official dealer for Lovells Springs. Customising suspension to your needs, including G.V.M Suspension upgrade kits, which is the solution for vehicle owners who need to carry heavy loads. If you are after an increase in vehicle performance, the team can provide a number of solutions, including remapping your ECU with Dyno proven tunes, that takes performance to the next level - as well as turbochargers and intercoolers. Come see Glenn at The Mid North Coast Caravan Camping 4WD Fish & Boat Show in Wauchope from the 11/8/2017.

187 High Street, Wauchope 6585 3200 Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm

76 greater port macquarie focus.

Wauchope Car Home

Marique Necklace Harrison’s Jewellers, Spanish Decorative Jug Harrison’s Jewellers, Stonewash Green Globe Shoes Bodilines Surf & Street, Stanley FatMax Nail Gun Hilberts Hardware, LKI Boost Zip Through Bodilines Surf & Street, Boss Wheels Kaos Rim available in 18x9 20x9 Momentum 4x4, Mack Bulldog Boots ($25 donation to McGrath foundation) Hilberts Hardware greater port macquarie focus. 77

focusinterview

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS minds

markpower E V O L U T I O N

ark, you have recently launched an accounting and advisory practice called Evolution Road with business partner Reece Dein. Can you tell us a little about this business and the services that it offers? Evolution Road is Port Macquarie’s newest boutique advisory practice, providing a one-stop financial services solution to individuals and businesses of the Hastings and surrounding areas. Reece and I strongly believe that accounting and financial planning offer strong synergies that when intertwined, optimise the client experience. This allows us to provide a financially holistic overview for an individual or business. For instance, whilst it is important to complete your annual tax return, it is just as crucial to ensure you have a valid will, super funds have been consolidated, your income and family are sufficiently insured and your home loan rate remains competitive. It’s the annual health check to ensure our clients’ financial objectives remain on track. We boast a fantastic team, who have worked together previously for several years and provide the specialised skillset required to make Evolution Road a market leader in the local area. Can you tell us a little about what financial planning is and what benefits it can offer? Financial planning is about focusing on and developing strategies to help manage a client’s financial and taxation affairs. Many people believe financial advice is just for the wealthy. This is not the case. It can assist 78 greater port macquarie focus.

people at all levels of financial health, by providing strategies for improving and growing wealth. It can be as simple as constructing a savings plan for your children’s education, through to gearing property in a self-managed superannuation fund. Employing the services of a qualified financial planner is becoming more popular. Like employing a doctor to manage your health, many are coming to the realisation that it is also important to employ professionals to assist with responsible money management. In the past, it has generally been the norm to seek this advice from family members and friends, which is at times akin to asking your butcher for advice on vegetables. Tell us about your background and how you came to be in Port Macquarie? I was lucky enough to grow up in this beautiful town. University and roles within the financial services industry soon took me to the city, where I essentially plied my trade for a number of years and continued my education. I worked closely with mentors such as Max Walsh and Daryl Dixon, who are considered some of Australia’s leading superannuation commentators, and was also lucky enough to have exposure to investment in both Australia and America. Sanity eventually prevailed, when my wife Mariane and I decided the best place to raise our children was back on the Mid North Coast. It wasn’t a difficult decision. What, if any, are the major differences between being a financial adviser in a metro area such as Sydney to advising in a regional community? There is obviously a higher level of asset wealth in the city, due in part to property prices and the wage differential between metropolitan

R O A D

and regional areas. Tax and investment strategies certainly vary because of this. What I have learnt during my twenty years in this industry is that every client has their own story and their own expectations for a financially secure future. My underlying philosophy has always been the same. Treat people equally and with the same level of respect. Each journey is going to take a slightly different path. Most notably, I have found regional areas such as Port Macquarie and Wauchope boast tighter communities through channels such as sport, recreation, charity and the arts. Locals are keen to support business, whether it’s a restaurant, boutique clothing store or a professional service like ours. Word of mouth works incredibly well, but of course you must be consistently conscious of the quality of service you’re providing to ensure future success. Building solid relationships with your clients is an imperative pursuit for any business. What processes do you have in place to ensure that this activity is prioritised and implemented across your business activities? They say it takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. It’s why Evolution Road do things differently. Strong client relationships and open communication are essential components of a successful advisory practice. We are managing people’s nest eggs and financial livelihoods. In an everchanging landscape, a strict review process is compulsory. Keeping it simple is paramount. What is the most rewarding part about running your business? For both Reece and myself, it is the acknowledgment that our clients have the

faith and confidence in our team to take them forward financially. This trust is not lost on us. Having the ability to watch your clients grow and evolve personally is also a perk of the job. Photos of babies turns into photos of children at school and then as young adults. To many you aren’t just an adviser, but also a confidante and friend. Now that we have just begun the new financial year, what are some of the key financial considerations that business owners and individuals should be focusing on to help plan for a healthy FY17/18? The plethora of recent government changes has kept us incredibly busy over the last few months. Significant superannuation reform was introduced at the start of July, which headlines the major changes to be aware of in 17/18. This has impacted contribution limits and taxation savings. Changes to negative gearing will impact some investment property owners. There are also many opportunities that have presented themselves, including the government’s extension of the $20,000 small business write-off and measures for first home buyers to tax effectively save for their first house. And finally, if you could invite three business people to lunch, who would they be and why would you invite them? There is so much to learn from a man like Warren Buffett. His discipline and capacity to read investment markets is unrivalled. I would have to invite Bill Gates, to learn more about his philanthropic endeavours and Tony Robbins, for his ability to motivate and inspire a crowd. I just hope there’s no feuding over who pays the bill. Thanks for your time, Mark.

nursing agency

greater port macquarie focus. 79

80 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

#RUNSWEATINSPIRE

charlie M a h e r

indigenous

INDIGENOUS MARATHON FOUNDATION

THE INDIGENOUS MARATHON FOUNDATION (IMF) AIMS TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIFESTYLES AMONGST INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES NATIONALLY, AND HELPS TO CREATE INDIGENOUS ROLE MODELS WHO INSPIRE AND MOTIVATE OTHERS. ith well-known Australian marathon champion Robert de Castella (Deek) as the Director of IMF, the foundation has been achieving amazing things nationally, supporting a group of Indigenous people each year to train and compete in the New York Marathon. At a local level here in Port Macquarie, Charlie Maher is one of the amazing role models who has the IMF to thank for his health and fitness achievements, and he’s continuing to run, sweat and inspire others to also reach their personal best … Hi Charlie. How (and when) did you become involved with the Indigenous Marathon Foundation? In 2010 I met Robert De Castella. I didn't know who he was and thought he was a person that was promising me something, and it would all fall through. I spoke to my mum about Rob, and she idolised him growing up, as she was a runner herself. Anything my mum said, I took on board. So I took up the challenge to be a part of the Inaugural 2010 IMP Squad, and haven't looked back since. You grew up in Alice Springs. Where/when did your interest in running begin ... and was the Indigenous Marathon Foundation a key player in this? I was never really interested in running growing up. My passion was AFL, and I guess I did a lot of running for training and when playing games, but I always just thought of that as a

part of footy. It was only when I met Rob and became a part of the IMF Inaugural squad that I became interested in running. I really liked the idea that you could go from not being a runner at all to being able to run a marathon and that you don't have to have a natural talent to be able to run. I found the self-discipline to stick to a running program, and I also really enjoyed pushing myself and challenging myself to see how far and fast I could go. Running has taught me to think about my body and health; through running I have stopped drinking alcohol and have greatly improved my diet. You competed in the New York Marathon in 2010. What was this experience like? It was a dream come true. I thought I'd never leave Alice Springs. I didn't think it would be a reality for me, but it was, and I'm so very grateful for what IMF did for me. I'll never forget the experience; it will last forever. Our first team paved the way for others to follow; we created a ripple effect by becoming the first Indigenous marathon runners to complete the world famous and biggest marathon in the world; that's what I'll always take away from my experience. How has being a part of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation helped you achieve your goals? It has helped me so much; I love making a difference. Being so inspired from my participation with IMF has given me the drive to always want to do more. Robert De Castella gave me a book seven years ago after I ran the 2010

New York Marathon. It said: "Never take for granted what you have; there is always someone who has less. Never underestimate what you can endure and achieve; there is always more you can do. The harder the struggle, the greater the reward". That quote sums up what IMF means and how it has helped me achieve so much. It has helped me become a better husband and father and to always appreciate what my wonderful wife and kids do for me and how blessed I really am to have them in my life. You'll be presenting at the Luminosity Youth Summit in July. What will you be talking about during your presentation? I'm really looking forward to the opportunity to be a guest speaker at the Luminosity Youth Summit this year, and I'll be talking about courage and opportunities and the courage it takes to take hold of those opportunities. I've lived most of my life in Alice Springs, and in 2014 I moved away from home with my wife and kids and relocated to Dubbo for two years, to work with the Clontarf Foundation. It was scary for me to move so far away from everything that I knew and from my family; it took me right out of my comfort zone and has made me a much stronger person. Taking the step to move away has helped me get to Port Macquarie, where my wife and I want to grow our children up and buy our very first house, which we are very excited about. What's next for you? What are your current goals? One of the main goals was to create The

Port Macquarie IMF (Indigenous Marathon Foundation) RAW (Running and Walking) group, which we started in January 2017 with only 10 people. I wanted to do a healthy activity with my wife and kids, so along with my family and our close family friends here in Port Macquarie, we started our group - and in the past few months the group has grown so quickly, with over 150 people attending training sessions. The running/walking group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4:30pm at a local playground (Westport Park). This means that the kids can play in the park while the women’s group of runners/walkers head off first while the men watch the kids, then the groups change over, so everyone gets to run/ walk. The kids also get to run and walk, doing between 500 m to 1 km Run/Walk as well. This year I’m looking forward to putting all my time and effort into IMF RAW group with my family, close friends and the wider community. It has been fantastic, and a great social way of keeping active and healthy. We continue to welcome everyone to join our group. Thanks Charlie. Interview by Jo Robinson. Visit imf.org.au to find out more about the Indigenous Marathon Foundation. For info on joining The Port Macquarie IMF (Indigenous Marathon Foundation) RAW (Running and Walking) group, email Charlie: charles.maher@det.nsw.edu.au #RUNSWEATINSPIRE greater port macquarie focus. 81

82 greater port macquarie focus.

focusMotoring.

My first car was a Honda ... A black, six speed manual ,with a rear wing you could do your ironing on. Most importantly, it was exciting to drive, and unfortunately, excitement has been missing from the Honda range for the most part of a decade - particularly the Honda Civic range.

honda

o what do you do when your back is against the wall and you’ve already got established competitors such as Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla selling like proverbial hotcakes? You put enormous amounts of money into building an all-new car that is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor and hope that there is a new generation of buyers emerging who love front wheel drive cars with VTEC engines. Looking at the 2017 Honda Civic Hatch, you’d almost describe it as a “fastback”, as the squat dual-chrome piped rear-end is reminiscent of a Mercedes CLS and although some would describe the new look as polarising, at the very least it looks aggressive and purposeful. Now while the only thing about driving along Lake Road that’s aggressive is your temperament, it did allow me to sample the interior, which is spacious, quiet (partly due to acoustic insulating glass), has the latest smartphone connectivity, and a nicely weighted steering wheel that complements the low driving position. While generously fitted with standard features, active driver aids (such as active cruise control or autonomous braking) are

only available on the top-level spec model - curious for a brand that claims that it has placed “safety above all” for the new Civic. Knowing full well that many of the newly purchased Civics will be accessorised the moment they drive away from the dealership, Honda also offers an optional “Black Pack”, with black alloys, side skirts and spoilers to help you turn a few extra heads. When I eventually did move away from the stop-start delights of Port Macquarie’s industrial hub and into some twisty blacktop, I rediscovered the reasons why Honda is regarded as having the ability to make some of the best driving cars on the market. Pushed to the limit in a corner, the frontend digs in harder than Clive Palmer at a buffet and the lack of body roll or understeer means that keen drivers are more likely to be taking their new purchase up the Walcha mountain, rather than doing a school run. Prices for the Civic Hatch range from $22 - 33k, and there are two engine choices: a naturally aspirated 1.8 litre i-VTEC that’s been with Honda for a while, or a 1.5 litre VTEC turbo unit that is good for 127 kw/220 nm. I drove the RS model, and while the technical specifications are not earth

shattering, the engine gets a kick out low. of revving from idle to redline, and the One dog walker asked if her Alsatian distribution of power feels overwhelmingly would fit in the boot, and we decided that it smooth. probably would, as the cargo space is 414 Peak torque is offered from just litres (roughly four large suitcases 1700 rpm (much sooner than worth), and the hatch its less powerful sibling), opening itself is oversized. and the CVT transmission Middle-aged women does a reasonable job with dogs are probably I rediscovered the reasons why of keeping you in the not a specific target ed hunt during overtaking market for the Honda is regard ility as having the ab e manoeuvres at highway Civic Hatch, but th to make some of speeds. the fact that such a on best driving cars Perhaps demographic would the market.” overshadowing its much even consider buying vaunted sporty credentials one suggests that Honda is the fact that the Civic might be on to something. Hatch feels solid - the doors That’s not to say that this shut with an audible thunk, the car will appeal to everyone indicator stalks are chunky, and you get hardcore driving enthusiasts will have the impression that the leather-trimmed to wait for the manual only Type-R guise seats are designed to be stylish but harddue in October to quench their thirst for wearing - almost as if Honda expects a few a true hot-hatch. But for those who want sweaty track days. a functional, edgy, sharp driving car that Battleship grey (officially known as Sonic radiates fun, the Civic Hatch is a worthy Grey) is the hero colour for the range, and it choice. attracted a bit of attention at a Bonny Hills Just don’t try to do your ironing on the carpark, while I desperately shut the sunroof rear spoiler - it appears they’ve downsized to avoid filling the interior with an East Coast them since the early noughties.

“

greater port macquarie focus. 83

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ON WEEKENDS GEOFF BRISBY SWAPS HIS SHIRT AND TIE FOR A FIREPROOF SUIT AND HELMET. THE HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PRINCIPAL IS CURRENT LEADER IN THE SPORT OF HILLCLIMBING.

i Geoff. What is hillclimbing, and how did you become involved? Hillclimbing is one of the most challenging forms of motorsport. It is a combination of driving skill and engineering setup. My dad raced motorbikes, so I was always at race tracks and hanging out with people who had horsepower in their veins. I started in 1974 but have only competed at state level for the last four years. Walk us through a typical race … We don't get “out laps” or warm ups, so when we sit on the start line, everything is cold - tyres, brakes, suspension and driver. You sit there, not having had a chance to sight the track or feel the grip levels before it's “game on”. The launch is critical, and the aim is to get the car moving with minimal wheel spin. The track at Bathurst is really tricky. Gear changes in my car take place at around 6,600 rpm, so I am near the rev limiter in third gear, just as I am about to take turn one. Because my tyres are cold, the car is always sliding. When I climb the mountain, the car slides from one wall to the other flat-out in third gear at around 150 km an hour. At tracks like Huntley, near Wollongong, it is all over in 26 seconds for the top cars. You go from sitting still on a bitumen road that is so steep you can barely walk up it, to 160 km

an hour, through four corners that thread you between trees and tyre walls and back to a standstill. This all happens within 26 seconds. How dangerous is hillclimbing? It can be dangerous. Last year a driver was killed when he left the track at high speed and hit trees. If we make a mistake or have a mechanical failure, it can be punishing. In my class, the cars are road registered, so we don't have a roll cage. My car has a race seat, six-point harness and fire extinguisher. I also wear a full fireproof suit with gloves, boots, and good quality helmet. Is it an expensive sport? It depends on what class you run in, and how close to the front you want to finish! You can race the car you drive on the road with a couple of very simple changes, like bolting a fire extinguisher in. Or, you can buy a Formula 3 race car and go nuts. It is really up to each person. Why do you choose to race a Holden Special Vehicles Clubsport? The car is awesomely quick straight out of the box. I've tinkered with mine, and it is a brilliant race car. The LS series V8 engine has huge potential power-wise, so for a budget racer they are a great starting point. Tell us about the modifications to your HSV. All road cars are a compromise. They come from the factory set up to do a good job on average roads with an average driver behind the wheel. A race car needs to accelerate, stop and

turn instantly. To make a car that weighs 1,600 kg do that, you need a lot of horsepower, stiffer suspension and bigger brakes. My car has been built to have good “balance”, so it does everything really well. Everything works together to make good lap times on tracks as varied as Bathurst, with its high speeds and long, flowing corners, to Tamworth, that has a series of low speed hairpins and big braking zones. Heritage Christian School teaches from a strengths-based perspective. What strengths do you have that make you a successful race car driver? Motor racing involves planning and good judgement. “Connectedness” is one of my dominant strengths, so I can weigh up situations very quickly and react in ways that keep all the options open. My nature is to see the little things as part of the bigger picture. A race track is not a set of individual corners; it's a series of corners that you need to be able to make flow one after another. Each corner sets you up for the next. When you run a school, you are in a constantly changing environment that you have to be able to react to. The trick is to invest in the staff and kids, and take the risks that make sense. Sometimes you feel a bit like you are sliding towards “walls”, but there is not a child in my school who is not worth it. Where do you stand in the NSW Hillclimb

Championship at the moment? I won the Road Registered Non Log Booked class in 2015 and 2016 and have had another great start this year. I won the first four rounds and set lap records at Bathurst and Kempsey. That leaves me on maximum points, with a good buffer between me and the guy in second. So I'm happy! How do you become involved in the sport? It's as easy as joining a registered club, like the Australian Racing Drivers Club, of which I am a member, and getting a CAMS licence. It is very straightforward and doesn't cost a great deal. You can join the Kempsey Sporting Car Club for around $35 a year. How do you use your love of hillclimbing to inspire students at your school? I understand what it is like to win, and to lose. One day you are on top of the heap; the next you are picking bits of your car out of the bush! It keeps your feet on the ground. Kids need to have real people who understand real life leading them. I'm not your average “went to school, went to uni, went back to school” Principal. I'm an engineer who came to teaching after an industry career. I want young people to discover what they are passionate about, and go for it. I did it, so they can. Thanks Geoff. Interview and photos contributed by Nikala Sim. greater port macquarie focus. 85

U NI V E RS I TY O F Now, more than ever, the world needs new. New thinking, new ideas, new ways to solve the world’s greatest problems. New needs you. New needs your passion, your energy and your optimism. Why choose the University of Newcastle? REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCES New happens when you’re outside your comfort zone, away from the classroom and beyond the text books. That’s why real-world, practical experience is embedded into all of our degrees. We see this as the best way to learn your craft and test out the things you learn. Our Work Integrated Learning programs have forged strong partnerships with leading local and global organisations and challenge and inspire students to acquire practical workplace skills. This could mean participating in a clinical or professional work placement, practicum, internship or project-based learning. ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITIES Entrepreneurship means different things

86 greater port macquarie focus.

to different people. Some imagine techstart-ups, while others see a small business growing at full-speed. Whatever it means to you, we believe new can’t happen without it. It’s what innovates and solves some of the world’s biggest challenges. That’s why many of our degree programs are entrepreneurial and innovative in approach, helping you to bring your big ideas into reality. You may also choose to participate in our Innovation, Start-ups and Entrepreneurship course, or learn how to get your ideas off the ground with our Innovation Hubs or Student Enterprise Club. EXPERIENCES ACROSS THE GLOBE New can’t be narrow in its approach. It’s got to be embedded in a global context. That’s why we feel so strongly about growing and

nurturing globally experienced students, rich in cultural and social awareness. It’s one step towards giving you the power to understand and take on some of the world’s biggest challenges. Whether it is overseas learning, study tours or international work placements, there are options across every area of study. INNOVATIVE WAYS OF TEACHING New requires staff and students to join in a dialogue together. That’s why we embrace novel approaches to learning and teaching in the classroom. Our “flipped classrooms” enable a dynamic and collaborative way of teaching and more interactive learning. We do this, because it enables our students to collaboratively engage in their learning, which prepares them for the workplace they’ll be joining.

The University of Newcastle (UON) is your perfect partner to help find your new. Whether you’re in your final year of study at school, changing career direction or furthering your education, UON can prepare you for your chosen career in new and exciting ways. Applications to study at UON in 2018 open on Wednesday 2 August. For more information on our 100+ undergraduate degrees, postgraduate and research opportunities, visit newcastle.edu.au/study Or, come along to one of our three Open Days in August, including our Port Macquarie Info Session on Thursday 3 August, to speak with staff and students. To register to attend, visit newcastle.edu.au/2017opendays

PatrickFol ey TRAINING MANAGER AT SKILLSLINK

Hi Pat. Can you introduce yourself to our readers and what your role is at SkillsLink Training? I am the Training Manager at SkillsLink Training, the accredited training arm of Port Macquarie Community College, looking after trainers and assessors, course delivery and course compliance. How long have you been at SkillsLink, and what is your background in the industry? After moving from Tamworth and spending two years at Elenora on the Gold Coast, my wife and I followed a number of our family members to the beautiful Port Macquarie area. I have been at the college just on three years, after spending over 25 years at the Tamworth Community College as the Manager, Vocational Training Manager and a Trainer and Assessor in Business, Training and Assessing and IT courses. Tell us what a day is like for you? I spend a lot of time discussing training needs with the trainers at the College. Some of the many questions that I answer on a daily basis include: what is the best approach for this course, what training method should I use to get the best outcomes for this group of students, what training material will best meet this class’ needs. It is great to have the time to discuss course and training needs with a wide variety of professional trainers and assessors. Once the course has started, my job changes

to helping the course participants to gain their precious qualification, while maintaining the quality of the training and making sure we follow the many rules and regulations that make up the world of Vocational Education and Training. What is something that most people would not know about Port Macquarie Community College? We are a community owned and governed organisation and a registered charity; we are owned by you. Why should our readers choose SkillsLink Training? There are a number of very important reasons why readers should choose us, such as the variety of courses on offer and the fun and funky way we deliver our training. Also, our training and assessing staff are highly skilled and from industry with many working in their own business, ensuring that they have current industry experience. Most importantly, every time a business or individual chooses us for their training, they are supporting the vital work of the community college with vulnerable groups, covering mental health, disability, ageing and traumatised young people, women and others - anyone who needs special assistance or understanding to move towards their goals. Community supporting community. We know that SkillsLink is the accredited training arm of Port Macquarie Community

College. Can you tell us what other work PMCC do in our community? As well as developing a specialist range of programs for vulnerable community groups, we aim to assist people in their recovery from life’s challenges, with a range of experiential learning and life development programs. Our community work includes projects such as: the School of Hard Knocks and its “Absolutely Everybody” Choir, promoting social inclusion and creating a sense of belonging, celebration and achievement; Birpai Learn to Drive Program, which enables Aboriginal people to access professional driving lessons and improve employment opportunities and engagement; Nautilus Senior College, which is supporting disengaged youth, offering an alternative to mainstream schooling; Building a Remote Community outreach program, providing community college education in the Northern Territory. And we are working to help in establishing new social enterprises that assist people to find new work pathways and have recently joined forces with Trendz Beauty and Training and will be offering Beauty Industry Training at the college. So much great work happening in our community.

We’ve joined forces As well as our accredited training and specialist programs

Now offering an exciting range of leisure courses including:

Weekend & night classes

Nails Hair and Make Up Special Effects

Details on our website under Lifestyle & Culture

call us today

6583 7288

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

www.skillslinktraining.com.au

ph: 6583 7288

77 Hastings River Drive

admin@skillslinktraining.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 87

Newman student Lachlan Ross studies Certificate II Construction as part of his HSC

NEWMAN ADDS

TOURISM TO ITS “HSC LIKE NO OTHER”

Newman Senior Technical College prides itself on responding to areas of growth both on a national and local level. Recently, its Industry Advisors identified local growth areas in the Hastings region, comprising: Aged Care, Financial Services, Construction, Accommodation and Food Services and Tourism. In response to this, Newman College has added Certificate II Tourism to their HSC course selections for 2018. “Newman College has an Industry Board, whose members represent various business sectors in our community. The College also has an Industry Liaison Officer, who connects students with School-based Apprenticeship and Traineeship opportunities, and the teachers and students themselves interact with literally hundreds of businesses and potential employers on a weekly basis,” College Principal, Stephen Pares commented. “We’ve listened to the community and looking to the future, we want to stay on track with delivering suitable Vocational Courses that give young people the edge

in their future employment and training opportunities.” With the inclusion of Tourism, the College now offers 13 VET subjects that provide nationally recognised qualifications in areas identified as relevant to the employment needs of the our region and beyond - qualifications such as Certificate II Automotive, Construction, Electrotechnology and Certificate III Financial Services, Early Childhood Education & Care and Individual Support (Aged Care), to name a few. Other subjects include Computing Applications, (CAD/CAM and Multimedia) Marine Studies, Sport Leisure and Recreation, Printmaking, Mathematics and English. “Certificate II in Tourism complements

attending the College Enrolother service area ment Open Night. courses offered at We’ ve listened to d an the community “Meeting the Newman College, futu re , e th to g in ok lo teachers who deliver such as Business, on track we want to stay the subjects, seeing Retail, Hospitality, e bl ita su with delivering at students in action in as well as Marine th s se ur Vocational Co e th the workshops, prac Studies. We offer le op pe give young em re tu fu rooms and kitchens, a well-rounded ser ei th edge in ning ai tr d an t chatting with a Schoollection of relevant en m ploy .” es iti un rt based Apprentice or learning options, po op Trainee, asking questions which also meet all and viewing the facilities first the requirements to hand, is the smart way to look achieve the Higher School into your future. It’s one night that Certificate.” has the potential to change your life.” For anyone wanting to find out Register for the Year 11 Enrolment Open more about the options Newman has Night at newman.nsw.edu.au to offer, Mr Pares strongly recommends

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2018 YEAR 11 ENROLMENT

OPEN NIGHT 25 JULY LY 6PM L

Newman College Register for our Open Night at newman.nsw.edu.au Phone 6580 3800 | Email newman@lism.catholic.edu.au

#HSCLIKENOOTHER

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INSTITUTE

novaskill Novaskill is a not-for-profit organisation delivering training to meet your needs, whether you’re a student, a trainee or an employer. Novaskill are training specialists that focus on flexible delivery and skill development across a range of Vocational Education and Training areas.

• Working with individuals and community

For 36 years we’ve been servicing the needs of apprentices, trainees, employers and training participants. We have helped thousands of people gain a qualification, start a career or develop new skills. We’re in the business of developing skills through: • Pre-vocational training • Apprenticeships and traineeships • Skills training for people seeking to build their credentials in their current role, re-enter the workforce or change careers

• Community services

groups to improve local assets, such as refurbishing Scout halls, sporting facilities and other community assets. Novaskill specialises in Traineeships, focusing on working with local business to train and develop new and existing staff, particularly in: • Business services • Hospitality • Transport and logistics • Construction and carpentry If you would like further information on Novaskill’s products and services or to discuss your business training needs, please contact us on 6500 1100 or email portmaquarie@ novaskill.com.au

Train w ith the experts. John Henry Institute (JHI) is an exciting new venture of St Agnes’ Parish. The local experts are now also the fastest growing Registered Training Organisation in the Hastings! Building upon the existing commitment to excellence in education demonstrated through our local Parish schools, JHI now offers the wider community opportunities to learn, reach their potential and gain rewarding careers. At JHI, we don’t just want to relate to our community, we want to invest in it. We measure our success through the opportunities and benefits we generate for local businesses, our students and the community. With more to come, courses currently running include: Certificate III in Individual Support (aged care, disability, home and community care) First Aid Understanding Mental Health Safe Manual Handling Certificate II in Hospitality

Safe Food Handling Responsible Service of Alcohol Responsible Gambling Services Barista Training General Induction Training (White Card)

RTO: 7054

greater port macquarie focus. 89

focusinterview.

Tam r a a dobson

People ENGINE

HBWN FREE THINKER

People Engine are locally based and work with businesses and leaders to align their actions with strategy, achieving improved performance and healthier profits. Owner Kayley Riddle has extensive experience in customising learning solutions that meet business needs and have maximum impact. She also measures outcomes, so that businesses know that they are improving, as well as how they compare to other businesses.

With passion comes drive … From buying a house at a young age, competing in 40 Zenryoku martial arts tournaments, instructor, team leader, part-time student and HBWN Free Thinker member … What else can’t she do?

Kayley has worked in Training and Development roles throughout most of her career, designing and delivering training, talent programs and engaging workshops across a variety of industries. She specialises in areas such as Accountability, Customer Engagement, Management and Leadership Culture. Kayley is experienced and accredited in facilitating Everything DiSC workshops, which range from Workplace Improvement, to Leadership, Sales and Teamwork (the Five Behaviours of Cohesive Teams). Her Emotional Intelligence training is also very effective and is supported by either 180 or 360 degree feedback reports. For more information or a chat about how People Engine training could help you and your business, call Kayley on 0409 145 898 or go to www.peopleengine.com.au

amara, you’ve martial arts. They stood out; I wanted accomplished so much to be just like them. My dad did some in your young adult investigating, and later that week I life already. What has started training under instructor Sensei motivated you in life? Jason Harris, at the Port Macquarie Growing up I have Centre. 13 years later - I have competed had a very supportive family, who have in over 40 tournaments and been very taught me to always do my best at successful. I have been teaching now everything I undertake. for the past five years, My dream was always operating in Wauchope to have a nice home and Port Macquarie Since teaming and a stable income, Dojos. with Free so that I’m able to give You're currently Thinkers, I’ve been my "future" children studying a Certificate able to sit down and compile a business the best opportunities IV in Leadership and development plan in life. Management; where with Alex and started Where does your would you like that to implement some love for Zenryoku to take you? strategies to reach martial arts stem Yes, currently my goals.” from? studying part-time I started martial arts through TAFE. at the age of eight, I’ve recently been after my mum found promoted to a new an ad in the school newsletter. By then position as team leader for a community I had already tried ballet, but I was not services program, where I’ve been the most delicate ballerina. A year later, working for the past three years. The I entered into a martial arts tournament, Leadership and Management Certificate where I was mesmerised by a bunch of will help me attain management skills as students from another style - Zenryoku a junior martial arts instructor and overall

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business management. How has being a member of the Free Thinkers HBWN Youth Initiative helped you achieve your goals? Free Thinkers has provided me with the opportunity to have a professional mentor, which I did not have before - Alex Glen-Holmes from Elders Real Estate. It has also provided me with many business networking opportunities and a close network of people my own age that I can work alongside and create new friendships with. Since teaming with Free Thinkers, I’ve been able to sit down and compile a business development plan with Alex and have started to implement some strategies to reach my goals. To what degree does having a mentor such as Alex Glen-Holmes mean to you? Alex is spectacular! She is someone that I can relate to. Mel Haverfield from Free Thinkers has done a really great job at pairing us together. Alex has great knowledge and resources for business and is also keeping me posted on the real estate industry - which is an industry I would like to be working in eventually. Thanks Tamara.

YEAR 11 STUDENTS, 2018 Parents and Students are invited to attend

Information Nights and College Tours

MacKillop College (02) 6583 2632 www.pmaclism.catholic.edu.au

Newman Senior Technical College (02) 6580 3800 www.newman.nsw.edu.au

St Joseph’s Regional College (02) 5525 4100 www.pmreglism.catholic.edu.au

Monday 24th July 2017 6:00pm

Tuesday 25th July 2017 6:00pm

Wednesday 26th July 2017 6:00pm

‘Excellence in Teaching, Learning and Vocational Education, Spiritual Formation, Pastoral Care, Sport and Creative Arts.’ greater port macquarie focus. 91

Train With the best An innovative training model delivered by the 2016 NSW Small Training Provider of the Year, Enterprise & Training Company Limited (ETC), is leading to jobs across the Mid North Coast. ETC’s General Manager Training and Business Services Karen Busby said WORKIT was designed to provide students with an opportunity of “learning by doing”, instead of the traditional classroom and workbook method. “It’s a great model that provides students with a greater level of practical skills, increased confidence by having their trainer educate them in the workplace and a valuable insight into what it’s like working in various industries, including Aged Care, Hospitality, Retail and Child Care,” Ms Busby said. “One of the key benefits for employers is that they have an opportunity to hand select the best fit for their team when recruiting for new staff, and it’s worked particularly well for Mid North Coast employers such as Ohana Early Learning, McDonald’s, Coles, Woolworths and Uniting Care.”

ETC also offers a range of short courses for people looking for work, employees wanting to upskill, industry professionals, novices and those of you who are somewhere in between. These courses include: • RSA - Provide responsible service of alcohol (SITHFAB002) • RCG - Provide responsible gambling services (SITHGAM001) • Food Safety Supervisor (SITSS00051) • Safe Food Handling (SITXFSA001) • Provide First Aid (HLTAID003) If you’ve been thinking about starting your own business, you should also consider ETC’s new Explore Being My Own Boss workshops. Fully subsidised by the Australian Government, the two week program includes workshops on the following topics: Getting Started; Branding and Design; Sales and Marketing; and Finance. For further information, visit ETC’s website at www.etcltd.com.au or phone 1800 007 400 and speak to one of our friendly training team members.

Train with the best!

Small class sizes Training in industry hospitality, retail, business and community services

Visit our website for our training calendar and 2017 Course Guide

EXPLORING

BEING MY

OWN BOSS

2 WEEK COURSE

etcltd.com.au 1800 007 400 92 greater port macquarie focus.

RTO 6998

With a passion for woodwork, Jack Steinmetz is an Industrial Technology teacher in the making … to chatting to the head markers and teachers Tell us a little about yourself, Jack ... I graduated from St Joseph's Regional college from the bigger gps schools down in Sydney, in 2016, in this time creating a major project enhancing my understanding and knowledge for "Industrial Technology Timber Products of the subject. and Furniture". I deferred a spot at Newcastle Where did your interest in timber work University undergoing a Bachelor of Teaching come from? (Technology), to do a traineeship. This year I am My love for woodworking wasn't really currently completing a Traineeship with the TAS sparked until I picked it as an elective in Year Department at St Joseph's Regional, gaining 9. When I was young, I used to watch grandpa valuable experience in the workshops, which make all sorts of things in the shed, but will assist me in my future career path. Mum and Dad aren't really into any practical Jack, you built a sideboard for your major construction sort of things, so we didn't really project - how long did it take you to build, have any tools at home. Although both of my and what timber did you choose to use timber teachers, Phil Pares and Ryan Moore, and why? My major piece took me roughly have a real passion for the subject, three school terms to design combining this with their and build, with one term extensive set of skills they're sketching possible designs I’m so stoked willing to pass on and the and researching which with the school’s copious support resources to use, and nomination for the subject, it creates g the two terms for the especially bein to go this environment where to on rs first pe construction and y m om fr t students can really excel en ev the finishing of the cabinet. makes it that ol ho in the subject. sc I ended up using a t extra special.” bi You’ve chosen to majority of Tasmanian

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Blackwood, which has a rich brown grain, then used a bit of Jarrah to give a subtle contrast between the brown and the red. Both timbers give a high quality finish to the work,with excellent mechanical properties. You’re headed down to the Sydney “Timber and Working with Wood Show”. How does it feel have your sideboard on display and discuss your work? I’m so stoked with the nomination - especially being the first person to go to the event from my school makes it that bit extra special. It will be an unreal experience to go down and talk to students and give them a few pointers on both the construction and folio components involved in the course. But I am also looking forward

defer from university to complete your Traineeship with the TAS Department what experience have you gained so far? The Traineeships that the school provides are unreal. They give you a real understanding of what it takes to work in this field, affirming that this is the career path I want to take. So far I have developed a heap of skills, such as machine/workshop repairs and maintenance, stock control, new technology such as CNC Routers and Laser Cutters, and assisting students develop their own basic skills in both the wood and metal workshops. Thanks Jack.

greater port macquarie focus. 93

Inspiration Chris THE INNOVATIVE LEARNING CENTRE

Delaney

Imagination

i Chris. In your own words, some additional help with their reading. Simiwhat is the Learning Cenlarly, we track our students closely and monitor tre about? their numeracy progress on our continuum The Learning Centre itself and offer specific, targeted, numeracy support is a fantastic open plan, multhrough out Maths Assistance Program (MAP). tipurpose learning space that gets used for evWe also understand that there are many facerything from Robotics and green screen video tors that influence a child’s learning and develproduction, through to chess competitions and opment; as such, we are working closely with a quiet study area. In saying that, rather than a team of very experienced Occupational Therthinking of it as a “space”, I conapists (OTs). Our OTs support teaching sider it more like a hub, from staff, working alongside them in which a range of specialist classrooms, to identify issues educators are deployed with posture, seating, fine ng The Learni to work with staff and a is f el its motor skills, attention, Centre students. , an pl en op focus and behavioural fantastic Why does the arning problems. We have a multipurpose le used for Learning Centre space that gets range of programs up s Robotic Exist? everything from and running, to assist o vide At the risk of and green screen h to with social skills, sensoug production, thro stating the obvious, ions and a tit ry-motor development, pe m co s es ch students learn at handwriting, fine motor t study area .” ie qu different rates and in skills and more. different ways. Some stuWhy is enrichment so dents require additional time important, and how is SCAS and support, while others need catering for their “very capable” to be challenged and extended beyond students? the curriculum. The goal of the LearnOver the past few years, experts have ing Centre team is to work alongside noted that the number of Australian students classroom teachers, to ensure the best possible achieving at the highest international levels of learning experience for each child, so that they

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Innovation A world of opportunities for every student St Columba Anglican School has been offering a comprehensive and holistic education for Kindergarten to Year 12 students since 2002. Join us for a tour or a taster day and get a glimpse of why SCAS students excel personally and academically. For more information, or to organise a tour, contact the School.

can all experience growth. Can you explain the types of support that are offered to students? We have a dedicated and experienced team of Learning Support staff who are running a range of specific literacy and numeracy programs across the primary and secondary schools. Our MiniLit, MacLit and Reading Tutor programs provide evidence based, small group, literacy support to those students who require

T: 02 6581 4188  E: info@scas.nsw.edu.au 3 Iona Avenue  Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Focus Ad July 2017.indd 1

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reading and mathematics is declining. “Rather

than being stretched and extended, many very able students achieve year-level expectations with minimal effort,” says Professor Geoff Masters. This is ultimately an issue of equity; all students deserve an education that allows them to grow at a rate commensurate with their ability. We recognise the need to do more for our highest achievers. Thanks Chris.

principal

Ian Ross HASTINGS SECONDARY COLLEGE WESTPORT CAMPUS

Meet the new Principal of Hastings Secondary College, Westport Campus - Ian Ross. Ian has a background in Industrial Arts and Special Education, and has spent time in schools in Darwin, Grafton and Newcastle, prior to relocating to Port Macquarie …

i Ian. Please tell us about yourself and how you came to call Port Macquarie home. It was quite funny the way this move unfolded. Earlier this year, my wife Jean said, “Well, we were in Darwin for twelve years, Grafton for twelve and this is our twelfth in Newcastle what happens now?” We have visited Port Macquarie on numerous occasions over the past decade, as Jean has family here, so we were not unfamiliar with Port Macquarie. We were delighted to have the opportunity to move to the beautiful Hastings area. During the 1980s and early 1990s, I taught in the public education sector in Darwin. Jean is a trained nurse/midwife and while in Darwin, we had two of our four children. Our other two children were born in Grafton, where we also spent 12 years after we relocated from the Top End. I taught Industrial Arts, Computing and Special Education at Grafton High School. We relocated in 1995, when a teaching opportunity arose at Callaghan College in Newcastle. During the five years at Callaghan College, Waratah Campus, I was Head Teacher Industrial Arts and later Deputy Principal, transferring in 2013 to Jesmond Senior Campus. During this time, I had the opportunity to relieve as Principal. This experience enabled me to continually develop the skills required to lead and manage a high school in a public education environment. What's your background training in education? I undertook training as an Industrial Arts teacher at the Goulburn College of Advanced Education and while in Darwin, I completed a Bachelor of Education at the Northern Territory University. In 2014, I completed a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Management at the University of Newcastle, which has been

put into practice in my roles in executive leadership teams over recent years. At Grafton High School, I gained experience in supporting students with intellectual and physical disabilities, which as a parent and teacher was very rewarding. It demonstrated clearly to me that irrespective of a person’s ability, it is possible for every student to grow and succeed in a structured education and learning environment, assisted by individualised teaching strategies and programming. What/who inspires you most to continue working in the education sector? There is an old cliché - as a teacher, I want to make a difference. For me, it is a more than that. Thirty years in the public education sector has been enriching. It has allowed me to go places, meet a diverse range of people and to use my experience to give back to the system that has supported me over my career. School environments have changed from when I went to school. This could be attributed to the advancement in technology, greater resources and time is required to support students with mental health issues, changing family structures and modification of curriculum requirements, to name but a few. My role is to support teachers in doing what they do best. That is, to deliver quality teaching in a quality learning environment. If we can achieve that goal, then every student in our care can develop the skills that they will need later in their lives to pursue their goals, get that job they want or to develop that relationship or to function as a productive citizen in a rapidly changing society. As the new Principal at Hastings Secondary College, Westport Campus, how do you feel you have settled into the role so far? I am excited to lead Hastings Secondary College, Westport Campus. I am learning quickly that both the college and the campus are positive, future-focused learning environments. Parents, staff, and students have made me feel very welcome, which I consider valuable. Initially, I have found that processes

ickly I am learning qu ge lle that both the co s are posith and e campu d learning se cu tive, future-fo rents, staff, Pa . ts environmen ve made me and students ha which I e, feel very welcom .” le ab consider valu

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and procedures at the campus are well established and highly effective in guiding students through the transition from Year 6 to Year 7 and continue to deliver quality education through to their identified post school aspirations. What were your first impressions of the Westport Campus, staff and student body you'll be working with? At Westport Campus, our students are doing amazing things supported by dedicated teachers who often go “above and beyond” during their duties. The college has a wide variety of school-based programs designed to meet the needs of every student. Initiatives such as the Zenith program deliver a challenging environment for academic students in Years 7 and 8. The program has a cooperative learning approach, which involves cross subject area tasks with the ability to embed 21st Century skills such as problemsolving, time management, literacy, numeracy, and communication. The structuring of this quality learning environment has demonstrated the ability to set up students with the real-life skills required for their senior education or post school endeavours. How will you work/partner with your academic counterparts at Hastings Secondary College's Port Macquarie campus, to ensure a viable future in public education locally? Coming from a college environment has given me valuable insight into the fantastic learning opportunities that a collegial approach can offer. The ability to study a variety of courses in Year 11 and 12 at either Westport Campus or Port Macquarie Campus enables students the scope to select those courses that are most relevant to their post-school options.

The teaching and support staff can also participate in cross-campus professional learning and to share expertise and teaching resources. Again, these are examples of opportunities that engage student learning and drive innovation. The opportunity to be an active member of the Hastings Valley Community of Schools places me as a representative of Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus, in a position where I can help develop and maintain clear and transparent processes with our local partner primary schools. This public education link grows our teaching and learning networks, allows and promotes what public schools do best: develop the whole child. What are some of the initiatives you'd like to introduce to ensure your campus, and the college, prospers in the future? I see my role to build capacity in the people and processes that we have in our educational environment. That may involve developing leadership skills in students and staff. I support ongoing evaluation and construction of innovative teaching and learning strategies to support educational reform. I am committed to building a strong community support base for the college. I want to put Hasting Secondary College in a position where it can continue to deliver quality education for all students in the Hastings area around our core values of excellence, innovation opportunity and success. I will link these values with transparent and adaptive leadership to support the college as the school of choice in our local community. This will allow students to achieve their personal best academically, socially and culturally. Thanks Ian. Interview by Jo Robinson. greater port macquarie focus. 95

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

“I’m asking for your vote to be Mayor. Here’s why I believe I’m the best candidate…” “Being the Mayor of one of the largest and fastest growing regional Councils in NSW calls for a candidate with many years of experience in Local Government. Someone who has already shown leadership in planning for sustainable future growth. Someone with a proven commercial background over 25 years and deep roots right across the local community. “I’m a Pharmacist, a business owner and a father of three. I have no personal axe to grind and no political agenda. But, what I do have are excellent credentials for the job – my experience in key Council portfolios, leading the Chamber of Commerce and the Base Hospital Community Board of Advice, and my decades-long commitment to enriching local arts, culture and education. “I’m determined to forge a united, financially responsible, and effective Council that: – delivers critical infrastructure projects, where and when they are needed – encourages business and creates jobs, and – provides better roads, and sporting, cultural and recreational facilities “I grew up in Port Macquarie and I’ve run my business and raised my family here. Our natural environment – especially our spectacular coastal foreshores and inland waterways – has been entrusted to us. I believe it is a key responsibility of Council to protect our precious living heritage for our kids and their kids.

My credentials for Mayor Councillor - Port Macquarie - Hastings Council since 2012 Chair - Economic & Cultural Development Portfolio Deputy Chair - Planning, Environment & Sustainability Portfolio Chair - Economic Development Steering Group Past Chair - Access Committee Chair - Cultural Steering Group Board Member – Arts Mid-North Coast Graduate - Australian Institute of Company Directors Previously… President - Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce Chair - Port Macquarie Base Hospital Board of Advice President - St Joseph’s Primary School P&F Committee President - Big Band Blast Music Festival Committee Member - NSW Pharmacy Guild, ACT Pharmacy Guild

“I want to be a Mayor for all the community. I ask for your vote on July 29.” RobTurnerforMayor@gmail.com www.facebook.com/RobTurnerforMayor RobTurnerforMayor.com.au

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focusinterview.

INTRODUCING GENERAL MANAGER OF RYDGES, SAILS & THE BEACH HOUSE , JUSTIN BOYDELL. WITH AN EXTENSIVE CAREER IN HOSPITALITY, JUSTIN BRINGS HIS WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE TO THE SHORES OF PORT MACQUARIE. FOCUS PINNED HIM DOWN FOR A CHAT IN BETWEEN HIS BUSY SCHEDULE …

elcome to Port Macquarie, Justin! You’ve been with the Rydges group in Port Macquarie since November last year and bring with you an extensive career with Rydges, as well as 30 years’ hospitality experience under your belt, working in several locations both locally and abroad. What are some of the projects you’ve worked on? I have worked in hospitality for many years and have been very lucky to work in New Zealand, Australia and Indonesia during my career - all very unique and diverse climates and environments, from Queenstown in NZ through to Ayers Rock and offshore to the hustle, bustle and heat of Jakarta. I’ve met some amazing people and enjoyed so many different experiences in all of the my travels and destinations. Opening up a hotel in the political hotbed that was Jakarta around the time that the Suharto Government was being ousted from power was a real experience. Working at Ayers Rock was also unique, and that ancient landscape - the colours were amazing. I learnt how to play the didgeridoo as well - so, a skill for life! Hospitality has allowed me to live in some beautiful destinations. Can you tell us about some of the exciting plans in the pipeline moving forward for Rydges? There is so much planned for our region, which the team are really excited about. The most immediate plan is the current refurbishment and redevelopment of Sails Port Macquarie, which is its final stages. This project will see the completion of the remaining resort rooms, a new waterfront restaurant and bar overlooking the

marina and a 280 seat conference and special event centre on the third floor all opening up at the end of 2017. During the construction phase we have been lucky to get a bird’s eye view of the development, and let me say that the outlook from what will be the conference centre is breathtaking. We are creating a very special venue for the region, and I really feel Sails will be unique on the East Coast when it is complete and will only add to the growing hospitality in the region. Once we have completed Sails, then we are in the planning stage for a significant refurbishment to the guest rooms at Rydges Port Macquarie and also looking at further development of our iconic Beach House venue. The Taphouse Group are a strong supporter regionally with their venues in Port Macquarie and will look to further develop these venues over the next few years. The group are undertaking simultaneous refurbishments at both Sails and Tacking Point Tavern, ensuring that the last half of 2017 is a busy one! You originally come from a regional town how important is it to remain connected to the community? I was born in Moree in North West NSW on a farm and went to school in Armidale, so I understand community and what it means to contribute and give back to the region where you can, both personally and in the business sense - both play an important role. It is great to get involved with regional events that help grow tourism and provide another reason for people to visit us. Hospitality businesses are a fantastic vehicle to promote and provide a place to relax and meet, stay or eat, whether it is for business, an occasion, celebration or getting together with family or friends for a great night out. How do you like to spend your time when you're not in the office?

I love spending time with my family and party with any three people, past or present, relaxing and hanging out with my three boys, who would you choose and why? Jack, Will and Edward. I also love running, Interesting question that one, as hard as gardening, golf, fishing and kayaking, but I’m it is to limit to just three, but I would invite willing to give most things a go. I have certainly Warren Buffet - owner of Berkshire Hathaway slowed down a bit as I have got older, but and Astute Investor. I’ve read many of managed to do the Port Macquarie his books, and he has led an Half Marathon with some of the interesting life ... and let’s face team this year, so have started it; it would be handy to to get involved in regional get some investing tips up ng Openi events. Hoping to combine e over dinner. I would th in l te ho a some kayaking and fishing at th ed also invite Morgan tb ho al ic polit on the Hastings when nd the ou ar a rt Freeman, as I have ka Ja as w it gets a touch warmer. harto admired him as an time that the Su being Heard there are some big G overnment was was actor and as a person wer Flathead out there! ousted from po all my life. He would .” ce What inspires you? a real experien certainly be interesting I was once told that you company at any dinner must love what you do, and table and have some great I think that is true in a sense. stories to tell. I would also invite Hospitality can be very demanding on James Taylor, as we would need some your time, but is extremely rewarding when after dinner entertainment. We could all you finish a busy day like Christmas or over sing along to Fire and Rain - not to mention his Easter and know you have had a successful day interesting life story - a real journeyman indeed. and been part of a wider team that has come This dinner table is a bit male dominated, and together to provide great hospitality. You do have anyone my son’s age probably won’t know these challenges and certainly can always learn and men, so I am wondering if I can be cheeky and improve in your service delivery, and that’s part of make it a table for six? I have to add my mother, what we do. I also love seeing people grow in the Celia, and wife Jane, who have been there for many hospitality roles in the industry and develop me, have been inspirational and total supporters and grow in confidence and skill. of me throughout my life and career. You know You know you have been in the industry a long the saying … “Behind every great man there is time when you meet a General Manager whom a great woman” … and I have two of them, so you remember as a young porter when you consider myself very lucky. worked in Sydney in 2000 over the Olympics, but Jane is also very understanding, as we have that’s the nature of the beast, and most people in had to move 10 times with the family throughout the industry work up through the ranks, adding my career! We are all loving being in Port strength and experience to the extended team Macquarie. and forge their own path. Thanks Justin. If you had the opportunity to have a dinner

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98 greater port macquarie focus.

Insurance House CONFIDENCE INSURED

Hi Scott and Michael. We’ve watched as you and your team have built Insurance House 360 to be one of the most respected, prominent and customer centric businesses on the Mid North Coast. Now, you have taken the Port Macquarie based business to new heights, by announcing a merger with your parent company, Insurance House Group, from July 1, 2017. For those of us who are not familiar with them, tell us who Insurance House Group is? Insurance House Group is one of Australia’s largest privately owned commercial and rural brokers. The business has regional roots, and like us started as a small local insurance broker in Echuca in rural Victoria. Today, the business provides a broad range of insurance services to over 70,000 customers and employs almost 200 people across 11 offices along the Eastern Seaboard. What can existing clients expect to see in terms of service and accessibility to the broking staff they know and trust? The first exciting change is that the merging of our two businesses enables us to make an instant investment in our team. We will immediately add extra staff to support our clients and continued growth. We are pleased

to announce that local lad Chris Mansfield will immediately join our team. In all other aspects of our business, it is going to be business as usual; our core focus is to make this as seamless a transition for our customers as possible. Although our trading name has changed from Insurance House 360 to Insurance House from July 1, there will be minimal to no disruption to our clients or team. We can still be found at Level 1, 26 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie. We invite all our clients to give us a call, drop us an email at michael. huxley@ihgroup.com.au or visit our office to ask any questions about what this merger will mean for them and their insurance portfolio. What products and services are available from the team here in Port Macquarie? By further aligning ourselves with Insurance House, we have been able to expand our service and product offering - a move that is for the direct benefit of our clients. Along with a broader range of products and services, our combined buying power means that our

clients are in the best possible position when it comes to their broker being able to negotiate competitive premiums and tailor bespoke policy covers. Clients can now also access some of the innovative services that Insurance House offer, including roadside assistance, access to a 24/7 emergency claims assistance hotline, monthly payment plans and discounted nib Health Insurance. For those of us who don’t know the team, can you introduce us to everyone at Insurance House Port Macquarie? Sure, we welcome anyone to come into the office and have a chat with the team, made up of Scott Leis, Luke Hawkes, Michael Huxley, Chris Mansfield and Allen Lance. Thanks Scott and Michael.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved since starting the business almost four years ago. We continue to challenge the traditional and inwardly focused habits of the local insurance providers. The amalgamation with Insurance House Group will now see us as the largest insurance brokerage on the Mid North Coast, and going forward the local community will certainly see, hear and expect a lot more from us.”

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with Caroline Bleechmore, Cyber Safety Advocate

think twice before using a mobile device when with their children. I suggest you try to make a conscious effort to check email and your social media before your children get up, while they are in school, or after they go to bed. Aside from the responsible parenting aspect, research has found that when parents are absorbed in their own devices, children ONLINE SAFETY TIPS are more likely to act out, apparently to get their FOR PARENTS parents’ attention. Experts are especially concerned about parental failure to pay full attention to their children at critical times of the day, like when taking children to and from school. This should be a mobile free zone for everyone - no Bluetooth for parents or devices for the kids. The pickup from school is a very important transitional time for kids - a time for them to download their day. Parents shouldn’t be saying, MUCH HAS BEEN WRITTEN ABOUT HOW DIGITAL OVERLOAD CAN "Wait a minute; I have to finish this call". Likewise, IMPAIR A CHILD’S SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL AND INTELLECTUAL GROWTH when parents come home from work, they should SO WITH THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS APPROACHING, I THOUGHT THIS walk in the door unplugged and use the first hour MONTH I WOULD TALK ABOUT HOW TO CUT DOWN SCREEN TIME. they are home as time to reconnect with the family. I arents, you may not like me ... But parental behaviours that can strongly influence a strongly recommend that neither parents or children generally we are often at fault, child’s tendency to abuse electronic media. should be using devices when the family dines directly or indirectly, when children 1. Some parents are perpetually tuned into their out; the art of dining and the connection between and teenagers become hooked own devices, responding to every ping of their delicious food and nourishing conversation is being on electronic media, playing video mobile phone and tablets, receiving and sending lost, not just in restaurants, but at home as well. games or sending texts many hours a day, instead messages at times that would enrage us if it were Interestingly, medical experts attribute a 20 per of interacting with the real world and the people our child. cent increase in accidental injuries seen in pediatric in it. As parents, we have an opportunity to guide 2. Other parents fail to establish and enforce emergency rooms due to parents’ failure to pay full our kids so that they can learn habits that help appropriate rules for media engagement by their attention to those they are supposed to be watching, them make use of the digital world, without children. like infants and toddlers in the bathtub or children being swallowed by it. However, it is becoming Young children learn by example, often copying at the playground. Your reaction time and attention increasingly evident that for some reasons, today’s the behaviour of adults. I often see youngsters in is not the same when you’re texting or talking on a parents are unprepared to deal with the intense prams or on foot with a parent who is chatting or mobile phone. I encourage establishing device-free pull and highly addictive nature of what the texting on a mobile phone, instead of conversing times of the day, like the first hour after school and the hour before bed and most importantly, mobile with the children in their charge. Parents should online world has to offer. There are two common

cyber mum.

CUTTING SCREEN TIME ... SAY NO TO YOURSELF!

phones - including parents' - should not be allowed at the dinner table. Make time for real-life activities with your kids that let them know that they’re worth your time and undivided attention. Do things together that nourish your relationship. So with winter school holidays upon us, here are some ideas on things you can do as a family without technology: • Cook dinner together • Visit the local soup kitchen and help make dinner for the less fortunate • Do a jigsaw puzzle • Have a family picnic • Take a bike ride • Play frisbee • Go swimming • Play with your pet • Go to the park • Look through old family photo albums • Go bowling • Play hide and seek • Visit a relative • Find a grass hill and go sledding on some cardboard boxes • Have a family touch football game • Go ice skating • Go outside and take some fun family photos • Make a meal and surprise an elderly or sick neighbour • Play a board game or a game of cards • Build a fort or cubby indoors or outdoors • Hike through the bush • Shoot some hoops • Have a fire and roast marshmallows • Go fishing • Go for walk on the beach

Dr David GILLESPIE MP Federal Member for Lyne

MOBILE OFFICE I will be setting up my mobile office in a community near you. It would be great to catch up to discuss the important issues in your area. Feel free to pick up a survey or information brochure. 144 Victoria Street, Taree NSW 2450 davidgillespie.com.au

6583 2077

david.gillespie.mp@aph.gov.au

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie, 144 Victoria Street, Taree NSW 2450.

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Community members running a campaign to “Ban the Bag Port Macquarie” addressed PMHC about the issue. Two local working mums and environmentalists Maria Doherty and Linda Perkins set up the campaign in response to increasing media focus to reduce plastic litter.

he campaign aims to raise awareness about plastic bag waste and the environmental damage they cause,” said Maria. “We want to encourage people to bring an alternative bag when shopping and reduce plastic bag use.” The campaign is supported by many local businesses, community groups, and schools in the area. “We set up a Facebook Page, Instagram account, and petition, and the response has been overwhelming,” said Linda. Already over 1,500 have signed the petition, with the campaign We want to rt targeting 4,000 Po motivate gs tin signatures before 19 as -H Macquarie n tio ac ke ta July 2017, when the to Council t the ns ai ag e at sl campaigners will gi le and gs , and ba tic as pl of return to Council to e us ess of the show the evidence of to raise awaren nmental negative enviro community interest in s.” impact of plastic the issue. “Australians use over 10 million plastic bags every day, which take 1,000 years to break down,” said Linda. “The real issue though, is littering - around half a billion bags enter the Australian environment

“

every year - our waterways, rivers, and oceans - killing one million sea birds and marine mammals annually. “Many countries have already banned plastic bags, including some of the poorest in the world,” said Linda. “Only NSW, Victoria, and Western Australia are yet to be plastic-bag free in Australia.” “We want to motivate Port MacquarieHastings Council to take action and legislate against the use of plastic bags, and to raise awareness of the negative environmental impact of plastics,” said Maria. “If we act now and become the first in NSW to ban the bag, we will put Port MacquarieHastings on the map. If we are the first we will promote Port Macquarie as an environmental leader. If we are the first, we will distinguish Port Macquarie as a beautiful, pristine place to live and to visit. If we are the first, we will influence others to take action. There is only one opportunity to be first. No one will remember the second.” Maria Doherty 0432 647 822. FB: Ban the Bag - Re-use the Bag Port Macquarie. www.Change.org/p/banthebag-portmacquarie

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New Zealand Coach Holidays

NSW GOVERNMENT OFFERS BIG SAVINGS ON APPLIANCES Ursula Boorman of Direct Advisers brings finance into focus, to help you find your way through the money maze.

onscious spending, diligent saving and having the right financial strategies in place are obvious ways to make your money go further, but there are other clever shortcuts to savings that can have a big impact over time. There are a number of little-known government programs on offer designed to reduce the living costs of pensioners and low income households. One such program is the Home Energy Action Appliance Program, which helps eligible households replace their old money-wasting fridges and TVs with selected new energy efficient models. A number of my clients have applied for the offer and taken advantage of the 40% discounts on fridges and 50% discounts on TVs. Not only that, but the delivery driver will remove your old fridge or TV when they drop off the new replacement, and ensure it is recycled or disposed of properly. Barbara had a seven year old fridge that was on its way out. “My fridge was getting close to the end of its life, so when Ursula told me about this program, I jumped right on it,” Barbara said. “I’m really happy to have saved so much money off the purchase price, but also the savings that will come through on my energy bills. It’s good to know my new energy efficient fridge is having a positive impact on the environment too.” At the launch of the program, former NSW Environment Minister Mark Speakman said the program would help around 200,000 low income households in NSW cut the cost of their energy

bills by an average of $140 a year. Mr Speakman said the scheme could also reduce about 11,500 tonnes of carbon emissions every year, which was like taking more than 2,800 cars off the road, if 20,000 households each used the subsidy to replace one appliance. Who is eligible? To be eligible you must: • be a NSW resident • hold either a valid Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card or Low Income Health Care Card from Centrelink or a Gold Card from Veterans’ Affairs • own a suitable existing fridge six years or older, or a plasma or cathode ray tube TV to replace The savings • 40% off selected fridges • 50% off selected TVs • up to $200 off your energy bill every year if you replace an inefficient fridge • up to $125 off your annual energy bill by replacing your TV How to apply • go to http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ households/appliance-replacement-offer.htm • fill in the easy three-step online application, which takes five to ten minutes • or call 1300 601 795 I’d encourage all eligible households to take up the offer. It’s a great way to stop burning through your cash with old, inefficient home appliances, and you get to enjoy a new fridge or TV for around half price! 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. *Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

Kiwi ConnectioNZ Service - Return Airport Transfers from Port Macquarie. Whether you are marvelling at the spectacular glaciers or picturesque fiords or simply relaxing in a thermal pool, New Zealand is magical by coach. Relax in armchair comfort as you travel through each region, feeling secure in the hands of a professional Coach Captain, whose reliable knowledge includes numerous facts and figures, stories, legends and many laughs along the way. Grand Pacific Tours, the New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist, have a range of all-inclusive tours on offer, to suit all budgets and interests, including Affordable, Escorted, Ultimate Small Group, Cruise and Coach and Special Interest Tours. To ensure your holiday starts from the moment you leave home, they have launched an EXCLUSIVE Kiwi ConnectioNZ service on their 20 Day NZ Rail and Coach, departing

BONUS EXTRAS

12 November 2017 and 17 Day Highlights departing 8 February 2018. The service takes the hassle and added expense out of getting to and from the airport, with FREE Return Airport Transfers from Port Macquarie plus other great benefits. Grand Pacific Tours have built a NEW modern coach solely for the service; their professional Coach Captain will pick you up from a designated coach stop in your town to safely transfer you to the airport. As part of the service, an extra night’s accommodation is provided, so you can unwind when you arrive in New Zealand with a free day before the tour commences. All tours include airfares, taxes, modern coach travel, hotel accommodation, sightseeing and attractions. For a more information, contact Wauchope Travel on 6585 2288 or Kempsey Travel & Cruise on 6562 6111.

> Kiwi ConnectioNZ Service > GET ON BOARD! FREE Return airport transfers from Port Macquarie to Sydney Airport + SAVE $200 per couple + an extra night’s accomm in NZ + 400 page NZ Travel Guide**

New Zealand Coach Holidays 20 Day NZ Rail & Coach Holiday

17 Day Highlights of New Zealand Tour

SPECIAL DEPARTURE 12 Nov 2017

SPECIAL DEPARTURE 8 Feb 2018

ully escorted tour featuring 3 breathtaking rail journeys and Milford Sound overnight cruise.

6549

PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

ll the iconic attractions including Milford Sound cruise and worldrenowned TranzAlpine rail journey.

5044

PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM INCLUDES

RETURN AIRFARES

INCLUDES

RETURN AIRFARES

ALL INCLUSIVE TOUR PRICE Includes airfares, taxes, modern coach travel, hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.

For more info call Wauchope Travel on 6585 2288 or Kempsey Travel & Cruise on 6562 6111

*Conditions apply Price valid for travel ex SYD and includes pre paid taxes (subject to change). **Coach will pick up passengers from a designated coach stop in the area. Saving is per couple ($100 per person) and has been deducted from advertised price. Extra night (room only) is already incorporated into the advertised tour. Travel Guide is per household. No other special offers apply. New bookings only until 31 August.

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Hadyn Oriti with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

options and alternatives that may be available to address issues or concerns. Aligned with portfolios are thirteen committees of Council, that bring together Councillors and members of the community with Council Staff to discuss matters within the scope of the charter of that committee.

MINDING YOUR

business GET YOUR VOTES IN. ON SATURDAY 29 JULY, WE GET TO ELECT A NEW MAYOR AND CELEBRATE BUSINESS IN THIS BEAUTIFUL HASTINGS VALLEY. OUR MAYORAL ELECTION FOLLOWS THE RESIGNATION OF PETER BESSELING. PETER SERVED THIS CITY AND THE VALLEY IN STATE PARLIAMENT AND LATTERLY AS MAYOR. His rugby background perhaps inculcated the importance of teamwork, and he brought with him a certain leadership style that melded together disparate Councillors and advocacy groups into a cohesive force for the community. As part of his legacy, Council now has a portfolio

system. Councillors have areas of responsibility. They develop an in-depth understanding of certain areas of Council operations. Councillors meet regularly and are briefed on issues before open Council meetings. This means also that Councillors are able to fully inform themselves of

I sit on the Economic Development Steering Group, chaired by Councillor Rob Turner, but there are also committees that focus on the Town Centre Master Plan and the airport. Community groups and individuals are represented on these committees. There is also community consultation. This structure and the attendant processes have ensured a well considered information gathering process, so that when matters are finally brought to Councillors for decision, the outcome is based on the best available data. Views are balanced by all the voices that have fed into that process. In this election, some committees and that process is at risk. Mayoral candidate, Peta Pinson said, in answer to a question I asked her at a Meet the Candidates meeting held by the Chamber at the last election, that she wants to abolish the portfolio system and presumably also the committees that feed into those portfolios. Over the last five years, we have seen benefits, in real terms, to Port Macquarie. We have seen the establishment of the CSU and the partnership with Council, an example being the Soil Laboratory. We have seen population growth and the opening up of land for development.

This growth brings jobs, opportunity and wealth to this area. We have seen investment in bridges and roads, the extension of the airport and business has seen the benefits of a Council changing its culture to be open and welcoming of those who wish to invest here. These things do not just happen. They have happened because there is a structure that actively encourages the Council to listen to the community and to take their views on board. It doesn’t mean that everyone is always happy with what is being done, but the community benefits, and this Chamber does not want to see the good that comes from it lost. Economic development has been elevated as a function of Council. It now has a director with clear responsibility. To my mind, that is something for business to celebrate, and I encourage others to do the same. This year’s Port Chamber, Holiday Coast Credit Union business awards will be held on Saturday 29 July. The night is a gala celebration of business in the Greater Port Macquarie Area. We honour and celebrate local business. The public can get involved and vote for their favourites. I encourage all to do so and for businesses to get in early for tickets to the night. I also wish to send a big thank you to Leslie Williams, our State Member, who has been able to secure funding for initial works on the Orbital Road. This is a massive piece of infrastructure development that this city is crying out for. Let’s make it happen.

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Hot Spring Spas DISCOVER THE 40 YEAR DIFFERENCE

With a trusted history in portable spas and an international reputation for innovation, the brand Hot Spring has become a global leader in its field. While most spas have a lifespan of three - four years, Hot Spring have been in existence for 40 years, and their pools are designed to last. In fact, the very first Hot Spring spas produced and sold in New Zealand in the ‘80s are still going strong today. This is testament to their quality and design in manufacture, with a focus on longevity. Dale Paretovich, owner, founder and operator of Hot Spring New Zealand, says portable spas took off in New Zealand only five years after they first became available in California. Dale started manufacturing the first portable spa for New Zealand and Australia in 1980. He produced only two models, and the technology was simple yet effective. To research the latest international technology, Dale went to a spa and pool show in Las Vegas. It was there he started talking to the Sales Manager of the USA company Watkins Manufacturing Corporation, producers of Hot Spring spas. “At the time they were the largest manufacturer of portable spas in the world - and they still are. Over a beer, we decided to do a joint venture,” he said.

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This arrangement, started Hot Spring spas on a handshake in Las Vegas, are now sold combining Hot Spring’s e on a global scal ork unique technology with Dale’s tw ne a h ug thro 220 in s exporting knowledge, led to of dealership expansion across New Zealand, s.” countrie Australia and Eastern Asia. Hot means that water can be Spring spas are now sold on a in a spa for up to two years global scale through a network of before needing to be changed. dealerships in 220 countries. Customers Other spa alternates need their can access the same standard of service, water changed each month. warranty and support anywhere in the world. • Spas with fully solid foam. This does add LEADING BY DESIGN to the initial purchase of the spa, but greatly The design innovation that first sparked Dale’s reduces running costs by approximately 75%. interest in Hot Spring has kept the company at QUALITY MADE TO LAST the top of the portable spa industry. As well as The company is the only one in the industry to the invention of the moving massager, which have both their factory and distribution systems remains a top seller today, Hot Spring has been meeting the quality control levels needed for the the first to bring out: ISO9001 rating, an externally measured standard • Artificial timber for spas. the brand is proud to achieve and uphold. • Rust-proof, titanium heaters. In addition, the brand has another quality • ACE® Salt Water System - a patented salt water system that makes its own chemicals, with control advantage for their customers. The chlorine levels the same as drinking water. This parent company is publicly listed. Under United

“

States law, Hot Spring must keep spare parts for 20 years, and alternative parts for every spa they’ve ever made. Most of Hot Spring’s oldest competitors are less than six years old, often folding after each recession and therefore leaving their customers with spas that cannot be serviced or maintained. With replacement parts always available, Hot Spring spas really are made to last. So it’s not an overstatement to say that when you buy a Hot Spring spa, you can look forward to decades of daily relaxation in your portable spa. Visit Pollard Pools & Spas today to discover the Hot Spring 40 year difference, with a quality spa that is made to last.

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Bronwyn Newton from Port Macquarie Landcare

HAPPY HEADLINES SOME GOOD NEWS FOR A CHANGE!

UPDATE

MORE TREES: Thank you Landcare Australia, for generously giving our group $10,000 to plant thousands of native plants in the coming year. Koala food trees and rainforest species, understorey and ground cover plants are included, to make a complete forest. This will transform the creekside areas from Lord Street to Lake Road.

ing Wright’s and Yarranabee Creeks, the green arteries of our town. Since winning the $250,000 grant we have given great value for money, restoring strong and beautiful bushland habitats that are now permanent. We will finish on time, but we can’t wait to do more, because Landcare is habit-forming!

HELP FOR KOALAS: Training dogs to avoid koalas is a clever way to reduce dog attacks in Port Macquarie and beyond. Council’s Natural Resources Officer talked about this innovation at the second national Koala Conference here in June. The training teaches dogs that encounter a koala to leave it alone, even when no human is present to control the dog. It’s been well received by dog owners, and we think it’s a great idea. Council also has a Koala Plan of Management to help protect koalas from the many threats they are facing.

NATIONAL TREE DAY 30 JULY: Your day to plant a local native tree at home! Instead of holding a community event (as in past years), our Landcare group is handing over to you. Share in the fun and satisfaction of greening our environment: even a small tree or shrub will bring you beauty and wildlife encounters for many years, at a tiny cost. Check our website http://www.landcareportmac. com.au/ and look under “Nursery” for advice on plants.

EXCELLENT ET: NSW Environmental Trust has just given us a rating of “excellent” and a final $24,041 to finish our six-year project. The “ET” praised our past five years of work rehabilitat-

OSPREYS BUILDING: Not only humans are making homes here. These magnificent birds are nesting now, and usually lay two or three eggs. Parent birds will soon have kids and will take them fishing - just like we do!

NOISY PITTAS POP UP: Now it’s winter, you may see these colourful birds bustling noisily about in our rainforests. Fascinating to watch, these ground-dwelling birds enjoy eating snails, which they crack on an “anvil” stone. TOP TICK TACTICS: When going bush, take a “freeze spray” pack containing dimethyl ether. Sold by pharmacies for wart removal, the spraypack will kill ticks in situ. It works very well for our group! Please don’t pull ticks out alive, because the pressure can release toxins from their bodies into yours. 20th BIRTHDAY: Port Macquarie Landcare Group will reach this milestone early next year. We are here for the long haul and want more volunteers to join our friendly group: it’s the perfect time to donate yourself. We provide all you need, from shirts to secateurs, to training, insurance, and a good time. Come and try us by phoning the co-ordinator on 0432 141 605 or email us on info@ landcareportmac.com.au Contributed by Julie Ho.

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property guide

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July FOCUS Home of the Month is brought to you by Lawrence Built. Scott and Vanessa Lawrence and team of highly skilled tradesmen are proud of their latest build, a stunning family residence in the Crestwood Estate. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of being shown through â€Ś

et high in Horizons Parkway in the Crestwood Heights Estate, the home takes full advantage of its sloping footprint and boasts magnificent views from every possible vantage point. From first look, the home presents as a modern, contemporary facade, having a mix of both colours and textures from the James Hardie horizontal cladding to the textured brickwork and timber accents; all blend superbly with the easy care landscaped gardens. An exposed aggregate drive leads from street level to the double garage and

steps up to a tiled entry portico. Entry to the home is via an extra wide timber and glass vertical panelled entrance door into the tiled entry foyer. A void overhead to ceiling level of the second floor adds a feeling of spaciousness to the entry. Right of entry is a teenagerâ€™s retreat; an extra large bedroom with en-suite, custom-built desk study nook, soft carpeting underfoot from Choices Flooring, ceiling fan and a walk-in robe provides a private space with all amenities. Two vertical windows from Mid Coast Windows allow direction of air flow, and roller block out blinds let in the

required amount of natural light. The en-suite has a glass doored shower, floor to ceiling tiles from Color Tiles with Style, wall hung vanity and WC. An extra wide Brushbox hardwood timber stairway leads to the second level of the home. At the top of the stairs you are greeted with a feeling of spaciousness, stepping into an opulent, open plan living area made up of lounge, dining and kitchen, flanked both sides by outdoor entertaining areas. All living areas have Brushbox hardwood timber flooring underfoot.

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KITCHEN/LOUNGE/LIVING AREAS Highlights of the kitchen from Mid Coast Kitchens are the EssaStone “verona mist” 60 mm bench-tops, Xtreme “arctic” high gloss acrylic door fronts with aluminium profile handles, and pendant lighting placed over the island bench. A high raked ceiling overhead adds a light and airy feel, and the flow between the kitchen and the adjoining dining room will make entertaining a breeze. The kitchen is very functional, stylish and maintenance free, designed expertly for a family. An extra wide EssaStone island bench divides the kitchen from the dining and houses a double stainless steel sink with flick mixer, dishwasher, microwave nook, and soft close storage drawers and cabinets. An

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induction hotplate and self cleaning electric oven is centrally placed in the back wall of the kitchen and has deep drawers either side, plus a stainless steel and glass range-hood above. Overhead cabinetry is placed either side for glassware and the like. Adding to the storage provided in the kitchen is a walk-in pantry that has custom built draws and shelving. The lounge is spacious, a very comfortable space boasting relaxing views through glass sliding doors at the front of the home. Opening onto a timber and wire balustraded balcony, it is a lovely spot to sit and relax that is protected from northerly winds and captures the afternoon sun. The front balcony, living areas, lounge, kitchen and dining rooms all combine seamlessly and open out onto the rear alfresco, creating a fantastic entertaining

area. The rear entertaining area completes the living area perfectly. Timber decking accommodates an outdoor lounge seating space and custom-built bar fridge that also has cabinetry either side. A bulkhead ceiling sections the lounge from the outdoor dining area from above and has a ceiling fan and downlighting installed. Step down to an exposed aggregate concrete outdoor dining room that has a skillion roof-line. Three x Merbau posts support the awning and join a brick retaining wall. Lawrence Built have utilised the slope of the land expertly, building the retaining wall at the rear of the entertaining area, incorporating a mix of native and tropical plantings, creating maintenance free gardens for the owners.

Left of the living areas is a hallway leading to the bedrooms. A centrally placed media room has soft carpeting, ceiling fan and a high set horizontal window. This is Dad’s zone; it can be closed off for private movie nights via wooden, cavity sliding doors. An extra large walk-in linen press gives plenty of storage for the family’s needs, conveniently placed between bedrooms and close to the shared bathroom. Both family bedrooms are of a great size. Bedroom 1 has a mirror fronted double sliding door built-in robe, whilst Bedroom 2 has a wooden doored built-in robe. Both have plush carpeting, ceiling fan and a wide window, offering views to the rear yard. Servicing the bedrooms is a bathroom, fitted out expertly with an oval free-standing bath with an

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e Overall, the hom nt is an excelle of the top example of the every ed er liv quality de d his time by Scott an Built .A e team at Lawrenc gn , that si de ry contempora home’s e th to t en is testam ” co astal location.

“ opaque glass window above, wall hung vanity, plus a glass screened shower cubicle with a wall recess included for shampoos etc. and a smart tile drain in the floor tile. Floor and wall to ceiling tiling, stainless steel towel rails and tap ware all adds to the luxury. MASTER BEDROOM & EN-SUITE Spacious, the Master is its own private retreat, placed at the front of the home. Three x horizontal stacked windows, plush carpet, ceiling fan and downlighting all add to the opulence. The Master’s en-suite has a wall mounted vanity, with an above bench stone bowl handbasin and cabinetry below, a large vanity mirror above, plus opaque glass porthole windows allow in natural light. The shower has floor to ceiling tile and a glass

shower-screen. Off white tiling floor to ceiling encases the ensuite three sides, and a grey feature tile wall has been placed behind the vanity. Stainless steel towel rails and fittings and fixtures, exhaust fan with headlamp and downlighting add to the comfort. Finishing off the Master Suite is a walk-in robe, fitted out perfectly with both his and hers hanging and shelving. Overall, the home is an excellent example of the of the top quality delivered every time by Scott and his team at Lawrence Built. A contemporary design, that is testament to the home’s coastal location. Generous open

plan living areas with high ceilings and timber flooring give a sense of space and exude the warmth of a luxurious family home. FROM THE OWNERS You chose Scott Lawrence and his team to build your new home; how has it been working with them? When we decided to build, we found Lawrence Built and we were very impressed with Scott’s professionalism. Scott and his team went to great lengths to ensure we were well informed all throughout the building process and the stages of the build. What impressed us

greatly was the attention to detail given on all aspects of the build, as well as the use of quality products, fixtures and fittings. Would you recommend Lawrence Built to other prospective new home builders and why? Scott and his team were very approachable, and we were able to have a lot of input into getting the complete family home that we are extremely happy with. We would have no hesitation in recommending Scott and his team, and we are very thankful to them in having a beautiful home we are proud of and the smooth running of the whole process from start to finish.

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ABOUT THE BUILDER Lawrence Built has been building and renovating homes on the Mid North Coast now for over 35 years. They specialise in the building and design of custom made homes and renovations and offer clients a full range of building services, from small jobs, such as room and deck additions, renovation of kitchen and bathrooms, to impressive custom built homes, construction of dual occupancies, right up to large commercial construction. The team of qualified builders have a solid understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls of renovating every style of home, and can help guide you through the building and renovation process from start to finish. Their pledge is to establish lasting relationships with their clients, by exceeding customer expectations and gaining trust through the exceptional performance of their construction team, by delivering high-quality, cost effective projects on schedule. When you choose Lawrence Built to build your new home, you are choosing to deal with a team of expert builders from start to finish. Lawrence Built are specialists who have built a solid reputation locally for delivering a full range of custom-made quality homes on time and on budget. The decision to build a new home is exciting; however, it is sometimes hard to know just where to start. The team of experts can work with you every step of the way, as they guide you through the process

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involved in transforming your dreams of a home into a reality. All tradesmen used are qualified, experienced and specialists within their field and best of all, when they are on site, they are friendly, respectful and always take a “safety first” approach. Scott and Vanessa believe a successful build process involves open lines of communication with the client at all times, and they will go out of their way to help guide you through the build process from start to finish. Questions are welcome at any point, and because they think it’s important that you know what’s involved at every step of your build, they’ve developed some resources that outline the main steps and milestones experienced within a new build. Lawrence Built are a family run, locally based and award winning business that you can trust. They have gained a solid reputation for providing a service founded upon strong work ethics, attention to detail and a thorough knowledge of industry codes and regulations. Nothing pleases Scott, Vanessa and their team more than a satisfied client, and they are happy to say they have had many. It’s Lawrence Built’s aim is to always exceed your expectations, which they have done over the years with many of their renovation clients. If you would like to secure your spot for 2018 with the quality team at Lawrence Built, call or email to arrange an appointment on 0412 065 903.

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & ASSET CARE WITH MICHAEL PERCIVAL

THREENAGERS I SAW A MOVIE TODAY THAT I CAN REALLY RECOMMEND. IT HAD A BIT OF EVERYTHING - INTERESTING CHARACTERS, A STRONG STORYLINE, EXCELLENT ACTING, SPECTACTULAR STUNTS, INTENSE RIVALRY AND A TWIST AT THE END

Fortunately the team at Percival Property understood most of what was going on and anything I didn’t was clarified by the understand the importance of operating in the “threenager” who accompanied me. digital space. We embraced the need Actually my granddaughter is only for a quality web presence way two but she has all the necessary back when that technology attributes to be classified as was new and have a “threenager” and was a Everything from always worked hard great help in assisting me print to web to to stay ahead of the social to get the most out of video to strong e re th to pack. Thanks to the our screening of Cars 3. ia promotion

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ual w vision of my wife Threenagers are a modern dimensional virt now e ar s ur Michelle we now through to phenomenon. They are benefit available for the very young people who have our own in house ients.” of our valued cl may just be getting out digital production of nappies but are already team who produce world quite capable of operating an class marketing right in our iPad, opening and closing apps, office. Everything from print to choosing the next song on a mobile web to video to strong social media device and making video calls to people who promotion to three dimensional virtual are a long way distant. Anybody who has any walk through tours are now available for the doubts about the speed and significance of the benefit of our valued clients. I recommend growth of the modern digital age just needs to speaking to us about the best way to design meet a toddler with an iPad to understand that the cyber tsunami has already hit us and it’s time to start swimming. Fast. 112 greater port macquarie focus.

a digital marketing plan to maximise the presence your property has in all media.

happy ever more “The first thing you will notice with HEM is that there actually IS a difference between them and other agents. Their approach was planned and totally followed through at every stage. I have absolutely no reservations in recommending them to any buyer or seller.” MR & MRS JAMES

“Your professionalism, constant updates and communication were above and beyond – something that doesn’t exist in today’s world that often. Keep up the good work.” MR & MRS NOCELLI

“Thank you for the fantastic effort when selling our property. From day one we were impressed. Your personal approach was one of honesty, integrity and professionalism along with a friendly attitude. You were always available and the whole experience was a very pleasant one in what can be a stressful time.” MR & MRS WATTS

When HEM launched in 2017, their vision was to change the face of real estate. Creating a modern, innovative agency that puts the focus back on you, the client. Our people are fuelled by a passion to do things better. Working as one cohesive team, they deliver a new level of service and results. Come in and meet the team who will help you find your happy ever more…

6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au

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all time glass & aluminium

THE WEATHER IS COOLING DOWN! HOWEVER, IT IS A GREAT TIME NOW TO LOOK AT COMPLETING THOSE PROJECTS YOU HAVE BEEN PUTTING OFF. HERE AT ALL TIME GLASS & ALUMINIUM, WE CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE THIS.

hat type of products do you provide for a bathroom renovation? If you are renovating your bathroom, we can supply items that offer innovative form and function for affordable prices. We specialise in fully framed, semi frameless and frameless shower screens. All these screens we custom make to fit our customer requirements. Black fittings are the new fashion when it comes to bathrooms, and now we can also supply a black framed shower screen to match these fittings. An inferior mirror - or one that is poorly placed, wrongly sized, optically inferior or damaged - will attract the wrong attention until the day it’s replaced. We can custom cut a new framed or frameless mirror to match any décor.

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Can you supply and install new winWe have a large range of security dows and doors? products, from full stainless steel Yes, we do. If you are renodoors to diamond grille winvating or just replacing old dow screens. We are the e If you ar ur windows and doors for authorised Prowler Proof yo g tin renova n new ones, we specialise ca agent in Port Macquae w , bathroom offer at th s m in this type of work. rie and are happy to ite ly supp and rm fo e tiv We can supply and come to you for a free va no in rdable install, or just supply. demonstration of the function for affo e ialis prices . We spec We also specialise in products. All Prowler framed , semi lly fu in Queensland rooms, so Proof products come ameless frameless and fr if you have an existing with a 10 year full prods.” en re shower sc verandah or area that you uct replacement warranty. are wanting to enclose, give Now is a great time to make us a call and we can come out sure your home is secure and to and provide you with a free quote. keep those unwanted guests out. What products can you supply and What other products and services do install to make a property secure? you provide, and in what area do you

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service? We offer a large range of products and services, including installation of dog doors into glass or screen doors, all types of glass and mirror cut to size, coloured glass splashbacks, sliding wardrobe doors, all commercial work and shopfronts. We also do repair work to existing glass doors and windows and offer a 24 hour glass replacement service. We cover the entire Hastings Valley, from Laurieton and Kendall in the south out to west of Wauchope and as far north as Kempsey. Do you provide a price guarantee? Yes. We will match or beat any competitors’ pricing on all comparative products. We are more than happy to discuss this with our customers. So either drop in to our showroom, or give us a call to organise a free measure and quote.

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R E J U V E N A T E

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lear+smith

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ADAM SMITH, REGIONAL GENERAL MANAGER - NSW, WAS TASKED WITH TAKING LEAR & SMITH PORT MACQUARIE FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY. DRAWING ON OVER TWENTY YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN THE ELECTRICAL WHOLESALING GAME, HE WORKED FOR EIGHTEEN MONTHS TO DEVELOP THE NEW BRANCH FROM THE GROUND UP.

ell us about Lear & Smith… Lear & Smith is the largest electrical wholesaler in the region, having a long history in the Hunter, with branches in Singleton, Lambton, Raymond Terrace, Taylors Beach and Cessnock. You’ll also find Lear & Smith store in Gunnedah and Taree. Why open a branch in Port Macquarie? Our Taree branch was covering territory all the way to the Queensland border, so we recognised an opportunity to open a new facility in Port Macquarie to better service the region. Port Macquarie is a busy place, in both the residential and commercial contracting sectors. We knew there was opportunity in that regard and wanted to expand our geographic footprint, but

we also saw the benefit in starting with a blank slate and developing a branch based on best practice, as learned from our other locations. We saw an opportunity to expand our customer base to incorporate retail clients as well. Your new branch at 209 Lake Road is in a top spot … Location, as they say, is everything and we managed to find a highly visible site, located on the main road, right in the heart of the industrial precinct. The new branch was developed from the ground up, which involved the construction of an additional structure to almost double the size of the existing building. The result is an expansive showroom and open warehouse space, which differs significantly from the average electrical wholesaler. Incorporating a lighting showroom featuring

lighting solutions for both commercial and residential applications, the new branch is a onestop-shop for both trade and retail customers. You're a little different to your competitors; how so? We intentionally wanted it to feel different to the average electrical wholesale store. We’ve created an open space that is fully air-conditioned and carpeted. The site features a huge trade floor space, a separate warehouse/bulk area and a full retail lighting showroom. There’s a lot of residential development happening in Port Macquarie at the moment, so we’ve made a concerted effort to offer more to our retail customers. They can come and check our comprehensive range of lighting products, along with working displays of home automation systems. If they are looking for an electrical

contractor to carry out the work, we operate a referral system, so can help them out in that regard as well. To that end, we really are a onestop-shop. For the tradies, there’s all the bread-and-butter items you’d expect to find, such as cabling, accessories and tools, along with heating, ventilation, commercial lighting and solar products. How has business been since opening twelve months ago? Lear & Smith Port Macquarie has more than tripled its active customer base in the past 12 months. The branch currently employs five fulltime staff, with capacity to service growth for the foreseeable future, leveraging off the success of the Lear & Smith brand and cementing itself as a benchmark site. Thanks Adam.

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renovate your home FOR COMFORT & STYLE

Port Patios Happy Anniversary Port Patios! Chris and Kylie Brown have just reached a 15-year milestone as owner operators of Port Patios, and they couldn’t be happier. Port Patios is about to enter its 25th year supplying outdoor living spaces to the Mid North Coast, and they are celebrating the satisfying feeling of longevity in small business in the local area. Chris and Kylie purchased Port Patios in July 2002, when they moved to Port Macquarie from the Central Coast. They were in partnership with Kylie’s parents, Peter and Sharon Downs, who have since retired, leaving Chris and Kylie at the reins in 2008. Chris is a licensed builder and Kylie came from a conveyancing background, so the dynamic duo merged their skills to successfully survive the construction industry in the ensuing years, through its highs and lows.

Reflecting on their time in local business, they said, “We believe in good service, quality product, employing great staff and turning up when we say we will. Our word and our team here at Port Patios are our biggest assets.” Chris and Kylie would like to thank every one of their clients who supported their business over the years and also their local suppliers, who help them run the business every day. The biggest thanks really needs to go to their staff, who help make Port Patios grow better every day and come together as a team to serve their clients in the best manner possible - clients rave about the staff. Both Chris and Kylie are very proud of the Port Patios family. Port Patios service the whole Mid North Coast, constructing Patio Awnings, Carports, Glass and Screen Enclosures, Privacy Screens, Queensland Rooms, Patio Blinds and Decks. Their office and showroom can be found at 191A Lake Road, Port Macquarie.

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YOUR HOUSE IS TIRED, BUT YOU LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE DO YOU RENOVATE OR RELOCATE?

t’s a dilemma facing many homesure way to increase its value. owners who love their neighbourWhy renovate? Maybe for a custom hood, their kids are in the local lifestyle: school, but the to-do list on the One of the reasons to renovate may be to house seems to be getting longer. increase the value of a home, but there are Renovating is a chance to refresh many other reasons as well. It may be for a your home and stay in the same location; lifestyle change; your family may be expanding, or there may be a desire for more it offers the chance to create what you spaciousness with the existing want in the location you know amenities. and love. A home office or games There are many benefits room for the kids, a reto renovating your home. of e lu The va e modelled kitchen may By being creative, it can m ho ur yo ly nt ca ifi be on the agenda, or be a very exciting and gn si be can by d se outdoor entertaingratifying project. It ea cr in ing may be at the is the opportunity to upgrading or ur remodelling yo forefront of your want express your own indig dwelling.” tin is ex viduality and style. With list, with a new patio a plan, a dream and awning, deck or glass an understanding of the enclosure. Why renovate? Maybe benefits of upgrading your to reduce maintenance and property, anyone can accomplish costs: their dream. There are many benefits to renovating; Whether your project is a simple home amongst those are reduced maintenance and improvement, updating one or more associated utility costs. Ignore the home’s rooms or even adding a new addition, maintenance for too long, and often repair renovating can be a rewarding and profitable costs skyrocket. Energy efficiency and security experience. The money that you decide to can be increased by replacing windows and spend will be a long term investment in the doors; insulation can increase your enerfuture comfort and enjoyment of your home; gy savings substantially. The addition of a plus, it will significantly increase the value of sunroom or patio awning also reduces energy one of your biggest assets. Benefits of Renovation consumption and decreases runnings costs. The value of your home can be significantly Renovation is a fantastic way to add increased by upgrading or remodelling your not only functionality, but also beauty and existing dwelling. It can also provide a sense liveability to your home; plus, you will get of achievement … Why? … Because a renothe added benefit of increasing the $ value vation can not only add to your home’s size, when it comes time to sell and move on. BUT but can most definitely make the layout more the main reason why you would take on any pleasurable and functional, improving your home renovation should ultimately be for the lifestyle in leaps and bounds. enjoyment you and your family receive by Renovating or rejuvenating your home is a living in a newly updated home.

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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.

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Venus Bunk

TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF FINDING THE BEST PORT MACQUARIE DESTINATION FOR HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES, BOATING, CAMPING AND FISHING GEAR, AUTOMOTIVE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OR THE BEST FITNESS CENTRE IN TOWN - ITâ€™S ALL LOCATED AT PORT HOME ZONE.

FORTY WINKS

Made Smart Shower Caddy HOWARDS STORAGE WORLD

Retro 2 Drawer Coffee Table Watersnake Electric Motor

FANTASTIC FURNITURE

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Alaska Dining Suite in Mountain Ash OZ DESIGN FURNITURE

Pop Chair FANTASTIC FURNITURE

Chinese Key - European Pillow FORTY WINKS

Shopping Guide Toto Hall & Work Table FANTASTIC FURNITURE

Mackenzie Table Lamp FANTASTIC FURNITURE

MAKE AN IMPACT IN YOUR HALLWAY WITH THIS SCANDINAVIAN STYLE TABLE.

Iconic tapered timber legs and a smart white top give a stand-out designer look for an affordable price. The slimline design of this stylish table gives great versatility. Place a laptop on top and use as a workstation in the living room, or top with flowers and photos to make a pretty buffet in the dining room. To top it all off, it also works as stylish storage! An open shelf and neat drawer with cutaway handle gives plenty of room for stationery, paperwork or cutlery.

Botero Coffee CAFE 8

AUTO GLYM Leather Cleaner AUTOBARN

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credit: LeeBoo Photography

tore owners Gavin Louis and Rega, Thorens and Music Hall; Hi Fi equipment Jarrod Louis have worked in the and speakers form specialist companies NAD, Audio/Video industry for more Rotel, Yamaha, Naim, Prima Luna and Musical than 20 years, with the latter part Fidelity; along with Bowers & Wilkins, Orpheus of that as part owner and installer Audio, Focal, Sonus Faber and Richter. at Park Beach Music & Hi Fi at Park Complementing our quality audio brands Beach Plaza in Coffs Harbour. After closing Park are premium visual brands Panasonic, Sony Beach Music last year, they knew that there was and Oppo Digital - the latest in OLED and LED still a high demand for quality equipment backed technologies, along with Blu Ray and UHD Disc by honest product knowledge from people you players. can trust and are now looking to not only Coffs Coast Audio work closely with continue, but build on that high level builders, architects and interior of service. designers. We integrate the Featuring a dedicated home latest in entertainment systems Coffs Co ast theatre room with the latest into clients' homes and Audio will 4K UHD projection, a purpose businesses, installing and custom design t built Hi Fi room to compare commissioning integrated an entertainmen the latest in audio equipment solutions that are reliable, system that suits le ty your home, lifes and speakers, a headphone aesthetically appealing and and budget .â€? bar with the biggest names in very simple to operate. headphones and a showroom Coffs Coast Audio will floor full of the latest wireless custom design an entertainment Hi Fi systems and Smart Home system that suits your home, lifestyle Technologies, Coffs Coast Audio support the and budget. Our services extend not only world's best Hi Fi and visual brands. to AV solutions, but also wireless and wired Coffs Coast Audio offer a comfortable networks, structured cabling, lighting and AC interactive environment, where you are able to control, motorised shades, blinds and curtains, see, use and listen to the latest in wireless Hi Fi CCTV and Security, all brought together under technologies ... Big brand systems from Bose the one single, simple to operate system using Soundtouch, Sonos, Yamaha Musicast and Heos your tablet or smart phone. by Denon, all fully integrated and ready to show We have projects extending from Forster in the you, the end user, how this technology can work South, Yamba in the north and Armidale in the in your home, with systems built around your west. listening habits and lifestyle. If you are looking to build or renovate, For those of us who like to play vinyl, we have upgrade or replace your entertainment system, a complete range of turntables and accessories Coffs Coast Audio has a solution to suit you. from industry leaders Pro-ject Audio Systems, installation - integration - lifestyle.

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P E R S O N A L I T Y

THERE IS A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN THE PROSPECT OF RENOVATING AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY FOR FUTURE RENTAL, AND RENOVATING ONE’S OWN HOME, AND THAT IS MAINLY THE IDEA THAT SPENDING MONEY ON ONE’S OWN HOME IS SO MUCH MORE ATTRACTIVE AND FUN, AND MAKES MUCH MORE SENSE.

e spend a lot of time at home, and as such it makes great sense to make it a beautiful and comfortable and happy place to be. For a simple makeover, it should probably start with a big spring clean and a de-clutter! (And maybe even get a professional in to acid wash that ageing bathroom). Perhaps also have the house assessed by a professional for hidden mould or damp problems that might be lurking.... You can improve the atmosphere of a room dramatically by changing the lighting - remove those harsh white globes and instead use warm whites or feature filament globes table lamps are great for soft mood lighting. Keep those harsh downlights for task lighting. It's a good idea to remove all your art and ornaments and then line them up like a gallery, and go shopping with your own pre-loved things. Be very selective about what you bring back into the house. De-clutter! Only put items on display that are meaningful and that bring you joy. Anything that you have in the home needs to either be loved or be useful - or it should go! Buying special pieces for the home on a holiday creates special memories for every day.

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Avoid buying mass produced fashion pieces, kitchen, think about how best you function, these will devoid your home of character. are you a left hander, are you tall, how does Nowadays items can be posted to you so no your work flow? This will help when placing need to take that lamp you found on board your appliances and sinks. Small details such as the plane... the height of kicks can make a huge difference Move your furniture around! It is incredible in the overall look of the kitchen. what a different look you can achieve by Plants! Plants are our friends and they clean moving things around. Try the air inside the home. and place something tall like a Adding greenery to the standing lamp into a room to home creates a healthy and It’s a good idea break a line and give the room natural atmosphere. You to remove some height interest. can never have enough! all your art and Plants! Plants are our friends Think about your ornaments and and they clean the air inside priorities and how to then line them up the home. Adding greenery allocate your budget. We like a gallery, and to the home creates a healthy spend an awful lot of time go shopping with your own pre-loved and natural atmosphere. You in the kitchen, especially things. Be very can never have enough! those who love to cook, so selective about what Think about your priorities allocating a good you bring back into and how to allocate your There are fashion trends the house. ” budget. We spend an awful galore in home decorating lot of time in the kitchen, and we would all love to especially those who love mimic those magazine to cook, so allocating a good chunk of shots, however, for the longevity of the look it the budget and time to a highly functional is often best to stick to a classic look that will and good looking kitchen is a good idea not date. If you absolutely have to have that especially as our kitchens are often open plan geometric tile with the gold edge, just know and visible at all times. Making sure that the that it will give your space a definite look that componentry will go the long haul it is a good might be out of fashion in s years, when the idea to upgrade to those higher end drawer look will inevitably be the opposite!! mechanisms if you can. When planning your Spend your money on feature pieces that

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you will love! Rather wait and save for that perfect piece than compromise for an instant fix. We can often live without that hanging light for some time.... And this makes it even sweeter when we do finally find our perfect piece. Look for something that reflects your personality or interest - look for that handmade tile for your splashback or bathroom feature look for that perfect light for your entryway or lounge -mass produced on-trend lighting can rust in no time - avoid anything chromed if you live near the ocean as it will not last. We are extremely fortunate in port macquarie to have bespoke artisan craftsmen (a rarity for sure in these times) who can create absolutely anything from a sketch. Talented people such as craig kelly from bonnyweld or kim and chris francis from francis furniture can create that perfect bookshelf to fit your space, a room divider, dining table or coffee table. Use good quality materials in your build. Talk to your tiler about grout sizes and colours - these can make a huge difference to the overall outcome of your room. Again, with tiling, if you want to go on trend with say something like the subway tile, go the handmade option, which will not date and you will always know was made with integrity. Happy planning! Column by Katja Plentinger

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