Greater Port Macquarie Focus i153

Feature Story Wright at Home

August 2018. issue 153

a special focus feature

2 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

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Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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I

ALE Robyn Butler.

Keep Smiling … That is what Robbie would always say and use to sign off her "Robyn’s Spot" column each month.

And smile brightly she did. Last month our community said a sad farewell to Robyn Butler, who passed away on the 4th July 2018. Robyn was a contributor of FOCUS for nine years; her monthly account of local happenings, tidbits, recipes, and fun anecdotes was loved by many residents, who eagerly read her monthly musings.

Robyn was well-known for her musicality, performing with her bands Three’s Company, Adam and the Antiques and duo Magic2getheR - performing locally at many of the aged care

VICTORIAN STATE BALLET:

LE CORSAIRE

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,Port Macquarie NSW 2444

SATURDAY 4 AUGUST, 7.30PM & SUNDAY 5 AUGUST, 2.30PM Featuring internationally recognised artists in a rich display of outstanding skill, Le Corsaire is one of the ballet world’s most loved classical ballets.

Superb classical ballet skill, colourful costuming and virtuoso choreography. An entertaining outing for the whole family!

GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY

MEET THE ARTIST

ON VIEW UNTIL 9 SEPTEMBER

NORTHERN EXPOSURE Showcasing Mid North Coast Artists

Gallery closed on Mondays

It’s back! Bigger, brighter and more inspiring than ever before – this biennial exhibition remains one of the Gallery’s most respected and loved exhibitions.

Don’t miss this stunning showcase of mid north coast artistic talent.

Matt Scully from Innervision Surf n Skate, Alistair Flower of Settlers Inn and Fernhill Tavern, and Mitch "Maverick" Joyce of Joyce constructions.

Thanks to Dr David Cooke, who loaned his 1950 De Havilland Chipmunk plane and hangar for the shoot.

This month saw Tony Wright taking his first splash in the salt water at Flynns Beach after his horrific bike accident. Eighteen months on from his accident, we were blessed to spend the morning with Tony at his favourite beach. Read the full story on page 6.

As always, we’re here to bring you the best of our region: the positive stories, the champions of our community, mixed in with a good amount of what’s on, entertainment and great local eats!

HERMAN’S HERMITS THE 6 O’CLOCK HOP SHOW

glasshouse.org.au

Follow Glasshouse:

facilities and also local clubs and fundraising events. Robyn was a champion for local causes, and was always involved in community events.

Thank you Robbie, for all that you contributed to FOCUS; may you rest in peace.

We kick off August with the celebration of our local men in business, and you can find them all in the 16 page feature we have put together.

This year we focused on GROWTH as the theme for our editorial and asked the gents how they are planning, embracing and challenging the growth that our local area is experiencing.

These businesses offer a wealth of local knowledge, as well as being some of our most prominent businessmen.

Featured on the cover this month - taking on the high flyer TOP GUN-esque theme are locals

THE AUSTRALIAN

FLEETWOOD MAC SHOW “RUNNING THE SHADOWS”

PRIMAVERA AT 25: MCA COLLECTION

WEDNESDAY 15 AUGUST, 6PM

Barbara Cleveland, Performance Art (15 Actions for the Face) (still), 2014, 2-channel video, sound, Commissioned by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia for the Jackson Bella Room, 2014, image courtesy and © the artists

WHAT’S ON 02 6581 8888

Welcome to the August issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

V

SALES EXECUTIVE Sarah Dunstan

FRIDAY 24 AUGUST, 8PM

Primavera at 25: MCA Collection, celebrates twenty-five years of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia’s annual Primavera exhibition showcasing the work of young Australian artists.

When the 1960’s British Invasion hit worldwide, The six-piece rock band covering all the classic Herman’s Hermits were one of the biggest groups ballads, blues and rock songs from their five milestone as a departure out of the UK. Their Australian Taking No.this significant 1 hits, Mrs. decade plus career. Audience members who point, Primavera at 25 brings together works from the MCA Collection by milk nineteen artists and Brown you’ve got a lovely daughter and No have seen this show in the past have found it artist groups, who have previously exhibited in Primavera, that explore ideas of transformation, today made the group one of the most popular hard to believe they were not experiencing the time and history. groups of the day here in Australia. real deal.

WIN A WEEKEND OF ART IN SYDNEY

XX MONTH – XX MONTH

Win a trip to Sydney to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, Australia, courtesy of touring partner Red Energy.

Sign up to the MCA and Glasshouse Regional Gallery enewsletters and you will go in the draw to win a weekend away!

Just $5 WEBSITE.COM.AU XXAM–XPM DAILY

SATURDAY 25 AUGUST, 11AM See the most talked-about exhibition!

Meet the one of the finalists, artist Jonathan Dalton.

An Art Gallery of NSW touring exhibition

FREE ENTRY

Drop into Primavera at 25: MCA Collection to enter, on view until 19 August.

YOUR LOGO HERE Exhibition organised and toured by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, supported by Red Energy.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.

Image: Rebecca Baumann, Automated Colour Field (detail), 2011, flip-clocks, paper, Museum of Contemporary Art, purchased with funds provided by the Coe and Mordant families, 2011, originally commissioned by the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art for NEW11, image courtesy and © the artist.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

contents Issue 153 - August 2018

focusinterviews

06

feature a special

MEN IN BUSINESS

68

Wright at Home On March 4th 2017, Tony Wright was hit by a car while riding his bike, causing injuries that left him fighting for his life. We checked in with the amazing Wright family, to see how they’re travelling these days ...

10

Northern Exposure 5.

Northern Exposure is well-known on the local art scene for showcasing the talent of Mid North Coast artists of all ages, who work with all different mediums.

46

the Usual

Suspects

9. WHAT’S IN SEASON with Eric Robinson

12. WHAT’S ON for August 22. EAT local restaurants 27. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri

Daisy and the Duke.

33. OUT TO LUNCH with Susie Boswell 40. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye

Sid Coombes (27) and Callena Brenchley (25) are Daisy and the Duke - two Brisbane-based intrepid photographer/travellers about to embark on an epic adventure around Australia! Be sure to give them a wave if you see them around the local area!

44. TOURISM with Janette Hyde 45. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell 57. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 78. A DAY IN THE LIFE with Michelle Parker 91. PORT CHAMBER UPDATE with Michael Mowle

52

92. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon 108. LANDCARE with Janet Slater

Mei Dyson.

Mei Dyson grew up in Port Macquarie, and the ten years she spent here gave her a start in her modelling career - which has since taken her all over the world! Mei’s not only a gorgeous model, but a positive role model for others considering a modelling career. She’s not afraid to take on new challenges, and she’s very honest and realistic about both the ups and downs in the industry …

4 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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Primavera.

Established in 1992, Primavera showcases the work of young Australian artists aged 35 years and under. Each year, Primavera provides an opportunity for young artists from around the country to present their work in a major museum.

Primavera was initiated through an act of extraordinary generosity. In November 1991, on the eve of the opening of the MCA, Dr Edward Jackson AM and Mrs Cynthia Jackson AM and their family offered to endow an exhibition of work by young artists in memory of their daughter and sister, Belinda Jackson, a talented jeweller. As MCA Director Elizabeth Ann Macgregor OBE has noted, “It is a remarkable feat to have turned this tragedy into such

a wonderful opportunity for the artists of the future”.

Primavera at 25 brings together works of 19 artists and artist groups who have participated in the annual Primavera exhibition series.

Drawn from the MCA Collection, the exhibition features established and emerging artists working across a range of disciplines from painting, sculpture, video, performance, kinetic and installation art.

For many artists, Primavera marks the start of a long relationship with the MCA. Since 1993, the MCA has acquired over 240 works by Primavera artists. These include artworks that were first exhibited in a Primavera exhibition and works made many years afterwards.

16 JUNE – 19 AUGUST Primavera at 25 is proudly supported by MCA Touring Partner, Red Energy

FREE ENTRY

Primavera at 25: MCA Collection, celebrates twenty-five years of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia’s annual Primavera exhibition showcasing the work of young Australian artists.

GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU

PRIMAVERA AT 25: MCA COLLECTION

MCA Touring Partner

Primavera was initiated in 1992 by Dr Edward Jackson AM and Mrs Cynthia Jackson AM and their family in memory of their daughter and sister Belinda Jackson. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body. Image: Barbara Cleveland, Performance Art (15 Actions for the Face) (stills), 2014, 2-channel video, sound, Commissioned by the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia for the Jackson Bella Room, 2014, image courtesy and © the artists

Greater Port Macquarie focus 5

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Wright at home

F

ast forward to three months later, and Tony found himself gripping on to life in John Hunter ICU, with no recollection of the catastrophic event that happened to him that

afternoon.

Tony is an active part of the Port Macquarie community and holds many credits to his name. He has been a surf lifesaver and Port Macquarie Surf Club member of 22 years, lifeguard for 16 years, and has been the Swim Director of the Ironman Series Port Macquarie for ten years - he’s a passionate surfie who loves the salt water, fresh air and contributing to our area.

When Tony wasn’t at the beach, he was a local bus driver for Busways, and for 15 years his small business was the “Man With A Ute”.

He is a father of two and loving husband to Leanne … Tony is well known as an all round good guy, who is constantly lending a hand to his community.

On March 4th 2017, Tony was hit by a car while riding his bike, causing injuries that left him fighting for his life.

It has been a gruelling and intense 18 months for Tony and his family as he tries to recover, and by any definition he has truly beaten many of the odds that were stacked against him. For those who have supported, heard about, or know Tony and his wife, Leanne, this is their story.

“A typical day for me was an early swim at Flynns Beach, then a workout in the clubhouse

6 Greater Port Macquarie focus

It was a sunny Saturday afternoon when TONY WRIGHT HEADED OUT ALONG CATHIE ROAD FOR A BIKE RIDE. The route was a regular trip for him - a part of his weekly fitness schedule.

gym, before heading home to make a cup of tea for my wife, Leanne. Then, off to work I would go - I drove the Port to Kempsey bus for Busways and had been there for 15 years.

“Afternoons and weekends were always taken up with surf club or Ironman activities, or my own training.

“When I was out on the bike, I would always carry an old licence in my gear, and my phone; it’s got my Strava app on it for tracking my distance and ride time, and it logs my activity.

“That afternoon, I headed out on the bike as I normally would,” says Tony.

“I had a call from the hospital to say Tony had been hit by a car on his bike,” said Leanne. “I asked if he was OK, and the operator told me that ‘The police at the scene had some concerns, and could I come up to the Base Hospital?’ I thought perhaps I would get there and he would have some sort of cast on his leg or arm.

“So, I finished my tea, changed into my casual trousers, got a book, water and an apple, before I headed up there.

“When I arrived, they showed me to the ‘Family Room’, and it was there that I was met by staff, including Simon, a friend we know from the surf club.

“They told me that Tony was going in for surgery, and asked if I wanted to see him before he went in. I asked if he was conscious, and they said, ‘No’ - so I said I would wait ‘til he came out.

“It was then that they told me how serious it was, and that I might not get that chance to

I had a call from the

see him ever again.” buckets of saltwater hospital to say Tony had “To be honest, all of that she had collected been hit by a car on his that is such a blur from from Flynns Beach, and bike. I asked if he was OK, and then on.” drove to Newcastle so the operator told me that ‘The The next few weeks they could wash my feet. police at the scene had some are indefinable for Plewsy (David Plews) did concerns, and could I come up Leanne, and Tony recalls the same,” said Tony. to the Base Hospital?’ nothing of the accident That's just one or the first three months of a few stories of after. encouragement that Tony Tony was given life got to push on. saving surgery at Port Base and then flown by The Gofundme page, surf club fundraiser, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter to John Hunter Golf Day were some of the shows of strength Hospital in Newcastle. for Tony and Leanne.

It was a gruelling few weeks that ensued for In December 2017, Tony was released from the family, waiting to see if Tony would survive. Port Macquarie Private Hospital and celebrated His injuries numbered in the dozens Christmas in his own home with family. fractured bones, lacerations, broken 11th rib, Days are much different now for Tone. A dislocations, the right side of his facial skin was slower pace, as he focuses on rehabilitation disconnected, there was a gaping wound to currently he is four weeks post surgery on his the rear of his skull … to name a few. elbow - a operation to help regain movement The list of injuries is two pages long. in his left arm. The stitches are out now, and He spent 285 days in hospitals and is now he’s looking forward to using it again. up to 13 operations - and counting.

For Tony, to walk again is a miracle.

“What kept me going was my mind. I can't To be here today is a miracle. die,“ said Tony.

“At one point they wheeled me into theatre to remove my left leg from above the knee. It “Tone” was in John Hunter Hospital ICU for wasn’t in a good way. four weeks, the trauma ward for eight weeks, “I was on the table, four surgeons ready to transferred to Rankin Park Rehabilitation next amputate it. One of the doctors took another door in May and released to Port Macquarie final look at it and decided that maybe there Private Hospital on September 25th, 2017. was enough good tissue left and they would “We had so much support from our family, give it a chance. friends and the community. People would “For that, I am thankful, as I can now walk come to Newcastle and visit all the time. and have both legs. It’s not a pretty leg; but it’s “One day Gayle turned up with two huge

focuseditorial.

there.

“I’ve had 12+ operations, with several more to come. Hopefully, it will free up my elbows, but I’m worried how my hands will end up, as I still have trouble opening jars and even a fresh 2 L milk.

“My knees are dodgy. My lower legs, buggered. It seems never ending.

“And I don’t go anywhere without having a carer, or someone to keep an eye on me.

“Right now, my week is full of physio, hydro, hand therapy, gym work, leg therapy and doctors’ appointments.

“But on the upside, it takes my mind off my current predicament - because there’s been way too much time to think.

“It’s not until I start trying to do the stuff I would normally be doing easily, that it hits home the position I’m in ... right down to buttering bread. And yes; even going to the

log on.

Their new family member, Holly, snuggles up on the couch with Leanne - a Shi Tzu cross they rescued from an animal shelter out the back of Lansdowne just recently.

Here are two people, faced with unthinkable health challenges, and they rescue a nine year old Shih Tzu dog!

There’s more love and kindness packed into this house than I can grasp. I am in awe of the people I am sitting with; but what fills this home the most is the overwhelming sense of gratitude and positivity.

Tony and Leanne laugh and smile at each other, as they recount the story of the last 18 months.

No doubt it has been incredibly challenging for them and their two adult children, Tayla and Joe, but they are still finding the good in every day.

I was helping an artist friend at “This is the new the ArtWalk in Port Macquarie, normal,” says Leanne. and my doctor called to “And this is new Tone. give me the result that Life is so different now the cancer had returned. than before.”

I had a cry, told our daughter When I called Leanne who was also helping, then we and Tony and said, “Let’s continued our chalk mandala. tell the story of how you are recovering - we are all so in awe of your progress”, they openly welcomed me, as they had so much to tell and so many people to thank.

When I arrived at their home in mid July, I wasn’t expecting to learn that Leanne’s breast cancer had returned; she was in her first rounds of Chemotherapy and will progress to radiation.

Sitting on her couch, adjusting her beanie, she says, “Tone was hit seven weeks after

toilet.

“I had such an active lifestyle, that it’s weird not being able to do stuff.

“Going for that training ride was 30 - 40 km, and I did that every week or so. I would run 8+ km twice a week and go to the pool to do 20 - 40 laps. Going to the beach meant some sort of training.

“And, I’m angry I can’t do any of that stuff anymore.

“Even housework! I used to vacuum and mop, make beds, do the laundry, clean the pool, mow the lawn.

“It’s all changed.”

It’s hard to comprehend just everything this family has been through while I am sitting in their warm Shelly Beach abode; the fire is lit and Tony gets up every 20 minutes to pop another

I finished radiotherapy for my initial breast cancer in 2016/2017. He actually can’t remember my operation or treatment the first time round. Part of his memory loss from the accident includes many incidents in the last part of 2016, and he initially thought his accident happened before Christmas, as he has no memory of December 2016 or January, February 2017.

“Tone was already at home when I found the lump under my arm in April 2018, but he was having his elbow operation at John Hunter Hospital in the days after my first round of chemo.

“I was helping an artist friend at the ArtWalk in Port Macquarie, and my doctor called to give me the result that the cancer had returned. I had a cry, told our daughter, who was also helping, then we continued our chalk mandala.”

I asked Leanne and Tony, “Who’s looking after whom?”

“We both are,” they say, smiling at each other.

And so the fight continues for them, but there is no doubt they are surrounded by love and support.

Tony and Leanne would like to thank the many people who have helped them and continue to help them - their respective employers, Busways, Port MacquarieHastings Council, friends of the surf club, sporting groups, family, associates and the wider community.

Photos, left to right across spread: 1. Tony at a surf carnival pre-accident.

2. Tony at Flynns Beach, July 22nd 2018.

3. Tony at Rankin Rehabilitation Centre.

4. Tony with his family and loved ones.

5. (bottom) Leanne, Tayla, Joe and Tony at home.

Story by Louise Beaumont.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 7

focusinterview.

frankie the Labradoodle

Local pooch Frankie has found herself instafame, which is no surprise really - she is quite the socialite. YOU WILL OFTEN FIND HER FROLICKING AT THE BEACH WITH HER SIBLINGS, MEANDERING AROUND THE LOCAL MARKETS, OR SIPPING PUPPICINOS AT HER FAVOURITE CAFÉ. We caught up with Frankie and found her favourite spots around the area, met her sibliings, and got the scoop on her Sanfran boyfriend, Ozzie ...

H

ow long have you lived in the area, and how did you come to call Port Macquarie home?

I am two years old, and I have lived in Port Macquarie my whole life. Port Macquarie is the perfect home for me, because I love the beaches, running on our beautiful, clean sand and looking for the dolphins in the water.

What are your favourite places to visit around the area with your human?

I love going everywhere that my human goes! My favourite place to go is Lighthouse Beach; I can’t get enough of the water! I am also obsessed with my tennis ball, so we always take it to the beach. I also love going to cafés on the weekend with my humans and my siblings. We usually walk along the breakwall towards Town Beach and stop for a coffee and treats at the end of our walk.

Tell us about your Instagram account; you have nearly 60k followers! What inspired you to start this and how do you feel about your instafame?

My human sister started my Instagram account, so that my mum could share all of the pictures she was taking of me. We never, ever expected this many people to follow us! Now we have lots of Instagram friends all over Australia and the rest of the world. I even have a Labradoodle boyfriend called Ozzie, who lives in San Francisco! My Instagram account has also been good motivation to go out and explore more of Port Macquarie, and it also means my mum isn’t sending so many photos to my sister anymore.

8 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I love getting my photo taken, as it usually means cheese!

Your most "liked" Instagram photo to date?

It’s funny, because my most liked Instagram photo so far is actually a photo of my brother, Finn! It has been shared everywhere, he was even a centrefold in a magazine overseas, but I don’t think that many people realise it isn’t me! Finn is a model too now!

My human sister started my What is your favourite Instagram account so that my snack or treat? mum could share all of the My favourite treat is pictures she was taking of me. We definitely cheese; it’s absolutely never, ever expected this the very best! I also love having For those reading who spot many people to follow us! a puppicino at our favourite you in the street, where is Now we have lots of Instagram café and a yummy gelato after your favourite "scratchy friends all over Australia and the a long walk. Bully sticks are spot"? rest of the world. pretty good too.

Definitely under my chin Tell us about your best ... it’s the best! I will accept friends, Poppy, Bam and scratches all over though.

Finn …

Poppy is 12 years old, and she looked after me What are your plans for the summer? when I was a little puppy; I think she thought she In the summer you’ll most likely find me at Lightwas my mummy. house Beach or Nobbys Beach with Poppy, Bam and Bam is 11; he’s starting to get a bit grumpy, but he Finn. still likes to clean my ears when I let him.

Where can our readers follow your journey?

Finn is one year old and he’s my best friend, I share all of my adventures in Port Macquarie on although he can go a little crazy. We go everywhere my Instagram account. My Instagram handle is @ together; he loves to run and swim at the beach too.

We also have Henry, our cousin living with us, and he’s usually out on our walks too.

frankiethelabradoodle Thanks Frankie.

focus_editorial.

4art

King Parrot Family by Howard Piggott

EXHIBITION

Four local artists with four different stories, visions and voices, many focused on the landscape, will be exhibiting at the beautiful Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery at 5 Kinchela Street, Gladstone.

The exhibition runs from Wednesday 8th August to Sunday 2nd September. The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30am to 4pm.

At least one artist will be present at the gallery each day.

gold leaf.

Come and meet the artists on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd September from noon to 4pm for wine, nibbles and a chat.

Louise Keough’s work explores digital image

Howard Piggott’s artworks celebrate Australian birdlife, Aussie seafood and regeneration of the land after cool burns. His acrylic and gauche paintings and prints are rich in colour.

reminiscent of Chinese Landscape styles.

Scott Jackson’s work aims to depict the beauty and emotion of the landscape using a range of mediums, including acrylic, ink, oil, collage and

feelings for the land. Robyn uses Drimarene Dye

making, transforming photographs into the images she sees in her mind. Louise’s work is Robyn Jackson’s art explores her connections with the landscape, where she documents graphically the beauty of line, shape, rich colour and her on silk to create the mood through use of vibrant colours.

John Ellison in his Katoomba studio.

Photo credit Peter Adams.

T

John said the course will open up a new realm of subject matter for participants and will suit intermediate through to more experienced artists.

Amongst John’s notable achievements is being the founder of the Katoomba Winter Magic Festival, which has now become an event of national significance, and frequent contributor for Australian Artist Magazine.

Available to view on Port Macquarie FOCUS Facebook page.

Camera: GoPro Hero 7. Video by: Louise Beaumont. Edited by: Jay Beaumont.

focus_Contributor

WHA

Blue Mountains based artist John Ellison will teach people to work straight from the imagination in the way that Daumier and Picasso did as part of a one-day masterclass on 11th August, 9am - 3pm, at Creek Cottage Farm in Bobin. he workshop will guide participants through easy methods to put people into paintings, without the need for models or photographic reference.

Title: Turtle Reef, off Nobby's Beach Port Macquarie.

Taken a great photo or video of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email sarah@focusmag.com.au

focus_editorial.

John Ellison

video of the month.

Oranges

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

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

“It’s wonderful to have an artist like John coming to our region to pass on some of the skills and knowledge he has built up as a professional artist over the last twenty years.

“We would love to put on more events like

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

this, so we will see how this course goes and what interest we get.”

As part of the course, participants will get to sample some of Creek Cottage Farm’s delicious

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

fresh produce.

The masterclass will cost $130, including a morning tea and lunch. To reserve a space, call

Meaghan said she was interested in providing more arts opportunities for people in the

essential. To view John’s work, visit

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

(02) 6550 5088 or email meaghanlewers@gmail.com - bookings www.harrisonandellison.com

T’S IN

season

Manning Valley.

The masterclass will be held at Creek Cottage Farm in Bobin and put on by local market gardeners Meaghan and Paul Lewers.

E R I C F R O M T H E O T H E R C H E F W W W . T H E O T H E R C H E F. C O M . A U

WHERE

Find out more about The Other Chef at www.theotherchef.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

Northern Exposure is well-known on the local art scene for showcasing the talent of Mid North Coast artists of all ages, who work with many different mediums. NORTHERN EXPOSURE 5 REPRESENTS THE FIFTH INSTALMENT OF THIS BI-ANNUAL EXHIBITION, AND CURATOR BRIDGET PURTILL from the Glasshouse Regional Gallery highlights what we can expect to see this year …

5

NORTHERN EXPOSURE

H

i Bridget. What's your role both with the Glasshouse Regional Gallery and more specifically, with the Northern Exposure 5 exhibition?

Hi Jo. I am the Acting Gallery Curator of the Glasshouse Regional Gallery; the Northern Exposure 5 exhibition is a part of the gallery’s 2018 exhibition programming, which I have had the great pleasure of curating.

Northern Exposure showcases the work of artists from across the Mid North Coast.

How are works selected to appear in the exhibition, as I'm assuming you receive many submissions from multiple artists?

Yes, the bi-annual Northern Exposure exhibition is fast becoming one of the largest showcases of artists from the Mid North Coast, and this year is no exception. The gallery received close to 200 expressions of interests, resulting in just under 120 artists submitting their applications. These numbers alone are testament to the growing, active artistic community that we have in our region, which is really exciting to see!

Once the gallery receives all of the submissions, they are compiled into a presentation and sent to the panel to be assessed. The panel consists of three arts professionals from the Manning, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie regions. This process gives the artists a broad and unbiased selection process - as well as an invaluable opportunity to be exposed to other Mid North Coast arts professionals, which quite often creates opportunities within itself. As you can imagine, with so many applicants the selection panel had a hard task. The final selection was our largest ever - a whopping 60 artists!

What range of media has been used by selected artists this year?

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he second collaborative piece

strip to thread through This year includes is by local artists Jennifer a weaving; within each a diverse and Rowan and Warwick von Bock, weaving are paper strips. contemporary range titled Vortex ll - Childhood These paper strips contain of mediums, some of Memoryscape. This Gumbaynggirr words, the which include sculpture, work is a digital Aboriginal language of photography, ceramics, montage of photographic the Bellingen area, related mixed media, glass, fibre imagery taken, collected to the weaving’s theme and textile, painting and and constructed into a animals. so much more. handcrafted work.

This work is a wonderful For those of the artists inclusion to the exhibition, who chose to work with as it showcases art and uniquely challenging culture through the eyes of our up-and-coming mediums, like fibre for instance, I was able to artists. It also proves that you don't have to be work with them to develop interesting ways of an adult to submit a work; this exhibition is open displaying their work, to think outside of the idea to everyone! of just framing the work.

The second collaborative piece is by local Working with the artists leading up to the artists Jennifer Rowan and Warwick von Bock, exhibition is an integral and large part of my titled Vortex ll - Childhood Memoryscape. This role as curator. The consultation, conversation work is a digital montage of photographic and planning is an important part of this imagery taken, collected and constructed into a exhibition; Northern Exposure is not only about handcrafted work. This labour-intensive process, showcasing Mid North Coast artists, but it is also with its many individual components, were firstly an opportunity for emerging artists to develop in photographed and then digitally assembled their arts practice. to form a virtual “memoryscape”; the artist Please describe two or three of the works commenting: “This interdisciplinary approach we'll be able to view. employs making art frugally in a resourceWith 60 artists on display, it would be challenged world by recycling, reusing or impossible to single a few out, so I would like to borrowing materials to make art that reflects the talk about how we have two collaborative works makeshift nature of Mid-20th Century coastal on display this year. cottages, and the hybrid nature of memory”.

One of these collaborative works is titled These two works are only a tip into the Maayal-guunu - Animals, which has been diversity, skill and talent that our Mid North created by Bellingen Primary School students, a Coast artists employ. It will really blow you away! weaving which was made as part of their 2017 This year represents the fifth instalment of NAIDOC Week celebrations - a stunning piece Northern Exposure - which is testament to of work comprising fabrics donated from the Bellingen community. The weavings represent the success of this exhibition format. Why the Gumbaynggirr people’s connection with do you feel Northern Exposure has been so land, sun, water, animals and language. To successful? make the work, each student selected a fabric Yes, can you believe this exhibition initiative

has been running for 10 years? Its success is unmistakably a credit to our local Mid North Coast talent and thriving arts community; without them there would be no Northern Exposure.

Being an artist myself, and having been previously selected in two Northern Exposures, I understand how important it is to have an opportunity to be able to make work and exhibit it locally. Regional artists need opportunities; Northern Exposure is one of those opportunities and is one of the Glasshouse Regional Gallery’s favourite programmed initiatives. We look forward to continuing this on well into the future.

What are the plans for Northern Exposure moving forward ... is it likely we'll see a Northern Exposure 6?

As mentioned above, for as long as there are artists who want to show their work, then we will continue to create opportunities for them!

The exhibition comes around every two years, so artists, keep your eyes peeled for the next expression of interest form, or join our mailing list to keep up-to-date with opportunities and events.

Where can we find out more info?

Jump on our website; click on the link to Northern Exposure. Pick up a free catalogue.

Join our mailing list and of course … come down and see for yourself. See you at the gallery!

Thanks Bridget.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

plug!

Northern Exposure 5 can be viewed at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery until September 9.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 11

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

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FLEA MARKET At the Gladstone Hub UNIVERSITY of Newcastle OPEN DAYS Get advice from staff and students on your study options.

When Central Coast - 4 August, Port Macquarie - 16 August.

More info www.newcastle.edu.au/openday

PORT ROYAL Love Passion Satisfaction Tour 2018 Brisbane bred rock and roll band Port Royal are hitting the road starting this August in support of their upcoming EP, titled Love, Passion, Satisfaction.

Come and join us at The Hub for this fun community event! This can’t be missed; people from all around will bring their collectable, vintage and second hand items to sell on the day.

When Sunday, August 19. To reserve a stall call Sarah 0418 674 898. Where 19 Kinchela Street, Gladstone.

When Saturday, August 18 at 7pm.

Where The Loungeroom, 16 Short St, Port Macquarie.

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CERAMIC DECORATIVE WORKSHOP with Aleisa Byfield Where My Shack by the Sea. When Tuesday 7th and 14th August. More info www.facebook.com/myshackbythesea Workshop includes: One class @ $80 including your choice of two ceramic pieces to decorate (either a ring /earrings or leaf | bird pendant - valued at $75 RRP). Both workshops include: refreshments, cheese platter and tea/coffee. Tickets available in store at My Shack. Limited spaces, so be quick!

Phone the store on 0435 173 785 to book in.

12 Greater Port Macquarie focus

MACRAME CLASS Wall Hanging Join Krystle from Homevibes Macrame for this fun class, where you will make and take home your own project; all materials will be pre prepared and are included in your ticket price.

This workshop will teach you the fundamental knots used in macrame and will allow beginners time to master the skills.

Where Arthouse Industries, 1/1 Murray Street.

When Saturday, August 18, 9am - 1pm.

Tickets $140. More info www.arthouseindustries.com.au

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2017 ARCHIBALD PRIZE Regional Tour

The annual Archibald Prize is eagerly anticipated by artists and audiences alike.

Prestigious and controversial, the Archibald Prize is Australia’s foremost portraiture prize.

Over the years it has become a who’s who of Australian culture - from politicians to celebrities, sporting heroes to artists.

From: 25th Aug, 10am to: 7th Oct, 4pm. Tickets Single $7.50, Member $5, Under 12 $5.

Where The Glasshouse, Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie.

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s We still ha ve ticket r ou to e bl availa Fr iday 3pm a nd Sunday 2pm pe rfor mances.

BANJO cleverly intertwines the themes common in both Paterson’s and Coldplay’s work and explores them through live music, dance and literature; Director Tim Maddren with wife and choreographer Stephanie tell us more.

S

et at the turn of the 20th Century, in Paterson’s time, the piece looks at the struggle people had of whether to live a life in rural Australia or to follow the migration into the city. Just like today, there were huge pressures on people living within the city. Banjo himself questioned why people elected to take on those pressures of city living when there are so many large and beautiful landscapes to inhabit. To explore this theme and build this original work, we have assembled a brilliant cast - all from Port Macquarie. As much as it is a celebration of Banjo’s life, it is also a celebration of the talents within our region.

You have teamed up with other locals, Darren McIntyre, Mat Brooker, Michael O'Mullane and Nick Christo to produce Banjo - each bringing a wealth of experience. Can you tell more about each of them? Darren is an award winning choreographer and performer who continues to travel the world doing just that.

Originally from Port, however, he's currently the

Ballet Master and Artistic Associate with Fort Wayne Ballet in the U.S.A. We're incredibly lucky to have him home for this production.

Mat Brooker is our live guitarist. His immeasurable talents are well known around this region.

He has such a unique flavour that complements the Coldplay arrangements so beautifully.

Michael O'Mullane is an accomplished dancer, acrobat and aerialist from Kempsey. He has performed as a Principal Aerialist at Tokyo Disney and Royal Caribbean International. He has a brilliant eye for choreography and we are thrilled he's involved in the production.

From Sydney, Nick Christo is a writer/director.

Nick wrote the musical Melba, which tells the life story of Australian opera singer Nellie Melba and directed the most recent Australian production of Cabaret.

What part of the process have you enjoyed most? Creating an original work from scratch is fantastic in itself. But when we got the go ahead from Coldplay, that was an amazing moment. For

them to believe in the piece enough to give us license to their music was incredible.

The shows are almost sold out. For those who want to come along, what show times do you have left? We still have tickets available to our Friday 3pm and Sunday 2pm performances.

for the show came when I was reading Paterson’s poem, Clancy of The Overflow. Having just moved up from Sydney, I felt when reading this poem that the themes in it were so relevant to today, that I wanted to explore it further. I'm proud to say, over a year later, we're premiering this production in our new home town.

Tim, where did the inspiration for this piece come from? Steph and I had been in Port less that six months. We had just finished our first original show, Me and My Shadow, and after its success we were very keen to build another.

Given Steph’s expertise, we knew we wanted to build a dance piece. However, the inspiration

In terms of composition, how did you put the music and words together? And how long did it take? We started the whole process in April last year by connecting Banjo’s poetry to Coldplay’s music. We worked at getting the music rights for over nine months, then Mat and Tim started on music arrangements in January.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 13

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the Artist Established Crescent Head artist INDO HAS MADE HIS MARK ON THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY. He shared his love of his artform with FOCUS…

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ntroduce yourself to our readers; what’s your connection to the local area?

I’m a traveller of truth and a seeker of freedom. The canvas is my map, the brush my compass and the colours are my seasons; I’m inspired by murals, street art and transforming urban landscapes into playful expressions of who we really are. I love what I do and practice by creating beautiful pieces of art. I’m inspired by other artists, working with the next generation and collaborating with likeminded people.

When the surf is good, the ocean takes priority. I’m based in Crescent Head but am originally from Collaroy in Sydney.

Tell us about your earliest memories of being inspired creatively ...

As a kid I was always creative; I’d draw comic book characters, create flip book animations and paint and draw on everything.

When I moved out of home I was tired of looking at blank walls in the house; I needed some visual stimulation, so decided to find art that represented who I was. At the time, nothing seemed even close to what I envisioned; I grew frustrated, to the point where I said, “OK - if I want something, I’ll have to do it myself”. So, I began to paint, and

that’s how it all started.

The thing about street art is when it’s done illegally, it’s here today, Your art is primarily gone the next - finding street based. As an these treasures can be an artist, what does intimate nostalgia find street art mean to that gets shared on social you, as opposed to I love what I do and media. other artforms? practice by creating A lot of people don’t Street art has no rules beautiful pieces of art. realise street art and and no limitations. It’s fun I’m inspired by other graffiti are like chalk and liberating to do and is artists, working with and cheese, lobsters the extreme sport of the the next generation and lollies. Graffiti art world. and collaborating with is a typographically You’ve collaborated like-minded people. based practice that is with some high profile spontaneous, fuelled by companies; for example, impressions, ego and Rolling Stone magazine, repetition.

Sony BMG, General Street art, on the other hand, is more of Pants, and financial heavyweights ANZ ... a calculated counter strike to graffiti. It’s how do you cater for the requirements of motivated by aesthetics, morphing into the these different genres of business, sticking urban landscape, presenting beauty, depth, to what you love but also fitting the brief?

Starting out as a young artist, you quickly dimensions, and introducing life to the space.

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aesthetics, morphing into the urban landscape, presenting beauty, depth, dimensions, and introducing life to the space.

It’s motivated by

Ego can take over and you perceive this one opportunity as your big break, which is a poor man’s illusion. The truth in reality is ‘every job is a break’.

learn to hold your ground and practice the art of saying, “No”.

Ego can take over and you perceive this one opportunity as your big break, which is a poor man’s illusion. The truth in reality is “every job is a break”. It’s the opportunity to experience and practice what you love and share it with the world.

Working with multinational companies is awesome. It entails lots of perks, travel, and of course, it makes you feel good. Even though I’ve learnt to screen my clients, I always enter with the client’s best interest in mind. And if something doesn’t sound right, be brave enough to simply recommend someone else and walk away.

Describe your creative “space’…

It’s a 5 m x 5 m space with large windows that welcome in the morning sun. White walls greet a stack of stretched canvases that lean on the wall as you walk in. There’s a desk with my computer for emails, business, planning and editing images on creative suite programs.

There’s paint on the plywood floor, a box of A4 plywood sheets I experiment on and three large mirrors that hide an ocean of spray cans.

There are also two sewing machines, lights, tattoo guns, screen printing equipment and old artworks. Plus, a chest of drawers filled with paints, paper, pens and stencils. It’s organised, even though I rearrange the room and reposition everything every three months.

I visit Pinterest, follow artists on Instagram, look at magazines, places, people, fashion, music and nature. Everything comes from nature - everything is relative.

I also listen to Bashar, a multidimensional being. His philosophy inspired me to move away from echoing mainstream media, and present the alternative, which is a celebration of life.

Tell us about some of your local projects.

I recently attended a red tape opening of the SES historical flood marker pole painted in Kempsey.

Colourful power poles have been painted in the main street of Crescent Head.

I’ve painted several large murals in a venue called The Med. I’m particularly excited about the massive 3.5 x 5.5 metre flamingo in the style of “Palm Springs” that I’ve just completed.

I’ve also painted shopfront mural artwork at both Blackfish Coffee stores in Port Macquarie and Crescent Head. Inside the store here in The Crescent there is an iconic mural of a beautiful whale and its calf painted on a 3 m x 5 m wall.

During the last school holidays I ran street art workshops with Kempsey Council.

I exhibited at the South West Rocks Gaol sculpture exhibition.

Also, I’ll be creating a 4 metre crate man sculpture installation that will be on display at

the South West Rocks shopping centre.

I recently illustrated some textile designs for Vegemite Kids surfing.

And I’ll be holding a solo art exhibition at the Glasshouse in November.

Is your artwork available for viewing/ purchase locally? If not, where can our readers view your works?

Yes! Check out bluethumb.com for some of my artworks and also Berkeley Editions in Sydney. My instagram page @indotheartist displays much or my art, or you can also email me for a PDF Booklet: indotheartist@gmail.com Thanks Indo.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 15

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Mick Daley WIDE OPEN ROAD TOUR

Mick Daley is an established journalist and musician.

This month sees Mick hit the road with fellow musicians, stopping off at the Tapp Bar …

16 Greater Port Macquarie focus

ntroduce yourself to our readers - your musical style and what you stand for as an artist.

I’m a writer, currently living in Sydney.

I’ve been travelling all my life as a freelance journalist and musician across Australia, Canada and Europe.

I’m best known as frontman for The ReMains, a country rock and roll band that toured relentlessly for 15 years, released eight albums and played many big festivals and alongside the likes of Tex Perkins, Tim Rogers and Mick Thomas.

Having been writing songs for twenty years, I have a sizeable back catalogue.

I don’t know if I have a definable style - I’ve got a punk-rock band in Melbourne, The Re-mains still play occasionally, but with the Alternative Fax I play a kind of acoustic folk-rock.

You’re visiting Port Macquarie with your band in August. Who makes up the band, and what vibe do you intend to set for the show?

Kate Hosking plays double bass and Adam Bell plays electric guitars. Kate’s a theatre actor and plays with a few disparate bands in the Hunter Valley. Adam has his own band in Canberra - the King Hits. They pack a mean punch in the rockabilly department. We’ll be doing a selection of my songs, some written especially for this band, but generally songs that suit the instrumentation and vocal dimension this line-up produces.

Who are some of your musical influences/ why?

Bob Dylan was my earliest and most enduring

influence, but the list is endless and ever growing. These days I listen to Nick Cave with the Bad Seeds or Grinderman, the Drones, the Dirty Three, Ed Kuepper, Dave Graney, the Beasts of Bourbon, Band of Horses, PJ Harvey, Kendrick Lamar, Liz Stringer, Van Walker … I could keep going.

What are you listening to at the moment?

A lot of podcasts, including Blind Boy, the Dollop and anything on Radio National. I like to drive to a soundtrack of Monster Magnet, Kyuss and the Drones.

If you could have a dinner party with anyone past or present, who would it be and why?

Aldous Huxley, one of my favourite writers and a staggeringly original intellectual for his time.

Just for the conversation, and to see what he could tell about me by reading my posture, my habits and my appearance. Or Nick Cave, just to see how long it took before I bored him.

Lastly, where can our readers go to follow your journey and keep up to date with your latest news?

My blog is on mickdaley.com - you can read all my journalism work there and see where I’m at with my gigs.

Thanks Mick.

plug!

Check out Mick Daley at the Tapp Bar. When Friday 17th August.

Where Port Macquarie Panthers.

Info http://portmacquarie.panthers.com.au/ http://www.mickdaley.com/

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 17

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Playhouse Creatures IMAGINE BEING ONE OF THE FIRST FEMALE ACTRESSES ACTUALLY PERMITTED TO PERFORM ON STAGE IN ENGLAND, when traditionally all roles, male and female, were performed by men!

S

uch is the tale of Playhouse Creatures, which follows the story of five actresses - their triumphs, their trials, their battle to be recognised as serious performers in a world that was rapidly changing, thanks to the influence of notorious “ladies man”, King Charles II. Director and cellist Jordan Best (pictured top left) shares her thoughts about this wonderfully warm and witty production …

Hi Jordan. Playhouse Creatures is set in the 1660s - an interesting time! What do you most like about this historical period?

From a design perspective, it’s very luscious.

I love the style, the fashion - the clothes are really beautiful and a lot of fun for the actors to wear. Our costume designer designed everything so it’s very period-specific - there are no zips, no velcro, no elastic. Everything has been made as it would have been in the Restoration period. The corsets are boned with wood; our production is very authentic in this way.

It was such an incredibly exciting time; having come out of a time of such austerity, being able to celebrate art, music and even Christmas again must have been so exciting.

Many people who’ve studied theatre history would know it used to be customary in England for men to play female roles on stage, as well as male roles … but this period in history changed all that, didn’t?

Yes, Charles II had been exiled in France, and had seen women on stage there. He was, quite notoriously, a bit of a “ladies man”, so when he came back to England, he announced he 18 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I hadn’t really played for about 15 years, but I told wanted to see women on stage playing female roles - not men!

For somebody like me, who’s always wanted to make theatre and be on stage (I trained as an actor) I can’t imagine what it must have been like for those women, who had been working as seamstresses and back stage in the theatre and who wanted so badly to have their chance to be on stage. One of the characters, Mary Betterton, was one of the very first women to speak on stage in England. It must have been just electrifying, not only for the actors, but for the audience!

These actresses must have faced some trials and tribulations too?

This is the interesting thing … When we started researching this period, of course I thought it was amazing and thrilling for these women, but it was also a bit of a double-edged sword. Actresses were seen as little more than prostitutes; it was not a career that a woman from a “good family” would consider. Men used to pay to watch the women dressing; men used to “buy” the actresses.

So, playwrights stopped writing really fantastic, interesting roles for women in that time period and started writing them as “victims”, as the wife, the mother, the whore, the virgin. There was lots of cross dressing, as that way they could show their legs. There really weren’t any satisfactory acting roles for women! Characters like Lady Macbeth weren’t written about; female characters were more of a foil for the male characters.

In this production, you have two very diverse roles. You’re not only the Director, but also the on-stage cellist! How did this

Matthew if he wanted

interesting arrangement consider going to a bit of live music come about? see a theatrical atmosphere on stage, Our composer, Matthew production, what I could probably do it. I Webster, is one of those would you say to also told him not to write unbelievably irritating, encourage them to anything too complicated! extremely young, super see the show? geniuses (laughs). When It’s not a long we first started rehearsing, performance - I have I rather flippantly told him an 11 year old son, I’d studied cello at the Canberra School of and he absolutely loves it. It’s also a very funny, Music. I hadn’t really played for about 15 years, warm production and so luscious. We will but I told Matthew if he wanted a bit of live take you into another world, and there’s no music atmosphere on stage, I could probably experience like having that happen in front of do it. I also told him not to write anything too you, with real, breathing people taking you on complicated! And … he ended up writing 27 a trip into another time and place. separate pieces! I had to practice - a lot!

People often ask me why they should come and watch the show, as it’s a piece of It’s always interesting taking on two roles, “women’s theatre” … I cop that a lot, as I am but with this it really just means I get to watch a bit of a foot-stamping feminist! However, the show every night - which I don’t mind at it’s just a story about five extremely intriguing, all! funny, interesting, warm people.

It’s easy to tell how passionate you are (Laughs). My husband always tells me that about the show, but what do you love when I do interviews, I should tell people that most about it? he loves The Magnificent Seven and James Oh, that’s very hard! I think it’s the characters - you really do fall in love with them, Bond - but Playhouse Creatures is one of the and certainly the feedback we’ve received from favourite things he’s ever seen.

It’s not a niche piece of women’s theatre; audiences agrees with this. They’re extremely it’s a beautifully constructed, wonderful story human - they’re flawed, fragile, and imperfect, about human beings. and I think that’s instantly relatable. Whether Thanks Jordan. we’re talking about actresses from the 1660s Interview: Jo Robinson. or people now, we see such humanity in them.

A huge part of this is to the credit of the writer, April de Angelis - she’s an extraordinarily clever writer - but it’s also due to how intimately these actors know the characters.

See Playhouse Creatures at the Glasshouse They can really make an audience come on on August 25, at 8pm. that journey with them.

Visit glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office For those people who may not normally on 6581 8888 for tickets and details.

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 19

Robyn

Jackson 20 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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Robyn

Jackson Crescent Head based artist Robyn Jackson IS INSPIRED BY THE OCEAN AND THE BEACH, AND SAYS WHERE SHE LIVES MUST BE VERY CLOSE TO HEAVEN! Robyn’s fascination with textiles, including silk, lends itself to some extraordinarily beautiful artwork that can appear similar to watercolours, but are much more vibrant in colour …

W

here are you originally from, and what's your association with the Crescent Head area?

My husband, Scott and I originally came from Narrabeen Beaches in Sydney. We wanted to move to the beautiful North Coast of NSW and both applied for work.

We were so lucky to end up here in Crescent Head.

I remember my first exploration to Big Hill (south of Crescent); there was no one on the beach and the dolphins were jumping over the pristine, turquoise water, and I thought we were in heaven! We now live on a bush block ten minutes from the Crescent Head beach.

Where did your love for colour and textiles begin?

My fascination with dye and fabric first started at school in Year 10, when we made batik wall hangings. I loved the arty side of textiles and became a Textiles and Design teacher at high school, after doing art at Wagga for a term.

I was buying new batik dyes, when the supplier said: “Why don’t you try painting on silk; it’s much easier”. So, I was like a duck to water! The colour palette of intermixable dyes inspired me to explore and have fun with colour.

I have always loved how silk absorbs the dye to reveal brilliant colour. The sometimes unexpected results from dyeing always excite me too.

Back in the day (the ‘70s), my other artworks included weaving and macramé, which has also come back into fashion.

I am also addicted to creating fibre artworks with fabric and thread, where you use the sewing machine as your paintbrush, layering different threads and fabrics to create a design. Sometimes I use machining, silk painting and applique in the one artwork.

You completed a Textile and Design degree; I understand ... What are some of the most valuable skills you learned through formal

It’s more about design and colour

study?

How to use a sewing machine for creative pursuits was the most valuable lesson I learnt.

Even the naughty kids at school loved fabric painting and were quiet when making their masterpieces! Year 11 and 12 Textiles have a very creative component, where students choose their favourite techniques to create their major works.

The other valuable skill I learned was how to teach, and now I am lucky enough to share my passion with others and watch their skills blossom.

The range of materials you use to create your art is quite broad - oils, watercolours, dyes, fabrics ... Working with silk sounds fascinating! What are the unique challenges this beautiful fabric presents you with?

My artworks take me on a journey. First I start with photos I have taken, or Old Masters’ paintings that inspire me. I look for a photo that has a strong composition. I often change the lines to create a stronger, more interesting design, and then the colours flow with a story of their own.

My work is not photo realistic. It’s more about design and colour in the landscape. I love curvy, flowing lines, which are also suited to the use of gutta (a coloured rubber resist that follows the pencil drawing and holds the colour in that area) when painting on silk.

The unique challenges silk painting presents is mostly in the steaming process that fixes the dyes. (Your artwork is rolled up in fine cotton like a sausag, and then around the inside of a bamboo steamer and cooked for two and a half hours hours.) I always keep my fingers crossed when unrolling the silk after steaming, hoping no bleeding of dye has occurred. If this happens, you have to ad-lib and create a new cloud or petal to disguise this!

You've been involved with quite a few exhibitions now. How do you come up with ideas to create whole new bodies of work?

Good question! I always carry my phone, so I can take photos of beautiful scenery, flowers etc.

are catered for. So many in the landscape. I love curvy, and then trawl through participants say, “I can’t flowing lines, which are my photos for inspiration. draw”, but by the end also suited to the use of The beach and walking of the weekend they gutta (a coloured rubber resist on the beach is my are really proud of their that follows the pencil drawing creative place. I look with achievements. (The cost and holds the colour in that area) an artist’s eyes and see is $130 for two days plus when painting on silk. beautiful lines in the sand $45 for materials.) or funny pelicans and I also work with cloud patterns. It is when individual students in I am walking that my my studio, and we paint mind stumbles over a new alongside each other for three - four hours ($80 theme for the next exhibition, and then ideas plus materials). I paint alongside my students, so snowball from there. they can see the techniques, feel like “I’m not If we were to have a look through your breathing down their necks”, and because I love paint supplies, which colours would most it! likely be almost empty?

What upcoming exhibitions are on the Turquoise and jade are my favourites, because agenda?

I am a water person. I often use purple, oranges We have an upcoming shared exhibition titled and greens and tonal variations on these colours 4ART at Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery, too. I am not usually into subtle greys and blacks.

Gladstone, running from 9th August to 2nd Painting on silk is like watercolour painting, September 2018. once you have drawn your gutta outline; Howard Piggott, Louise Keough, Scott Jackson however, the colours can be more brilliant, and Robyn Jackson (me) explore our stories in because they are contained within the gutta the landscape through our different mediums outlines. Painting water over dyes on the silk acrylic, digital photography, oils and silk. I then creates the flow and feel of water, which I love. have a solo exhibition the following Easter 2019 What's something you've learned as a fullplanned. time artist that you wish you'd known years Where can we see more examples of your ago? work?

Marketing and setting up an exhibition takes My website www.robynjacksonartist.com is up so much time. People just think you wack a the best place to see my artworks. It shows the painting on the wall, and it sells the next day! artwork, price and size. Many of these paintings I think marketing is becoming so much more can be viewed at my home gallery, 122 Wortley important and does take up so much time. I Drive, Crescent Head. You need to phone for stop painting about six weeks before a big solo appointment. Ph: 6566 0182. exhibition, which includes about 40 paintings, On Facebook: robyn jackson art bites page and start doing the advertising and making prints includes new and old works. and cards!

The Old Lodge Gallery at Gladstone has a You offer workshops too. What are some of great display of my original paintings. Pandanus the classes you offer - and what skill level is Boutique at Crescent Head and Freddo Pie Shop required to participate? and Café at Frederickton sell prints and paintings.

I do weekend workshops, where individuals I am also happy to do commissions. come away with two masterpieces, one A4 size and the other a little bigger. All skill levels Thanks Robyn. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 21

Masterstock Pork Jowl with Croquette and Quinoa from Seasons at Cassegrain 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Chocolate fondue with fresh strawberries and marshmallows.

Aqua at The Westport Club When winter rolls around, we inevitably find our­selves craving more comforting foods. Foods that warm us up, bring colour to our plate on a dull or dreary day and make us smile.

At Aqua Restaurant, our chefs have designed our winter menu to bring you many of your favourite Winter Warmers, such as lamb shanks, roasts, chicken schnitzel and for those who enjoy a little spice, our chilli and garlic seafood.

This winter we’ve also got a special winter des­sert that is guaranteed to bring fun to your dining experience with us. For a limited time, diners at Aqua Restaurant can enjoy our Chocolate Fondue dessert!

Have fun with your fellow diners dipping fruits, marshmallows and other delights into the freshly melted, delicious chocolate. The Choco­late Fondue is $14 for members and $15.40 for non-members.

Terracotta Trattoria

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

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

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

OWNERS IZAK AND LYN LESCH

They are offering the very best in homestyle Italian cuisine.

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

HEAD CHEF JESSE MCGARRITY 25 BULLER STREET, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6588 7201 WWW.THEWESTPORTCLUB.COM.AU

38 CAMERON STREET, WAUCHOPE 6585 1824

LUNCH 7 DAYS: 11.30AM-2PM DINNERS 7 DAYS: 5PM-8.30PM

OPEN WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY, 5PM - 9PM.

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Okonomayaki - Japanese Style Vegetable Fritters & a Fresh Mixed Berry Smoothie

Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant Sound the horns! Pop the bottles; our new winter menu is here!

Our chefs have really gone all out for this one, and there’s something warm and comforting to tantalise all taste buds.

The Drift winter menu is about introducing more cold weather delights and soul foods to keep our guests feeling warm and cosy all throughout winter. Get ready for classic winter warmers, family favourites, and comfort foods with our distinctive Drift twist.

We have 10+ new items for you and the family to indulge in this winter that are next-level good.

Maybe we’re spoiling you, but hey - we all know you’re worth it.

Billabong Zoo Café Billabong Café now open to the public!

Enjoy a delicious bite from our exciting new menu options, either with a visit to the zoo or just the café.

Breakfast, lunch or delicious snacks, plus our Chef’s Specials available throughout the day. Great fresh ground coffee, a variety of teas and a great variety of fresh, homestyle smoothies. Indoor and outdoor dining options. Take away available.

Special offer: 2-for-1 breakfast. Valid until 31st August 2018.

CHEFS RUSSELL AND KATH

HEAD CHEF ANDY WHITEHEAD

We also cater for kids’ parties, functions and events in our function room and outdoor dining areas for up to 100 people. Call us for more information and to discuss your catering requirements.

61 BILLABONG DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE 6585 1060 WWW.BILLABONGZOOCOM.AU OPEN 7 DAYS, BREAKFAST FROM 9AM TO 11AM LUNCH FROM 11:30AM TO 2:30PM.

PORT CITY BOWLING CLUB, OWEN ST, PORT MACQUARIE 6583 1133 WWW.PORTCITY.COM.AU OPEN DAILY, SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 23

coffee scene.

Creamy pumpkin soup served with Hastings Coffee Co.’s signature sourdough toast.

Café Buzz Every morning people wake up and think “coffee”. It is the fuel of many workers every day as they head to work. Sometimes, we need to just sit down and enjoy a coffee, with friends. Time to chat and relax, and, enjoy a tasty treat with your BUZZ Coffee. In our display case is an ever-changing array of cookies and cakes, as well as those special favourites that are front and centre every day. Our range of cookies includes our Greek Shortbreads, Dark Florentines, Pistachio Almond Shortbreads, Date Ginger and Oat Cookie, Raspberry Shortbreads and the everpopular Melting Moments. Sound good?

How about a range of cakes that includes

three (3) flavours of Friand, Portuguese Tart, Caramel Slice, Lemon Slice, Lemon Meringue Tart plus the superb Fruit Cake freshly made

by Vicki every week. Round up a friend or three (3) and meet at BUZZ for social times.

See you at Café BUZZ.

PEACHTREE WALK, 9/72 HORTON ST, (02) 6583 7979 PORT MACQUARIE WWW.BUZZCOFFEE.COM.AU

Coffee FOR ALL.

Café Buzz, Peachtree Walk Port Macquarie

BUZZ Coffee is the oldest coffee company in the Hastings. We have been supplying coffee for 15 years to Café BUZZ and other select outlets, including cafés, sports centres, schools and restaurants. With our BUZZ House Blend, our customers have a blend that is loved by all.

A rich, tasty blend of delicious-ness. BUZZ is also well-known for the huge range of single origin and decaf coffees, all these are available for wholesale. Right now, BUZZ Coffee is looking to expand in our region. We see in

24 Greater Port Macquarie focus

many places several outlets all selling the same coffee. Coffee lovers are looking for different flavours. You may like to share different origin coffees. If you are looking for a full-service supplier for all your coffee, tea and ancillary products, we can arrange it. If you would like to talk about serving BUZZ Coffee in your business, please drop an email to harry@ buzzcoffee.com.au - you can see the vast range of coffees on our website: www.buzzcoffee.com.au - change is good.

Hastings Coffee Co. at The Westport Club Hastings Coffee Co, at The Westport Club, 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie On a cold winter’s day, nothing beats a steaming hot bowl of soup to warm you up and make your day brighter. At Hastings Coffee Co., we take your comfort seriously, so this winter we have a soup of the day available on our lunch menu seven days a week. Accompanied by our toasted homemade sourdough bread, our daily soup special is guaranteed to warm you right up and put a smile on your face!

Finish off your lunch with a barista-made coffee and a home-made sweet treat like our decadent chocolate éclair, and we guarantee you’ll leave with a warm, snuggly feeling, like you’ve just had a big warm hug!

Our convenient location offers undercover parking and plenty of indoor seating with a lovely Hastings River outlook - when you Relax With Us you might even be lucky enough to spot a passing dolphin.

Hastings Coffee Co. is open from 7:30am daily and trades late for dinner Wednesday to Saturday. Bookings are not required for Hastings Coffee Co.

25 BULLER STREET, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6588 7201 WWW.THEWESTPORTCLUB.COM.AU

four espresso Four Espresso will be holding a charity fundraiser day on Thursay 2nd August.

The event will support and send hay bales to our drought affected farmers.

The drought is devastating, and anything we can do to help, we will - so we are there!

Come see us on Thursday 2nd August, and $2 from every cappuccino will be donated to helping our men and women of the land.

Waniora’s Butcher Greg, will be cooking up a storm (he’s generously donated all the goodies) and will have sausage and steak sandwiches from 11am. All proceeds go to ‘Buyabale’.

What’s on @ Four Espresso - sit back, enjoy your Four Espresso Brekkie, whilst Max DeGroot serenades with you his smooth sounds starting Sunday 26th August, 8am - 11am, and then the last Sunday of every month.

CNR CLARENCE & MURRAY STREETS, PORT MACQUARIE. (02) 6583 3983

It’s Happy Hour at Port Macquarie Golf Club.

Port Macquarie Golf Club has “Happy Hour” all wrapped up, with $4 tap beers on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm to 6pm.

Come down after work, or enjoy a few cold ones after your round of golf.

Port Macquarie Golf Club continues to be a favourite spot for locals and holiday makers alike. Whether you’re a golfer or looking for a nice comfortable place to meet friends and enjoy the view or spend some time with family, Port Macquarie Golf Club will meet your needs.

The club boasts a proud history of providing a challenging and well manicured 18 hole

golf course that tests all levels of golfers, from Cadets through to Professionals. Whilst the Clubhouse is a home away from home with great food and menu from Aspire Restaurant, you will also find all the latest entertainment options you would expect for a social haven, including big screens, functions rooms and Hennessy Coffee house offering a wide selection of refreshments to quench your thirst.

The team of attentive staff look forward to welcoming you for your first visit if you have not experienced the club, or greeting you with a familiar face and friendly smile when you return.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 25

26 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focus_contributor

LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

Mark Vincent Young at Heart Tour

REGIONAL Shift It’s something many of us have known for a long time. Every time we visit a major urban centre, we reach the same conclusion.

Whether it be taking a deep breath behind the wheel and bracing for a neverending traffic snarl, or competing with huge crowds - well, everywhere, or merely breathing in the “not so fresh air” of a city - it is easy to return home and be so very grateful for the multitude of things we don’t have to contend with here.

S

D

E

t ld

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T

on’t get me wrong: hailing from the city and having lived in other cities for most of my life, one thing is true - that you can’t remove the

S

a duet with Mario as its main feature. In 2017 legendary star Julie Andrews chose Mark to play the role of Freddy, Eliza Doolittle’s love interest, in her production of My Fair Lady throughout Australia, to which Mark received rave reviews.

In December, Mark completed a sold out tour of the United Kingdom with world famous soprano Katherine Jenkins OBE, performing at iconic venues such as London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Repertoire for his “Young At Heart Tour” will include Granada, Young At Heart, On The Street Where You Live, Music Of The Night, Nessun Dorma and marvellous duets such as All I Ask of You and many more beautiful songs

It comes at absolutely no surprise that this societal “trend”, has led to a distinct shift

A U SA TRA U LIS A NTGR L OA B A LL EIN A T E RN TAINM G E NL T P O REB S E NA TS L

on the business end of the deal - out of the

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

P R E S E N T

One One of the best of Tenor the voices best not Tenor voices not onl onl y in Australia y in -Australia but the world - but the world

AFR top 500 restaurants this year - 23 of the 100 new listings are regional restaurants. No

city from your soul. That gritty, grimy and

longer just quaint outposts offering sub-

high adrenalin imprint is quite impossible to

standard imitations of the real thing, regional

remove. Sometimes the idea of full immersion

businesses of all types are upping their game

and total anonymity in that place is still very

to meet with “sophisticated” city tastes. And

appealing. Having to compete ever more

not just purely for the visitors - the changing

fiercely to survive, let alone thrive can be an

and expanding local demographic themselves

exhilarating challenge - (when it isn’t totally

is really driving the whole thing.

soul destroying, of course).

The gap between city and country is lessening

But for the most part, most of us know we’re

in a way not seen before. Better transport

on to a good thing here. The best of both

links to major centres mean simple and

worlds - a population big enough to inject a

relatively cheap journeys back and forth.

splash of diversity in the community - but not

“Cutting edge” urban coolness no longer

so big that it’s too easy to become isolated,

is delayed by time and technology in being

a good mix of young and old - students and

rolled out in the countryside.

retirees alike happily call this place home.

The appeal of a shift away from the larger

mm ark ark incent incen vv

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M ark Vincent Mark Vincent has emerged has emerged as one of the as one of the with the with the most remarkable most remarkable voices of his voices of his generation. generation.

hestra urban centres is easy to understand. A craving Then there’s that elusive growth factor - the

a

Australian Global Entertainment presents Mark Vincent in concert, “Young At Heart” tour 2018. The #1 tenor in Australia and the #1 highest selling tenor in the history of Australian music. What an achievement! Mark Vincent, Australia’s most loved 24 year old, is bringing his stunning new show “Young At Heart” to venues around Australia in 2018. Be mesmerised by the astonishing power and beauty of what is hailed as the best Tenor voice in Australia. Mark’s career is going from strength to strength. He has released six studio albums and a Greatest Hits collection by the time he was 20 and sold a half a million albums. Mark’s eighth album was released in 2017, A Tribute to Mario Lanza, with

dynamism that shifts us forward into the

for space, stress free commutes, less crippling

future, the building and growth spurred by

mortgages. A sense of community, large

r t T o u green fields for our kids to play in - the list the sheer popularity of this place. Events and

Serenade Serenade Orchestra Orche

r YY 0 1 8 o uo n2 gu Atn H eg art T A ou t r 2 0H 18 e a r

my H e a goes rt O S ol e M io , TheThe Impossible NI e m Dream, s po s Somewhere, s sibl un e With Dr a Song D e ain m o my , Heart, Sr om Om Sole ew Mio, he a Nessun r , e ,Dorma, W i t h a S ong i on , and on. visitors lead to sea changers, and even more a nd m any m or e f av o u r i Duets, te Thes Prayer, D Time ue tots Say ,Goodbye Theand Pr many ay more e rfavourites , Ti m e to S ay G o odby

on g in o od by e

visitors eventually becoming locals. Almost a

Creating dynamic, thriving communities

magnet that draws people here.

outside of the main centres is the order of

HOUSE the day. And we’re fortunate enough to be The enormous growth of the concept of food CQUARIE experiencing this first hand. tourism lends itself so well to widening the

018 2018 appeal of a region, the need for travellers to

GLASSHOUSE GLASSHO PORT MACQUARIE PORT MACQ

- to try 2pm Sat 8th September Sat 8th 2018 2018 -September 2pm Show 2018 Now, to contain the news that thisShow

NE: .GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU BOOKINGS: 02 6581BOOKINGS: 8888 | ONLINE: WWW.GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU 02 6581 8888 | ONLINE: W achieveWWW an “authentic” experience, the thirst is the place to be - keeping this little gem ONC: $81 | GROUPS 10+: $79 TICKETS - ADULTS: $85 | TICKETS CONC: $81 | GROUPS -10+: ADULTS: $79 $85 | CONC:

au

for really discovering a sense of place, rather

containable and the balance just right is

than merely skirting along the periphery as in

paramount. Hmm ... come to think of it,

the conventional “tourist”.

that’s another story!

M ark

Vincent

PH

+61

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99707737 www.austentertainment.com.au www.austentertainment www.markvincent.com.au M 0414 .com.au Mark 580 Vincent www PH +61 498 2 99707737 .markvincent M 0414 580 498 .com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 27

Photo credit Mick Sheppo

In Season at Ken Little’s.

Out of the Shadows.

Suicide is a difficult subject to discuss, but in September the issue of suicide will be coming “Out of the Shadows”.

Lifeline Mid Coast will be holding the annual bereavement walk “OUT OF THE SHADOWS” Sunday, September 9, 2018. The walk continues to gain momentum as people rally together and make a difference raising suicide awareness while remembering loved ones we’ve lost.

Lifeline Suicide Prevention and Engagement Manager Kelly Saidey says, “While the walk symbolises a commitment to prevent further deaths by suicide, many people who join us are walking for a loved one they have lost. It’s a very poignant morning for everyone involved and it’s a safe place to get sad, knowing you are surrounded by people who are going through the same emotions.”

Lifeline is committed to preventing suicide, so please join us on the walk on Sunday, September 9. Register online or join us at 5:30 am at Salty Crew Kiosk on Town Beach to walk along the foreshore to Breakwall HQ, remembering those we have lost to suicide as the sun comes up. www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ out-of-the-shadows-walk-for-suicide-port-macquarie-tickets48188126985?utm_term=eventurl_text

OUT OF THE SHADOWS

28 Greater Port Macquarie focus

All the beaut berries are in stock now, and the flavours are just magic.

You have a choice of yummy strawberries and raspberries from Queensland, blueberries from Coffs Harbour, and blackberries too!

During this month we will see a continued great supply of local broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, together with beautiful red cabbages. All this beaut produce is grown locally at Red Hill, near Telegraph Point.

As well as gathering lots of our herbs from Som at Bago, we are now buying herbs from Coffs Harbour. So fresh and flavoursome, it is a real delight to use them in our cooking.

Gives that extra kick to any dish.

Our great range of raw nuts, honey, muesli, porridge and quite a few other lines are still available, together with some new lines. Come and have a browse sometime. We always love to see our customers, to say hello and to just catch up.

Remember last month we spoke about trialling some new bags that are more eco friendly? You will be pleased to know, we are now using some degradable bags in the shop, paper carry bags, together with our new calico screen printed bags.

The calico bags look really nice and so far have been very popular.

Ken.

TPT the Place to be FOR AUGUST ENTERTAINMENT

INTERNATIONAL

BEER DAY WE’LL BE CHEERSING ON AUGUST 3RD TRY A HOST OF INTERNATIONAL BEERS PAIRED WITH MOUTH-WATERING MEALS.

BEER PREPARED FOR THIS ONE PORT MAC!

NRL UFC SOCCER

YOU NAME IT, WE PLAY IT

ALL GAMES LIVE AND LOUD ON ONE OF NSW’S BIGGEST OUTDOOR SCREENS! THIS MONTH YOU CAN CATCH UFC 227, RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP, US OPEN AND SO MUCH MORE.

FUNCTIONS

FOR ALL OCCASIONS WHETHER IT’S A BUCKS, A BIRTHDAY OR A NIGHT WITH THE BOYS, TACKING POINT TAVERN CAN MAKE IT A NIGHT TO REMEMBER. SIMPLY CONTACT OUR FUNCTIONS TEAM ON (02) 6582 3939

Corner of Ocean & Emerald Drives, Port Macquarie NSW (02) 6582 3939 | tackingpointtavern.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 29

30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focus_archives

WITH DEBBIE SOMMERS

M

iles of big timber, brush forest, and scrub. Then - green fields of paspalum, a wide sweep of blue river, and beyond it the deeper blue of the ocean. Rows of stately, symmetrical Norfolk Island pines; a riot of purple bougainvillea in old fashioned gardens; and straight ahead, the town with the historic redbrick church crowning its red-soiled hill. Such were our first impressions of Port Macquarie as we motored in on the evening of Boxing Day, after a long run, in perfect weather, from the coalfields beyond Maitland. We fell in love with the port at once and every day of our three weeks holiday was a joy.

Port Macquarie has been a tourist destination almost since free settlement began. HERE’S WHAT ONE VISITOR WROTE about our town some hundred years later in February 1932.

Whether we were exceptionally fortunate in weather conditions I know not, but we read of heat waves that never reached us. No brown, withered pastures here, but soft green grass to the very borders of the beaches. How restful to tired eyes the long sweep of the golf links above the flagstaff headland, or the luxuriant growth that hedges the road past Nobbys and Shelly Beach. I have a more euphonious, if less historic, name for Port Macquarie -"Araucaria," for it is essentially a home of the Norfolk Island pines. Some are veterans indeed - each one a study in symmetry and grace; but the civic fathers have wisely followed the precedent set in early days, and trees may be seen in all stages of growth.

As time is reckoned in Australian history, Port Macquarie is old; centenary celebrations

were held in 1921. Its earliest days form a link with Newcastle. The convict settlements on the Hunter being beset with difficulties through the increase of free settlers, Governor Macquarie’s much-used name was bestowed upon a new era at the mouth of the far-off Hastings River.

The port is a fisherman's paradise. Our party were all the veriest amateurs at the game but we never came home empty handed. In the river the little wobbegong sharks were a nuisance, but they are easily handled. More trouble was given by a small octopus, which finally escaped after an unpleasant exhibition of sepia-squirting. The surfing beaches are excellent. Behind the breakwater at high tide there is a safe, though shallow bathing pool for such as are not surfers. Those who love boating may explore the noble Hastings for miles or creep up the calm reaches of its chief affluent, the Wilson.

For the motorist, there are good roads. We ran out to Tacking Point lighthouse one afternoon, whence there is a glorious panorama of ocean and coastline southward, with Camden Haven Mountain looming in the mid-distance. The road runs along the top of the steep hillsides skirting the ocean, through scrub, open forest and palm brushes. But enough. Port Macquarie for your holidays! Yes! One party, at all events, will endorse that in the time-honoured way "And so say all of us!"

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 31

32 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

ERIC ROBINSON

Partnership - two entities working towards one goal is a powerful synergy. Susie has a lunchtime rendezvous with a chef who teamed with his wife and then with clients to create a remarkable recipe for success.

F

or an object lesson both in business and life generally, take note of Eric and Monica Robinson’s food manufacturing and wholesaling enterprise, The Other Chef, headquartered in the Merigal Road industrial area and poised to expand into a monster new purpose-built factory to handle its burgeoning output.

Eric started out producing the couple’s own-brand bottles of lemon-infused olive oil and balsamic essence in their home kitchen in Lake Cathie some 12 years ago. Monica sold them at weekend markets, supplementing Eric’s wage as a chef at Cassegrain winery and later at The Stunned Mullet. The pair, then recently from Newcastle (and earlier from Margaret River’s wine industry, and Coffs Harbour where Eric had his own restaurant), had two toddler sons and Eric further boosted the family income at nights, teaching his skills at TAFE. “The two products sold well together as a bread dipper or salad dressing. We met Anthony from Ricardoes at the markets and one day I bought some strawberries from him and made a jam. Monica sent it to the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and it won the gold medal. Anthony asked me to make it for him and the light bulb went off: contract manufacturing for the primary producer, value adding! This year we’ll make thousands of jars of that one product. We formed a great bond between primary producer and manufacturer

and we wouldn’t be where we are today without Ricardoes, that stability: they’ve got about 46 products now.”

Like the award-winning jam, word soon spread. The Robinsons repeated the business initiative with other producers: “People saw what we were doing, approached us and we started to get that local rapport.” Eric surrendered his other jobs and established professional commercial kitchens to handle the demand. It’s often a two-way street: The Other Chef makes mulled wine spiced jelly (similar in use to quince paste) for Jim Mobbs of Bago Winery and in turn buys vats of his chambourcin red wine vinegar for making pasta sauce and tomato relish. “The major part of our business is contract manufacturing, not just for primary producers but we do brands as well. One that’s getting momentum is the Handsome Devils. They’ve now got seven sauces and have just released dill pickles and chipotle pickles, gone into national distribution and are about to hit China. There’s the Hot Sauce Kings, another local project between Stewart Clark from Doppio or Nothing and Matthew Conway of Burger Rebellion.

Matt’s an amazing chef, worked for Gordon Ramsay among others; he’s got a great palate: we designed the products together.” The Robinsons’ own original The Other Chef lines expanded too, sold in gourmet food stores.

And: “We were approached by Woolworths and developed another brand for them, Port

Macquarie Food Company: two jams are now available in about 50 Woolies stores. Another local company we manufacture for is East Coast Gourmet Foods, they’re Wauchopebased cheese distributors ... pear and cranberry chutney [is one of their lines].”

Then there’s the business’s “white label” or cleanskin products. “It’s a concept Monica started. We have a portfolio of 16 products and you can pick all of them or, say, six of them.” The cleanskins are labelled to order with the client’s own identity. A luxury Blue Mountains hotel is a typical client: their Chinese guests in particular reportedly prize the quality products - orange-infused olive oil, lemon oil, beetroot relish, tomato relish, honey, quince paste - taking it home with them.

Wherever possible The Other Chef uses local growers’ produce; if it’s not available here Eric seeks quality individual suppliers. He doesn’t handle allergens: consumers can be confident no nuts, fish, wheat, eggs and so on are ever processed on the equipment. And it’s not just pretty jars or bottles: “I bought hundreds of kilos of fruit from Ricardoes the other day.

We’ve a Brisbane gourmet burger client, Da Burger: They’ve got tomato relish, caramelised onion, beetroot, mint jelly and chilli jam we pack into 5kg pails for emptying direct into depositors in the restaurant kitchen.”

The business has grown to attract a core base of some 70 permanent clients, shipping to as far away as Perth and South Australia and

inquiries coming in daily from their online fine food wholesaler listing. Monica works upstairs as back office controller, supervising the myriad of non-kitchen operations. With a steady but massive increase in production over the years the business has expanded from one industrial bay to four – and outgrown itself. Staff have increased too, all of them qualified chefs.

“Our staff are our greatest asset; I’m proud of them. They do a great job; they care.” So, too, there’s been a partnership of sorts with “our amazing landlord, Bob Todd. Every time we need to grow he helps; he gave us free rent when I couldn’t afford it. He’s custom building our new factory for us.” Soon The Other Chef will move into the new premises across the road. There’ll be a new computer system (by a local), new labels and branding (by a local) and “multiple areas of manufacture: pickling here, sauce over there, a honey contract.

And new drying technology for things like tomatoes, value-adding for the producer”.

There’s to be a solar farm on the roof, making the operation carbon neutral. Ultimately there’ll be a showroom for visitors on tours to taste and buy products and observe the manufacturing process via a viewing window into the kitchens.

An opportunity to see this local success story at first hand.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 33

focusinterview.

You may recognise Andrew Mercado from his numerous TV roles and successes ... He has recently relocated to South West Rocks, taking over ownership of the South West Roxy Cinema, engaging the community and bringing amazing shows and events to the sleepy coastal town. FOCUS chatted with Andrew about his latest venture.

Andrew

Mercado

H

i Andrew. Take us back to the beginning; when did you first discover a love or passion for performing arts?

I was lucky enough to grow up in Brisbane just down the road from a cinema, and a neighbour who worked there would take me every Saturday night to the double feature. But just recently I discovered that my grandfather ran one of the first silent cinemas in Myanmar in the 1920s - so maybe it’s in the blood!

When/how did your career in TV begin?

After working for 13 years in tourism, but always wanting to be in television instead, I re-invented myself as a Location Manager.

And it worked - I got a job on Paradise Beach, which was being made on the Gold Coast, and then spent several years doing various productions at Movie World Studios.

Then Foxtel started, so I moved to Sydney to get in on the ground floor there and within a year, my boss decided to hire another publicist, so he could move me into an on-air role, due to my knowledge of pop culture. So, I was lucky enough to have put myself into the right place at the right time.

What have been some of your most 34 Greater Port Macquarie focus

The movie business is really tough today, because everybody is staying at home to stream. What

we need is a surprise blockbuster to drag everybody out of their houses and into cinemas again!

memorable moments/highlights you’d like to share?

Interviewing people I used to watch on TV when I was a kid is incredible. Carol Brady (Florence Henderson) laughed at one of my jokes and stroked my cheek. Linda Grey (Sue Ellen) from Dallas said I could pass as a Ewing. I’ve been on the set of The Bold and The Beautiful. Fleetwood Mac signed my old LP record cover of Rumours. I’ve met Duran Duran, Cyndi Lauper and The Rock. But despite all that, sometimes getting to know Aussie stars is the most rewarding thing. I have always been big on valuing and remembering the great Australian movies and TV shows.

You’ve recently taken over the “South West Roxy Cinema. Tell us about this venture; what inspired you to move to this beautiful part of the coast?

The cinema was up for sale and when I saw how close it was to the beach, I couldn’t say no. Now, if only I had some spare time, I might actually be able to go to the beach ha ha!

The movie business is really tough today, because everybody is staying at home to stream. What we need is a surprise

South West Roxy Cinema

blockbuster to drag everybody out of their houses and into cinemas again! That’s one of the reasons though, that inspired me to do more live shows at The Roxy. We just had Justice Crew come through and do an all ages gig during school holidays. And nothing has made me feel better than seeing a bunch of kids at their first ever concert and getting that close to a group. The boys hung around after the show, singing autographs and taking pictures with everyone in the audience. As a Sydney visitor said to me, you never get that close and personal at a gig in a big city.

Have you done any works to enhance the cinema?

Because it is a beachside cinema, I wanted it to have a relaxed vibe, so that’s why we introduced deck chairs and bean bags. And now we have a liquor licence, we can serve beer and wine, just like all the big cinemas in Sydney.

What have you enjoyed most about being a part of the community?

It’s amazing to have the support of this community. We have had packed houses for all our fundraisers and people even come

in costume to my annual Mystery Movie, without knowing what they are about to watch. Everyone around here loves a wig and a dress-up!

Tell us about some of the shows/events you’ve held and what’s to come …

We have just had Justice Crew, and our next live shows are the comedy show Rugby League The Musical and then a kids’ play called Trash Alchemy, which is about ways we can all help the environment.

Gretel Killeen brought her unique show about love to The Roxy at Easter, and it really summed up this community. She put out a call for local performers, and we ended up with a dog lover, a mother daughter act, line dancers, a poet and a drag queen, all doing bits about what love meant to them.

I am also planning an Aussie Movie Festival, with some exciting news soon about some brilliant women who will be attending.

Plus, this year’s Mystery Movie will soon be scheduled, so I’d better start dropping some clues about what it could be. How about come dressed up in Wacky Funeral garb?

Where can our readers go to get the latest news on shows and events?

Join our Facebook page, or go to our website: swroxycinema.com.au Thanks Andrew.

t r i p l e j , s a n d e ve n t s , PR E T T Y R A D S TO R E , TH E MU S I C , H H H H A PP Y,

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 35

focusinterview.

Chris Rose This month FOCUS chatted to local musician CHRIS ROSE. IT’S BEEN A BUSY SIX YEARS since we last spoke to the young artist, so we had loads to catch up on ...

I

t’s been six years since we last spoke to you at FOCUS - we can only imagine it’s been an amazing journey to where you are now!

Give us a little insight into what you’ve been up to …

Wow, it's been a super long journey! I feel like I'm still only just getting things started now though. I've gained so much experience since then, chasing my music career and I’ve battled many highs and lows trying to get the exposure and my music heard.

I have moved to Sydney and back again (I LOVE living in Port Macquarie). I graduated from the Talent Development Project in Sydney at the Sydney Entertainment centre in 2011.

I've had three different recording contracts with Sony Music and many amazing experiences with that. I released a single with Sony called We Are, which I performed as the finale song at the 30 years of the School Spectacular and was broadcast on Channel 9. I have previously travelled to Menindee in remote Western NSW to work with the school there, where I wrote a song called “The Menindee Train” which was performed with the school kids at the School Spectacular.

I have booked and performed my own tours on the East Coast of Aus, performed a weekly residency in Darlinghurst, Sydney for 12 months building my live performance skills, supported some big artists and performed at festivals. I've also toured the country with The Voice winner 2013, Harrison Craig.

Earlier in this year I performed at Circular Quay for the Australia Day Spectacular to a massive audience. I did my first sold out ticketed show at Flavours Lighthouse Beach down the road from where I grew up, for my single Godzilla, which I recorded at Sing Sing studios Melbourne.

I've just performed a massive full band show at The Loungeroom in Port Macquarie to support my new EP, Electric Air. I've basically played gigs and have been working every week relentlessly planning my music career since we last spoke. I love it so much.

36 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I’m really enjoying putting

How would you anything better came up. on my own headline shows say your music has Electric Air was a song and fine tuning my show progressed over the where I wrote the whole as an artist with my past six years? melody all at once whilst band in my own right.

I have tried out driving my car. I pulled I’ve definitely come a many different styles over and recorded it all long way live and really of music, from pop to on my phone. However, appreciate all the support I indie to country and I changed the concept get from venues on the Mid more electronic singer/ three times and ended up North Coast. songwriter coastal vibes. perfecting the lyrics whilst I've honed my skills in in the studio with Stuart many different studios, Stuart. from home studios in Bondi and Rozelle to Sony Finally, Anything Better is a simple song about Studios and most recently Analog Heart Studios rekindling with an old flame and realising that in Brisbane, where I recorded my new EP. I've there is nothing better than being with that also co-written with many different songwriters person. and producers over the years, which has been How did you enjoy the recording process? amazing and so much fun learning from some of I love being in the studio, imagining sounds the best in the business. I think I've finally found and the style of music and seeing that come to my sound and my vibe with my new EP Electric life, as well as perfecting lyrics and vocal takes, Air, which is my most polished sound to date. and adding harmonies on top. It's always quite Tell us about your new EP. What was the stressful getting lyrics right and recordings right. inspiration behind the tracks?

But for me, there is nothing more exciting and The EP is titled Electric Air after the title track satisfying then having a finished product you are and funnily enough, it's probably a bit of a mix stoked with. of most of those musical styles mentioned above. You’ve worked alongside some amazing It's definitely a commercial radio sound, but with artists - such as Icehouse and Thirsty Merc, an organic singer songwriter twist that I think is to name a couple. What was it like working quite original but suits current musical trends. alongside these iconic musicians?

I recorded the tracks with producer Stuart It has been really amazing! Always such a Stuart at his Brisbane Studio, who is behind all buzz meeting them and hanging out and does the hits for Aussie band Sheppard. All of the wonders to build your profile. I actually have songs were written by me except Anything hung out and written songs with Rai from Thristy Better, which was co -written in Sydney with Carl Merc; he's a genius and super fun to hang with Dimataga. ha ha. I haven't had so many major supports Inspiration from the tracks comes from many recently, because I'm currently independent of all different places; Back To You was written when agents and managers, though I hope in the near my girlfriend went overseas on a longish holiday future to have some more opportunities. ha ha. It is about missing someone and hoping I'm really enjoying putting on my own they feel the same way too. Cannonball Heart headline shows and fine tuning my show as (Single #1) was a long process; I had this really an artist with my band in my own right. I've cool chorus for a long time, and I ended up definitely come a long way live and really writing the verses and bridge to go with it a appreciate all the support I get from venues on few years later. It's a quirky pop song about a the Mid North Coast. cool, surfy girl who leads you on and only wants What is your biggest dream and goal? you when they're lonely and would leave you if My goal is to build myself up enough to have

some of my songs catch on with commercial radio and land some TV syncs etc. I hope to gain the attention of record labels and put the right team around me and my music.

I would love to be an overnight success that has taken many years to build up to, such as Amy Shark, Vance Joy, Conrad Sewell or Sheppard. We have some amazing artists in Aus cracking it around the world, and I hope I can do that too!

Tell us about your plans for the next twelve months …

I've got so many plans. I have recently shot a music video in Sydney for my next single, Electric Air, that I'm about to release. I plan on making videos for each of the songs on my current record, as I've found it's hardly worth having a great song and no video in the age of social media.

I plan to do a tour after my home town launch, and I'm back in the studio in early August to record two more tracks. I'm always songwriting and making plans and have gigs booked for the rest of the year. I'm also keeping my options open, in case big opportunities come along. I regularly update my supporters in the music and radio industry, and I hope the right people come along and join my journey.

And lastly, where can our readers go to follow your journey?

Thank you so much for the interview and support! Please check me out on my Facebook page www.facebook.com/chrisrosemusician and I'm on Spotify, iTunes and all the rest! Hope to see you at a show sometime soon.

Thanks Chris.

Catch Chris Rose at Heritage Hotel, Gladstone.

Sunday, August 5th - 3pm.

The Seabreeze Hotel South West Rocks.

Sunday, August 19th - 7pm.

Finnian’s Irish Tavern, Port Macquarie.

Friday, August 24th - 7pm.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 37

focusinterview.

Wildwood wildwood

With this year’s WILDWOOD FESTIVAL LINE UP SET TO BE A HUGE HIT FOR PORT MACQUARIE, FOCUS talks exclusively to event promoter Simon Leigh about the exciting music festival at Cassegrain Winery.

H

i Simon; thanks so much for speaking with us. Tell us a little about what’s in store for this year’s Wildwood Festival?

This year is set to be bigger and better than ever. We’ve moved the date to the Saturday of the long weekend to avoid a clash with the NRL Grand Final, which has had a really positive response.

Apart from another great line up of music, we are introducing measures to ensure that the event is as "green" as possible. This is something we all need to be mindful of, and our aim is to reduce the event's negative impact on the environment.

Who are some of the prominent acts appearing we can look forward to?

We have two great headliners this year - The Beautiful Girls and Ash Grunwald.

Both acts have a strong fan base in the area, having done the hard yards of touring the East Coast for many years. Another crowd favourite with an increasing following is Mama Kin Spender, who were one of the stand out acts earlier this year at Westport Park. We’re also very lucky to have secured sleepmakeswaves. They are truly amazing and have a solid following in our region.

Other stand outs include The Big Ilch, James Bennett and The Lyrical.

You have a strong ethos to introduce and promote as much local talent as possible.

Why is it important for you to showcase up and coming artists?

38 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I’ve been involved in the local music scene this add to the festival vibe, and what for many years and have enjoyed seeing kind of foods and beverages can we amazing young artists develop over that time. expect?

It’s great to be in a position to give them a We have been very lucky to have the show on a big stage, and it’s so rewarding to support of Cassegrain Winery from day one. see how they rise to the occasion. Wildwood The family and staff have been invaluable has two stages in the making of alternating, so there’s Wildwood, and the no lull in the vibe and relationship has worked no one misses out on well for the both of any acts. us. The event has We’re also very lucky to have The festival will introduced people to secured sleepmakeswaves. open the event to the beautiful grounds They are truly amazing under 14s FREE, of the winery and the and have a solid encouraging families showcased their awardfollowing in our region. with young children winning wines.

Other stand outs include The to enjoy the day.

We are also pleased Big Ilch, James Bennett and What else will be on to have a few local The Lyrical. offer for the kids? businesses partner Wildwood has always with us this year. We been a family friendly are particularly excited event, with kids under to have Stormriders as 14 free who are accompanied by a parent our major presenting sponsor. It’s really great or guardian. This has proved to be a big to have this highly successful local business factor in the appeal of the festival for a lot associated with Wildwood, as it is with our of people. The Party Professionals have been other sponsors. providing entertainment for the youngsters As always, there will be great local and from the first festival and will be back again regional food vendors, beer by Hops and this year. Additionally, we have exciting Tales and of course, a great range of wine interactive activities from newcomers. from Cassegrain's.

Collaboration and sponsorship has been Finally, how do we get tickets? made, with an emphasis on supporting Tickets are available online at Oztix or in local businesses including food trucks store at Wild Heart Designs in William St, Port and vendors and the partnership with Macquarie. local winery Cassegrain Wines. How will Thanks Simon.

Ash Grunwald This year’s Wildwood Festival makes a return to its roots with The Beautiful Girls and festival favourite Ash Grunwald.

W

ildwood 2018 is the fastest growing festival on the Mid North Coast, bringing together renown national, regional and local acts to play on two stages set amongst a backdrop of picturesque vineyards, as well as more entertainment, fine food stalls and bars. Pack a picnic blanket, sit back and enjoy the atmosphere that is Wildwood Music Festival 2018.

Ash Grunwald has become one of this country’s most loved and listen to blues/ roots artists. Having well and truly

conquered his homeland with endless touring, resulting in a reputation of not-to-be-missed rocking live shows, Ash has shrunk the

world with familiarity, making the entire globe his home.

NZ, the UK, sold-out tours in Canada and a pioneering trip of America in 2014 with Xavier Rudd - every show, every tour continuing to feed the ravenous beast of Ash’s unparalleled creativity and his unbridled spirit of diversity.

In addition, the line up will include Mama Kin Spender, sleepmakeswaves, The Lyrical and more to be announced.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 39

focus_contributor

W I T H K AT E W O O D - F O Y E F R O M R Y D G E S A N D S A I L S P O R T M A C Q U A R I E

Photo Meraki Photography

Liz Munro, Lyndal Nankervis, Amy Oliver & Caroline Wynnyk at High Tea on the Hastings.

Photo Meraki Photography

Photo Meraki Photography

Photo Meraki Photography

Chelsea Scott Photography

Laci Sutherland & Jo Waters at High Tea on the Hastings.

Jolin & Ben’s Wedding at Bliss Beach House

Social /Scene

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ormally I would be well into my midwinter wallow (potentially, I am still a little stuck there!) however, this year I am choosing to view it with a half glass full kind of approach. We are nearly there, right? There are not too many countries where we can pretend to be suffering from frostbite whilst sitting on the beach with our toes in the sand sipping an almond milk latte!

Seriously, life is pretty damn awesome … I’m not sure if a 26 degree day really stacks up against Icelandic standards! PMAC has turned on a delightfully mild winter thus far, and I can see the beautiful light at the end of the chilly tunnel! In all seriousness, there were moments there when I thought we would never see the warm face of the sun again, but yes … positive thinking will prevail … WE CAN DO IT! True love was certainly all around when the divine Jolin Shead married her long time love Ben Crompton at Bliss Beach House on the North Shore. Jolin, famous for her beautiful hair and makeup artistry on faces across the world of her beautiful brides and clients, had her own special day to celebrate. The gorgeous pair said “I do” with daughter Indiana, son Malekai and family and friends in a magical enchanted wood ceremony among the paperbarks of the beachside property, styled by the amazing August & Lucy. Jolin’s friend Sarah J Hudson created a romantic floral theme of rich reds and vibrant winter blooms offset by Jolin’s handmade macramé arbours and dream catchers adorning the paperbark forest. Friends Frea Lewis AKA the Sugar Mummah made the delicious wedding 40 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Rinnie White, Emma Fay, Abbey Phillis & Amanda Gosling at High Tea on the Hastings.

Melissa English, Naomi Rogers & Tamara Grieve at High Tea on the Hastings.

Photo Meraki Chelsea ScottPhotography Photography

Jolin & Ben’s Whimsical Forest Wedding

We are right in the deep, dark, cold thick of it - actually, we are way more than half way through ...

Spring is seemingly a distant little speck on the horizon, our Netflix accounts are maxed out and our skin has a horribly unattractive pale winter pallor, as we cautiously yet hopefully move our way closer away from chilly winter mornings to the glorious sunshine we seek!

cakes and Kate Mitchell of Kate Caters created a stunning dessert share table for the lucky guests to feast on, including such delicious treats as Peruvian chocolate love tarts, passionfruit and champagne macaroons, mini cheesecakes, and mini melting moments. Ben, a chef at the Stunned Mullet, and Jolin, both well-loved in the hospitality industry, had a team of chefs from the family’s property Arajilla Retreat on Lord Howe Island creating their own bespoke menu for their loved ones to feast on.

Guests enjoyed the magical woodland ceremony, followed by a celebration in a gorgeous Tipi by Tipi Love filled with vintage velvet lounges, cushions and candles, with entertainment by Shentaya and Jo. Jolin was stunning in a lace dress from Catherine Deane and bridesmaids wore Free People gowns with hair braided with flowers; the entire bridal party looked as if they stepped out of an enchanted boho fairy tale, all captured by the amazing Chelsea Scott Photography - simply stunning, Jo and Ben! Congrats - wishing long love and happiness.

Winter has been surprisingly action packed, with the events calendar jam packed with fun for all. A huge happy birthday to my sister, Sarah Wood, who celebrated with a good old fashioned winter wood bash with the family and partner, Cahill in mid-July - the clan, including new arrival little nephew Mason, was on hand to wish Sarah a happy birthday, with French bubbles all round!

Congrats also goes to the clever team behind another kind of intellectual celebration, with a global meeting of the minds recently held in

Port Macquarie. Universities from all over the world travelled to our beautiful little city after some well-placed convincing by the persuasive and passionate Professor Heather Cavanaugh and the team at CSU. Great minds from across the globe converged on Port Macquarie for the International Universities Conference at the Charles Sturt campus. Ideas where shared from all corners of the world on how to make university education and teaching more powerful and effective.

It wasn’t all business, with the series being teamed with a little sightseeing, wining and dining in the new Cape Ballroom at Sails Port Macquarie. Congrats to Courtney Haynes, who assisted US Harvard based convener James Wilkinson with the organisation of the conference and to CSU’s own Paramedic Lecturer Phillip Ebbs and his clever team, who won the research project and generously donated their cash prize back to the Jacob Berry Memorial Scholarship at a wrap event at Zebu Bar + Grill. Congrats to all involved and to Port Mac for turning on the winter sun and hospitality.

High Tea on the Hastings organiser Natalie Junge and the team at Rydges Port Macquarie welcomed another 300 gorgeous ladies to a mid-winter celebration of everything sweet, sassy and savoury at the ninth annual event, featuring fashion, champagne, cocktails, plenty of fun, and fundraising for Camp Quality, with special memories of Rachel Flakus. Guests enjoyed hand baked treats from the Rydges kitchens, including miniature cupcakes with sugar frosted rose petals and delicious take home cupcakes baked with

love by Rachel’s beautiful mum, Pam Madden.

Chill Factor entertained the crowd, who looked stunning in high fashion, having fun with Best Dressed Lady going to Abbey Phillis and Best Fascinator to Belinda Charet. The record crowd celebrated well into the evening, with tickets sales, auctions and fundraising all for the local arm of Camp Quality. Special guests included the beautiful Irene Mifsud; mother and daughter makeover Amanda and Hope Deek and Sharon Rathbone, who successfully auctioneered the Silly Sunday Lunch of the Rydges Chef at Home for $1,500. Plans are now underway to create a special 10 year celebration of the event to mark a decade of High Tea on the Hastings. Special thanks to all sponsors and supporters, including the makeover team - Haley Simes of Hair by Haley and Nadelle Apps of Adore you Beauty, Hastings Department Store, Touchstone Salon Supplies, AAF and Angove Family Wines.

As this mag hits the press, the team and I will be in the thick of the Luminosity Youth Summit, with 350 young people getting ridiculous levels of inspiration and knowledge from speakers and thought leaders from all over the globe. It’s been a year in the making, supported by so many Port Macquarie businesses, with nearly 2,000 young people experiencing what the LUMO GLOW is all about. Now in its sixth year of existence, some seriously dangerous ideas will be unveiled in the Glasshouse theatre, and here’s to igniting the national stage with some creativity, excellence and entrepreneurship from right here in Port Mac. ‘til next month!

Kate.

Arthouse UN EA RT HE D

EL IZA BE TH MA CD ON AL D Elizabeth MacDonald is a creative who is passionate about watercolour, nature and teaching others. With a love for botanical watercolour, she creates amazing lifelike images in her studio in Gladstone.

T

ell us a bit about yourself, Elizabeth.

After a long stint in Canberra, my hubby and I moved to the area at the start of last year - a sea change to step off the corporate treadmill and focus on making a career out of our passions. For me, that is painting watercolours; for Dan, it has been opening a café.

We both live and work in Gladstone, a sleepy little creative village nestled on the Macleay River. We’ve purchased an old butcher’s shop to convert into my studio and workshop space - it’s adorable!

Can you describe your creative practice and what inspires you? Basically, I’m a day-dreamer.

I’m always peering over fences into people’s gardens, collecting seed pods on my morning lap around town with my dogs, or staring up into the sky in wonder at the tree-tops. I simply love the outdoors, so living somewhere as beautiful as the Macleay Valley means I have no end of inspiration. My studio is sun-drenched, making it a beautiful place to sit and lose track of time while I work on botanical studies between teaching workshops. I’m just back from a trip to Darwin, where my uncle grows orchids, so they’re on the drawing board at the moment.

How long have you been creating these amazing watercolour paintings; what got you started on this creative path? I’ve been painting full-time for two years, but I dabbled with paints for a few years before that - you know, on the odd weekend or while I was on holidays. I was working as a corporate writer in Canberra which, as you might imagine, was less than “exciting”, so I knew I had to make the switch when I was taking days of work to sit and

sketch in the Botanical Gardens. How I never got busted, I still don’t know.

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I’m very lucky to have a supportive husband who encouraged me to take a chance at painting as a career - and I haven’t looked back.

You also teach classes in botanical watercolour; can you tell us a bit about this? I think I love teaching even more than I enjoy painting. There is nothing more wonderful than sharing my studio with a group of eager beginners - exploring colours, learning the basic techniques and creating something beautiful. It’s funny; so many people think they can’t paint, so it is very rewarding showing them that they can.

Those little “a-ha” moments when a student captures a wash or puts on a prefect stroke; they float out of my studio on a high.

Currently we’ve been working on magnolias in my weekly classes and Sunday workshops. Up next is a series of insects, starting with butterflies.

How can people access your work and classes if they would like to learn more or purchase from you? My Gladstone studio is open to anyone wanting to try watercolour it’s such a beautiful medium to work in, and not nearly as challenging as you’d imagine. I host classes on Tuesday evenings, Wednesday mornings and full day workshops on Sundays - all details are on my website: emdart.com.au I’m also lucky enough to be teaching in Port Macquarie at Arthouse Industries this August.

Over four consecutive Wednesday evenings we’ll learn how to paint a lotus bud and pod. Skye, the owner, has created such a beautiful creative space upstairs from her store - I can’t wait for those classes to kick off!

Thanks Elizabeth.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 41

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R E X M O I R

Jean Ballands and Rex Moir have found a way to share their passion for Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park and their respective talents of art and photography through their membership of the local group “Friends of Kooloonbung”. Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park is a significant ecological site located close to Port Macquarie’s CBD, and the beautiful artworks and photos the pair have produced showcase the natural wonder of the park and also highlight the need for its preservation …

H

i Jean and Rex. Who are the "Friends of Kooloonbung"?

Jean. The volunteer group meets regularly to eradicate exotic weeds, maintain the boardwalks, plant natives to protect areas via support from annual grants to preserve the park.

Rex. Friends of Kooloonbung is a group of like-minded conservation and community focused volunteers who would like to continue the pioneering effort and spirit of the past Friends, with the principal idea of preserving this very important environmental asset of Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park. The diversity of backgrounds

42 Greater Port Macquarie focus

and careers of volunteers brings an array of skills that help strengthen the group’s overall Most of my photography is used abilities - carpentry, to inform other members of forestry, farming, school the local native plants teaching, taxi driving, and the non native exotic lawn mowing and weeds that do not belong current President, Dave gardening, National Parks, in the native park. I have Comish, five years ago botany, biochemisty, and created a library over time to call - and then I joined the photography. on these images when needed. group.

How and when did you Describe your individual become involved with artistic styles. the group?

Jean. I use the materials Jean. I have been of acrylic paint and spray paint to investigate the a member for one and a half years, initially interplay between the exotic plants (non native wanting to learn more about our local landscape. weeds to this area) and shapes with that of the Feeling very nervous about venturing into the native plants.

I use paper as a substrate that can rainforest by myself, the Friends of Kooloonbung be folded and cut out to show the transition from where happy to show me how to work, walk an infested rainforest to one that is purely native. safely and confidently understand the area.

The conservation skills learnt are translated Rex was one of the members who assigned within the work to show how through time the tasks for me to complete on my volunteer days. rainforest has become available for the public to Through discussions, we realised a joint interest enjoy. Through cut out arrangements, a narrative in capturing the environment through our own between the possible extinction of our forest area artistic expression. and need for preservation is shown.

Rex. I wanted to volunteer in the bush and Rex. Most of my photography is used to inform love the unique Australian landscape. I asked other members of the local native plants and the a friend about the Friends of Kooloonbung non native exotic weeds that do not belong in volunteer group and he introduced me to the the native park. I have created a library over time

to call on these images when needed. So for our latest brochure, it was so quick and convenient to select images, and our Facebook page also generally informs interested members of the public of environment issues current in this area, using photography to tell the story.

Jean, you've just completed your final year of online study with Curtin University. What course have you been working on?

Jean. I have completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts, focusing on painting. I have discovered more about how the local landscape can be such a rich source of material to observe and discover; that what is seen today is just a sediment of what has happened over time, that shows cultural and political events. I have learnt how to write essays with a strong argument, conversed with the most learned artists as my tutors and fellow peers. Importantly, I have learnt how to push the boundaries of my work practise, so that I am constantly learning.

Rex, how did you discover an interest in photography?

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J E A N B A L L A N D S

Rex. Photography was studied at high school equivalent of Year 12 as an art subject, along with sculpture and painting and pottery. I was offered a professional photographer’s job in a very respected portrait and commercial studio in 1970.

I loved portraiture, starting with a 4”x5” negative bellows camera, taking a respectable six photographs for each portrait. Also, product and architectural photography was enjoyed.

My wife and I then started our own studio, specialising in publicity and personal portraits, weddings and small product photography.

Now retired, I concentrate on plant, flower and bird photography, to assist the publicity of the Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park.

Why are you both so passionate about Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park - what do you see as its significance from an ecological standpoint?

Jean. The park is such a beautiful, unique area so close to our town. To just walk and be within nature has become so vital, as our worlds tend to be steered by the screen. Our town is being developed very quickly, and there is such a vital need for an area that protects the flora and fauna.

Rex. It is rare to have such an important ecological area so close to a town’s CBD. This area has seven significant vegetation

communities, with five of these registered as Endangered Ecological Communities.

It is of a major importance to the health of mammals, birds and insects, also all being important pollinators.

The mangrove areas are important nursery I have completed a Bachelor areas for juvenile fish of Fine Arts, focusing of a number of species, on painting. I have and they’re important discovered more about for crustaceans and sea how the local landscape grasses. The 52 hectares can be such a rich is a significant filtration source of material to cemetery. area that helps reduce observe and discover; The arboretum area excessive nitrates and that what is seen today is just a was once a dammed phosphorus, which can sediment of what has happened area, when a weir was affect water quality. The over time, that shows cultural constructed (possibly in area unfortunately but and political events. the 1900s) near where the importantly helps to be Gordon St. bridge now a barrier to rubbish and stands. The weir has since plastic products entering been demolished, with the ocean, which we of course collect and remnants visible under the bridge at low tide. dispose of through Council collections.

In the 1980s, the area was filled with reclaimed What's a little known fact or two you can soils, which was then planted with native trees share about Kooloonbung? endemic to the Hastings Valley (an initiative of Rex. Kooloonbung Creek goes south and west the Friends of Kooloonbung). across Ocean Drive near the corner of Koala Recently the area has had another makeover to Street; the sea water tides go up to this area. encourage more visitors to the picnic facilities (an With climate change, water level increase and initiative of PM-H Council). king tides, we notice mangrove trees are shifting, How have you been able to collaborate with germinating seeds further west and spreading to your individual artistic talents, particularly in wider areas in places. relation to Kooloonbung?

Birpai people would have used the creek Jean. Rex and I have a strong visual system for hunting and gathering a variety of appreciation for the rainforest, especially marine food (although no middens are present) when we step back and see the results of the and bush fruits, and also as a water source. conservation work over several years. To stand The Melaleuca could have been used for canoe in an area that is rarely visited by the public and making (as shown in the Thomas Dick photos) note the purity of the plant life is often shared. but no paperbarks show any scars.

I often come up with rather unusual Kooloonbung Creek in the early days of conceptual ideas, such as floating small paintings settlement was navigable to sailing ships - these on the river, whereby Rex uses his photographic vessels at times tying up adjacent to the historical skills to capture the dark reflections surrounding

the artwork. Discussing light and composition is often part of our conversation.

What plans do you have for future collaborations?

Jean. We would like to have an exhibition of paintings and photographs that show the real beauty of the park. The volunteers who unobtrusively work to achieve a better place would add to the conservation narrative, showing a unique relationship between humans and the local landscape.

Recently, school tours have been conducted that have explained the management model of the park, allowing students to experience a new way of understanding the environment. Art and photography classes would be another possibility.

Where can we find out more info and see examples of your artwork and photos?

Jean. I have an Instagram account and a website is under construction.

Rex. We have a Facebook page, “Friends of Kooloonbung”, which shows the work the “Friends” get up to on volunteer days.

The Port Macquarie library has a number of historical books on the Kooloonbung Creek area, and newsletters and photographs of Friends of Kooloonbung. The Port Macquarie Historical Museum houses items and information also.

Thanks Jean and Rex. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 43

focus_contributor J A N E T T E

H Y D E F R O M P O R T M A C Q U A R I E T O U R I S M A S S O C I AT I O N

tourism UPDATE

Sculpture in the Gaol.

Sculpture in the Gaol is a public art exhibition in a location like no other. Hosted

by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and South West Rocks Chamber of Commerce at the historic Trial Bay Gaol in South West Rocks, the stone building provides an impressive backdrop for the artworks.

The gaol first opened in 1886, after 13 years of construction by prison labourers. During World War I, the building became a German Internment Camp and this year marks the 100th anniversary of the closure of the camp following the end of war.

The sculpture exhibition features over 80 works by professional and hobbyist sculptors from all over NSW. There are also numerous environmentally-themed group installations by local school works: natural or cultural heritage.

The official opening is on Sunday 5 August 2018 with a gala event, featuring delicious local food

stalls, coffee, arts and craft and entertainment for the kids. The exhibition then runs until Saturday 1 September 2018, with the gaol open from 9am to 4:30pm daily.

This popular event attracts over 5,000 visitors to Trial Bay Gaol each year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for artists to reach a broad audience.

Visitors to the exhibition are invited to vote for their favourite artworks, with winners announced at the exhibition closing celebration at the Seabreeze Beach Hotel, South West Rocks on 1st September.

Throughout the month of August, visitors to the Gaol will not only enjoy the amazing array of sculptures on display, they can learn about the fascinating history of the location, including tales of attempted escapes by prisoners.

Gala Day: $2 per person otherwise usual fees apply ($11 adults, $8 children over 5 and seniors; $30 families).

C

What’s On in August

ongratulations to our Tourism Association members who are Finalists in the Regional Tourism Awards - 25 July in Coffs Harbour: · Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel; · Port Macquarie Museum; Vacation Village; Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail; Port Macquarie Koala Preservation Society. Looking forward to hearing the results!

Congratulations also to all the tourism-related businesses who have reached the finals of the Hastings Credit Union Port Chamber Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards. Tourism was very well represented and again we look forward to celebrating with their successes.

Access to the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse will be improved by a million-dollar upgrade of Lighthouse Road. Luke Hartsuyker, Member for Cowper, today announced a $540,000 grant for the project from the Commonwealth’s Building Better Regions Fund. Port MacquarieHastings Council will match the funding and undertake the $1.08 million works. The works will start at Mathew Flinders Drive and will address critical points along the route to the lighthouse turn-around.

For those nature lovers a lovely walking trail is The Grants Beach Coastal Walk which starts at North Haven near the mouth of the Camden Haven River and ends at the cliffs of Grants Headland at Bonny Hills. It is well signposted and passes through heathland, rich in wildflowers during late winter and early spring.

There are areas of melaleuca swamp, littoral and eucalypt forest. Birdlife is rich along the track with species ranging from honeyeaters and thorn bills to glossy black cockatoos and white-bellied sea eagles.

Have you ever thought of flying to the Black Opal Capital of the World - Lighting Ridge on a Day Tour from Port Macquarie – it sounds like a great adventure! Check it out on Eastern Tour Adventures website www.easterntourservices. com.au The Luminosity Youth Summit happened again - an action packed three-day event which

44 Greater Port Macquarie focus

was held in Port Macquarie 25-57 July. It was full of inspiring speakers at the top of their fields including marketing strategists, social entrepreneurs which inspired young people in our area to think Big, dare to dream and live life to the fullest to enjoy a healthy positive life. They wanted attendees to be inspired and lead the way on the journey to the top. It was about taking calculated risks to achieve success and having the passion to commit and turn the attendee’s goals into a tangible reality.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has launched its 2018 Winter Tourism Marketing Campaign, which aims to attract young families and older couples to our beautiful region during the colder months. The campaign focuses on inviting people to experience all we have to offer, from exploring our stunning coastline, rolling hinterland and everything in between.

This year’s campaign will also position our region as a thriving foodie destination that offers a smorgasbord of things to eat, see and do.

Group Manager Liesa Davies said local hospitality businesses are on the front line of the visitor experience and are a key tourism drawcard for our region.

“Domestic overnight visitor numbers increased by 5.6% in 2017, and our survey results show that hospitality venues are a key attraction for visitors, with 81% of people eating out while they are here,” said Ms Davies.

“A real positive for us in promoting our region to visitors is the fact that we continue to see a lot of investment in new and improved offerings. We’ve recently seen the local hospitality industry invest more than $60 million into renovated food, beverage and accommodation facilities. “ Don’t miss the Annual Rydges Port Macquarie Masquerade Ball 18 August. www.123tix.com. au/events/1447/black-white-masquerade-ball Check out What’s On www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au for more information on what is happening in our Region.

focusinterview.

focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

Lee-Ann Foord South Africa: Hakuna matata!

T

rends in international travel are as changeable as designer fashion.

The zeitgeist mutates regularly, dictated by special promotions, easier accessibility, what opinion leaders consider in vogue, or simply word of mouth. Equally, the popularity of existing favourites can pall because of natural disasters, terrorism or over-exposure, for instance.

A while back, Croatia’s profile heightened remarkably and the Maldives became affordable.

Lately Oman and Iceland have captured the collective imagination.

So, too, African safaris. As the world’s become more environmentally aware and denounces the shameful shooting of wildlife for trophies, the lure of seeing game roaming free in their natural homelands - the Big Five of lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino, and zebras, giraffes, wildebeest and more, in Tanzania’s Serengeti, Kenya’s Maasai Mara and reserves in and near South Africa’s Kruger National Park - has tugged the heartstrings of travellers around the globe.

A host of operators offer packages, many at agreeable price points, to the African continent, for safari alone or combining a safari with other highlights.

One such wholesaler is Bench Africa, chosen by retired Australian businessman Gavin whom I met fireside at Garonga Safari Camp just west of the Kruger reserve. Gavin admitted to being defeated, despite personal resourcefulness and as an experienced traveller, by trying to put together his own itinerary. After attempting by himself to tailor arrangements to his preferences, Gavin surrendered to reality and chose the AustralianAfrican wholesaler to make his trip run smoothly.

The company, now in new hands, remains named for its founder Charles Bench, once sales manager for South African Airways. On a visit to Australia

50 years ago he found relatively few Aussies visiting neighbouring Africa – just across the Indian Ocean, after all. So he migrated here and established the specialist tours provider.

From Sydney flying direct to Johannesburg, Bench partners with South Africa Airlines (SAA), the “Rainbow Nation’s” national carrier, and Qantas. Gavin chose Qantas for its non-stop service between Sydney and Johannesburg, while Bench worked with SAA for my trip. I flew with SAA codeshare operator Virgin on the domestic forward and return legs between Sydney and Perth and transferred to/from SAA at Perth. Which formula is better depends on the individual: I welcomed the break at Perth before and after the Indian Ocean long haul and especially enjoyed my first trip with SAA. Its flight attendants were refreshingly down to earth, eager to please and lacking irritating “attitude”. My opinion’s supported by the recent 2018 Skytrax best airlines awards: SAA placed only second overall among African operators but was assessed best for cabin crew, cabin cleanliness and general staff and offering best business class lounge.

The lounge’s leather recliners section and shower facility were welcome prior to our Joburg-Perth leg. The curried chicken on offer was uninviting but drinks, refreshments and the hospitality were generous and a connectivity studio and a kids’ playroom well appointed. Next month: South Africa and Safari 101.

Susie travelled courtesy of South African Airways and Bench Africa, just named Australia’s Best Specialist Wholesaler in the 2018 national travel agents awards. Their 2019 brochure is due out next month: www. benchafrica.com to go on their mailing list.

Focus recommends consulting a local travel agent to arrange your trip.

Winner grinner!

Georgina Calvi of Bonny Hills is the winner of Lonely Planet’s new Africa guide book, available in 1120pp paperback or downloadable at www.lonelyplanet.com

Lee-Ann Foord has had a long association with Lifeline … 22 years as a volunteer and 20 years as an employee. During this time, it’d be impossible to estimate the number of people she’s supported through suicide education, intervention and bereavement counselling and to measure the value of the assistance she’s provided - but at the end of this month, Lee-Ann will retire, leaving some very big shoes to fill …

H

i Lee-Ann. How long has the Greater Port Macquarie area been your base?

Our family moved to Port Macquarie in 1995, as my husband got a company

transfer.

You have a long association with Lifeline you've been a participant in a support group, volunteer, employee. What first led you to Lifeline?

What first brought me to Lifeline was the suicide of my youngest brother in 1990. I needed support after his death and saw an article in our local paper about a support group for people bereaved by suicide, which was run by Lifeline.

I joined the group and eventually trained to go on the “phones”. Once we moved to Port, I volunteered with Lifeline Mid Coast.

What have your various volunteer roles with Lifeline encompassed over the past 22 years, and why have you continued to provide your time so generously?

My volunteering roles with Lifeline involved me answering calls to our crisis line for five years and being a support person to other crisis supporters (these days known as In-shift Support Supervisor) for 19 years. Why have I given my time to volunteering? It’s such a fulfilling thing to do. It’s truly a gift and a privilege to help relieve people’s pain - knowing they have the answers to their own problems and that by simply listening to their pain helps them to help themselves.

You've also been employed by Lifeline for 20 years, and one of your current roles is that of the Mid Coast's Life Matters Coordinator.

What does this position involve?

Suicide! All aspects of it - prevention - by teaching people the skills they need to help someone at risk of suicide via our LivingWorks ASIST and safeTALK programs. Intervention actually helping someone at risk, which can

happen with anyone, anywhere, anytime. And postvention - after a death by suicide, supporting the family and friends through our bereavement support group and our Eclipse group, which is a group for those who have survived an attempt.

Yes, another group in our community many of us may not think about regularly are suicide attempt survivors. How does Eclipse, the group you founded, help support these individuals?

This group is such a special group to be part of. To see people who struggle with suicide find ways to cope and survive is amazing. We have a set programme which aims to build resilience and community connections for the participants. The wonderful thing is that other Lifeline centres are interested in starting Eclipse groups too.

What are some ways in which you feel the community as a whole can better help support others?

We can all do something for others, and it starts with something as simple as a smile. Smile at someone you don’t know! That one smile can save a life; the eye contact that comes with the smile may be the only contact with another person the receiver has. And, always be kind to others.

You're retiring from Lifeline at the end of August. What are your future plans?

Family and travel! We have three children who live in three different states, so it’s a long time between visits; seeing them and our grandson more frequently is what my soul needs most. A bit of grey-nomading is on the cards too!

Final say …

Lifeline is truly an asset to our community, and it’s been a privilege and a pleasure to work there. Our local centre has wonderful volunteers and staff in our shops and on our phones. We’ve grown so much in my time there, with support from the community.

Thanks Lee-Ann. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 45

focusinterview.

Daisy

DUKE and the

that was romantic, consisted of masculine and feminine aspects and was memorable. Daisy and the Duke was the name that we liked best, so we went with it!

So, in August you're setting off around Australia, and you hope to travel 40,000km (at least!) in 365 days. And ... that's not all!

You'll be towing a 13 foot vintage caravan behind you! What brought about this grand plan?

It didn’t take long for the travel blues to kick in after we returned from seven months overseas, so naturally we started planning our next big adventure right then, about four years ago!

Our motivation is to seamlessly combine our love for travel and photography. We want to show the diversity of Australia through different landscapes, romance and love. We plan on photographing people from all around, telling This, combined with harnessing their unique story and the power of the sun with solar showcasing their towns panels, means we are able to

Sid Coombes (27) and Callena Brenchley (25) are Daisy and the Duke - two Brisbane-based intrepid photographer/ travellers about to embark on an epic adventure around Australia, photographing weddings and capturing love stories as they go! If you happen to see this pair (they’ll be hard to miss, towing their 1950s Australian Sunliner caravan named “Lilah”) be sure to give them a grin and a wave!

H

i Sid and Callena.

Tell us a bit about yourselves and how you met ...

I (Callena) have lived in Brisbane for the majority of my life, while Sid grew up in northern NSW on the coast. Sid moved to Brisbane to study a Bachelor of Photography at Griffith University, and we met at the beginning of 2010 at the start of our course. We only started dating in the last six months of the degree, after three and half years of being strictly uni friends.

After finishing university, we realised how free we were, quit our jobs and headed overseas for the adventure of a lifetime. We travelled together all through Asia, Europe and North America for seven months, and then returned to Brisbane with open plans as to what we should do next.

What's the history behind your Brisbanebased photography business - Daisy and the Duke?

Returning to Brisbane in 2014 after months

46 Greater Port Macquarie focus

overseas, we came to the decision to start our own business together!

Ultimately it was the photographer that I was working for who convinced us that we had live and work off the grid the strengths and skills to indefinitely. This is a huge be successful within the thing for us, as it means we wedding industry. don’t have to rely on caravan parks We have met so many for power and can travel to remote incredible people and places around Australia. have travelled all over Australia and overseas photographing weddings.

We have been very lucky to make a living doing what we love, and to do it together makes it even more special.

Great name, by the way - where did the moniker Daisy and the Duke come from?

I wish the story behind our name was interesting, but it isn’t. It consisted of a white board, a marker and a list of potential business names! We decided that we wanted a name

and cities.

Tell us a bit about the caravan. How old is it, and what modifications have you made so it's ready to travel?

Our caravan is an iconic Australian Sunliner that we have named Lilah. We are unsure of the exact year it was built, but know that it was probably in the late 1950s. We spent a fair bit of time making cosmetic changes with the help of Retro Caravans Gold Coast back in 2015, after the initial purchase. By adding a fresh coat of paint and swapping out the retro checkered floors and interiors, the caravan has a more modern style - which we prefer!

There are also added functional features that will help us work and live on the road. We have installed two deep cycle AGM batteries, giving us 270 amp hours of power. This, combined with harnessing the power of the sun with solar panels, means we are able to live and work off the grid indefinitely. This is a huge thing for us, as it means we don’t have to rely on caravan parks for power and can travel to remote places around Australia.

Daisy

focusinterview.

DUKE

When you're heading out the door, ready for your epic adventure ... what are the five must-have, can't leave behind items that will need to travel with you?

The first and most important item ‌ snacks!

We are both usually very relaxed people; however, when that hunger kicks in, we both get snappy. The easiest way for us to avoid any sort of conflict is to always be able to fill our bellies. The other four We expect to create lots of photos essential items, in no and stories that can help depict particular order are: modern Australia. We also - Head torches. During hope that we can spend sunrise and sunset a year living a bit more territory in shoots, we need to be freely - not being tied to Australia? able to see where we technology and being able to We are leaving are in the dark. No one slow down will be a really refreshing Brisbane in August 2018, wants a broken ankle on and enjoyable thing for us. heading in a clockwise the top of a mountain! direction around - The incredible app Australia. We have the Wiki Camps. This tells us intention of travelling to everything we need to every state and territory, including Tasmania, know about places to stay, and where we can and to spend a good chunk of time in each fill up our water supply etc. This is the most place and visit all of the sites on our bucket list. helpful tool in planning our trip and saves us so We are also hoping to photograph a wedding much money. and/or couples and families in every state and - Camera gear. For us, this is obviously very territory, so that we can capture unique love important! We need to make sure we always stories along the way. have a camera on us, so that we can capture all of the little moments.

What are your expectations ahead of the - A good pair of boots goes a long way! trip? What concerns do you have about We need a pair that you can climb mountains sharing such a cramped space and living with but also just stroll around a city in, without quite frugally for a full year? them falling apart.

We expect to create lots of photos and Roughly where will your route take stories that can help depict modern Australia. you - will you get to see every state and This will be in many forms - landscapes, love

stories, and documenting our time on the road.

We also hope that we can spend a year living a bit more freely - not being tied to technology and being able to slow down will be a really refreshing and enjoyable thing for us.

We don’t have any real concerns about living together in such a small space, as we are used to spending so much time together already. As long as we are able to have regular showers and can keep the caravan in order, it should be a smooth journey!

Of course, you'll be taking photos wherever you go. No doubt you'll take thousands of shots ... but what do you plan to do with them all when your trip's finished?

We would love to put together a book, or maybe even have an exhibition, but how we display the end results will really be determined by what the photographs look like and what

and the

angle we have taken on different stories.

A few years down the line, we may even look at opening a gallery to have our landscapes available for purchase in.

We'll be keeping an eye out for you both in Port Macquarie and the Manning-Great Lakes areas. How can we follow where you're up to enroute and see where you're planning to visit next?

Our Facebook and Instagram pages for Daisy and the Duke will mainly show the images of weddings and couples that we photograph along the way, and of the work we will be producing about romance around Australia.

Our Instagram account @life.with.lilah is dedicated to adventure and travel photos we produce. We will make sure that we regularly update our locations on these accounts, so that people can see where we are heading to next!

Thanks guys.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 47

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

W I T H S U N D I A L D E N TA L

The Wellness Collective Now opened in Wauchope

Celebrate Dental Health Week this August with a take home message to improve your oral health ... a few simple steps to help you achieve better oral health and keep your smile fighting fit for life!

• Don’t keep your toothbrush from more than three months. After three months, studies have shown that the effectiveness of the brush diminishes and germs, bacteria and fungi can grow among the bristles … so don’t be an offender and keep those old and dying tooth brushes … it’s out with the old and in with the new!

• Don’t sell yourself short! Take your time when you are brushing; you should be taking two full minutes and do this TWICE a day! If you need to, set a timer or play your favourite two-minute song to measure your time.

• Be gentle - don’t brush too hard! Pressing too hard may damage your gums and start to erode enamel on your teeth.

• Always use a SOFT BRUSH for best results.

Hard bristle brushes might be tempting, but your gums and teeth are soft and need gentle dental care.

• Make sure you are brushing all the surfaces of your teeth equally and adequately. Don’t neglect any surface, because they all serve a purpose and are equally important.

• Floss like a boss! Flossing is second only to brushing in importance and gets between the teeth and gums and helps keep your teeth, gums and smile healthy for life!

48 Greater Port Macquarie focus

• Store your tooth brush in an upright container and let it dry in the open. Avoid putting your toothbrush in a closed container, where germs have the opportunity to multiply.

• Use a brush that fits your hand with a head that fits in your mouth. Some adults find using a child’s brush easier and others use and electric brush. Whatever your preference is, use your tooth brush twice a day for two minutes.

• Don’t brush right after eating; I know it’s tempting to run out a brush after eating, but wait 60 mins before brushing, especially if you have been eating something acidic.

Instead, drink water and swish it around while you wait.

• Diet, including the beverages you choose, affect dental health, so think about your lifestyle choices and avoid fizzy drinks and sports drink!

For specific care concerns, contact the caring team at Sundial Dental to address your families’ dental concerns, and with four friendly locations and a team of dental professionals to look after you, what are you waiting for?

Port Macquarie 6583 3533.

We used to think that being well was primarily a state of body, but in the past few years most of us have come to understand that health is much more than this.

Equally important for optimal health is a balanced The Wellness Collective offers Naturopathy, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition and Iridology, Pilates state of regular movement, nourishing the body

by Bodiline Pilates Studio, Yoga, Bowen and internally with healthful food providing quality Massage, Kinesiology, nutrients in the form of Acupuncture and Chinese vitamins and minerals, Medicine, Reiki, Holistic and relaxing our systems Counselling and Energetic mindfully.

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A LONG TIME ABOUT Located in the beautiful GETTING A COLLECTION OF Call in to book an Jacaranda house PRACTITIONERS TOGETHER appointment or in the heart of WHO ARE WORKING FOR A enquire about Pilates via Wauchope is the COMMON GOAL, FOR PEOPLE'S www.bodilinepilates.com.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS AND newly created natural au JACARANDA HOUSE IS SUCH health clinic, The A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO BE.' Open Day Saturday 1st Wellness Collective. Our NATALIE SAYS. September. All welcome. highly qualified and experienced practitioners share a holistic passion to teach clients to effortlessly integrate new habits into their daily life.

The Wellness Collective, Jacaranda House, 39 Cameron St, Wauchope.

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StemEnhance Ultra StemEnhance® Ultra concentrates and combines extracts from nature's most primitive superfoods, freshwater microalgae and marine macroalgae, providing the body with the ultimate in stem cell support.

The blending of StemEnhance with Fucoidan offers a unique synergy that is further enhanced by Mesenkine™ - a unique extract from Spirulina isolated through our patented extraction process. Mesenkine supports the homing of stem cells by balancing key messengers involved in stem cell function.

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MASSAGE AT PORT MACQUARIE He Lingying (Ling) the very popular principal of Massage at Port Macquarie has returned from her three-week visit to China and to the delight of her regular clients, she is once again practising her renowned massage and remedial skills at the busy Montague Street clinic.

Highly qualified in Australia, as well as in her native China, Ling’s abilities are quite unique, as she successfully combines today’s recognised contemporary techniques with timehonoured Chinese modalities to provide real and recognised assistance to those with physical discomfort, sport, health or occupational mobility issues, insomnia or even common fatigue. In fact, Ling’s loyal long-term clients are an ongoing testimony to her outstanding level of care.

Fully accredited by Australian Association of Massage Therapists / Massage & Myotherapy Australia, Ling practices from her air-conditioned home clinic in the Lighthouse BeachShelly Beach area where parking is just metres from the door.

Approved treatments are recognised by most health funds, with HICAPS providing instant rebates where applicable.

Warm, gracious, considerate, yet surprisingly strong, Ling cares for her clients - male, female, young and not-so-young - with compassion, respect and always with traditional Chinese courtesy and values.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 49

* for approved applicants

focusinterview.

Five women took on the challenge of preparing for and hiking for a week in the pristine World Heritage listed Overland Track (OLT) in Tasmania. Here Cath, Belinda, Krista, Jane and Ricky share some of the moments and reflections from their trip.

Time out is worth it

Back to nature on The Overland Track in Tasmania.

F

or those wondering, what the OLT is and how we prepared for it ...

The Overland Track is a multi-day hike from Cradle Mountain in northwest Tasmania to Lake St Clair. You walk through a spectacular remote World Heritage national park, carrying all your own gear, food, tent, wet weather clothes etc. The weather can be unpredictable, with snow, rain, hail and sun all in a day, any time of the year. March is supposed to be the best time of the year on the west coast of Tassie, with rain only every other day! Preparation for us meant walking, wearing in our hiking boots, and getting used to carrying almost 20 kg on our backs.

Investing in lightweight gear to minimise our pack weight as much as possible, we gradually added weight to our packs, week to week, until we were carrying 15 - 17kg on a three-hour walk. We would meet for hikes along our gorgeous Port Macquarie coastline; the stunning views were a welcome distraction from the summer heat, 98% humidity and heavy packs! We toughened up and by the time March came around, we were fit and ready!

What was it that made five women want to do this?

The five of us, four from Port Macquarie and one from Perth, are all juggling work and family whilst trying to create a balance.

Searching for the next challenge and feeling it was time for an adventure - something different - we were looking for an opportunity to experience something we hadn’t done before, to be in the outdoors, and for some, the Overland Track was a bucket list item.

Fully supported by our families, who encouraged us to do this trip, we were pleased to role model to our children what women can do. The time away provided us all with time to ourselves to reflect on the positive aspects of our life, be grateful and to recharge.

Tassie is known for its stunning scenery. We describe it as a smorgasbord for the senses …

The taste of fresh rain water and the delicious leatherwood honey ice cream, the smell of the eucalyptus and the mountain air, the views from the tops of mountains and the sounds of the whispering trees and the beautiful birdlife.

We simply stopped, and let it all soak in …

The Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park is renowned for its beauty, featuring abundant wildlife, rare and unusual vegetation and dramatic scenery. But nothing prepared us for what we saw. Everywhere we looked there was a photo opportunity to capture a moment in time, in a part of the world that is truly stunning. We were not aware of the incredible diversity in landscape.

Within a day’s walk we went from standing on the top of Cradle Mountain to swimming in the very cold Lake Wills. The walk took us

Nothing prepared us for what through quintessential emails were traded we saw. Everywhere we Aussie bushland of throughout the trip, with looked there was a photo tall gum trees and the promise of meeting opportunity to capture a buttongrass plains up again when we were moment in time, in a part of to enchanted forests in each other’s respective the world that is truly stunning. with intertwining moss hometowns. Above all, covered roots, places the most wonderful as little girls we only memories were created dreamed of. with a group of people You can choose we had only known your travel buddies, but your trail family is a for seven days. It was perhaps the most gamble. When booking our Overland trip, unexpected, but special part of our journey on we knew we would see and walk with other the Overland Trail. people along the trail. What we didn’t plan The simplicity of hiking life ... for was the deep bond we would form with The simplicity of hiking life is something many of these other hikers. that we embraced, and the disconnection After the first day of walking, groups of to life and the commitments that come with people thin out, and it becomes obvious it were so soul cleansing. As busy working who the true Overlanders are. The huts were mums we all run a crazy day to day routine, the best places to sit and get to know each with little time for ourselves and constantly other better. That is where we really got to thinking of what everyone else needs. Our know our “trail family” - the people who biggest decision every morning was how were doing the Overland Trail with a similar many warm layers to put on. We had no timeline to us. We would generally meet the phone, no internet, no stress … it was so same people at every camp each evening. refreshing, so relaxing.

There were couples, solo walkers, families and We talked when we wanted to talk, were long-time friends, all on the same adventure silent when we walked through the pristine as us. Ages, gender and nationalities made no rainforests, and belly laughed every day, which difference. We all shared the common love of was the best therapy of all. We would highly nature and trekking. recommend the experience to absolutely Stories were swapped over dehydrated everyone. meals, card games played and the odd nip The question that is now on the table … of sherry was enjoyed together. Photos and Where is the next adventure?

Greater Port Macquarie focus 51

focusinterview.

Mei Dyson grew up in Port Macquarie, and the ten years she spent here gave her a start in her modelling career - which has since taken her all over the world! Mei’s not only a gorgeous model, but a positive role model for others considering a modelling career. She’s not afraid to take on new challenges, and she’s very honest and realistic about both the ups and downs in the industry …

H

i Mei. What's your association with the Greater Port Macquarie area - how long did you call it home?

Hi! I was born in the Newcastle area and moved to Port Macquarie with my family in late 2006. I lived in the area for just over ten years, so I would definitely consider myself a local. My favourite things about Port are the need to smile at everyone you walk past on the street (even if you don’t know them!) and always being able to find an entire stretch of beach to yourself, if you know the right places.

How/why did you get into modelling?

During my time in Port, I did the occasional TFP with local photographers. TFP stands for Time For Print; it is usually for experience/ portfolio and nobody gets paid. The Greater Port Macquarie area has some amazing locations to shoot, and I’m still proud of some shots I did there.

In very early 2017, I moved to Newcastle, where I was almost immediately scouted by Ian Turley of CHAAYS Modelling Agency, who is most well-known for scouting our own Miranda Kerr. I think most young girls would jump at the opportunity for a career in modelling; at least, before they realise the reality of early mornings, late nights, and the cramps you get from holding the same uncomfortable position for thirty minutes.

Your modelling career has taken you all around the world. What are some of the

52 Greater Port Macquarie focus

MEI Dyson countries you've worked in, and where do and promotional campaigns, including work you call home base these days? with MAC, Stockland and Guzman Y Gomez.

I’ve modelled in China, Japan, Korea, Recently I travelled to a city called Gwangju, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore and of course, about three hours south of Seoul, to work back home in Australia. Still, nothing feels quite with Moonlight Mermaid, one of the most the same as an early established photographers morning coffee on Town in Korea. It was a great Beach! experience, and we had I’m currently in lots of fun shooting. After Seoul, Korea, modelling the shoot he took me for I’m occasionally requested to 40+ hours per week.

Korean BBQ and taught speak at various conferences Korea has the most me Korean slang. I love internationally (I can speak unique culture I’ve ever the Korean culture of Mandarin Chinese and seen, surrounding the making friends and being Korean too) and it’s usually entertainment industry. very social with everyone to talk about the truth behind Recently, they sent one you work with. the modelling industry.

What types of of their most popular modelling gigs do you female music groups, most enjoy (and why)?

Red Velvet, to the People say that north in the hopes of modelling is just acting making peace. Korea is standing still. I get bored with standing still. really the place to be for a world platform in Lately I’ve been working on a lot of videography entertainment. and acting projects, starring in increasingly large What are some of the modelling jobs speaking roles in Korean dramas and movies. you've done in recent years?

Early on in my career, I was lucky enough I’m occasionally requested to speak at to place as a national finalist in Miss Earth various conferences internationally (I can Australia, the world’s third largest beauty speak Mandarin Chinese and Korean too) and pageant. After the pageant, I went on to walk it’s usually to talk about the truth behind the the runway for RUEL Rivera and the annual modelling industry. I share my experience of leg Sydney Fashion Spectacular. cramps, days without eating, crazy makeup and I also worked with Justice Crew on their Photoshop. It’s really not healthy, and I wrestle Newcastle Christmas charity concert late last with the morals of the industry day in, day out. year, making a guest appearance there. This Young girls (and boys) look at my photos and year, I’ve worked on countless photographic think, “I wish I looked like her”. Don’t. I’m here

to sell a product, not some “ideal” body type.

Life is short. Eat the cookie and buy the shoes.

I believe you're also a musician! What do you play, and what types of music do you perform?

In high school, I majored in clarinet. My music teacher told me I had no talent for singing and it wasn’t something I should pursue. Lately I’ve had a lot of work involving singing, whether it be recording songs, acting roles including singing or the occasional opening act. It’s a skill I’ve been able to refine, and I’m glad that I didn’t listen to people who told me I couldn’t. I also play piano, guitar and marimba.

Where would you like to see yourself situated professionally in five years' time?

I think that, like most young people, it’s hard enough for me to answer the question of what I will have for dinner, let alone what I’ll be doing career-wise in five years from now! I’ve had multiple job offers in the US, so moving there is definitely on the table. I would love to move from majorly photographic/catwalk modelling and into acting and music.

Where can we follow your career/see more of your photos?

The best place for business enquiries is my website www.MeiDyson.com - otherwise, my favourite shots go on to my Instagram @ mei_dyson and updates plus little blogs go to my Facebook @meidysonofficial Thanks Mei. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Photos: Moonlight Mermaid.

HEALTH & CARE

services

Selwyn Peake with the latest Optos Daytona Plus®

William Street Practice Manager Peter Bassett with Optometrists: Sonia Wei, Selwyn Peake, Anne Horneman & Derek Fails

George & Matilda eyecare Optometrist Selwyn Peake Now Available for Appointments at William Street Practice

Optometrist Selwyn Peake will be joining the team at our William Street practice in Port Macquarie from August, as well as continuing to see patients in our Wauchope practice 2 days a week. Selwyn is highly experienced in all areas of general Optometry and is particularly skilled at detecting and managing pathology using advanced clinical technology. He also brings with him, his advanced dry eye diagnosis and treatment regime, which he has successfully developed and implemented over the last 3 years.

Some more good news for both our Optometrists and our patients is the recent installation of the latest Optos Daytona Plus® at our William Street practice. This revolutionary

piece of equipment gives a wide field scan of the back of the eye without the need for drops, which allows the Optometrist to accurately observe any changes to the retina over time.

Optos® Image of Patient with Diabetic Retinopathy. The Optos® can detect the smallest of haemorrhages, even at the outer edges of the retina. This allows small changes in ocular diseases to be detected and closely monitored

outcome and eye disease is no exception to this.

Medicare. Any additional technology and scans

These images can be readily shared with other

used within your appointment including the

health professionals like your

Optos® retinal scan will incur a nominal fee.

GP or Specialist to ensure you

With almost 40 years’ experience as an

are getting the right treatment.

Optometrist, Selwyn is very well regarded by

The Optos® stores a high Selwyn and the team at Selwyn will be available for definition image, which George & Matilda Eyecare appointments during the week enables the Optometrist are committed to bringing as well as Saturday mornings to detect, diagnose and advanced, affordable eye between 9am and 1pm at treat ocular diseases such the William Street practice. care to the community as as macular degeneration, they believe that everyone, diabetic retinopathy and regardless of their financial glaucoma much sooner situation should have access than previously possible. to the best vision care possible. Standard As a general rule, we all know that early diagnosis ultimately makes for a better treatment consultations will continue to be bulk-billed to

his patients and we look forward to having him deliver this high level of care for our patients at George & Matilda Eyecare in both William Street, Port Macquarie and Bransdon Street, Wauchope.

Selwyn will be available for appointments during the week as well as Saturday morning between 9am and 1pm at the William Street practice.

Call the practice on 6583 7333 or book online at www.georgeandmatilda.com.au to make your next appointment.

50%ecoonff d

your s pair of lenses a when you buy * pair of glasses *Terms and con

. See ins tore dit ions apply

for details.

Proudly independent, we’re your local optometry experts ✓ Latest in eyecare technology; including an Optos® scanner ✓ Provider of ZEISS® lenses

✓ Extensive range of frames ✓ Bulk-billed appointments# ✓ All health funds accepted # For eligible Medicare card holders, does not include scans.

Port Macquarie 95 William St. Ph 6583 7333 Port Macquarie 29 Horton St. Ph 6584 3948 Wauchope 6 Bransdon St. Ph 6585 2393 georgeandmatilda.com.au

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focusinterview.

P A M E L A

The beautiful golf course at Kew Country Club will be the site of the 78th Annual WGCNC Three Day Tournament from 7th - 9th August. Pamela McRae, President of the KCC Lady Golfers, fills us in about the event, but also explains how golf is a fantastic way for women and girls of all ages to get together and have some fun - regardless of skill level!

M C R A E

Golf WOMEN’S

H

i Pam. What's your association with the Camden Haven/ Greater Port Macquarie area?

My husband, Keith and I retired here 14 years ago from Sydney. My parents retired to North Haven 40 years ago; we used to holiday at North Haven every Easter and Christmas and knew this was the best place to retire when the time came.

When and why did you take up golf?

I took up golf 13 years ago, so that Keith and I could enjoy it together. Camden Haven Community College regularly run “Learn to Play Golf” courses, which entails six weeks of one hour lessons with the Pro at Kew Country Club.

From there, my friend Sue and I started playing nine holes on a Wednesday and Friday and then moved to playing 18 holes twice a week and weekend social games on Sundays with our husbands.

You're the President of Kew Ladies Golf Club ... and I know you've all been extra busy organising an upcoming tournament at Kew Country Club - the 78th Annual Women's Golf Central North Coast (WGCNC) Three Day Tournament. What's been involved with the behind the scenes organisation of this event?

Kew Country Club (KCC) Lady Golfers applied to hold this event approximately three years ago and were very excited to be advised in 2016 that our club had been selected. Not much has been required until earlier this year, when our committee met with the committee from WGCNC and we went through a list of requirements - the main one being that from 56 Greater Port Macquarie focus

This is an Open Event, so

lunch time Monday 6th handicaps will vary August we hand the with very low markers course over to WGCNC right through to those and no one else can on the highest of play on the course while 45. Anyone can enter the the tournament is in event, as long as you have a progress, which means current handicap.

“Ladies Only” Tuesday, afternoon, organised Wednesday, Thursday. by the Pro Shop for any LUSC have come ladies who would like to on board as our Major play on the course prior Sponsor, which we greatly appreciate. We will to the start on Tuesday 7th August. Depending provide morning tea each day, the Bistro will on the number of entries, we can take up to be busy with lunches etc., and our Course 160 per day, there will be four divisions (Div Superintendent Brendan will be making sure the 1 and 2 playing Stroke, Div 3 and 4 playing course is in tip top condition for the three days.

Stableford) with two tee times - 7:30am and A Presentation Dinner will be held at the approx. 11am.

LUSC Wednesday evening, with entertainment What golf skill level/club membership is provided by the Kew ladies, and Gary King will required for those ladies who may wish to make sure the ladies have a great time dancing take part in the tournament? the night away.

This is an Open Event, so handicaps will vary How's the programme for the tournament with very low markers right through to those shaping up? on the highest of 45. Anyone can enter the The CNC Committee accept the entries and event, as long as you have a current handicap. organise tee times, which will be forwarded to These events are all about being away with Kew prior to the event. Our Pro Shop has the your friends and enjoying the game of golf at a job of making sure we have enough carts for different course. those ladies who require them. We will need What's your favourite thing about the Spotters on the course on several of our tricky golf course at Kew Country Club? Is it a holes. challenging course?

A Meet and Greet will be held Monday Kew is definitely challenging; just when you evening (6th August) at 6pm at the Golf Club, think you have worked it out, a few bad shots at which time we will offer all ladies temporary bring you back to Earth! However, that’s what membership of the LUSC; they can catch up most of us like - different holes make you with people they haven’t seen since the last think about where you should be placing the tournament, check their tee times and generally ball, even though that isn’t how it works out have a catch up with others.

There is also a 9 Hole “Ball Comp” Monday sometimes.

As I say, sometimes the golf works, sometimes it doesn’t. If the weather is great, and you enjoy the company of the people you are playing with and the catch up after, a good game of golf is a bonus.

Where can we find out more info about the tournament and Women’s Golf Central North Coast?

Women’s Golf Central North Coast is a nonprofit organisation which provides a range of golfing experiences, on a variety of courses and for all levels of players. Clubs in the group’s district range from Bulahdelah in the south, through to Woolgoolga in the north, and west to Gloucester.

Each year WGCNC puts on two tournaments, including a senior tournament for those over 50 years and an open tournament for all ages.

Visit: http://womensgolfcnc.org.au/ Final say …

The Kew Ladies Golf Club is open to new members, and we also welcome any young girls who are looking to take up golf. We have a wonderful Junior Program at Kew and we hold the Jack Newton Junior Golf Tournament each year.

Thanks Pam. Interview: Jo Robinson.

with withClairvoyant ClairvoyantTerri TerriHall Hall Phone.

Phone.0424 0424818 818343 343

August 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

It is an exciting time for you and you need to be focused positively, yet you may have taken on someone else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way.

ENJOY! Clear Quartz is a wonderful amplifier.

Reconnect with your talent in teaching people.

You are able to share the most amazing insights and experiences, yet you’re afraid to speak for fear of how your words may be accepted. Focus on your intention or motive.

Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.

Family matters are likely to be an issue at present.

Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved.

Besides, did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things?

Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You may be feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any “hasty” decisions. Soon you will notice personal change and higher self-esteem. Good luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more and try to have no expectations GOOD or BAD of your relationship.

Citrine shatters negative energy.

You have been experiencing high levels of energy lately, which has led to the discovery of new talents. Congratulations! These new talents need to be honoured, so enjoy that typical “CANCERIAN” luck. Go have fun and play.

Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.

Your judgment is hurting you at the moment.

Listen to your inner voice, as you know your own answer. Others’ opinions are serving to confuse you further, and you are still not hearing what you want to hear. Like yourself enough to listen to you.

Turquoise gives self-confidence a boost.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Re-connect with passion for what you are doing.

You feel like you’re running on “auto-pilot” achieving goals, but to no satisfaction. Try making the most out of every breath. As you inhale, think happy. Try keeping a gratitude diary (three things daily you’re grateful for) for a month.

Ruby reignites passion.

If only you knew your worth! JUDGMENT is your major hurdle at present.

You may be self-doubting, and this is likely to affect relationships. Avoid major decisions until you are feeling a little more positive about yourself.

Orange Calcite washes away self-doubt.

You’re always searching for and chasing “that dream”. This is not a bad thing, if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the “you” you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness.

Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change. You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your newfound qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt.

Turquoise is great for self-validation.

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction.As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly. Spend some time in nature to release your tension.

Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

You may be confused by choice at the moment, especially since you may have wished for what you have. Remember: if it isn’t absolutely right, then it’s NOT right. Allow this challenge to give you a new standard to live by and don’t compromise that standard.

Selenite stimulates our inner brightness.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 57

Kirinari

HEALTH & CARE

services

ENRICHING LIVES

Kirinari specialises in providing individual accommodation solutions.

Supported Independent Living (SIL) Short Term Accommodation (STA) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).

People seeking accommodation solutions are encouraged to contact the Customer Service Team to discuss the tailored options available.

Accommodation can be short or long term, and in a variety of settings such as drop in support, one to one support or group home options.

Kirinari is a registered NDIS provider. If you need help learning how the NDIS works and how it will affect you, then call the Mid North Coast Regional Manager Jane Kennedy on M: 0459 853 858. We can help assist you to build your evidence portfolio or with your Service Coordination.

Our team has developed a NDIS Pre-Planning Tool to assist you during your transition into the National Disability Insurance Scheme. If you are not in the system yet, we can show you how.

Once you have met with your Local Area

58 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Coordinator (LAC) and your NDIS plan has been approved, we can provide you with a whole range of services under the scheme.

Kirinari offers Home Care Services to the community, post acute care and to Veterans.

We will come and meet you in your own home, and we travel to rural and remote areas.

“

Our team has developed a NDIS Pre-Planning Tool to assist you during your transition into the National Disability Insurance Scheme. If you are not in the system yet, we can show you how.”

For more information about how Kirinari can support you to have the happy and authentic life you choose, please call the Mid North Coast Regional Manager Jane Kennedy on M: 0459 853 858, email jane.kennedy@kirinari.com.au or visit us at www.kirinari.com.au

HEALTH & CARE

services

Kim Ritchie

H

Supporting C A M B O D I A

i Kim. Please share with our readers a little about yourself and what you do for a living ...

Hi Jo. I’m an osteopath; I’ve had my own business in Port Macquarie for 11 years now, and I have a great team working with me. We’re very fortunate to be able to help people with different injuries and the aches and pain they have. It’s very rewarding to be able to help improve people’s daily lives.

What’s your connection with Cambodia?

In 2012 I joined a team of girls from the North Coast area to raise money and awareness for women and children affected by sex trafficking in Cambodia. I’d been wanting to volunteer overseas, and the combination of this with cycling through the country really appealed to me. So, we spent 2012 raising money, we raised around $35,000, and we made the trip over there in October 2013.

We donated the money to several organisations: She Rescue home, Daughters of Cambodia, and Empowering Cambodia, and we volunteered several days to work with the organisations.

The country and its people have obviously left a lasting impression on you. What are the more confronting issues you discovered about the plight of some women and children in Cambodia?

Cambodia is such an interesting country. They have been exploited and taken advantage of by so many other nations, the greatest being the

A cycling trip in 2013 to raise money and awareness for women and children affected by sex trafficking was local osteopath Kim Ritchie’s first experience of Cambodia. The trip left a lasting impression, and to this day Kim still supports Cambodian women and children through the purchase of the bright and cheerful clinic gowns used at her business…

Khmer Rouge regime, which ruled Cambodia between 1975 - 1979. At this point in time, it is estimated that around three million people from a population of around eight million were slaughtered.

The Khmer Rouge targeted the more educated people in society, in order to control the people.

This left the country with a large percentage of the population - the leaders, educators, the white collar workers - basically exterminated and in a position to be vulnerable, to be taken advantage of and oppressed - a by-product of which is the large numbers of women and children held in or traded in various forms of sex slavery. Even today, child sex trafficking is a major issue both within Cambodia and also for girls shipped across borders into Thailand and other countries.

What I love about the people is that although there is still a lot of injustice in the country, the people have a great attitude to life. Instead of feeling sorry for themselves and adopting an attitude of entitlement or victimisation, a lot of the people are intent on changing the future, looking forward to brighter opportunities and more equality. They realise that travel and tourism is a great opportunity and are so accommodating and helpful for the tourists.

Can you explain how you were first introduced to the group of creative women seamstresses in Cambodia, and decided upon a way you could assist them with their new business?

Originally the girls worked in a clothing and textiles program, which was run by one of the

organisations we raised money to support. This program was to train women to have skills in clothing manufacture and to be able to work and earn a fair living.

As time went on, the organisation decided to move away from the clothing and textiles branch.

By this stage, I had dealt with the ladies for about three years. With communication back and forth with the lead organisation, I suggested we help the girls start a venture on their own, and I would continue to support them. Over the next six months, this became a reality, and the girls now work in a small shop themselves.

Describe the clinic gowns you’ve bought from Cambodia since - what do you most like about them?

I absolutely love the gowns. They are bright and cheerful with beautiful patterns. My patients are so disappointed if they have to wear the old gowns.

But, they are also a great story; they are a wonderful way that we can share our good fortune in growing up in a country with so many opportunities. We get to have beautiful coloured, cheerful gowns, and these ladies get to work for a living and provide for their family. Being able to work for the money and not just receiving handouts gives a greater sense of self-worth and possibility for a better future.

What does it mean for you to be able to help these women in Cambodia?

I truly believe that we’re so lucky to live in this country. We have a great education system, health care, access to clean, fresh water and

good food. We truly are, in terms of basic living standards, some of the richest people in the world. People in these countries don’t have the same standards or access to basic utilities that we do. For me, this a very simple way that we can share this wealth in a meaningful and constructive way.

What future travel plans have you made would you like to revisit Cambodia again?

I would love to get to Cambodia again. It would be awesome to get over there again to meet the new girls and see the new shop they are working from.

For those locals who may be interested in ordering their own clinic gowns, how would they go about it?

If anyone was interested in purchasing any gowns, they could contact the clinic on (02) 6584 6122 or by email: totalbalance2444@gmail.com Final say ...

People are often interested in helping others in third world countries, but unsure how to go about it. It can be as simple as ordering these gowns or shopping in Fair Trade shops or supporting non-government organisations, sponsoring a child, or researching Fair Trade shops that give back to the community when you travel.

She Rescue also produce jewellery that can be purchased online. All of these options are amazing ways to literally change the lives of others. I can be as simple as that!

Thanks Kim. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 59

60 Greater Port Macquarie focus

HEALTH & CARE

services

Garden Village.

Committed to Healthy Ageing through person-centric care

A recent publication released by the Australian Government Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2018, “Australia’s health 2018” gave an interesting insight into the biggest health impactors for people aged between 75 - 100 years old.

The top two most impactful conditions are Coronary Heart Disease and Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

As a retirement living and aged care facility, Garden Village is well placed to positively impact these concerning health factors and have a particular interest and focus on the preventative measures that can be implemented to help reduce the impact and likelihood of developing Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.

As a progressive aged care and retirement living provider, Garden Village developed Village Connections, a Dementia prevention and general wellbeing program. There are four key areas targeted within the program, including: 1. A healthy heart, 2. An active and engaged mind, 3. Increased social involvement, 4. A nutritious and healthy diet A range of weekly physical and cognitive

activities target these key areas, with residents enjoying everything from cooking demonstrations to meditation and social events.

This positive and preventative approach to wellbeing is a popular activity among retirement living residents and offers actionable and practical advice and activities, while remaining fun and socially engaging.

The Village Connections group is one example of ways in which Garden Village is practicing a person centred approach to healthy ageing.

Many other activities are available for residents to participate in, in both the retirement village and aged care facility.

Garden Village CEO Craig Wearne believes in prioritising and personalising the activities program and puts an emphasis on offering variety, with increasing choice and control for our residents and community. “Daily, we have an opportunity to do something to improve

This positive and preventative

the wellbeing of approach to wellbeing is a monthly activities calendar our residents. Social and personalised plans for a popular activity engagement and each resident, with a focus on among retirement physical and cognitive social engagement, physical living residents and offers activities represent a and cognitive activities, whilst actionable and practical advice large part of what we our professional chefs provide and activities, while remaining can do to enhance appetising and nutritious fun and socially engaging. someone's health and meals. happiness - so we need The Garden Village team to make sure that our is dedicated and aligned to offering is meeting their individual interests and our vision of providing person centred care and needs.” support to residents and families that ensures A team of dedicated activities staff develop healthy ageing which is person-centric.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 61

62 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Legatee Kerry Thomson & War Widow Edna Grimmitt, 100 years of age

Kerry, Allan and Stephen Jones (L to R)

Kerry Thomson

Legacy

HEALTH & CARE

services

Legatee Kerry Thomson is President of Port Macquarie Hastings Legacy. Chrissy Jones had a chat with her about the charity that provides services to families suffering after the injury or death of a spouse or parent, during or after their Defence Force service.

W

here did Legacy start and where does it operate?

Legacy has its origin during the First World War, when a dying digger asked his mate to look after his wife and kids for him. Back in Melbourne after the war, many veterans found that the returned veteran was being cared for, but no one was looking after the families of deceased veterans. In 1923, the organisation to be known as Legacy was formed.

Today there are 48 Legacy Clubs throughout Australia and one in London looking after veterans’ widow(er)s and their families.

Legacy Australia Incorporated is the national coordinating body, which represents the 49 individual clubs in dealing with government, the Australian Defence Force and other kindred organisations. Throughout the 49 clubs, there are some 4,300 active Legatees, which is the name given to volunteers who assist Legacy with their work.

What is the background to Legacy in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area?

Legatees have been active in the Hastings area since 1947, when individual Legatees were recruited in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area as part of the Taree Group of Newcastle Legacy. By 1953, the Taree Group had grown sufficiently and was able to become a Chartered Legacy Club. Legatees in the Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Camden Haven became members of that Taree Club. By 1972, the various groups in the area were drawn together to become the Hastings Valley Division of Taree Legacy. On the 17th March 1984, the Legacy Club of Hastings was issued with its own Charter. The club had

some 47 Legatees caring for 375 widows and 11 dependent children. On the 5th March 2008, the club changed its name from Hastings Legacy Club Inc to Port Macquarie Hastings Legacy Club Ltd. How did you become involved with Legacy?

In 1965, my war veteran father died in a crop dusting accident in Bundaberg, leaving my mother to raise three children under seven years of age on her own. This was when Legacy stepped in and supported our family for the next 18 years. We could never have managed without their help paying for our school uniforms and books, school excursions, farm stays and attending weekend camps at Narrabeen after we moved to Sydney. They also helped with job placements and even tertiary education expenses for one of my brothers.

When I saw an article in the Camden Haven Courier in 2002 asking for Legacy volunteers, I knew in my heart that it was the right time to give something back to Legacy. I admire our beautiful ladies so much for their stoicism and positivity, despite many having lived through the war years without their husbands, only to lose them again later in life when they are most vulnerable.

How many widows and children does Legacy look after?

Nationally, Legacy cares for some 65,000 widow(er)s and a further 1,800 children or disabled dependents of returned Veterans. Here in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area, we have 530 Legacy beneficiaries whom we care for in various ways. In recent years, Legacy changed its Charter to include caring for families of returned veterans who have given their health, i.e. they are struggling emotionally or physically to care for their families. Legacy is there to assist if the family

and/or the returned veteran ask for it.

What are the main activities of Legacy?

Legacy, with the help of generous public support, provides initial support to widow(er)s and families following the death of the returned veteran. This can be a trying time for families, especially those who have no other family support close by. Legacy can help in any dealing with government agencies like the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and help families claim any compensation they may be entitled to. Legatees provide companionship via home visits and also provide social events to guard against social isolation. Legacy also provides financial support by way of subsidised housing and minor financial assistance to families when appropriate.

How many volunteers or staff do you have?

Here in our Port Macquarie office, we have three part-time staff and 24 active Legatees.

We also have a number of part-time volunteers who help out at our fundraising events or social activities as appropriate. Our Junior Legacy Group has been active with the club for over 50 years and while not so junior any more, continue to help out at various events. We have several social groups, including the Laurel Club in Port Macquarie and our “Torchies” at Laurieton, who have been fundraising for Legacy for nearly 60 years. We also operate the Legacy Op Shop in Wauchope.

Where do your funds come from?

Here in the Hastings, we are fortunate to have a very generous population who support our annual fundraising events which centre around our Golf Day in April and our Legacy Badge week, which is always the first week in September. The “Torchies” and our Junior Legacy group are very active throughout the

year with various fundraising activities. We also benefit from rental income from our units in Port Macquarie and Laurieton.

What is involved with being a Legatee?

Our Legacy Charter says in part, that “The Spirit of Legacy is Service”; meaning that service to our beneficiaries i.e. our widows and families, is the key essential. In the early years of Legacy, only returned servicemen were eligible to become Legatees. Over time this requirement has been relaxed to include all members of the community who signify their willingness to provide adequate personal service to beneficiaries and to carry out all the other duties expected of them. We have various committee roles which Legatees are asked to fill from time to time, and we have a Board of Management consisting at the moment of seven Legatees, who oversee all aspects of the club including finance and governance issues.

Thanks Kerry.

Kerrys father, Sid Jones.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 63

focusinterview.

Michael Wilkie 5 0 0 K M

I N

5

D A Y S

Cycling 500 km across Thailand with a group of fellow riders to raise money for Hands Across the Water has been a life changing experience for Michael Wilkie. Not only was he able to support the work of this wonderful charity, but he discovered a lot about himself in the process ...

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hat made you decide to do the ride?

The decision to ride wasn’t taken lightly. There was a lot of internal debate whether I would physically be able to complete such an ambitious goal.

I’m by no means any form of athlete, or even necessarily sport inclined; however there were two main reasons that pushed me over the line to sign up.

At the time I needed a challenge! Something to keep me motivated to improve my overall fitness. What better goal to have than to ride 500 km in five days? The second reason was quite simple; I wanted to give something back to help others. When I did a little research on Hands Across the Water and discovered that 100% of money raised actually goes to the children and not marketing/administration costs, it was a real no-brainer.

I have been lucky enough to experience the Thai culture on a few work trips, and I knew that this small effort on my part would make a huge difference to other lives.

Tell us a little about the ride; how long were the days, and how did you keep motivated?

The ride route was through some of the most picturesque landscapes you could ever imagine, from rolling hills, green fields to stunning beaches; it certainly wasn’t a boring ride. The ride was meticulously planned; the friendships that were forged will stay with me forever, and they are definitely one thing that kept me 64 Greater Port Macquarie focus

motivated - hearing the encouraging words of another rider, or just talking through the pain up hills. For me, my biggest goal was to not ride one leg of the route in the support vehicle, so I just kept saying over and over in my head, “Don’t give up, don’t give up”.

How hot did it get, and were there any moments you thought you wouldn’t make it?

Ha, it was hot! Typical Thai weather - it was steamy and always hot. Day three broke me; it was the leg before lunch, and we were tackling rolling hills. I made a rookie error and lost my chain on a hill. I stood on the hill waiting for a mechanic - the sun beating down on me. It was the hottest day on tour, I had run out of water, and I really thought I was just going to pass out.

All of a sudden, another rider, Ben, rolls in, gets my chain back on and rides me back to the group. I really didn’t think I would make it in that moment, but it made me stronger! After lunch I re-hydrated and came out strong. I knew I could do anything if I just kept fighting; I had a real mindset change and embraced the ride after that.

Did you discover anything about yourself over the 500 km?

I feel like I got more out of this ride then I put into it, and for that I am forever grateful. I discovered so much about myself. I learnt I have the ability to achieve anything I set my mind to, I learnt how far I can push myself, and ultimately I think it just made me a more compassionate person.

I walked away from the ride with such a

I stood on the hill waiting for a mechanic - the sun beating down on me. It was the

greater appreciation The third was the of my life, and the orphanage we rode into hottest day on tour, I had opportunities I’m blessed on the last day - a total run out of water, and I to have. celebration dancing in the really thought I was just Tell us a bit about street, music, colour and going to pass out. All of a Hands Across the happiness. sudden, another rider, Ben, rolls Water and the You can’t describe the in, gets my chain back on and orphanage you feeling. It just fills your soul rides me back to the group. visited. with happiness and love. It Hands Across the makes you a better person.

Water was originally What was the highlight formed after countless of the ride?

Thai children were left alone and homeless by I really enjoyed the strong friendships that the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. Former police were developed with fellow riders, but for me forensic specialist Peter Baines, working with nothing will match the feeling of riding into the the tsunami disaster victim identification team, orphanage on day five, 500 km on the bike and was deeply touched by the number of children being warmly greeted in the streets by the kids affected by the natural disaster and was inspired - a totally euphoric moment that brought about to establish an organisation that could make a a lot of emotion. I’ll never forget those smiling real difference. faces.

At present, Hands Across the Water is the What local businesses supported your ride? biggest Australian and New Zealand charity Michelle and Michael of Percival Property were operating in Thailand; they provide a home and my major sponsors, paying for my trip costs as valuable education to 350+ abandoned and atwell as a donation to Hands. I could not ask for risk children in Thailand. We visited three Hands better bosses; from day one they assisted in my centres, the first just outside Bangkok, a “slum training, helping me set goals and motivating village” - this was extremely confronting. The me along the way. I’m forever grateful for them living conditions were absolutely atrocious. believing in me.

Also, my colleagues all contributed to my The second was a boys’ home for troubled fundraising efforts! So thank you! I’d also like boys. We were greeted by the boys wearing to take the opportunity to thank: Cassegrain Hawaiian shirts playing drums and warm smiles Winery, Sports and Spinal Physiotherapy, ENSO all round. After planting symbolic trees, the martial arts, FOCUS, and Settlers Inn for hosting entire riding team played soccer with the boys, the Karma Keg. and they loved it! It was a really humbling Thanks Michael. experience.

A big thankyou to the following businesses who supported our ride. 500km in 5 days for Hands Across the Water.

100% of your donation will go to changing lives, helping raise at-risk Thai children and their communities.

+ Joey Dable, Erin Conroy, Janette Hyde, Mitchell Davis, Matt Bromage, Michael Rose and Emily Pitt

For information on how to take part in the ride in 2019 / jay@focusmag.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

focus_tech

WITH

GAVIN MORONEY

Tech Head

TECH

Travel Kit PART 2

Travel gadgets are a huge market that makes the lives of travellers easier every single day. We constantly ask ourselves, what camera do I bring? How am I going to charge all of my devices? What do I do if I lose my bag? Don't worry, because we have you sorted with Part 2 of the Best Tech Travel Kit you can't live without.

66 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Tile: www.jbhifi.com.au take this camera literally anywhere; whether it’s This little piece of genius has saved not only my snorkelling in Fiji or skydiving in Dubai, or even time, but my sanity as well. This device, through at your next family get together, you will be the use of their app, will locate any lost bag, able to catch every minute of it with this video keys, wallet or even your phone. Tile is affordable and still camera that can fit straight into your and brain-dead easy to use; just attach it to pocket. Through the years I have found GoPro whatever you tend to lose! Although the app to be a little shaky when and Tile must be within filming, but with their Bluetooth range of each new image stabilisation other, it also connects to you are guaranteed to a database so that if you get some really nice, The GoPro should be no have your travel bag lost smooth footage. Make stranger to anyone, and or stolen, you or anyone sure you check out eBay there is a reason for it. else using the Tile app in and Amazon for GoPro With the rise of small close proximity to your bag accessories, as the GoPro action cameras on the will be able to update the branded accessories can market, the GoPro location of your lost item be a little pricey. still is a favourite on your map. It comes in amongst most due to its a few different styles. The Belkin Domestic Travel portability and quality.

Tile Slim is about three Surge Protector with 2 times the thickness of a USB Ports 2.4A: www. credit card and slips neatly officeworks.com.au into your wallet, and the Rounding off our list is something that may Tile Mate can be attached to your keyring. So if you're like me and spend countless hours looking not be the most exciting bit of tech, but it is something you shouldn't leave home without. for your keys or wallet, I’d highly recommend The Belkin Domestic travel surge protector is getting this neat piece of tech. a must have for charging on your travels. The GoPro Hero6: www.gopro.com adaptor has two surge protected AC outlets The GoPro should be no stranger to anyone, for powering devices. It also has two USB ports and there is a reason for it. With the rise of small action cameras on the market, the GoPro still is a favourite amongst most due to its portability and quality. The GoPro Hero6 comes with 4K Ultra HD Video, touch screen, 12 megapixel stills and voice control. You can

with a shared output of 2.4 A. It has easy to fold plugs to make it ultra portable, so it's great for taking when travelling. It also saves space by not having to bring 10 different chargers for all your devices.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 67

a special focus feature

68 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Kieren Dell M A J E S T I C

C I N E M A S

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? We are constantly expanding our operations to provide more content to more people, including redeveloping Port Macquarie less than five years ago to five screens, re-opening Sawtell Cinema in late 2015 and building a new four screen cinema in Kempsey, slated for mid 2019.

What excites you most about doing business here? The Mid North Coast is a vibrant, diverse and growing region, and we enjoy engaging with all parts of the community for shared big screen experiences. And of course, it is a beautiful part of the world to live and work in!

Being environmentally conscious is more prevalent than ever.

How is your business embracing this major shift in mindset?

We are looking seriously at how we can further reduce waste; in particular, the use of plastic across our business, on top of the pre-existing recycling programs which operate at our complexes.

Also, we have recently converted our Nambucca Heads cinema and head office to solar power, with Port Macquarie to follow soon.

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? Finalising an agreement to bring a beautiful new full-service cinema to the people of the Macleay Valley in 2019.

And, diversifying the content that we show our patrons, to keep them engaged, including an increasing number of community-led screenings, plus corporate and fundraiser events. We’ve devoted more of our resources to handling events across our business.

Mitch Joyce J O Y C E

C O N S T R U C T I O N S

James and Derek Collins COLLINS W COLLINS BUILDING DESIGNERS

How is your business planning for the future growth

When it comes to creating, where do you get your

of our region? We have just purchased a larger premises

inspiration?

that we hope to move in to by the end of the year; this will

James: Social media and graphic platforms such as Pinterest

allow our company to expand to keep up with demand as

are right up there for the latest innovative ideas and provide

our region grows. We are excited by this opportunity and

great inspiration.

look forward to grabbing it with both hands!

Derek: Raw materials and our natural environment - I enjoy

In terms of technology, how do you see your business

open space and bringing that outdoor natural feeling into a

changing? Smart homes are the way of the future; we also

home.

incorporate this into our commercial builds and shop fit-

How has your business changed in the last three years?

outs. This includes your everyday home functions i.e. lights,

Steady growth, new services and refined our existing services.

air conditioning and security. This technology enables you

In 2016 we built our office - love it or hate it, the iconic

to control these commands via mobile or tablet, whether

building inspires people to think beyond the norm!

you’re at home, work or doing the groceries!

What mindset do you carry with you in order to

What excites you most about doing business here? The

run your business? Keeping true to ourselves and not

lifestyle! People come to visit on holidays (fall in love and

compromising our values for financial gain.

want to stay) and we get the pleasure of working and

If you could be mentored by anyone for one day, who

living here. Along with growth comes diversity within the

would you choose?

population, which gives us a greater opportunity to become

James: John Walsh - a local architect whom I started my

more creative with custom builds.

career with, who sadly is no longer with us. John taught me

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? Some major projects which

so much in such a short amount of time. I would cherish the chance to have that time again.

we are very proud of including architectural builds, extensive

Derek: Other business - I’ve worked closely with many, learnt

renovations and stylish fit-outs.

from their experiences and gained new insights.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 69

Morgans P O R T

I

n the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments?

The continued evolution and ongoing improvement of our service to our clients is always the key priority for us as a business.

Our constant delivery of client satisfaction has led to an ongoing growth in referrals. One of our most notable accomplishments at any time is receiving testimonials such as the following: "Morgans have been terrific in listening to my specific financial planning needs and tailoring a relevant, well-priced solution to meet those needs. I cannot ask for more than that."

We are also very proud to support many local community organisations, including several local clubs and sporting teams.

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? Morgans is established as Australia’s largest privately-owned stockbroking and financial planning firm, with 58 offices around the country demonstrating

70 Greater Port Macquarie focus

genuine commitment to regional areas. We have the size, scale, technology and expertise to grow with the Mid North Coast.

We operate a unique structure, where the head office is privately owned by management and staff, while the Port Macquarie business is owned and managed by local Advisers. This combines the resources of a sophisticated national financial institution and award winning research team with a small business culture, where staff and clients are genuinely valued by local owners.

The resources we have access to via Morgans are exceptional, but we still invest heavily in our own research - tapping into eight leading brokers, independent research houses and a long list of Fund Managers and other specialists.

We continue to recruit great people. We search far and wide for the best people in the industry and then we provide them with the best tools, training and support we can possibly obtain. We are lucky that Port Macquarie is such a great place to live, so it attracts highly qualified people to the area.

M A C Q U A R I E

Our service offering is also growing and evolving with the increasing sophistication of the local area. Morgans Port Macquarie provide advice in strategic financial planning, portfolio management, superannuation and retirement planning, personal risk and life insurance, Centrelink, residential aged care and estate planning. We provide investment advice in shares, property, fixed interest and cash.

We are an actual "ASX Participant", which

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing? With more than 58 offices across all states and territories, Morgans has long been at the forefront of exploiting technology.

This is particularly relevant in terms of communications and investment administration.

speakers, which include the CEOs of Australia’s

Fundamentally, technology provides our Port Macquarie team with access to the same resources we would have if we were located in George Street, Sydney. These world-class resources combine with our highly experienced team to enable us to deliver a world-class service to our clients.

means we have direct access to the Australian Stock Exchange, with live pricing and straight through order processing.

Technology links us into a national video conference every single morning - this gives us daily access to research analysts, economists, technical specialists and the numerous guest biggest companies. This access is truly unique in the industry.

In an industry swamped with paper, we moved towards a "paperless office" more than 15 years ago by replacing filing cabinets full of paper files with electronic document storage.

The continued evolution of technology is exciting, especially the increasing speed of the internet, which links us directly to our clients and resources in the major cities and around the world.

Andrew Whitehead P O R T

C I T Y ’ S

D R I F T

B A R . C A F É . R E S TA U R A N T

Head Chef Andrew Whitehead, aka Andy, has recently taken the reins of Head Chef at Port City’s Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant. Andy has been extremely busy since taking over his new role, from creating a new winter menu, sourcing exciting and varied ingredients to developing inspiring new specials. Andy is a highly experienced chef, well-respected leader and forms an integral part of our business.

Coming from the background of being a butcher by trade, it was a natural progression for Andy to undertake training to become a chef. Andy’s attention to detail extends from farm-to-fork, with his passion for cooking with fresh and flavoursome local ingredients revealed to our customers in every single dish he produces.

An advocate of positivity in all areas of his life and work, Head Chef Andy enjoys the thriving and beneficial team environment present in the Drift kitchen. He enjoys leading his dedicated kitchen team to satisfy and exceed customer expectations, day in and day out. Finding constant inspiration in our region's myriad of fresh, seasonal local produce, Andy loves demonstrating the incredible breadth of opportunity these humble ingredients have to create extraordinary dining experiences.

Some of this season’s most popular dishes at Drift are our veal scaloppini, Manning Valley scotch fillet, southern style coffee rubbed pork cutlet, locally sourced seafood curry and our always popular pan seared Salmon with grilled lemon. While Drift’s highly anticipated winter menu has been received with delight by our members and guests, Andy is not a man who rests on his laurels. Expect to see bold and inspiring specials abound, as Andy continues to firmly stamp his mark on Drift.

Port City's Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant Port City Bowling Club, Owen Street, Port Macquarie Phone. (02) 6583 1133 Open daily, serving lunch and dinner.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 71

Donovan

Oates Hannaford At Donovan Oates Hannaford you’ll find something a little bit different. Firstly, our experienced and qualified team of lawyers aim to keep our clients at the centre of their legal matter or proceeding at all times.

W

e also prioritise clear and open communication with our clients about matters.

Here, our Partners answer some of our clients’ most frequently asked questions.

Without question, the team at Donovan Oates Hannaford firmly espouse that when a matter is complex, valuable and important, seeking and obtaining good legal advice before proceeding with a plan or proposal is highly recommended.

If someone is planning to sell their business, what are some of the key legal considerations they should pay attention to? When you are selling a business that you have worked hard to build, you want to ensure that you maximise your return.

Full disclosure and certainty about what you are selling and what your obligations are

72 Greater Port Macquarie focus

after completion is critical. Understand your restrictions on carrying on a similar business.

You certainly don’t want to risk any benefits of selling by having your buyer successfully claim against you.

Make sure you do not have ongoing obligations under your lease. The last thing you want is for your old landlord chasing you for rent your buyer hasn’t paid.

Above all, seek out good advice on this matter from someone you trust.

What are some of the legal complexities involved in commercial leasing that some people may not be aware of? This depends on whether you are the Lessor (“Landlord”) or the Lessee (“Tenant”) and whether the use of the property falls within or without the Retail Leases Act, 1994.

The Lessor as the property owner will want to be certain that there is a binding and legally enforceable Lease in place which clearly sets out the obligations of the Parties and provides certainty as to the relationship moving forward.

They will need to be clear on who maintains what, whether outgoings are payable in addition to the rent and what condition the property needs to be left in at the end of the Lease.

and forget” basis. Each Lease needs individual drafting to cover its unique circumstances.

The Lessee needs to clearly understand the obligations imposed on them, the rent review mechanism, whether the use of the property is legal, whether there is any demolition clause in place and who maintains essential services such as air conditioning, fire safety equipment and any grease trap.

The major benefit of using a solicitor for your conveyancing is that due to our legal training, we are able to assist you with a wider range of more complex issues that may arise around property law.

One of the most important points to note is that there is no generic or standard template Lease document that can be used on a “set

What is the difference between using a conveyancing lawyer versus a conveyancer in a residential property sale? The role of a solicitor or conveyancer in the sale or purchase of real estate is to ensure the correct legal transfer of the property from the vendor to the purchaser.

Establishing a good relationship with an experienced solicitor who has a wide breadth of expertise and training means you’ll have the benefit of our advice across a range of other legal issues as well.

George Miedecke M I E D E C K E

M O T O R

G R O U P

A lot of people say they are passionate about

I have realised though, that while many

their job or chosen industry. Having grown up

can provide a product, few businesses can

(literally!) in the Miedecke Motor Group and

provide remarkable service - and this has been

spending most of the last decade racing cars

the central focus for the whole team at the

full-time, I feel this statement rings particularly

dealership.

true for me.

I can’t think of a change we have made during

The last three years, both for the business and I,

the last few years that hasn’t been focused on

have been a time of change. For me, a baby girl,

improving our customer experience. Of course,

a new job and my first home.

we make mistakes at times, like anybody, but

For the business, a time of adaptation and

I’m immensely proud of the outcome so far.

changing priorities, as the information age takes

We pride ourselves on doing business with

hold.

honesty and integrity. My time racing has taught

me that a good business needs to be agile, give attention to detail and have the willingness to go above and beyond to ensure success.

Growing up on the Mid North Coast of Australia, one of the most beautiful places in the world, I have learnt that we are a community that prioritises attributes like honesty and trust - why should it be any different when you buy a car?

Miedecke Motor Group 100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie Phone. (02) 6583 8855

Greater Port Macquarie focus 73

Wrights Chartered Accountants

I

n the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments?

For our business, the most notable accomplishment has been a change in our Partnership. At the beginning of the year we welcomed Dan Wade as a new member of the Partnership team. Dan has been a practicing Accountant since 2005 and joined the Wrights team in 2013. He is a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) and has now become a Registered Company Auditor.

In his previous role as Audit Manager at Wrights, Dan has been involved in Registered Club audits, running the audits for six clubs within our region.

As a lot of auditors within our local area have retired or plan to retire soon, we are excited that Dan holds the qualifications and expertise in this field. They are not easy to achieve!

Our audit services are backed up by a team of

74 Greater Port Macquarie focus

A N T H O N Y

D E

J A G E R ,

D A N

W A D E ,

C H R I S

G A R R E T T

strategic accountants. We regularly combine service experience. We installed two major our specialist skills in audit, compliance and upgrades to our tax and SMSF administration commercial finance to provide our clients with last year, which will assist us and our clients effective solutions for instrumentally both this growth. We believe year and into the future. this combination of There are also significant Our business is skills and expertise technology changes that continually evolving with will stand the our clients face, such as business in good the introduction of new the new Single Touch stead for a number technology. We embrace Payroll requirement that of years. this transformation, as the ATO has introduced In terms of it generally means our to large employers this technology, how clients will benefit from year. do you see your a more streamlined All other employers are business changing? service experience. required to become Our business compliant with this from is continually July 2019. This change evolving with the means all of our clients introduction of new technology. We embrace who have employees will have to introduce this transformation, as it generally means our accounting software, such as Xero, MYOB or clients will benefit from a more streamlined

Quickbooks, that will enable them to comply with their Single Touch Payroll obligations.

Assisting our clients with this will be challenging; however, we believe this change will ultimately lead to us being able to provide them with more timely advice into the future.

How are you planning for business sustainability? Our change in Partnership is the fundamental starting point here. Our business essentially consists of three business partners who hold a 10 plus year outlook on the business.

We are also extremely fortunate to have a strong team behind us, whom we believe are integral to maintaining our client focus.

The combination of our Partners’ strategic outlook and our capable team allows us to move forward in an environment where clients require our advice on financial, legal and business environment changes.

Alistair Flower

S E T T L E R S

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? Settlers is in a very fortunate position to sit on 2 acres of land, and we have plenty of plans to completely utilise every inch! Our introduction of the kids’ playground has seen huge upside to our business and sits nicely with the target market of new people who are calling Port Macquarie home.

We have just had a DA approved for a new alfresco dining and lounge area, which will be an all weather area and feature a huge outdoor sandstone fireplace for the colder months. We are really excited about this addition and think we will have a nice little niche market in the Port Mac food and drinks scene.

We are also providing a few new “toys” in the kitchen, so we can cater for the expected increase of trade with renovations.

Further to this, we have a very stable and experienced team of staff who all have a commitment to service excellence.

I N N

H O T E L

&

F E R N H I L L

T A V E R N

What excites you most about doing business here? Clearly it’s the growth story of our region, and I believe the Council, State Govt. and appropriate bodies are actively looking at ways to better our existence.

I’m seeing a little heartache with the roundabout out the front of me at Settlers, but I know that this will be awesome for business once completed. Other businesses, especially hospitality businesses, have real confidence at the moment, which is evident with many recently completed renovations.

But what truly excites me about doing business here is the like-minded community-centric people who live here in Port Macquarie. Our community genuinely wants to see local businesses thrive.

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? We have had a great year; Settlers recently won the best community venue in NSW, with the national finals happening in Sept.

Personally, in 2017 I was awarded Australian Publican

The Pub’s Crew: Kirk Caracciolo, Matt Tonks, Shane Curry, Alistair Flower, Fabio Stansfield, Aaron Robinson

of the Year through the Liquor Industry Association, Hotel Operator of the Year through the Australian Hotel Association and locally, Port Mac Business Leader of the Year at the Port Business Awards - all very humbling, but my standout highlight was simply getting through the Stars of the Hastings dance comp without tearing my hamstring!

Community events and fundraising held at Settlers in the last 12 months have raised in excess of $150,000, which I’m very proud of.

Settlers Inn Hotel 101 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie Phone. (02) 6583 3100 Open daily from 10am, lunch and dinner.

Fernhill Tavern 4 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie Phone. (02) 6581 0377 Open daily from 10am, lunch and dinner.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 75

McGrath Agents N A T H A N

O W E N

&

D A V I D

G E A R Y

Property Sales Agents Nathan Owen and David Geary are close friends who had been operating independent of each other under the respected McGrath brand, until they recently decided to merge their individual portfolios and work as a team; two highly-experienced qualified professionals, combining their skills to significantly benefit their mutual clients: Nathan and David, in the last few months what have been your most notable accomplishments?

Our decision to join forces within the McGrath team was probably the best career decision we’ve ever made.

The ability to provide that additional level of service to clients and to potential buyers has substantially increased our sales results, whilst greatly reducing our "days on market" for listed properties.

What excites you most about doing business here?

We’re both North Coast locals. David still regularly plays competition sport in the region.

Nathan grew up in Port Macquarie, leaving to attend university, then to sell property in the UK and on the Gold Coast, but ultimately returning home. We both love the area, we love the people, and we’re immensely excited about the future.

76 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Matt Scully I N N E R V I S I O N

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? Our surf and skate business has been evolving for the last 35 years.

Being a bricks and mortar store, we rely on loyal, local customers. Our quality customer service and extensive product knowledge keeps them coming back.

Keeping up with the latest fashion trends, skate and surf technology is essential to remain competitive with online stores and relevant in our growing local economy.

What excites you most about doing business here?

Being born and bred in Port Macquarie, I love selling products to locals and then seeing them enjoying them down at the skate park or in the surf.

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? We have introduced skate and scooter workshops to our product mix. Over 500 kids so far have participated, learning maintenance, safety tips and basic tricks in a safe environment.

We have been building our brand and connecting with our customers. This is illustrated by people taking photos of themselves in their Inner Vision merch and sharing it on social media.

This increased brand awareness has transferred into local business awards.

Tony Kundicevic P O R T

C I T Y

S T E E L

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? We set long-term goals using our expertise and knowledge to continually produce world-class machinery and products; we have high growth potential, relationships with major corporations and have employed more staff.

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing? We plan to add robotics to designs, to push forward to be a world leader in our field, and purchase modern equipment and new software, empowering staff.

What excites you most about doing business here?

Supporting the local community, dealing with local suppliers and customers and a great work-life balance in a great climate.

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? Starting Port City Steel and providing general fabrication services. We improved our existing design and have created new innovative machines that are sought after in the timber industry. We also made our first export to New Zealand. We hired two apprentices and three other reliable qualified staff.

Being environmentally conscious is more prevalent than ever. How is your business embracing this major shift in mindset? We installed LED lights, use local suppliers to minimise freight impacts, only use electrical utilities if necessary and turn off when not in use, and we recycle our waste.

Andrew Norman N O S H T A L G I A

C A F É

Hi Andrew! As an esteemed Executive Chef with a career spanning more than thirty three years, what makes you most passionate about the industry? My passion for the food industry comes from its endless diversity. I have travelled to approximately forty countries throughout the world, and the variety of food styles, cooking techniques and ingredients means that the opportunities are only limited by your imagination.

You have worked in many prestigious locations, including Hamilton Island, Ayers Rock, on a Royal Caribbean cruise liner and throughout Europe, before establishing Noshtalgia here in Port Macquarie eighteen months ago. What have been your most notable accomplishments business-wise since opening? Without a doubt, our proudest achievement has been to take an empty room in an out of the way location and turn it into a warm and welcoming success story that has become one of the most popular dining venues in Port Macquarie. We have flourished in a very competitive industry, which tells us we certainly have a winning business formula.

Tell us about some of your food and dining philosophies? Making a mistake is okay and needs to be a lesson; however, serving a mistake and hoping no-one will notice is unforgivable. Think “YES” first! We live by this at Noshtalgia. People in our industry who think they can say no to a customer often just for the sake of it or because they cannot be bothered is very disappointing. The customer is NOT always right; however, at the end of the day the customer IS the customer. Food needs to taste even better than it looks. “Pretty food” that has no flavour is completely pointless to me. Good chefs can take ordinary ingredients and make them into something extraordinary.

What excites you most about the traditional home-style and value driven dining menu of Noshtalgia, and what are the key points of difference the café embodies? At Noshtalgia we have given people their food back. People love to reminisce. They love to show their children where they went for holidays and they love to remember the food their mother or grandmother used to cook. My grandmother was a wonderful cook, and I have adopted a lot of her techniques to allow our customers to recall fond memories.

Who and what inspires you in the kitchen, and what advice would you give to up and coming chefs stepping out launching their own restaurants and cafés? My mentor, a French national by the name of Michele Ruellan, is one of the main influences in my career. I owe this man more than I could ever repay. He was incredibly hard on me, and I thought he just hated me. I realised many years later he just wanted me to succeed. For any chefs or business owners who are thinking of owning their own business, the very first word I would urge you to learn is humility. It is NOT about you or what you want. If your customers do not like your product and you are not profitable, then you will be finished in no time.

Nostalgia Café and Restaurant 27/25 Hay St Port Macquarie (located in Colonial Arcade) Phone. (02) 6584 2222.

Open Mon to Sat, 8am to 3pm.

focusinterview.

with Michelle Parker from Parker & Co Communications

GRAEME McLauchlan

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R E T I R E D

raeme McLauchlan worked across a variety of roles during his career, which lasted almost 40 years in the Australian public service, including as the industrial advocate for the public service, a call centre manager, and the emergency management coordinator for an all of government call centre.

Graeme decided to retire in 2012. Well, so he thought …

Graeme and his wife Sue have a blended family of two sons and a daughter. Sue was born and bred on her family’s farm in Pappinbarra, and they decided to make a lifestyle change moving back there five years ago.

When Graeme decided to retire six years ago, moving to the farm was “as far removed from my previous life as I could get”.

The 60 acre property has a creek running through it and rolling green hills for as far as the eye can see. On their farm they have some stock (depending on the season), a couple of horses, two Kelpies, tractors, quad bikes and a “man shed” to store all his tools. Graeme has learnt to stock at least two of every spare part in his shed now, as it’s not a quick drive to the local store.

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In his retired farmer role, Graeme needs the Rotary clubs in the area have funded to be resourceful and willing to have a go Rotary Lodge at Port Macquarie Base at whatever crops up on the farm. This Hospital, which provides accommodation has taken him out of his comfort zone at for families so they can be close to their times, but Graeme is always willing to have loved ones undergoing treatment at the a crack at it. A willingness to embrace the hospital. country life with Wauchope Rotary an open mind has Club’s international contributed to some project is to support interesting stories for the rebuilding of a the grandkids one school in Bali. Graeme A WILLINGNESS day. and Sue’s love of travel TO EMBRACE THE Graeme enjoys took them to Bali COUNTRY LIFE WITH playing golf with with friends recently, AN OPEN MIND HAS friends on Tuesdays and they were able to CONTRIBUTED TO and Saturdays in visit the school. They SOME INTERESTING Wauchope. He were greeted with the STORIES FOR THE is also a member smiling faces of the GRANDKIDS ONE DAY. of the Wauchope children, who happily Rotary Club. Rotary accepted donations is a global network of books, colouring-in community of pencils and clothing. people uniting to take action. They do so Graeme said the best part about this visit by creating lasting change across the globe was “seeing that we can make such a and in our local communities. Graeme difference by simple gestures”, aligning says he joined the Wauchope Rotary with Rotary’s values of creating a better Club because it gives him a chance to get future for the community, nation and all involved within his local community and mankind. give back.

If you are interested in becoming Wauchope Rotary Club run the Saturday involved with Rotary, visit rotaryaustralia. markets in Wauchope, with proceeds org.au to locate your nearest club. going back into the local community. All of

By Jessica Oxley.

life AY IN THE AD

M Y D AY

6:00am Morning starts early on the farm; wake up and have some breakfast.

6:30am Take bales of hay down to the horses for their breakfast. Feed the dogs.

7:00am Sue goes to work and my farming day begins. I check the water and pump, check the fences to see if anything needs repairing.

10:00am Check the timber and chip any if need be for the fire in the evening.

11:00am Pop over and see Sue’s mother, who lives on the neighbouring property.

Check if she needs to be taken to any appointments and have a general catch up over a cuppa.

12:30pm Lunch time.

2:00pm Check the crops and do some work on the stables I am building for the horses.

4:30pm Wind down and relaxing time.

6:30pm Sue comes home from work and we catch up on the day’s activities whilst cooking dinner.

9:00pm Bedtime, as the day starts again bright and early tomorrow.

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WITH EAST COAST LASER

men!

look this way!

Paul Loughland P R O P E R T Y

C O N S U L T A N T

How has your business changed in the last three years? One word sums up the last three years, and that’s “Growth” - both professionally and privately.

Importantly, we are helping more people now than ever before. Our clients are from more diverse backgrounds, as we are working with clients that range from multi-million dollar developments to individual people looking for the first home, forever home, investment property or small development site.

What is one of the current challenges for local business, and how do you think it can be tackled? Again, growth. Our region is experiencing strong growth. With this comes new challenges of dealing with more people, new staff, increased competition, rising costs, and instant feedback via social media.

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A D V I S O R

We find meeting regularly via team “SNAP” meetings at the start and end of the working day can often help refocus the priorities and allows us to be more adaptive, quickly communicate and tackle issues as they arise.

What mindset or values do you carry with you in order to run your business? A client/ customer focused mindset allows us to keep our clients’ best interests at heart. Walking in someone else’s shoes to see their point of view helps provide clarity and empathy to challenges that our business and clients may be experiencing. Sticking to our core values helps ensure we keep our integrity, whilst being on the lookout to see how you can help others above and beyond what they may be expecting, always improves client and staff experiences.

Cosmedic non surgical procedures are not just available for women. In fact, in the last 10 years there has been an ever increasing trend in the number of men seeking treatments to improve their looks.

T

his can be simply for personal experienced injectors to sculpt a stronger satisfaction, or perhaps to chiselled jaw line, volumise and widen cheeks, gain a competitive edge in providing lift and a squarer set face. The goal, the workplace. Whatever the however, is to maintain a natural, balanced motivation, the demand from fresh look. men to look their best is growing and is much This is best achieved by a stepped approach more widely accepted today.

- slowly building up area by area with fillers Initially men were seeking procedures such until the desired look is achieved (total face as hair transplants and approach). teeth whitening. Today This non surgical men are looking to reverse approach is more Experts today sun damage, improve affordable than surgery have recognised skin health and gain the and has minimal discomfort that men who are confidence of permanent with quick recovery. body hair reduction. considered “good Other popular The use of anti wrinkle looking”, tend treatments men are injections and fillers has to have certain seeking are vascular laser been used on men for features alike that treatments to address many years; however, in gives them more common broken capillaries the past their treatment appeal than other and general flushing, as plan was often similar to men. well as reducing red noses. that of women, resulting Anti wrinkle injections can in a feminine look. help with embarrassing Experts today have excessive underarm recognised that men who are considered sweating. Double chins can now be dissolved “good looking”, tend to have certain features alike that gives them more appeal than other men. Beauty and desirable looks in both men and women are achieved by creating balance, good facial proportions and symmetry through the use of injectable treatments.

Men, however, are considered more attractive if they have a strong, heavier brow and a squarer set jaw line. Anti wrinkle injections and fillers can be used by

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with a series of quick injectable treatments with little downtime and can enhance men’s jaw lines. Men are wanting to turn back the ageing process and improve skin health. They are more informed about good skin care, and many are gaining the benefits by using prescription retinol, medical aesthetic lasers, injectable treatments and high quality skin care, including high SPF sunscreens.

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Dr. Darin Ballard

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M A C Q U A R I E

ow is your business planning for the future growth of our region?

We’ve recently relocated to new practices in both Taree aand nd Port Macquarie, which were designed to cater for population growth and also the number of dentists in the region who are now referring their patients to us for specialist orthodontic treatment. We also continue to build our team, with twenty employees currently operating from our clinics. Right now we’re actually looking for someone to join our team of dental assistants.

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing?

The rapidly changing environment that comes with advancements in technology remains our greatest challenge and impacts all aspects of our business from business and patient management systems through to highly specialised

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O R T H O D O N T I C S

dental and orthodontic techniques.

We pride ourselves on innovation and are always looking to be leaders in the service we provide our patients, so we know we must remain ever vigilant for areas to improve, and inevitably this will involve technology. This presents unique challenges being in a regional area, where our patients are entitled to expect the same quality of care as if they were in a metropolitan centre, and we want to ensure they are not disadvantaged because of where we live.

What excites you most about doing business here? Definitely the people.

Port Macquarie Orthodontics is our business name, because the people who deliver our service come from here and we only exist with the support of the patients and their families from our community.

We are a part of Port Macquarie and are proud to participate and contribute in ways that are consistent with the values

of our business and team members.

Orthodontic treatment is also typically a two year process, so we get to know our patients quite well during this time. We enjoy being a part of their lives that is life changing and a memory that will be discussed and shared for years to come.

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments?

We’re lucky enough to be in an environment where the team are witness to their accomplishments every day. Our new practice in Horton Street was also a big achievement, and we are really proud to have built it using local providers.

Overall, 88% of the project funds were spent within the local economy, with only specialist equipment sourced elsewhere.

Each year the team also run a charity ball and sponsorship campaign for their entry into the City to Surf, and so far have already raised over $22,000 for the Heart Foundation.

John Heckenberg H E C K E N B E R G

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? We’re in an expansion phase now and will be so for the next few years. My business is at an exciting crossroads; we are introducing some new ideas into the way we do things and the way we interact with our clients that will help us rise above the “sea of sameness” among accounting and tax firms. I’m excited about the growth that’s been happening in our region, because it means more opportunities for sustained employment growth and educational opportunities.

I’m sure I’m not the only parent out there who has had to send their kids away to college, usually to a capital city, to get the qualifications they want. Charles Sturt University now gives our school leavers an opportunity to get a

tertiary education in this beautiful part of the world, and as employers it gives us the chance to keep local kids in the area after they graduate - surely a win-win outcome!

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing? It’s a no-brainer to say that our industry, like many others, is being forced to embrace online solutions and automation of processes. We aim to be the “computer concierge” for our clients, so that the transition to online life is not so scary.

Many business owners are concerned about technology-driven industry disruption and how they will survive in the future. We look at this not as a threat, but as an opportunity.

What excites you most about doing business here? You can do business pretty much anywhere these days, as long as you have

A C C O U N T I N G

wifi. Having said that, I’m excited about doing business here, because it’s just such an attractive place to live and work. I’m talking more and more often to the new generation of business owners and entrepreneurs (Millenials and Generation Z) who certainly keep us on our toes with their energy and new ideas.

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments?

• Rebranded my business from O’Connor Heckenberg to Heckenberg Accounting - now twenty-five years in the same central location.

• Chalked up thirty years as a Port Macquarie resident.

• Having retired from triathlon competition, I’ve signed up for some different personal challenges later this year - I’m doing a Tough Mudder race

with one of my sons, and I’ve also signed up for my first stand alone marathon.

Being environmentally conscious is more prevalent than ever. How is your business embracing this major shift in mindset?

It’s something that can only be done incrementally, in my opinion. Small changes here and there all add up.

• We’ve been handing out reusable shopping bags for several years now; yes, we beat Coles and Woolies to the punch!

• We’ve replaced our power-hungry fluoro lights with LED systems.

• We embrace paperless record-keeping and archiving; all our paper waste is shredded and recycled.

• Our coffee pods are also recycled!

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David COOKE Dr.

Dr David Cooke is a local GP, and the proud owner of the 1950 de Havilland Chipmunk aircraft you can see on this month’s front cover! David’s family has an interesting aviation history - he’s a member of one of only a few four-generation flying families in Australia and has himself spent some time working with the Royal Flying Doctor Service …

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i David. How long have you lived in Port Macquarie - and what area of medicine do you practice in? I have lived in Port Macquarie for nearly twenty years, working as a GP at Lighthouse Medical Centre.

Apart from family medicine, I do a lot of skin cancer work, having trained years ago as a surgeon and obstetrician.

Since 1969 I have been a DAME (a Designated Aircrew Medical Examiner).

There's a long history of aviation in your family - four generations have all been pilots! Please run us through a little of your family's connection with planes, starting with your grandfather.

I am one of only a few four-generation flying families in Australia’s history. My grandfather, Lionel, had the eleventh flying licence issued in Australia. He learnt to fly in 1915 in the second course of the Australian Flying Corps. He flew the Bristol Boxkite at Point Cook and then became an instructor.

My father, Rolla, was a Spitfire pilot who went to the UK in 1941 as a fighter pilot. He was killed in November 1941, one month before I was born.

In 1945 my mother married another pilot, who was killed just before the end of the war. She then married yet another pilot in 1949, and he fortunately reached old age.

My two sons, Anthony and Michael, have a

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corporate jet company based in Brisbane. They employ eight pilots and operate jet aircraft that accommodate ten to twenty passengers. They fly clients all over the world, as well as in Australia.

Their clients range from celebrities, actors, comedians and pop groups to business executives.

When I get the chance, I occasionally fly with them and despite the fact that I partially taught them to fly, they are quick to tell me, "Don’t touch anything, Dad!” My two daughters have always been enthusiastic co-pilots.

With a history like this, there was probably little doubt you'd learn to fly! How old were you when you first flew a plane - and where/when did you gain your pilot's licence? From an early age I would tell anyone who would listen that I would become a flying doctor, and in 1958 as I was about to start medicine, the RAAF Reserve taught me to fly. I was seventeen when I started and gained my licence in 1959. After graduating in medicine in 1965, I returned to flying and gained my commercial flying licence.

For how many years did you work with the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia?

What did you find the most rewarding about this aspect of your career? In 1968 I joined the Northern Territory Aerial Medical Service and worked for a year based in Darwin and Alice Springs. I then moved to the Queensland branch of the RFDS until 1974. I operated from the Mt

Isa base, covering an area the size of Texas and then from the Cairns base, covering the Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait.

It was exciting work, often having to set fractures without X-rays and operating in very basic surroundings. There was no satellite navigation or weather radar, and we often had to unwittingly fly through storms.

It was stimulating to work under such difficult conditions, and the people of the outback were so appreciative of the service we provided. It was rewarding to enable people to work in this hostile environment, secure in the knowledge that the RFDS would come to their aid in time of need. I was on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Having the same licence as my pilots, they often let me fly the aeroplanes, and in return they would assist me at operations.

Describe the 1950 Chipmunk aircraft you own. What was it originally used for? How did you come to own it? Ten years ago I bought the 1950 de Havilland Chipmunk. They were designed as an Air Force training aircraft and in fact, I did part of my training on them. I love old aeroplanes and have owned a couple of 1940 vintage Tiger Moth bi-planes over the years.

In 2001 - 2004, the Tiger Moth was used for joy flights here in Port Macquarie.

How often do you fly this beautiful bird and what's it like to fly compared to more modern aircraft? I usually fly the Chipmunk

once or twice a week. Most Saturday mornings around 8am I fly as part of a formation team of four aeroplanes. We’ve become a regular sight heading around the town and along the coast.

Patients will often say, “Did you see me wave?”

I reply that with other aircraft so close to me, I’m certainly not looking at the ground and most certainly not waving!

These older aircraft are a lot harder to fly than today’s sophisticated aircraft.

You also fly regularly to South West Rocks for your medical practice, and I'm assuming you don't use the Chipmunk for this purpose! What other type of plane do you own?

Old flying doctor habits die hard. Two mornings a week I use my modern Beechcraft Bonanza aeroplane to fly to South West Rocks to assist at another medical practice. It only takes eleven minutes in the air, and I land in a cow pasture which the owner clears of cattle for me.

What do you enjoy most about flying? Aviators are a strange breed. We just love to be up in the air, where it is hard to worry over earthly problems. Perhaps it is best summed up in a poem by G R Wilson: “… none, not one, who truly loves the sky would trade a hundred earthbound hours for one that he could fly.”

Thanks David.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Alistair Flower S E T T L E R S

Richard Sheargold R S

M E D I A

What do you love about living in the Greater Port Macquarie region? That one is easy; I can get a decent coffee ... And of course, beer!

C O N S U L T A N T

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? RS Media Consultant has recently expanded its product range to cover all areas of marketing; we can now act as a marketing broker to fully cover all marketing needs. Now we offer flyer drops, poster deliveries, organising newspaper, radio and TV ads, and so much more!

Port Macquarie is simply a beautiful part of the world, and I love the fact that you can feel a million miles from anywhere but when required, it offers fantastic cosmopolitan living. All the amenities and services of the larger cities, like great hospitals, schools and restaurants can be found in our backyard - and all probably five minutes from each other! But most of all, what I love about the region is its people. We simply have a fantastic and caring community. It makes it so easy to run a business here, when locals genuinely support you and hope you do well.

We also now hold classes to train people in how to manage their social media better themselves; head to my Facebook page for details.

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing? We are constantly learning new skills and formulas for online advertising but with the smaller and smaller design of computers, tablets and phones, it is now possible and will only get easier to work from any location. I can now build a full social media profile from your office, using just the phone and tablet I brought with me.

What excites you most about doing business here? Port Macquarie is growing rapidly and is developing fast with technology too! To be at the forefront of that development is extremely exciting! Learning about the new ways to market business and growing my knowledge is extremely exciting!

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? Being able to work on national promotions with celebrities has been amazing, but the true accomplishments we’re proud of have come from watching small business and artists learn and develop their marketing skill and seeing great growth in their business.

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Mitch Joyce JOYCE CONSTRUCTIONS

What do you love about living in the Greater Port Macquarie area? Aside from business, it’s just such a beautiful place - beach one side, bush the other. What more could you want!

How do you like to spend your down time? I have a farm at Telegraph Point where I love spending time; it’s where I was born and bred. I love the beach, golf, and I try to get a session in at 2444 CrossFit most days and also do a bit of pistol shooting on the weekends.

My partner and I also have two dogs who demand attention when we are home. Other than that, relax and Netflix!

Matt Scully I N N E R V I S I O N

S U R F

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S K AT E

What do you love about living in the Greater Port Macquarie area? Well, I have surfed and fished this area now for the last 43 years, and I am still exploring and finding new places that I have never been to before.

How do you like to spend your down time? My family and my friends are my everything; as long as it’s with them - I’m in.

Oh and my boat ... my happy place!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 85

David Bartush E A S T E R N

T O U R

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? Having only established our company in August 2017, the past 12 months have been a very busy and productive period for Eastern Tour Services. We have now set up a variety of affiliated accommodation providers on Lord Howe Island catering for all budgets, installed a new online booking System, partnered with a variety of travel agents to promote our products and delivered twice weekly scheduled flights to Lord Howe Island.

What excites you most about doing business here? The Mid North Coast is a dynamic area, with a diversity of tourism related business and a very healthy growth pattern. Port Macquarie, in particular, is well situated as the departure point for not only Lord Howe Island, but outback adventure tourism. The most

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S E R V I C E S

exciting thing will be to see Port Macquarie as a major destination for both domestic and international visitors.

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? Our primary focus has been to promote our region as a destination, not just a stopover to elsewhere for both domestic and international visitors. We promote Port Macquarie as The Gateway To… We are expanding our network of affiliated travel agents and inbound agents to promote our accommodation/flight packages on Lord Howe Island, as well as our small bespoke group only one day tours to Lord Howe island and the opal capital of the world, Lightning Ridge, with more day tours to follow. All our packaged tours will include, as an optional addition, local tours/attractions and accommodation in Port Macquarie as well.

Andrew Bell M A C Q U A R I E

S I G N S

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region? We have expanded our team, which enables us to complete jobs with a minimal turn-around time. As Port Macquarie expands, so does Macquarie Signs, so we can keep up the same level of service and high customer satisfaction that we have always maintained.

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing? In the past 12 months we have adapted our business for growth and sustainability by becoming a leader in the Port Macquarie signage industry and by investing in numerous new machines. This gives us the capability to speed up our production, which takes our turn-around time for jobs down to hours, rather than days.

What excites you most about doing

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business here? Being born and bred in Port Macquarie, I love being involved in the local community. We live in a prime location with a strong community vibe, so it’s a privilege to be able to provide a service in Port Macquarie, whether it be welcoming a new business to town, revamping an existing business or charity promotions. We sponsor many community groups and events. We like to be involved!

In the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments?

We’ve achieved some great things; it would be hard to narrow it down to just one. What comes to mind is the refurbishment of Sails Resort. As part of this contract, we also completed signage for Tacking Point Tavern, The Beach House and Macquarie Hotel; one of the biggest jobs our team has completed. It’s refreshing to see such change in Port Macquarie.

Robert Newton N E W T O N

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ow is your business planning for the future growth of our region?

At the moment our business is a family affair - I do the measuring and installing and my wife, Melinda does the admin, ordering and organising my calendar. Having had a large franchise in the past with lots of staff, we are certainly not afraid to take on more personnel and be able to manage that situation effectively. In the meantime, we are enjoying the personalised service we are now able to provide to our customers. When the time comes to expand the business further, we will, of course, look for people who have the same customer service values we have and who have very high attention to detail.

In terms of technology, how do you see your business changing? In the background, technology is always improving our processes for quoting and ordering. Our suppliers are always advancing their techniques and machinery to provide consistent, high-quality products, but in the day to day dealing with our customers things

B L I N D S

such a fantastic part of the world. We live in may never change; we offer old-fashioned service Beechwood, so we enjoy the relaxed living, as well - we come to you, take measurements, bring as the beaches and liveliness of Port Macquarie. the samples so you can choose in the comfort Port Macquarie, as a business base, of your own home, is a thriving region, and we are all and assist you every fortunate to have an abundance step of the way - with of work to keep us busy. In our custom made items At the moment experience, Port Macquarie and of this nature, I don’t our business is a its surrounds seems to be a little think there is a better family affair - I unique and often immune to way. Our products, do the measuring outside influences which can affect particularly the fabrics, and installing and the economy of other regional still can’t be depicted my wife, Melinda areas. well enough using does the admin, photos, so it’s important In the last 12 months, ordering and for customers to see what have been your most organising my the real thing. notable accomplishments?

calendar.

Without a doubt, it has been What excites you the establishment of our own most about doing independent business. After having business here? Having owned a blind franchise in Port both grown up in the Macquarie for 11 years, we were really excited to Hastings, Melinda and I appreciate enormously be able to establish our independent business last the fact that we can provide for our family whilst October. This has given us the freedom to choose enabling our three daughters and us to live in

our own suppliers and products. Our greatest achievement throughout this process has been receiving overwhelming support from so many previous customers, as well as many new ones which we are greatly appreciative of and are also very proud of.

Being environmentally conscious is more prevalent than ever. How is your business embracing this major shift in mindset? Our range of products can assist with reducing energy usage in the home, which is a very important factor - environmentally and economically - to all home owners. Our products, by nature, have a lot of packaging - we have always been very motivated and consistent in recycling all the different types of packaging, so they don’t end up in landfill. Part of the service we offer is the removal and disposal of old blinds when we are installing new ones. At this point we reduce the blinds down to recycle the aluminium and metals, before disposing of the remainder at the tip. Any items still in good working order are donated to the Willing and Able Recycling Store.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 87

Jason Sharp + Chris Browning M A C Q U A R I E

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n the last 12 months, what have been your most notable accomplishments? This year is a special one for MBA; it’s our 18th birthday!

Many of our clients have been with us since we opened in 2000, which is really quite special and something we are incredibly grateful for.

We’ve launched a range of specialised services to meet the needs of our business clients.

These services cover the entire business lifecycle - we call them LAUNCH, GROW, REINVENT and EXIT. We recognise every business fits within one of these areas, so we wanted to ensure we had a range of tailored services to meet each and every stage. We’ve also invested heavily in cutting edge technologies, including digital document signing, so it’s now quicker and easier than ever to communicate with us.

What excites you most about doing business here?

Living and working on the Mid North Coast - it really is the best of both worlds. We get to work with modern and talented business people, sharing that same sense of community, and we also get to enjoy the relaxed coastal lifestyle.

B U S I N E S S

tailored, and our people are trained, to provide nothing but the best outcomes for our clients.

As our region grows, so too will the number and size of the businesses within it. Our focus will always be helping those businesses, at whatever stage of the business lifecycle they are in.

A C C O U N T A N T S

mobile and, undoubtedly, our ability to help and communicate to clients will extend, not just beyond traditional office hours, but also beyond physical boundaries such as distance and location. Even now, we participate in regular online meetings, so we expect to see a

We are very excited about the growth Adapting to change is throughout the region, In terms of technology, the key to survival and especially the airport how do you see success. For us, a critical your business changing? expansion, commitments area is the efficiency and One word springs to mind from new universities and improvements along speed in which we can … CONSTANTLY. Adapting the Pacific Highway. share information with to change is the key to These are fantastic our clients. survival and success. For steps forward for our us, a critical area is the community, bringing jobs efficiency and speed in and opportunities to the area. which we can share information with our

continuing evolution, with the role of a “virtual

How is your business planning for the future growth of our region?

correspondence we send is via electronic means

Our focus is on business, so our services are

clients. The use of digital communications and cloud based software solutions have become increasingly important. Our team is becoming

advisor” being a part of our future.

Being environmentally conscious is more prevalent than ever. How is your business embracing this major shift in mindset?

We are in the process of moving to a paperless workplace. We have already implemented a new system where clients can sign, save and transmit their documents online, reducing the amount of printed materials. Most of the wherever possible. We like to think this helps in an environmentally responsible way.

WH E R E VE R YOU AR E IN YOU R B USIN E SS CYCLE …

LAUNCH

G ROW

REINVENT

EXIT

…W E C A N H E L P YO U E A C H S T E P O F T H E WAY 6584 7776

www.mbacc.com.au

info@mbacc.com.au

@mbacc.com.au

11 Murray Street, Port Macquarie

linkedin.com/company/macquarie-business-accountants

88 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Matt Conway T H E

C

ongratulations Matt. How exciting, with The Burger Rebellion being named as one of the top 10 Burger Places in Australia through TripAdvisor … How excited are you, and how did this happen?

I’m stoked and super happy about it, of course!

The result is completely out of our control, which makes this so much more exciting. We didn’t even have a TripAdvisor page; a customer came in one day and asked if they could do one for us, as they wanted to leave a review - so we said: “Yeah, why not?” They took some photos, and that was it. I checked the page out in late 2015 and don’t think I have looked at it since.

I was completely surprised - I had no idea that it was coming, nor that it had happened. It was actually one of my mates, Dean Lawler - he gave me a buzz and said, “Hey, do you know what you guys have done?” My reaction, of course, was, “No - no idea!”

To have our customers take the time to go and leave reviews is really something special, and we are of course over the moon and very honoured.

How long has Burger Rebellion been open?

We have been open now for nearly three years.

We were lucky enough to hit the ground running, - we were very busy straight away, and that was awesome. It’s been steady ever since.

So, why burgers?

At the time, Port Macquarie needed a burger joint. In 2014/2015, Port Macquarie was just

B U R G E R

R E B E L L I O N

starting to expand rapidly; I felt like the people were screaming out for some decent burgers, and I thought, “Well, why not …”

You are always keeping the menu up to date with feature burgers; what is the offer for August?

Our August special is brought to you by my mate Stewy, who owns the business Doppio or Nothing. Doppio or Nothing is a local coffee business that services cafés from Newcastle through to the other side of Coffs. Doppio or Nothing is Italian for double or nothing, so what we have in store for our customers is that this month’s burger can be doubled!

The burger we have chosen is a Barbecue Beef and Bacon, which will have a fried egg and onion rings etc. so it will be more of a traditional burger which people have been screaming out for. It will definitely be a crowd stopper! All you have to do when you order is say Double or Nothing, and

of; an example is the Burger in a Bowl. This was something I just threw together before we opened to give

The Burger Rebellion is proudly among the top 10 Burger places in Australia via the TripAdvisor website!

gluten free people more

you’ll get the burger!

of an option, but that

How has The Burger Rebellion changed since

has taken off massively.

you first opened the doors?

Our procedures and the way we do things have

Massively! Not too much from the customers’

evolved as well. You start out with a vision in

perspective; our menu has been tweaked and

your head of what you think it will be like and

amended along the way, but as far as the

what you should be doing, but in the end you

business operating and the way we do things,

just have to respond to how and what your

I feel as though it is constantly evolving and

customers let you know about.

constantly changing.

Where to from here; do you want to be the

There have been so many things that have

best burger joint in Australia?

changed from my conception and what I started

WOW! Look to be honest, we are still wrapping

with ‘til now - things that I didn’t even think

our heads around being in the top 10. We

feel that is a massive achievement and one, like I said before, we are so honoured to have. There are massive amounts of burger places around, the industry is out of control, so to be in the top 10 is awesome.

Our main goal and what we have been working towards for the last 12 months is consistency. We need to maintain our happy and friendly staff, having a consistent product, engaging with the customers. We have a huge amount of locally sourced produce; we will concentrate on the local area and freshness, as well as making sure that what people are getting is exactly what they are asking for.

Thanks Matt and again - congratulations.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 89

focusinterview.

Lindy PECK

After a 20-year career with the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre, Manager Lindy Peck is about to embark on her next life chapter - retirement. Lindy feels very blessed to have been surrounded by a wealth of supportive staff and volunteers during her time at the centre, and here she shares some insight and memories from the past two decades …

H

i Lindy. Please give us a rundown of your career history and how you came to be associated with the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre.

I commenced work at the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre on 1st July 1998.

Until that time I had no experience with social welfare or not-for-profit services, but had a background in finance and business.

I soon realised, however, that working in this sector would entail entering a learning curve which would be challenging but extremely rewarding, and would convey myself and all our staff over varying aspects of humanity in our community.

What does your role as Manager at the centre involve?

A Neighbourhood Centre’s role is to develop and deliver programs and services to the most disadvantaged in the community, specifically children and families. This means identifying those who need the most assistance, and how we can best provide this, while at the same time encouraging them to become their own agents of change.

Currently at our centres in Port Macquarie and Wauchope, we provide over 40 programs that include a wide range of information, referral and advocacy projects, plus direct service delivery.

The Manager is responsible for the dayto-day operation of all programs, including financial and staff management, and for reporting to funding bodies and other government entities.

90 Greater Port Macquarie focus

You’re retiring after 20 years at the Neighbourhood Centre, which is a remarkable achievement. What have you most loved about your job over this time?

Yes, 20 years does sound a long time, but with a centre like ours - which is constantly evolving - it keeps you on your toes. So many things about my time here have been uplifting and inspiring, but also upsetting and confronting. Of course, we see the good and the not-so-good, but our job is to give assistance where needed, without prejudice.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting some wonderful, genuine people who desperately want to improve their circumstances and escape the cycle of poverty many have been in throughout their lives. I’ve met women who left school at 13 to have their first child, who have not been able to gain employment, but who have battled to feed, clothe and house their children, and have raised wonderful young people determined to become independent and self-sufficient. These are the people who motivate you to keep coming to work every day.

Many people have multiple career/job changes those days. What’s been the main thing that’s kept you with the Neighbourhood Centre for 20 years?

As challenging as this position has been, it has been a delight to work with the dedicated staff and volunteers we are fortunate to have within our organisation. All our staff are committed to the client-base they serve, as are many others who work in the welfare sector - often working extra hours which funding restraints dictate they will not get paid for.

MY MESSAGE TO ALL THE STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS IS THAT I AM SO PROUD OF ALL THE GOOD THEY DO FOR THE COMMUNITY, ESPECIALLY AS THEY DO IT SO SELFLESSLY.

Our volunteers are exceptional, generous people who enable us to keep our doors open.

They fulfil so many roles in most of our programs, many of which we could not deliver to the community without their ongoing valuable contribution.

What have been some of the biggest changes you’ve witnessed in your industry?

For the first several years in this position, the overwhelming majority of our clients were welfare-only income recipients. Over the last perhaps five to six years, there has been a dramatic change in this demographic.

About 50% of our clients are now households where at least one adult is working, albeit in an unskilled, low-paid position, and only on a casual basis.

One of the biggest changes I’ve seen in this sector is the enormous impact the soaring cost of living expenses is having on not only welfare-only households, but on more traditional households where one parent or carer works, while the other is at home raising children. These families just cannot pay for all their cost of living expenses, buy food and pay exorbitant electricity and gas bills, and many of these households are going hungry.

This is something we didn’t see years ago … then, one income was sufficient to sustain a family, but not today. These families need real help, and the help needs to be soon.

What’s a funny or moving moment you’ve experienced at the centre that still makes you smile to this day?

There’ve been so many funny and touching moments over the last 20 years that I’ll never forget. I think the most rewarding times are when clients who are difficult or resistant to change learn to trust you and become friends.

One of my favourite times is when we hold our Neighbourhood Centre Christmas Party.

We have nearly 150 children attend the party to meet Santa and receive a gift. For many of the children, this will be the only gift they’ll receive at Christmas, so it is doubly special.

What messages would you like to pass on to your fellow team members?

My message to all the staff and volunteers is that I am so proud of all the good they do for the community, especially as they do it so selflessly. Our volunteers especially are special people, not asking for recognition or reward for all the hours they put in. As many other not-for-profit organisations would state, we wouldn’t be able to keep our doors open without their help. I wish them all ongoing success.

What are your plans when you retire?

My plan is not to have too many plans - I want to spend the next six to 12 months spending time with my family here and in Newcastle. After that, who knows? At the moment I’m leaving my options open.

Thanks Lindy.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre Inc: www.pmncinfo.org.au/

focus_contributor

MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

business and then putting the whole thing under a spotlight of scrutiny for the awards makes them automatic winners.

This year’s entrants were of a particularly high standard, with many new and innovative businesses taking part for the first time. Judges also reported that it was notable that so many businesses regularly contribute to our community through charitable donations, sponsorship of sporting clubs, volunteering and being unpaid board, club or charity group members. Once again, this demonstrates that small business owners are not only key to the local economy, but big contributors to the fabric of our community.

Minding your

I am sure everyone would agree that Co Host Cameron Marshall did a wonderful job and MC Jean Kitson was at her usual comic best, which made for a very entertaining and fun evening.

Business Awards Wrap Up. The Holiday Coast Credit Union Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards Gala night held on Saturday 28th July has once again showcased the very best of local businesses in Port Macquarie.

T

he event celebrates the commitment, enthusiasm, talent, ingenuity and tenacity of local entrepenuers who aspire to better themselves and their

community. These are the type of people whose businesses employ so many local people and contribute daily to our free enterprise economy,

which provides a high living standard for our community.

Every entrant at the business awards was a winner before a vote was cast. This is because they dared to challenge themselves, to “have a go� and back their talent and energy to be successful. Starting a business, running a

The Chamber of Commerce thanks the major sponsors Holiday Coast Credit Union and congratulates all entrants, finalists and award winners for their participation and achievements.

A special mention also goes to the Chamber of Commerce Sub Committee and staff, who organised and coordinated this wonderful event.

Taking a broader view, recently released economic data has confirmed the many positives of living and working in this area. The Gross Regional Product for our area has grown by an amazing 13.85% to $4.8Bn for the year ending 2017. This is effectively the increase in growth in the value of what local businesses produce, reflecting increased business activity in our region, which has been

evident for several years now.

As a result, unemployment in Port Macquarie has continued a trend downwards to around 4%, which is certainly welcome news. However, skilled labour shortages remain an issue for local businesses, particularly in hospitality, service and tourism. Currently Chamber is working closely with employer groups and training providers to address incentives and training in this area of need.

Last month the NSW Government announced 100,000 TAFE Apprenticeships and this week we heard that the NSW economy created 27,000 jobs, so there are many positives if you are seeking training and employment. Chamber encourages all job seekers to check out the TAFE website or contact our office for more information on what courses are available.

Despite the buoyant economy here on the coast, farmers and businesses in drought affected areas in Western NSW are far less fortunate.

According to all reports, the extended drought over the ranges is the worst since records started over 100 years ago. This is not good news for food production long term, as pastures are being devastated and farmers are either selling off or losing breeding stock through starvation.

Chamber is currently investigating measures to offer our support to drought affected farmers, and we encourage businesses or individuals to do whatever they can. It is clear that a long term plan to drought proof our productive farmland over the ranges is now something State and Federal Governments must consider a priority.

Vision 2030 Hastings Valley Shortly you will receive in the mail a survey seeking your input about major projects you might like to see completed or underway in our region over the coming decade.

I want to hear about your vision, so I can work with my colleagues at the Local and State Government level to plan and deliver the things our community would like to see in the Hastings Valley and Camden Haven for the future.

The survey can also be completed by visiting my website at www.davidgillespie.com.au

Dr David GILLESPIE MP He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, National Party of Australia, Cnr Hastings and High Streets, Wauchope NSW 2446.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 91

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS MINDS

Donna Moody Martin

D

onna, you are the Principal at Australian Cosmetic Tattoo College. Can you tell us about the college who it caters for and

what it teaches?

Australian Cosmetic Tattoo College is a Registered Training College. We offer the latest techniques and training in cosmetic tattooing, and we are one of the only Australian colleges to offer private one-on-one training.

Our courses include “Design and Provide Cosmetic Tattoo” and “Infection Control”. We have our head office here in Port Macquarie in the Galleria Building, but in fact we train in Government Accredited Courses all over Australia, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Tasmania, Perth, and the Gold Coast.

I also have a range of personal clients whom I tend to from our office in Port Macquarie.

So your business’ Head Office is based in Port Macquarie, and you service a national market. What are some of the challenges you face staying competitive on a national scale? And how do you overcome these?

It is extremely challenging staying competitive as our market is now so popular, with beauty therapists, nurses and even doctors wishing to add cosmetic tattooing to their skill set, so there are a lot of “trainers” popping up in this space.

Our biggest challenge is trying to educate

92 Greater Port Macquarie focus

From fashion, I transitioned to the modelling industry and I started Mode Model Agency. I had franchises

potential students about the difference between gaining Accreditation via a Registered Training Organisations like ours, versus the many trainers operating out there who offer courses without Accreditation.

Unfortunately, we see students all too often after they have completed one of these Non-Accredited courses and they realise they do not have the correct certification and have often not even completed half of the required theory.

We overcome this challenge by ensuring that all of our marketing touch points communicate our RTO Accreditation and the importance of this.

You’ve had such a wealth of experience and built a very successful business. Can you share some of your learnings from your business journey?

My business journey has been long and diverse. I have always loved being in business. If I go back to when I moved to Port Macquarie 40 years ago, I originally started out in fashion, with a boutique in William Street. Then I moved to the Galleria Building, when it was first built.

From fashion, I transitioned to the modelling industry and I started Mode Model Agency.

I had franchises in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour for this business. My move to beauty occurred after I studied makeup artistry, then beauty therapy.

Starting the Macquarie Beauty College was the next progression, and my college was the first in Australia to have cosmetic tattoo as an Accredited course.

in Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour for this business. My move to beauty

After 15 years I natural, soft look. occurred after I studied makeup opened Affusion Day Spa Donna, I notice that artistry, then beauty therapy. under the Observatory you are one of the Hotel; however, my few people who also passion was cosmetic works at early hours and medical tattooing. of the morning (we’ve exchanged a few I travelled all over Australia and the world very early morning emails). How do you with my presentations and demonstrations. manage to fit everything in in a day?

Now our college employs trainers in every Ha ha! If I have something that needs to be state of Australia. done, I start well before the office opens and To share from my business journey, I would usually start from my home computer. I do suggest to others to always follow your dream travel and work away from town one - two and never listen to anybody if they say that it weeks per month. cannot be done.

I still manage to have time for my four What are some of the key strategic grand-daughters and ensure I have a few days actions your business has undertaken off in the school holidays to enjoy cooking over the years in order to scale? and craft days. My mum is now 96, and I now The biggest actions we have taken over the spend one week per month assisting her, as years in order to scale have involved learning she lives in her own home in Sydney. I get to how to change with the times and adapting Sing Australia on Monday nights whenever I our business model accordingly. We have had am in Port Macquarie, plus try to get a walk in to be comfortable to take chances, and we most days. continually investigate new modalities. You What is it that you love most about what can’t afford to sit still in business or become you do? complacent.

Teaching is my passion. Passing on What changes have you noticed in your knowledge is my love. industry over the last decade or so, and And finally, if you could invite any three how have you had to adapt to cater for business people to lunch, who would they these? be and why would you invite them?

Our industry has had several changes, Mark Bouris from Yellow Brick Road. I’d mostly resulting from advances in technology. really like to get inside his head and gain some The major change has been the introduction of his insight. Oprah Winfrey, simply to hear of something called micro-blading. This is more of her life story, and Donald Trump - I where individual hair strokes are simulated have so many questions which he may not through the eyebrows, using fine deposits of like! cosmetic tattoo pigments. It results in a very Thanks for your time, Donna!

Y

Phiranno Designs

ou work closely with businesses across all industries; tell us more. Whether it is a start-up operation, a mediumsized enterprise or a multi-national corporation, Phiranno Designs are committed to not only meeting our clients’ expectations, but exceeding them. We work in close collaboration with our clients to set a direction that concisely meets their brief. This ensures they will stand out in the crowd and showcase their brand in the best possible light.

We have worked with many different companies, including Strike Bowling Bar, Holey Moley Golf Club, Sky Zone Australia and Archie Brothers.

How do you enhance your clients’ brand identity? Phiranno Designs are experts in creating visual branding that is unique to our clients’ needs. We will establish a brand identity that is relevant, distinctive and memorable!

Whether it’s a simple logo, complicated line work, customised type treatment or a total re-brand of a business, we will customise based on our clients’ desires.

Based in Port Macquarie, Phiranno Designs is a creative design company that has extensive experience in all aspects of branding and design. They pride themselves on cutting-edge creativity, professionalism, proficiency and rewarding customer relationships. Chrissy Jones spoke with Phiranno Chuon about her business’ extensive experience in all aspects of branding and design.

Because we are constantly involved in new and current projects, we understand what the market is doing and where it is heading.

Why is brand identity so important to businesses? In such a fast-paced marketplace, every move you make makes a difference.

Whether it’s words, design elements or colour palettes, my team know the trends. We will work closely with our clients to gain an understanding of their audience and aim to gain an intimate insight into their likes, dislikes and desired outcomes. We create a brand that connects with our clients’ audience and will stand the test of time.

How do you create an effective marketing campaign for your clients? Phiranno Designs is highly accomplished in all matter of digital and marketing materials. Our flair for contemporary design offers artwork that fully expresses your brand values, thereby assuring maximum impact.

We will work with our clients in concert to create a look and feel that is synergistic with their brand.

Our design capabilities cover all manner of

services at affordable rates that guarantee we

can re-design and re-build existing sites. We ensure that all site’s aesthetics and efficiencies create a user-friendly experience that maximise its effectiveness in promoting our clients’ products and services. The user experience is a key component of any website’s success; the abundance of various devices and platforms means a well thought out plan is critical to the business’ objectives.

enjoy enduring and fruitful relationships with our

How do prospective clients contact you?

marketing collateral, from stationery to flyers, brochures, signage, magazines, right through to packaging.

From brand identity, marketing collateral, web design to digital and social content, we have got your business covered.

We are committed to providing top notch

clients.

You also help take businesses to the World Wide Web; how do you do this? Phiranno Designs builds websites from start to finish, or

Email us to discuss your needs and desired outcomes: hello@phirannodesigns.com.au or check out our website: www.phirannodesigns.com.au

PHIRANNO DESIGNS BRAND IDENTITY | MARKETING COLLATERAL | DIGITAL MARKETING | WEB DESIGN | UI DESIGN

Email hello@phirannodesigns.com.au to discuss your creative needs for your business TODAY phirannodesigns.com.au | 0432 297 230

Greater Port Macquarie focus 93

B Y M E GA N P H I L I P PA

Attention all Business Owners We all go into business because we LOVE what we do, we have something to offer

•

Do you struggle with new government legislation and compliance?

people, we have a fantastic product and

Sometimes we get so caught up in the here

we have something that others want …

and now, we forget why we first went into

All of those things.

business. We need to keep in mind how

We are driven,

valuable we are to our

consciencious,

business AND we need

enthusiastic and we

to have that balance with LIFE.

look to the future, we know where we are going. Or do we?

We all want to be successful and achieve our goals. We, as

Are you paying your accounts in the evenings when you should be spending time with your family?

business owners, are

develop into the future.

•

•

Are you paying your accounts in the

with your business administration that won’t cost you the earth - a team that’s only in your them, giving you a cost

element in our business, succeed, will not be profitable and will not

team helping you

business when you need

the most valuable because without us our business will not

To have a professional

effective administration branch at your fingertips.

OAS can be your entire professional team - a one stop administration team. Someone you can relate to. Someone you can bounce your

evenings when you should be spending

business ideas off. A team to help you obtain

time with your family?

LIFE WORK BALANCE. After all, you are the

School holiday time and you cannot get

most valuable person in your business.

away with your children because you

Let OAS help you grow your business to

have staff wages to attend to?

success.

94 Greater Port Macquarie focus

YOUR

values matter

finding your

tribe For most Gen Xers and Gen Ys, when we were growing up we were encouraged to become independent, to be self-reliant and find our own way to the top. But the truth is, humans are actually collective by nature.

T

hroughout our lives we knowingly or sometimes subconsciously seek groups of other like-minded people with whom we can interact, share experiences and feel loved.

Most of us crave social interaction, hope to have a family one day, or at least create our own social circles and micro-communities of friends - a safe space where we can connect with people who have the same personal values as ourselves.

Put simply, your values are the things that you consider to be most important in life.

Working life as a sole trader or micro business can be a lonely game at times. Working in a small team, as well as working remotely or from home, can see us isolated from the “outside world” for hours or days at a time, disconnected from others in our industry and unable to interact with other like-minded people.

Most of us in small business or working in B2B (Business to Business) industries would know the obvious benefits of joining a business networking group, these being building business partnerships, and finding new leads. But below the surface, there are many intrinsic gains to be had from joining a business network.

Should you choose the right network for you, you’ll find a place to share ideas and to learn from others. You’ll find someone who not only shares in your wins, but also shouts them from the rooftops - and scores of colleagues to keep you accountable, inspire you and lift you

up when you’re doing it tough. Being part of a business network like Hastings Business Women’s Network can help you find a new sense of purpose and enjoy informal mentoring/mentee relationships.

“If they criticise you before they cheer you on, they are not your people. Simple.” - Nikki Rowe.

The red poppy flower is the recognisable symbol of the Hastings Business Women's Network. We passionately believe that it is the right of every business woman to hold her head high, and like the tall poppy, stand out from the crowd. Members of the network will tell you that being part of HBWN is like being on one team - that our members are very welcoming and overwhelmingly supportive of each other’s endeavours and achievements. Many strong friendships have been forged since HBWN launched in 1999, by women from varying industries and from many different walks of life because we all share the same vision and values.

Find a network with values that align with yours, and you will find your tribe.

The Hastings Business Women’s Network meets monthly, with a diverse range of events on offer, from breakfasts, to professional development events, to networking evenings.

The Network also recently launched a private Facebook group for members to communicate and collaborate with each other 24/7. For information on becoming a member, visit www.hbwn.com.au

focusinterview.

Ian Adams

Wauchope’s Ian Adams has been honoured with a DISTINGUISHED LONG SERVICE AWARD, PRESENTED

BY THE HON STUART AYRES MP, NSW MINISTER FOR SPORT, AT THE NSW COMMUNITY SPORTS AWARDS at Parliament House, Sydney.

Chrissy Jones spoke with Ian about the award and his involvement with Little Athletics.

T

he community sports awards celebrate the vital role that volunteers play in ensuring that sport operates efficiently across the state.

Ian, you recently were presented with a community sports award, recognising your commitment to Little Athletics; what does this mean to you?

Firstly, I was shocked and felt humbled, as I believed there were many people who deserved the recognition. But, in answer to your question, it means a lot to me that my contribution over the years to the sport of Little Athletics was recognised and appreciated by the sporting body.

You have held many positions in Little A’s over the years; tell us about your involvement.

I first became involved with Little Athletics in 1984 at the Campbelltown Centre, where I served as President. The centre was hosting the-then largest annual track and field event in the Southern Hemisphere, the NSW state relays.

After I moved to Wauchope, I took the role of zone coordinator and hosted numerous Little Athletics championships, conferences, workshops, clinics and courses.

I spent around 14 or so years on the Board of Directors for NSW Little Athletics, where I held the position of Director of Finance and Director of Marketing and was actually the first country representative elected to the State Board.

During that time, I established the headquarters for the state body, organised several long-standing major sponsorships and

All children like and need fun.

led the way for television skills.

The weekly competition marketing for junior sport Little Athletics is a provides fun through across the state. stepping block for a the participation in At the time, it was lots child’s future sporting sport with friends in the of hands-on work. After aspirations, whether a same age group. People retiring from board level, I child stays with senior are becoming increasingly took up the local position athletics or other aware of the value of as the Zone Coordinator. sporting codes such as physical fitness, particularly in the You have been football, netball etc. battle against obesity. involved with Little It is quite surprising A’s for over 30 years the number of former and were instrumental little athletes who have in the formation of reached the highest Wauchope Little Athletics in the early levels of their chosen professional sporting 1990s. What changes have you seen in careers. As children progress and age, the that time? organisation provides specialist coaching and I’ve seen many changes over my time, but skills clinics, as well as specialist coaching I suppose the latest change, the One Sport camps and programs.

Policy (that is the proposed coming together What are the benefits? under one umbrella of all the athletic sporting As a community-orientated organisation, organisations such as Little A’s and Athletics Little A’s is more than a sport, as it enables NSW, etc) is possibly the biggest change; the entire family to do something together. whether that be good or bad (Little A’s losing Parents are involved in the program as its own identity) only time will tell. voluntary helpers or officials. They share many What is Little Athletics? experiences with the children.

Little Athletics is a nationwide sporting All children like and need fun. The weekly organisation for children aged between U/5 competition provides fun through the to 17 years based on athletics (track and participation in sport with friends in the same field) modified to suit the ages and abilities age group. of children. Its motto is Family, Fun and People are becoming increasingly aware of Fitness, embracing running, walking, jumping the value of physical fitness, particularly in the and throwing through athletic events. Little battle against obesity.

Athletics is the foundation for all sports.

Why have you remained loyal and How do you think Little Athletics helps involved with the sport? children?

I suppose that in the beginning, it was Little Athletics assists children in developing because my children were participating. skills through the games and athletic events.

From there, I became more involved and For the children under five, games and believed I had skills to help the sport grow. activities are designed to develop gross motor In carrying out the many roles I performed

both as a State Director and, in the past 10 years or so as a Zone Coordinator, I have made many lifelong friends, which I believe is the main reason for being loyal and staying involved with the sport. I have recently handed over the reins to a very capable replacement, and I have joined the ranks of the “golden oldies”, helping out when and if required.

How do readers find out more about Little A’s locally, and how can they get their kids involved?

Between Gloucester and Stuarts Point we have 10 clubs. Locally here in the Hastings we have Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Camden Haven.

People just need to go online to find the contact person - www.lansw.com.au I assume you would love to see more parents involved too; how can they help?

Little A’s just can’t operate without the help of parents, and that’s where the “Family” comes in.

It really is an all-embracing sport, enabling the entire family to do something together.

It’s so much better fun being out with your children than sitting on the sidelines; plus, who knows where that will stop. Many a parent has gone on to become a coach, picking up skills that can be utilised in many other sports. Here on the Mid North Coast, we encourage parents to develop their skills and attend track and field workshops or coaching workshops.

Thanks Ian. Greater Port Macquarie focus 95

Greater Port Macquarie

96 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusAbode.

Beachside Living at its finest

Paul Randall Building and Renovation services are your locally grown, trusted, custom home building and renovation specialists. With a reputation for high quality building works and great value renovations, Paul and his team of expert trades bring you the August FOCUS Home of the Month.

C

hrissy Jones had the pleasure of viewing the home, found in the tranquil beachside precinct of Seawide Estate.

Just a short stroll to beautiful Rainbow Beach and the nearby medical centre, school and shopping precinct of Lake Cathie, it is in an ideal location.

A split level design, built with meticulous attention to detail, the residence has a modern facade with striking angled roof lines. Incorporating an interesting blend of exterior finishes, from Sandcote rendered brickwork in three tones of grey,

“Bears Den”, Entry is via a “Grey Feather” solid face, timber A split level design, built and “Surfmist”, entrance door into with meticulous James Hardie the entry hall that attention to detail, Sycon horizontal has a V-Groove the residence has a wall cladding to wall panelling modern facade with a feature timber feature wall. Matt striking angled roof lines. vertical slat wall finish, widepanel, it is an board Blackbutt eye-catcher in hardwood the streetscape. flooring brings Leading to a double garage with the sophistication and warmth of real auto panel lift door, a concrete drive timber underfoot throughout the living also takes you to the entry portico that areas. has a polished concrete underfoot.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 97

Beachside Living at its finest

FIRST LEVEL - MASTER BEDROOM, EN-SUITE, WALK-IN-ROBE, LAUNDRY Right of entry, the Blackbutt hardwood flooring continues through to the Master Bedroom with en-suite and walk-in his/hers robe. Spacious, the Master has a bank of vertical louvre windows on one wall and a set of vertical corner windows fitted with plantation shutters; all allow for direction of airflow, light and give privacy when wanted.

The adjoining en-suite has a wall hung his and hers vanity with above bench twin oval hand basins and vanity mirror above. A shower recess and WC have been placed behind a dividing wall adding privacy for each. The roomy walk-in-robe is a fantastic design, giving plenty of hanging and shelving space for both him and her. A wall cupboard dedicated to shoes is a wonderful added extra to the Master Suite.

Left of entry is a multi-faceted hallway having an internal access door to the garage, laundry, linen cupboard, guest WC and side yard access

98 Greater Port Macquarie focus

He would talk through

the advantages and disadvantages with us and work for a result that was practical and that we were happy with. The house

glass door. spacious, relaxed vibe.

Tucked away behind a Ideal for the set of doors is the laundry. home cook, the was built in the timeframe Paul Having everything you kitchen is a fantastic told us it would be, and we are need close at hand, it is layout; everything is very happy with the final result. stylish, very functional and conveniently placed compact. A spotted tile and readily at hand. splash back placed behind An expansive Essastone the stainless steel laundry tub is a striking island bench, with pendant lightings overhead, contrast to the dark grey of the under bench sections the kitchen from the living areas and cabinetry that houses the washing machine. also acts as a breakfast bar one side, plus has White storage porthole cabinetry has been a microwave nook and under bench soft close placed above alongside a space for the dryer. storage drawers the other. Cabinetry along the Easy side yard access to the drying area has been eastern wall houses the double stainless steel provided via a glass door. sink with flick mixer, under bench dishwasher GROUND LEVEL - KITCHEN, INDOOR/ and more storage cupboards. A set of overhead OUTDOOR DINING, LOUNGE, STUDY Laminex storage nooks that run the length of Found down a flight of wide, timber encased the Eastern wall give a place to keep glassware stairs you find the open plan, kitchen, indoor/ and ornaments. The back wall of the kitchen outdoor dining room, lounge and study. All cabinetry has a centrally placed gas cook-top combine seamlessly to create a wonderful space with range-hood, under bench drawers, a wall that boasts high raked ceilings, adding to the oven and further overhead storage spaces.

To complete the kitchen is the pantry. Placed behind the kitchen, it provides not only a convenient spot for cooking condiments and appliances, but also leads the way to a hidden gem; a hidden wine cellar that has been cleverly incorporated, making fantastic use of the void alongside the stair way and under the linen press above.

The indoor/outdoor dining area is another ingenious aspect of the home design and one that suits the owners to a tee. An integrated bi-fold cavity glass door system, with high-light windows above, opens from the kitchen onto the space which is enclosed from the north via a set of sliding glass doors, that creates a sun drenched, relaxed dining and casual seating entertaining area. A polished concrete floor captures the warmth of the sun and provides an easy care, but stylish floor finish. The room can be completely closed off from the main area of the home or opened entirely to the adjoining kitchen and formal lounge, another

focusAbode.

Beachside Living at its finest

multi-functional, practical and clever aspect of the design.

Outdoor kitchen cabinetry placed on the eastern wall continues on from the main kitchen and has a Weber BBQ, an impressive stainless steel range hood and wine fridge built-in.

Louvres placed behind the BBQ area direct head and airflow, plus add a touch of modern style.

The adjacent formal lounge room has sliding glass doors two sides, one giving access to the rear yard, the other to the entertaining area.

Left of the lounge a bi-fold cavity sliding door system integrates to close off the study/home office. This room is another example of clever use of under stair space, having an office desk built-in. This room could also double as a fourth bedroom if need be.

2ND LEVEL - GUEST/FAMILY BEDROOMS, BATHROOM AND LAUNDRY The timber floor continues up a flight of stairs to the top level of the home, comprising two bedrooms and a family bathroom. You are greeted with lovely ocean views via a high

set landscape window in the carpeted hallway.

Bedrooms are a good size and very comfortable, being fully carpeted, having a ceiling fan, down lighting and each has a built-in mirrored wardrobe, large windows and downlighting.

Servicing the family bedrooms is an elegantly appointed bathroom. A freestanding, high backed bath sits alongside an opaque floor to ceiling window that also has louvres to allow in the sea breezes.

Wall mounted vanity with oval mirror and above bench hand basin, a corner shower recess with frameless glass screen and rope shower rose, plus floor to ceiling textured wall tiles all add to the luxury.

Overall, the home is a wonderful design by local Architect Craig Teasdale, built with exacting precision by P R Building.

It is suited to its owners, being both a private oasis for the couple and a comfortable, inviting home away from home for visiting family and friends.

FROM THE OWNERS - JULIE AND KEVIN You chose Paul Randall of PR Building as your builder; how has it been working with Paul and his team?

Paul is a team player; he worked with Kevin and I and the architect from the beginning. We wanted to make changes along the way, and Paul was always obliging. He would talk through the advantages and disadvantages with us and work for a result that was practical and that we were happy with. The house was built in the timeframe Paul told us it would be, and we are very happy with the final result.

What were the first steps when you began construction? The first step at the beginning of construction was where to place the house on the land and the height. Paul advised us that he thought the original height was too low and needed to be raised. We are so glad he was skilled enough to recognise this, as now we walk out our back door on to a level grass lawn, which is what we wanted.

Did you have any particular desires/wants

when you first approached Paul in relation to the building? If so, how were these met?

When we first met with Paul, we wanted to use as many natural products in our home as possible, yet keep within a budget. Paul priced the whole project according to our specifications, and he was spot on - not an easy task, given that a lot of changes were made along the way and natural products are not cheap. We also wanted efficient use of space; there was a void under the linen cupboard which is now a very functional wine cellar.

What is your favourite part of your new home?

My favourite part of my new home is the indoor/outdoor area and the open plan. It is so practical, and the polished concrete floor acts as an insulator and warms the whole house. It is my sunny, comfortable spot to sit each morning in the sun and have that morning cup of tea. It has a beautiful ambience and all the shutters can open up and you get that lovely coastal breeze if you need to cool down.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 99

Beachside Living at its finest

How does the home fit your lifestyle now and in the future?

Kevin and I wanted a home that we could live on one level, our bedroom and the kitchen, office and all living areas are on the bottom floor, and upstairs there are two bedrooms and a bathroom. This is a separate area which is used by our adult children and our grandson, Mason when they visit; it gives them some privacy also. Being so close to the beach is fantastic; we are enjoy taking long walks. The sound of the ocean is so soothing, and the many Louvre windows and shutters give us the capability to let the day in or close it out.

Would you recommend Paul to other prospective new home builders?

Paul is a talented young builder who thrives on a challenge, we would recommend Paul to anyone who wants to work with a builder that puts their clients needs first. He just wanted us to love our home and be happy with the

100 Greater Port Macquarie focus

result. Paul is flexible and creative and the loveliest man.

The success of the project is due to a fantastic collaborative approach between the client, the builder and the architect.

time.

From a design It really felt like a team effort in perspective, the sloping every aspect of the build. topography provided FROM CRAIG an opportunity to TEASDELL ARCHITECT separate the living It was a privilege to zones from the private be asked to design Kevin (bedrooms/bathrooms). We split the ground and Julie’s home at Seawide Estate. They floor with the natural fall of the site between had purchased a gently sloping block, falling street level and the rear yard. The hardwood away from the road and towards the north, steps further reinforced this transition. By and wanted Paul Randall to build a quality, maintaining the same raked ceiling height contemporary home that reflected the coastal throughout the two split levels created context of the site. additional volume at the lower and gives The design brief was to design a split-level a sense of space and light to the northern home that took maximum advantage of the aspect of the home. north-to-rear orientation. It was important A key aspect of the design was to remove to Kevin and Julie that the home was zoned the typical notion of a dining space and so that the daily living spaces and master incorporate a highly flexible indoor-outdoor bedroom were separated from the less utilised room. This blending of the entertaining and upper level bedrooms and bathroom, to daily dining area provides a unique experience accommodate visiting family from time to within the home. By using bi-fold glazed doors

between the kitchen and the entertaining area and glazed stacking doors to the northern edge of the same space created the opportunity to provide year-long flexibility to this area. Adjustable aluminium louvres and a strong range exhaust flanked the built-in BBQ to further accommodate use of this area, irrespective on the weather or seasons.

Paul Randall was a pleasure to deal with during the whole building process. Paul’s communication with the client and with me reflected his personal commitment to a quality build. It was evident that every building detail was thoroughly thought through and Paul was always able to adapt to any client requests. His team shared his same approach to the project.

The success of the project is due to a fantastic collaborative approach between the client, the builder and the architect. It really felt like a team effort in every aspect of the build. To see personal friends living happily in a house I’ve designed is personally rewarding,

focusAbode.

and I wish Kevin and Julie many happy years ahead in their new home.

FROM THE BUILDER - PAUL RANDALL Tell us about your business, PR Building; how long have you been operating?

Paul Randall Building is a custom home and complex renovation specialist company. I have been operating locally as a licensed builder for the last 14 years and love being part of the growth within the sought after Port Macquarie region.

How many people do you employ?

We have a six core professional staff comprising carpenters and expert sub contractors. Additionally, we have a broader network of trusted sub-contractors that share the professionalism and values of Paul Randall Building’s business.

Do you source your materials and associated trades locally?

Supporting local trades and sourcing local

materials is a big focus for Paul Randall Building. Being a small local business, I certainly like to see our dollars staying local.

How has your business evolved over the years?

I’m born and bred in Port Macquarie and did my apprenticeship with a local professional builder, specialising in custom home builds and complex renovations. This gave me a great founding in some of the challenges associated with these type of buildings and highlighted the importance of building strong relations with clients.

After finishing my apprenticeship in 2002, I went on to become a registered builder in 2004. I’ve grown the business to a scale that whilst big enough to take on the largest of domestic projects in Port Macquarie and surrounds, remains small enough for me to ensure personal supervision and management of the works.

Delivering custom builds and complex renovations is a challenge I really enjoy, as each project provides unique opportunities for design and construction methods.

Can you custom build to a client’s wants?

Absolutely! Custom building and renovating is what I love to do and what I do best. It starts with open communication and developing good client relationships throughout the duration of the project. Working closely with my clients leading up to the construction phase gives us a shared understanding of the challenges and construction options that can be explored. I enjoy giving clients the opportunity to experience their build taking shape, as this can present the opportunity for subtle changes in design as they see it come to life.

FOCUS is featuring a beautiful home that you have recently completed in Lake Cathie this issue. What are the stand out

features of the residence in your mind?

The seamless transition between the polished concrete and hardwood timber flooring is a particularly impressive part of the home. The kitchen is beautiful and has a uniquely hidden wine cellar. The entertaining area includes an integrated outdoor kitchen with stone bench-tops, bi-fold doors and highlight feature windows flooding the area with natural light. As soon as I saw the architect’s plans for this home and particularly the solar orientation, I could see that the living areas would be a feature to be well enjoyed in this coastal location.

It has been great partnering with Kevin and Julie to bring their architecturally designed home to life.

How do prospective clients contact you?

My mobile 0413 922 645 or email at paul@prbuilding.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 101

Locally made

focusfeature

BlackDog Ink The Artists’ Artist …

21 000 COPIES DELIVERED

When you advertise with Focus you’re not just advertising once, but in 21,000 FREE copies. Our huge circulation is the single biggest reason that Focus continues to achieve the results that our clients demand.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

102 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Clocking up 20 years of experience in the textile printing and manufacturing industry, Mez still has a growing passion for taking a piece of art and transforming it into a different medium.

This process is an art in itself; picking apart the intricate layers and separating the colours in the design to be screen ready involves digitising the artwork and visualising each element, then determining the best way to rebuild and recreate the design as a silk screen print.

Whether it be working closely with a client to develop their brand, providing retail quality products or event and business promotional items with in-house design, print and manufacturing services, BlackDog Ink can bring your visions to life.

Continuing into the future, we’re lucky to live in a community with a growing arts culture and music scene where locals support locals and we can collaborate with artists to continue to push the boundaries and experiment with new techniques, speciality inks and live printing, whilst maintaining a respect for the traditional art of silk screen printing.

Locally made

nc DOORS

focusfeature

Port City Steel is the “real deal”.

Custom door manufacturer nc DOORS of Wauchope introduced a world first in 2018: the nc ENERGY EFFICIENT DOOR SYSTEM.

Tony has 30 years’ experience in the steel industry. He is cus-

It has been tested by the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) with the impressive result that the POLYCORE doors, at the heart of the system, are over four times more efficient than the standard paper-cell internal doors fitted in the majority of new home builds and many office fitouts.

What does Port City Steel do?

The trademarked system is supplied as pre-hung doors with the frame, door hardware and seals, all delivered assembled for builders to quickly fit into the wall opening. Alternatively, doors are available individually custom-made to any size with a choice of finishes.

“We have been custom making doors for over 16 years and have been developing this system over the last few years,” said Barry Drewitt, Managing Director of nc DOORS. “We knew we had come up with a great product, which the CSIRO testing confirmed.” nc DOORS is also a finalist in the 2018 Excellence in Innovation category in the Port Chamber Awards. Visit the website for more details: www.ncdoors.com.au

tomer focused and conscientious, to complete any project to the highest quality.

Supply, fabrication and machining of steel products, including custom design projects, builders’ structural steel, architectural or artistic metal work.

You designed the BeautPress; what’s that?

BeautPress, Xpress, BeautFloor and Custom High Production Timber Truss Machinery is built within Port City Steel and has previously won a Mid North Coast Innovation Award. The machinery is designed and built by Tony, proudly Australian made and is producing components in large truss plants across Australia. We are about to export our first XPress 1200 (possie struts and floor joists press) to New Zealand in August 2018.

What puts Port City Steel one step ahead?

Customers’ requirements are our main focus and we are are confident that our service is delivered promptly and at the right price. Quality design and fabrication made with experience, knowledge built to last.

®

ENERGY EFFICIENT

DOOR

SYSTEM

Greater Port Macquarie focus 103

T Tour de

NORTH WEST 28th October 2018 marks the fourth annual Tour de North West charity bike ride in the beautiful New England countryside. The event begins from the award-winning Peterson’s Guesthouse and Winery.

here are three course distances on offer. You can do a more leisurely 38 km bike ride, a little more with the 64 km ride or test your mettle on the full 92 km course, which goes all the way out to the landmark Gostwyck Church. All courses have a morning tea break at the scenic Blue Hole Picnic Area, and there will be other light snacks, drinks and bathroom breaks along the way.

If you’re a spectator rather than a rider, you can just register for the lunch and watch your family and friends cross the finish line. The fees to participate, whether riding or not, are really good value. The rider fee includes: a new quality cycling jersey, cycling merchandise, a gourmet BBQ lunch, morning tea, a complimentary drink voucher and a donation to go to melanoma research. The afternoon will include live music in the garden and a great auction!

The event raises funds for the Melanoma Institute of Australia. Australia has one of the highest incidences of melanoma in the world. On average, 30 Australians will be diagnosed with melanoma every day, and more than 1,200 will die from the disease each year. Creating awareness in communities about the seriousness of this disease is a crucial preventative measure, and the organisers of this event and our valued supporters hope that the Tour de North West can contribute to raising New England and North West community

awareness.

The major sponsor of the event is Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CAANZ).

With over 115,000 Chartered Accountants located throughout Australia and New Zealand, CAANZ has a strong representation of members in regional parts of Australia. CAANZ are passionate about providing a variety of opportunities to their regional members, including supporting them with local community events to bring people together. Roberts & Morrow retired Senior Partner Simon Croft is the State Chairman of the CAANZ Regional Chairs Committee, which represents chartered accounting firms right across NSW. Simon continues to be a key organiser for the event, along with Roberts & Morrow Partner Clint Bourke and Marketing Manager Jocelyn Berry.

There is no way Roberts & Morrow could organise this event without the help of other sponsors and volunteers. We thank CAANZ, MYOB Australia, Peterson’s Guesthouse & Winery, Armidale Cycling Club, Bullen’s Armidale Bicycle Centre, Armidale SES, St John Ambulance, Armidale Regional Council and Armidale Police.

Register by the early bird deadline of 11:59pm Friday 14th September 2018 to go into the draw to win a Navig8r Axis Drone with WIFI camera!

Don’t miss out on this great local event. For more information, phone (02) 6774 8400 or visit www. rm.net.au/tdnw. We look forward to seeing you there!

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Brand New & Pre-loved homes available now Priced from

$380,000

hometownaustralia.com.au 104 Greater Port Macquarie focus

CALL (02) 6580 3000

1A Lincoln Rd, Port Macquarie, NSW

newportvillage.com.au

Visit our website for more information

focusinterview.

McGrath McGrath Property Management Team

Property Management Team

W T

hen placing trust in a managing agent, it’s so important to have total confidence that your valuable asset will receive the attention it deserves; that your chosen agent will unselfishly exercise all care and diligence when submitting potential tenants your here’s no doubt that itfor requires selection and expert that atknowledge, all times thereafter, your consideration best interests and will stringently be monitored complete attention-to-detail throughout each everythe leasing but and not even finestterm. expertise Successful property management relies can succeed without the helpupon of dedicated, honest professionals, genuinely effi cient and and experienced caring communicators. working within abrand solid built proven The McGrath its infrastructure reputation on and nowhere is this more evident at McGrath. outstanding customer service than and the friendly Only McGrathProperty PropertyManagement Managementisteam teamthe at McGrath fully can offer upon the very highest fully-licensed focussed taking evenratio this of excellent status to real estate agents in the region, along with an entirely new level: theAt lowest ratio ofPPM property managements the recent Group’s National per responsible manager and Awards, a “days outstanding” Property Management held on figure for active listings which the Gold Coastrental with entrants fromis every consistently sitting of as low as 50 percent of the state and capital Australia, McGrath Port local averagetook (source: Macquarie out realestate.com). the top award for “Most Tammy Hutchinson is New Business Manager Outstanding Client Service”. forEven McGrath Property Management; a fully better, the McGrath Port Macquarie licensed agent andbeen multi-award-winning team have now recipients of thisreal estate leasing professional with a sincere coveted award for two successive years; a smile, genuine a very reassuring, clear sign thatwarmth they’reand doing something very proactively involved way of doing business. Put right.

simply, Tammy really listens to clients, helpfully suggesting added value to their ideas, then does exactly what is expected of her.

Over sixteen years in the local industry, Tammy has earned a high level of respect from her peers and together with the friendly, dedicated and thoroughly professional team at McGrath Property Management, considerable praise from At its heart, Natalie, Katrina, Tammy, David landlords and tenants and Jade represent thealike: core of McGrath Property “Tammy andBetween the McGrath are the Management. themteam they hold a best in the business.

My property had been with another wealth of property management experience, agency failed to find a two are who fully after qualifimonths ed real had estate agents in their tenant.

Within the first ofcantly, handing over own right but even moreweek signifi theyit all to Tammy, McGrath notculture only managed to have share the same positive of empathetic my property ready forisopen homes but had also consideration.

Theirs not the belligerent found a tenant! approach, so common in the industry, it’s one Tammy andsound the team professional, helpful built upon and were constructive cooperation. and provided excellent customer Each and every member of the service.

McGrath team Irecognises can’t thank Tammy and McGrath enough foronly that the classifi cation “client” not all their I only but wishalso I had come to outside them refers tohelp. landlords, to tenants, sooner.”

Mahnaz K their own colleagues within services and even to for all over 20 years, the“As offiinvestors ce. Treating parties with finding genuinethe right agent our rental properties has respect, theymanaging work together to ensure the best always been challenging. outcomes forvery all concerned andEngaging this is reflthe ected McGrath Property Management to re-lease in McGrath’s consistent portfolio Team growth, with and totenancies manage our property has been THE stable andrental low ‘days on market’ RIGHT decision since yields day one, the dedication, generating premium for landlords. commitment, and teamwork Over the lastcommunication few years, as more and more coordination the wholethe process and of theand landlords haveofdiscovered added security

There’s absolutely no doubt that some decisions should never be made on impulse. Surrendering the keys to your investment property can certainly be seen as a leap of faith, but it should always be a measured one.

continuing management has been top-notch!

Having the RIGHT TEAM on board now definitely provides us with peace of mind. Thank you!”

Nicole G and Malcolm M “After having my property with another local agent for two months and getting no results, I called Tammy at McGrath. Upon taking over my management, shefound wentwhen to work straighttheir peace of mind to be entrusting away! The constant assets contact amazing and valuable investment towas a truly professional I was never in the dark about anything.has Tammy team, McGrath Property Management took control outstanding and even though it was over the experienced growth.

It has however, Christmas/New Year break, shemanager-tohad it leased in always maintained the highest less than a month. satisfied with the managements ratio Iinwas thesoregion; a commitment service I havePrincipal now decided and from thethat agency which for will Tammy continue to the McGrath to takeclients on management of guarantee thatteam McGrath’s receive the very second property Port Macquarie.” fimy nest property serviceinavailable anywhere.Nick S “My landlords business partner And agree; and I bought our investment property through another agency, “As investors for over 20 years, finding the whereagent we found the rental department lacked right managing our rental properties has service,been communication and were tooEngaging slow in always a very challenging task. processing applications, costing team us time McGrath Property Management to and re-lease money.

So afterour tworental months sittinghas vacant and to manage property beenon THE the market, I decided weone. needed find another RIGHT decision since day Theto dedication, agency. commitment, communication, teamwork “In one afternoon I called six local coordination of the whole process andagencies the and within management minutes Tammy continuing hasfrom beenMcGrath top-notch! returned myRIGHT call. She immediately tooknitely action.

Having the TEAM on board defi Tammy was consistent communication provides us with peace with of mind.

Thank you!” via phone texts, emailsMand photos. As ……

Nicolecalls, G and Malcolm

my partner and I live in another state, it was difficult to keep an eye on things, but Tammy was excellent from the day we made contact, 'til the day we finally leased the property. As a real estate agent myself, it was important to

an agency customer that was efficient and an agent Property management is a “people business,” relying heavily upon strong, comprehensive andfindreliable service. who was confident in his or her job. We were “Tammy and the McGrath team are the best in not disappointed! I cannot speak highly enough the business. My property had been with another about Tammy and the McGrath team, and I agency who after a few months had failed to thank them for delivering the results that were find a tenant. Within the first week of handing Well done!”

Lina L itexpected. over, McGrath not only managed to have my Like every member of the McGrath property ready for open homes but alsoteam, found a Tammy Hutchinson is committed to providing the tenant! finest property managementhelpful servicesand available The team were professional, provided anywhere; highly professional services, based excellent customer service.

Iupon can’t positive thank McGrath enough for than all their help. I negotiation, rather blunt only wish I had gone to them sooner.”..

Mahnaz coercion, services which reach more quality Ktenants, more swiftly and services which add It really costs no more to use the value to landlords’ investments, notbest onlyand through the ongoing rewards are significant. To find out ongoing peace of mind but also by maximising more speak with Tammy Hutchinson, McGrath’s returns due to higher occupancy averages.

New Business Manager and begin your McGrath These real services carry no additional costs so, journey to greater security and peace of mind. when selecting a property manager to look after You’ll find that McGrath Property Management valuablea investment, it’s simply not thebytime isyour absolutely “people business”, operated for impulsive decisions; it’s time to consider true professionals, built solidly upon strong, the many benefits of choosing McGrath. service. comprehensive and reliable customer Roger Bates is Roger is aa freelance freelancecopywriter. copywriter.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 105 103

Sleek & Stylish IN AN UPLIFTING WAY Port Macquarie Home Lifts, owned and operated by longtime local Gary Gilbert, are offering a discreet and practical alternative to using the stairs. Chrissy Jones chatted with Gary about The Compact Elegance Home Lift range he has recently introduced to the region.

W

hat are some of the benefits of the Compact Lift, Gary? There are many! Designed to make your life easier, the lift is the most compact, affordable and stylish home elevator in the country. Compact lifts run off normal AC power in the home, which means they are quieter than conventional home lifts and many stairlifts. It can be plugged into a standard outlet and uses less power than switching on your toaster. The unique plug-in lifts are energy efficient and can be positioned anywhere in an existing property. There aren’t many places our lifts won’t fit.

The lifts will help people stay in their own homes for longer, but they aren’t just for the elderly; they are also for people planning for the future as they move into retirement years or households where a family member may have mobility issues or constraints.

Are they easy to install and operate? The lift’s unique design and simplicity mean it takes a registered builder a day to do the lift penetration building works and then our installers are usually in and out in one to two days. In theory, if we have stock, we can have a compact lift installed for you within a week or two.

Both our standard Compact Elegance Home Lift and larger Compact Elegance Plus Home Lift use a steel cable drum, with a German braked gear 106 Greater Port Macquarie focus

motor drive system. The system is in the elevator, so all mechanics are discreetly contained in one place at the top of the lift.

Are they safe? Completely. There are many safety features to the Compact Lift, including a concealed mobile phone, motion sensor light, imbalance safety sites and a built-in load sensor to ensure the maximum weight limit isn’t exceeded.

The lift isn’t automatic; you have a power button, so you are in full control. If you want to stop, it stops right away with the push of a button.

The phone connects to the company’s 24-hour call centre, and the half-height door has a lock that only opens when the lift has completed its journey. The elevator only moves if the lift door is fully closed.

In an emergency, the door can be unlocked from the outside and sensors on the top and bottom automatically stop the lift if an obstruction is detected.

The simplicity and ease of the lift system are brilliant. When you get home with a boot-load of shopping and you are tired at the end of the day, you just push the remote, the lift comes down, you push the button, and up you go. It is that easy to operate.

Contact Gary Gilbert from Port Macquarie Home Lifts for more information: Phone: 0407 853 800 or email: gary@porthomelifts.com.au

Independent and for good reason At hem, we are proud to say, we are truly independent. It keeps us focused and gives us the flexibility to provide a more personalised service and achieve the best possible result for you. Thanks to our agents being a unified team, there is no compromise on the integrity of our service. From one single database our team can out-market, out-think and out-know any other in the region.

This year our team have already sold 106 properties, with 26 being record prices. If you are considering a move and want a new approach, there is no place like HEM. 6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au

HAPPY EVER MORE

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focus_contributor

J A N E T S L AT E R F R O M P O R T M A C Q U A R I E L A N D C A R E

W

ithin the last fifty years, many scientific facts have expanded our knowledge on the origin of our universe -

and further.

It is truly awesome to try and get your head around how the beginnings of planet Earth happened at all, and the miracle of conditions being just right for life to begin at all.

at the

From miniscule life forms, over billions of years we humans evolved and arrived some two or three hundred thousand years ago. We are now living in a time on Earth where, since the last ice age, we have adapted and built our knowledge base to enable the growth of complex societies.

landcare. update

Comprehensive “Big Histories” such as David Christian’s latest release, Origin Story, can give the reader so much to think about, and perhaps add momentum to how we go about doing things within the culture we live in.

Can we learn how to use resources and the energy flows from those resources in a gentler way? Can we in this Anthropocene epoch protect the biosphere, and halt wildlife extinctions?

Free Energy

The next 100 years are really important for humanity. We can either manage the biosphere well, or do things badly.

In the big history of things, we could say that humanity is just one small step in the evolution of planet Earth, and there are many origin stories in which to immerse oneself.

The consequences of ruining the biosphere will be a dead end for humans. We now have a much better understanding of how the biosphere works, and an awareness that Earth is

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our shared home.

If we can successfully transition to a more sustainable world, it may be that our human species is, in fact, capable of creating a stable form of complex life on Earth: a human revolution, David Christian suggests, to generate another threshold of life for humans into the future.

When all these immense ideas swirl in my little brain, and I need to ground myself from the general static of life, I recommend joining up with a local Landcare project to enjoy focusing on small things.

Landcare work reminds us that the natural world is our world too. The small things we do can make a big difference, like pulling some weeds to allow young native trees a better chance of survival - because you know that once a few trees are grouped together, the local critters will “give the nod” for habitation, move in, and life gets more interesting.

The “before” and “after” scenes of our Landcare project sites (past and present) around Port Macquarie are amazing. In just 20 years, we have rehabilitated more than 60 ha of bushland reserves in Port Macquarie. They are the precious green arteries of our town.

Our volunteers will continue being part of enhancing our local urban bushland … and there are dozens of them. If you would like to join us, please email us at info@landcareportmac.com.au Contributed by Janet Slater.

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Tradelink Port Macquarie

Tradelink Port Macquarie has a dedicated team of 10 staff with over 100 years’ combined experience in providing the local community with quality bathroom, kitchen, laundry and plumbing supplies. Chrissy Jones spoke with Branch Manager Paul Gibson about Tradelink and their new-look showroom in Acacia Avenue, Port Macquarie.

How long has Tradelink been operating in the local area? Tradelink Port Macquarie opened originally as Raymor in 1975 and changed to Tradelink in 1996 when they became part of Crane Group. Tradelink was purchased by New Zealand-based infrastructure and building products manufacturer and distributer Fletcher Building in 2011, which has given us the support of a large international company without sacrificing the local expertise and focus Tradelink is known for. Our name might have changed, but we’re still Port Macquarie’s trusted name in plumbing supplies.

How has the business changed? Tradelink Port Macquarie has evolved with increasing demand from new housing and home renovators. Our store has supported infrastructure growth in the area including the renovation market, new housing estates, hospitals, nursing homes and shopping centres. The store has also evolved in style to match the demands of the new housing and renovation market in regional NSW. We

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recently upgraded our showroom to display and offer an even larger range of stylish and contemporary bathroom, kitchen and laundry products to suit a wide range of styles and budgets that keep in line with local market and global design trends.

What is the business’ driving force? Our driving force comes from the strength of the economy, both locally in Port Macquarie and in surrounding areas. The strong local economy has generated tremendous growth in the building sector and increased demand for plumbing and building supplies. We’re able to support new home builds, the home renovator and the commercial market segment (including shopping ventures, nursing and retirement homes, universities and schools) with quality bathroom, kitchen and laundry products.

With our brand new state of the art appointed showroom and trade counter, we can continue maintaining and building upon the standards which our customers and our community expect.

As trends evolve, we will continue to keep up with them to ensure we are always in position to be able to meet the market’s expectations.

customer’s demands, build healthy relationships with them and most importantly, maintain them.

What are the overall objectives of your business? Our overall objective, like other Tradelink stores, is to provide quality bathroom, kitchen, laundry and plumbing supplies to the trade community, home owners and commercial sector.

In 5 years, I see Tradelink Port Macquarie continuing to do what we are currently doing: supporting the local economy and the plumbing and building sector with quality bathroom, kitchen, laundry and plumbing products that reflect current trends and suit the requirements of the job.

How do you remain competitive in your industry? By listening and learning from our customers we continue to set the bar high for customer service. We also remain competitive by improving our industry and product knowledge, and maintaining and developing our team and store so that what we offer exceeds most of the market.

Another way we remain competitive is with our product range which is constantly being updated to reflect current trends in the renovation and new home market. This allows us to meet our

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

How will your business act as a role model for the future? Tradelink Port Macquarie has been leading the way through our recent showroom and trade counter upgrade that is set to provide a high quality store experience for customers and by delivering consistently highlevel customer service through our relationship building and strong industry knowledge. We want to be seen as a market leader in our industry and see these as important steps in that direction.

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