Greater Port Macquarie Focus i157

Mike Kane

December 2018//issue 157

fotsun 2018

2 Greater Port Macquarie focus

ADDRESS 4/74 Clarence St, Port Macquarie POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE 02 6584 7433 WEB www.focusmag.com.au FB facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as 'Interview or Contributor' are non-sponsored content.

Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 62128786005. 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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WHAT’S ON 02 6581 8888

I

Welcome to the December issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

F

or the FOCUS staff, being in the CBD for work has its advantages. We’re walking distance to all the shops, cafés and services; we can enjoy a walk along the breakwall, visit Town Green, and see and feel the buzz of the people as they go about their days.

Coming into December, we brace ourselves though for the traffic chaos that will ensue, as visitors and locals alike fight it out for car spaces and getting close to the shops to do the dreaded Christmas shopping.

But, because we are local, and like to find the positive in the situation, we’ve got a few insider tips on how get around this and ensure that the silly season doesn’t get out of hand!

1. Be organised. Start shopping now; avoid the

THE ITALIAN TENORS

last minute rush. And, plan your shop - 4pm on a Monday afternoon is much smarter than 10am Saturday morning!

2. Park just outside the CBD, and enjoy a walk in it’s good for you! There is all day parking on the roof of Coles, access via Gordon Street.

The top of William Street and Murray Street also has its advantages as a good place to find a park.

3. Shop around! Laurieton and Wauchope have bustling little CBDs with loads to offer; plan a trip, enjoy lunch, and shop local.

4. Markets - again, support locals. The Artists' and Farmers' Markets are a great opportunity to buy thoughtful gifts and local produce.

5. Carefully plan what you need to buy and where you need to go, and remember sometimes

the greatest gift you can give is by giving to others.

There are a number of local charities who are deserving of donations at this time of the year. Make a donation to them on behalf of your loved ones especially those hard to buy for - and give a simple card to acknowledge it.

There are plenty of gift ideas packed inside our pages this month, as well as plenty of upcoming entertainment to keep you busy. For us, it is time to sit back and have a few weeks off, enjoy the sun and prepare to come back fresh faced for 2019.

From all of the FOCUS team, thank you to our loyal readers, valued clients and local businesses for continuing to support our publication. We wish everyone a safe, happy and merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year.

COR Y CWM

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Starring Australian TV super stars, Kate Raison (A Country Practice) and Brian Meegan (Underbelly, Sea Patrol, All Saints, Water Rats, Blue Heelers and more).

General tickets sales Wednesday 2 January 2019

Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

contents Issue 157 - December 2018

focusinterviews

6

Vera Blue.

Celia Pavy, aka Vera Blue is bringing her lady powers to Port Macquarie this month to headline Festival of the Sun. FOCUS chatted with the softly spoken yet fierce woman about life and her album, Perennial.

14

feature a special

THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE

48

The

Christmas A special focus feature

Free as a Bird Design.

Local fashion designer and mama Free Bennett has recently launched a range of free spirited children’s clothing. FOCUS chatted with Free about fashion, balance and mum life …

39

the Usual

Suspects

12. WHAT’S ON for December 19. WHAT’S IN SEASON with Eric Robinson 24. EAT local restaurants

Timmy Trumpet.

29. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye 31. OUT TO LUNCH with Susie Boswell

Timmy Trumpet gets set to perform at the next instalment of Lunar Electric Music Festival, Australia’s biggest homegrown EDM festival in Port Macquarie.

36. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri 75. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 76. A DAY IN THE LIFE with Michelle Parker 84. TOURISM with Janette Hyde 85. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell

66

Meet the Bedwell Family.

When three becomes five … the Bedwell family recently introduced gorgeous twin girls Charlotte and Molly to their family. Mum Victoria was ever so shocked when she found out she was having twins, and she now shares the story of their premature births and motherhood, expressing her sincerest gratitude for the care she and her daughters received from the Special Care Nursery staff at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

4 Greater Port Macquarie focus

79. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon 80. PORT CHAMBER UPDATE with Michael Mowle 94. LANDCARE with Julie Ho

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www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

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

E M E N T T T L S E

C I T Y

SE NS ORY

Santa

Off the back of the positive response last year, Settlement City will once again be running its Sensory Santa Photo sessions in 2018. FOCUS caught up with Emily Hinshelwood from Aspect Hunter School, who helps to run these important sessions each year. ho is Sensory Santa at Settlement City for? Sensory Santa is for any family with a

with Settlement City this year? Aspect Hunter School and Settlement City have partnered on a number of awareness, fundraising and community initiatives over the past two years, and we see the relationship continuing for years to come! As part of this, child with special needs.

Aspect staff will be donating their time and How is it different from the standard running sensory Santa again this year. Our Santa photo sessions on offer? Sensory staff use their expertise in educating students Santa allows families of children with special on the Autism Spectrum and with additional needs to book a special needs to create a magical experience supportive and positive with a caring Santa in environment for their a friendly environment Santa photo. with a quiet setting, What has the response Sensory Santa allows dimmed lighting and been like from the families of children with no queues. Our caring community over the special needs to book Santa takes the time to last couple of years? a magical experience interact with your child The community has with a caring Santa in on a personal level, to responded extremely a friendly environment with a ensure they feel calm positively to the Sensory quiet setting, dimmed lighting and comfortable.

Santa initiative, with and no queues.

Why is an initiative photo sessions booked like Sensory Santa out last year and looking so important? We to do the same again know that some this year. Everyone families, especially those with children with who attends comments on how easy and special needs, find the Christmas period stress free their Santa photos are, and we difficult and Santa photos can often be a love receiving such genuinely appreciative stressful experience for all involved. Sensory feedback on such an important initiative.

Santa acknowledges this and the need for How can people find out more about inclusive access for all children in community Sensory Santa bookings? Sensory Santa initiatives. It provides the wider Port sessions will run from 8am - 10am on Sunday, Macquarie community with an opportunity December 2nd. Bookings for Sensory Santa for every child to get a much loved Santa are essential. Please contact Tanisha Walker photo. from Aspect Hunter School on 0411 575 436 How is Aspect Hunter School involved to book or for more information.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

Celia Pavy, aka Vera Blue is bringing her lady powers to Port Macquarie this month to headline Festival of the Sun. FOCUS chatted with the softly spoken yet fierce woman about life and her album, “Perennial”.

VeraBlue

VEra Blue

After I started delving into electronic music, I totally i Celia. How did music all start for you? When did you discover it as a passion and a talent?

Music was always in our family, so I couldn’t really avoid it - which is really lovely. It’s a nice thing to have. My older sister, Emily, sings as well, so I was always doing harmonies with her. My mum played the organ at church.

I started to teach myself guitar when I was 15, which inspired me to want to sing while playing the guitar as well. I started writing my own songs when I was 16 …

What does your stage name, “Vera Blue” mean to you?

Well, before the project Vera Blue was born, I was writing music under my real name and the style of the music was very folky, very stripped back. At the time I was really inspired

by Joni Mitchell, Angus and Julia Stone, early Taylor Swift - so it was all very acoustic and organic. After I started delving into electronic music, I totally fell in love with the sound and how folk and electronic blended together; so that for me felt like it needed to have its 6 Greater Port Macquarie focus

own project name, and that’s where Vera Blue came from. It’s a different way I can express myself, by dancing onstage and through feeling way more emotion; it’s kind of like electronica brings a heavier, darker feel to the music, which I really love and it definitely makes me feel more …

Would you say Vera Blue is a bit of an alter-ego?

Yeah, when I’m on stage doing the Vera Blue stuff I am feeling completely different things to what I would feel if I was playing folk music with my guitar. Folk music brings me back to my roots and brings me back to where I grew up and what I was going through as a teen. Vera Blue is inspired by who I became when I moved to the city and the relationships I fell into and what I’m going through now …

What space were you at when you were writing Perennial? Tell us about the process from writing to to production.

I met my producer at a writing camp, and we wrote the first EP together. That was when I really started to love the electronic music and that’s when the project started. When I start-

fell in love with the sound and how folk and electronic blended together; so that for me felt

where I had developed ed writing the album more of a sense of self.

I had just come out of It is an empowerment a heavy break up; the like it needed to have its own song for women and album was inspired by project name, and that’s where girls who have been overcoming heartbreak Vera Blue came from. through s***ty relationand figuring out myself ships, or if you feel disand learning things. It respected in a situation was written over the - it’s a song to make people feel strong, and it course of two years, so it was a time frame of makes me feel strong whenever I perform it. nurturing and learning and discovering who I You’re headlining FOTSUN this year. What am, and I guess that’s what life is all about. can your fans expect and most importantA lot of the production came from feeling, ly, what are you looking forward to? or whatever the song was about; for example, Festivals are one of my favourite things to Private, which is quite an angsty song, is do, I think because there is so much positive about frustration, the production was very energy in the air and everyone’s there to have heavy. But then a song like Mended, when a really good time. I’m looking forward to you’re feeling pain but there’s also a light connecting to the audience and having a great shining through - it’s almost triumphant, like time. you’re getting through something. So, the Thanks Celia. production was always heavily connected to the lyrics.

Tell us about the single Lady Powers; what inspired you to write this powerful song in particular?

Catch Vera Blue at FOTSUN 2018, “The Roll on This song was one of the more recent songs Up Edition!” 13th / 14th and 15th December. written for Perennial, and it was from a phase

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 7

focusinterview.

Nope, you’re not seeing things … Photographer Mike Kane’s “selfie” (below) on this page does look like he’s right at home in a previous era.

Mike

KANE “S e l f i e s

M

1 7 0 0”

ike’s portrait forms part of his “Selfies 1700” series - just one of many creative ideas this exceptionally talented and imaginative local photographer is currently working on.

However, Mike is equally at home taking photos of our local wildlife, or pointing a camera at the sky and experimenting with astrophotography …

Hi Mike. Your photographic origins began in Scotland. Where were you born, and how did life in "the land of the brave" influence/affect your photographic/life journey?

I was born in Dunfermline, near Edinburgh.

My photographic interest didn’t take off until 1978, when I was 21.

After leaving the Royal Navy with some cash in my pocket, I bought a camera, three lenses, a portable darkroom and six rolls of film. I taught myself how to use them.

I had various jobs where my photographic skills were used by my employers. I was made redundant and decided to enrol as a mature student in the first photography course offered

by Carnegie College. After my course, I was a freelance photographer and often collaborated 8 Greater Port Macquarie focus

let the camera do all the work. With a few basic We photograph the model camera skills, you can on a plain background compose and create the with other photographic and then using other image that you want. colleagues to complete images we have taken, The biggest challenge photographic backgrounds and is to stay one step ahead assignments of all kinds. objects of interest, we of my students, who are What led to your compose the pictures hungry for knowledge. move to Australia in on the computer.

I’m lucky that I’m able to 2007? be using my camera most I moved to Australia days. for a new start. My sister Left to your own lived here already, and I devices, and with had visited her and her family many times over camera equipment to hand, what subjects the years, so decided Australia was the place do you most like to shoot (and why)? to be.

I like the challenges of wildlife photography.

You've taught photography to students Here in Australia, wildlife is so abundant and for many years, including courses at the on your doorstep.

Port Macquarie Community College. How I like the creative licence I have in the has teaching honed your own skills behind studio, having total control of the lighting the lens? and atmosphere of my images. I’ve worked Photography for me has always been a with some amazing models here in Port passion more than a job. I believe I’m teaching Macquarie.

Most of my studio work is shot my students my passion, rather than a skill. on a plain background.

My skills then move I did, however, have to learn about many to the computer, where I create a composite different camera types and how to interpret image using the model, a background shot them. somewhere else, and other elements to I tell my students the most important thing complete the image. is not the camera or the lenses in their camera Give me a camera and a subject, and I’m bag; it’s their eyes and how they see things. happy capturing it.

With all the technology we have today in Where would you be most at home cameras, it’s really easy to leave it on Auto and

shooting images ... on land, underwater, pointing a telescope at the stars? (Or, all of the above!)

I like all aspects of photography. I am equally skilled and at ease shooting landscapes, wildlife, the stars, underwater and in the studio.

With brilliant clear skies in Australia, I’ve taken up astrophotography with a telescope, which holds its own challenges.

What are some images/projects you've worked on recently that have really inspired you?

My partner, Denise and I have jointly been working on a steampunk studio theme with several models. We photograph the model on a plain background and then using other images we have taken, backgrounds and objects of interest, we compose the pictures on the computer.

Another project is my Selfies 1700 project, where I take a studio photograph of myself in 1700s costume and create a believable background to put my 1700s self into.

If you had to pack you your bag today and travel overseas, what camera equipment would you take with you (and why)?

When travelling, I try to take all my gear because you don’t know what situations you’re going to encounter. I may need a long lens for wildlife, a wide angle lens for landscapes, and a fisheye for astrophotography. I try to cover

focusinterview.

Part of my business is ‘Images of Scotland’, where I

sell photographs of Scottish landscapes at Highland Gatherings

in New South Wales and Canberra ...

all bases. amazing scenery.

I’m actually going overseas for Christmas In June I’ll be exhibiting again at the Macleay to meet my new grandchild. I’ll be taking my Valley Community Art Gallery with Denise and Olympus OMD EM1 MK II and several lenses. another friend. Part of my business is “Images I’m not sure what the weather will be like, and of Scotland”, where I sell photographs of I may be too busy being a new grandad and Scottish landscapes at Highland Gatherings with family to get out much. in New South Wales and Canberra, such What exhibitions/photographic as “Bundanoon is Brigadoon”, “Bonnie competitions have you Wingham”, Aberdeen been involved with in and Canberra Highland recent years?

Gatherings. This gives me This year I’ve won a chance to air the kilt, several ribbons, medals, have haggis for lunch When travelling, I try to and acceptances and listen to the sound of take all my gear - because in national and the pipes. you don’t know what international exhibitions.

Do you have any situations you’re I was awarded third workshops/classes going to encounter. in photography at the planned for 2019 and I may need a long Royal Easter Show in beyond? lens for wildlife, a Sydney. I also exhibited Because the beginning wide angle lens for at the Macleay Valley of the year is very busy landscapes, and a fisheye Community Gallery in for us, and there is a lot for astrophotography. I try to June with three friends. of work put into having cover all bases.

My partner, Denise an exhibition, I haven’t and I also exhibited our planned anything for the images at the Crave @ first part of 2019.

Bonnys Café in Bonny Hills under our joint Where can we see more examples of your name “Artography” and had some sales there. work/contact you?

What future plans/projects do you have in My website is www.mikekanephotography. mind? com.au where you can see examples of all my I will be continuing my steampunk and work.

Selfies 1700 projects.

Thanks Mike.

We’re going to New Zealand in autumn next Interview: Jo Robinson. year, to capture the colours of autumn and Greater Port Macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

Nancy Bevington

There are many strings to Nancy Bevington’s creative bow...having worked for many years as an Art Director and owned her own advertising and design agency, illustrating children’s books is also a passion.

J

ust in time for the festive season, Nancy has completed the beautifully illustrated The Aussie ABC Christmas, which the youngsters in your family will simply adore!

Hi Nancy. What's your relationship with the Greater Port Macquarie area?

We emigrated as a family from Bermuda to Port Macquarie in the early 1970s. I went to Port Macquarie High School until the age of 16, which is when I left and moved to Newcastle to further my art training.

My family have lived and worked in the area since arriving here all those years ago, so I have always been drawn back to this beautiful part of the world. In fact, when my husband and I returned from living in the UK in 1989, we lived here for a short while before moving to Sydney.

Run us through a brief synopsis of your career in the design/advertising industries, as you've worked in a variety of roles.

When I graduated from my Fine Art Diploma in 1978, I decided to move to London. It was very hard at first, as jobs were not plentiful, but I kept making appointments and lugging my portfolio around the city and finally landed a job as a visualiser in one of the top 10 advertising agencies in London. It was a steep learning curve, but with the help of my two colleagues I mastered the techniques of drawing the advertisements and TV storyboards that the art directors threw at us.

I spent four years in the studio, but I always knew art direction was where I wanted to be.

I applied to become an Art Director at the agency and was teamed up with a copywriter.

I had an amazing six years, creating ads, TV 10 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Christmas in colder climates

does digital design also commercials and means crackling fires, play a role here?

POS for some major twinkling lights and traditional Apart from the commercial international blue chip decorations. In Australia side of my work, I have always brands. it is all about summer been interested in illustration After 10 years holidays, family get and painting and while my living and working in togethers, playing cricket on day job was full on with our London, my husband the beach. ad agency in Sydney, I always and I decided to move found time to come up with to Australia. We came ideas and illustrations for back to Port Macquarie children’s books. for a while and worked on freelance projects I was fortunate to be introduced to Peter and for local companies.

Sophia Whitfield, the owners of New Frontier, After a year we missed the buzz of the city, who published my first series, called Mad Dog so decided to move to Sydney and opened our own advertising and design agency. I worked as the Chef. The Zen Tails series came shortly after.

Peter asked me if I would create the characters Creative Director, he as Managing Director. and illustrate three books in the series, which We owned the business for 17 years, and was great fun. Over the next few years, two during that time worked with some boutique more books were added to the series, plus a and major brands such as Akubra, Unilever, collection of board books.

Sony Ericsson, Boral, Yates, to name a few.

Tell us a little more about Dragonfly Days That was my first foray into the amazing Design, one of your latest ventures. What world of children’s book illustration and does it specialise in? publishing. Since then I have had many other Dragonfly Days Design came about while wonderful commissions from a variety of I was working on ideas for a new children’s publishers, one of the latest being The Aussie book. I thought it would be wonderful ABC Christmas. to create whimsical images that could be The process of creating goes through quite personalised to celebrate a special date in a a few stages. From the initial brief I work up child’s life, such as their birth or birthday. character studies in pencil. I then produce If you visit my Dragonfly Days Design a pencil storyboard, or rough mock up of website, you will discover not just my the entire book. Once I have the concept personalised prints, but also my children’s and characters agreed, I complete a couple books, paintings and other illustrations. of double pages in colour. I work mostly in You're also well known as an illustrator gouache paint on watercolour paper and then of children's books, including the Mad scan the illustrations, finally finishing them Dog the Chef, and Zen Tails series. What using various computer techniques. mediums do you generally use to create Your latest book release is The Aussie ABC illustrations for children's books ... and Christmas - a beautifully illustrated book

for two - four year olds. How did you come up with the concept for this book?

Sophia from New Frontier contacted me and asked if I would like to illustrate an Australian Christmas ABC book. We bounced ideas back and forth and agreed on the concepts for the 26 letters. I wanted the illustrations to a have a festive flavour, but still retain an Australian uniqueness. I think my favourite illustration is the angel with the cork hat!

What do you most love about Christmas in Australia ... and how did this inspire the ABC book?

Being close to family, the bright blue skies and sea, the warm relaxed way of life, makes for very different kind of Christmas.

I wanted to capture that in the book.

Christmas in colder climates means crackling fires, twinkling lights and traditional decorations. In Australia it is all about summer holidays, family get togethers, playing cricket on the beach. Where else would you find twig Christmas trees, gum leaf wreaths and pavlova instead of Christmas pudding!

Where can we buy a copy of The Aussie ABC Christmas - and your other works too?

You can buy The Aussie ABC Christmas online from New Frontier Publishing www.newfrontier.com.au It’s also at Book Face Port Macquarie.

Where can we find out more about you and the work you do?

My website is the best place to see most of my work, visit: www.dragonflydaysdesign.com Thanks Nancy.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 11

focus_What’s On Port Macquarie

D E C E M B E R

What’s

2

Blessing of the angels

A remembrance service for babies whose lives were short but treasured. The service is open to anyone who has been affected by the loss of a baby through miscarriage, birth or even shortly after birth. The babies do not to have been born in the Port Macquarie area.

Time 1pm. Date 2nd December. Venue Port Macquarie Anglican Church (St Thomas), Hay St. RSVP to martie26@ bigpond.com or Ph: 0467 796 395.

29

Oysters In The Vines

Cassegrain Wines proudly presents their 13th annual Oysters in the Vines festival. Enjoy the beautiful grounds of Cassegrain Wines with world class local oysters, seafood, wines, beer and ciders, live music, food stalls, kids’ activities and an oyster and wine masterclass.

The Westport Club’s Christmas Under The Stars

When Saturday 29th December, noon to 8pm.

Where Cassegrain Wines, 10 Winery Drive, Port Macquarie. FREE entry.

Bring a picnic blanket or fold up chair and settle in for a great night out with family singing Christmas carols and enjoying the festivities of this wonderful event. Starring Tim Campbell.

When Sunday 9th December. Where Westport Park, Port Macquarie. Entertainment starts at 5:30pm. Fireworks display commences at 9pm. $2 entry free per person.

For more information visit thewestportclub.com.au

13

Hastings Choristers Christmas Concert Shining Night Micro Business Forum Christmas Meeting Registrations for next Micro Business Forum meeting are now open, and once again MBF offers the opportunity for current financial members to display and sell their products and services at our Christmas meeting.

When 7th December. Registration link https://www. microbusinessforum.org.au/next-meeting

12 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Do you want to experience a night filled with the true spirit of Christmas, celebrating the birth of the Christ-child and the peace and joy that Christmas brings? Then come along to Hastings Choristers’ much-anticipated Christmas concert and glory in beautiful carols by John Rutter, a Mozart Alleluia and Charpentier’s sacred music. Delight in the magical harmonies for which Hastings Choristers are famous.

When Thursday, December 13th. Time 6pm - 7:30pm.

Where St Agnes Church, Hay St, Port Macquarie.

Tickets $20 adults; $10 under 18s. Available at the Glasshouse Box Office or at the door.

Dave and Gerry Party Mega Mix Every Saturday night in December! Live on board the MV Port Adventure! This is entertainment with a view, as Dave and Gerry rock it out with their fun filled disco cruises.

Bookings 0434 393 199 / cruiseportmacquarie.com.au

focusinterview.

Stars Christmas under the

T i m

I

C a m p b e l l

Tim Campbell is one of Australia’s most loved performers, with a career spanning television, musical theatre and more … We are excited to have Tim back in Port Macquarie entertaining our community at Westport Club’s annual Christmas under the Stars.

tim campbell

t’s been two years since we last classic and popular live songs! My full band and I chatted with you. What have been play around the country all year long and haven’t some of the highlights over the past had an empty dance floor yet; it’s such a joy to couple of years? share.

Look at us; we haven’t aged a bit!

Your favourite Christmas carol, and why?

Certainly a big highlight was releasing SO MANY! This is the drama we face each year my album ELECTRIFYING at Carols By Candlelight on 80s earlier this year and Christmas Eve - who will get how incredibly well it’s been in first for the best Christmas received - especially since this songs … I do love Santa Claus was my first release through is Coming to Town, may have With the band and I, it’s all my new record label. Top done that a few times before about giving audiences 20 ARIA and No.1 on the - it just brings such joy and an experience where they Aus Independent charts was EVERYONE loves to join in. Oh can forget everything else AMAZING! in their world and just Holy Night is always a beautiful Can’t wait to play some immerse themselves in ballad - I’ll leave that one for of these tunes along with of the fun and excitement Anthony Callea! the Christmas classics for classic and popular live songs!

What’s on your wish list for everyone this year.

What can people look Santa this year? forward to at the Can I say a pony? OK, Tim Campbell Band perhaps that’s the dream of performance at The Christmas Under the Stars the nine year old girls instead! I’ll leave Santa for event in December? the younger ones; I just can’t wait to catch up with Everyone can look forward to an immense loved ones this Christmas and New Year break. It’s amount of FUN! Like last time, we will be raising been a busy year, and I’ve been a bad friend. The the candles and lights, raising our voices and martini shaker is on standby! keeping the “neighbours” in Coffs up from our loud How are you spending Christmas? singing! Plus like last time, we will have everyone This will be my 10th year on Carols By Candlelight on their feet dancing to some Christmas and other on Christmas Eve, and let’s just say the after party classic tunes … Yes, there will be a children’s mosh back at our place tends to go quite late - I swear I pitt at the stage once again! have seen Santa a few times in the wee hours of the What do you love about entertaining a live morning - but that could be the champagne! audience?

So Christmas Day is a little low key for us. My For me, there is nothing better than live family live all over the country, so it tends to be a performance. With the band and I, it’s all about casual dinner with the Calleas, once I finally get out giving audiences an experience where they can of bed! forget everything else in their world and just immerse themselves in the fun and excitement of Thanks Tim.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 13

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free as a design F r e e

B e n n e t t

free as a bird Local fashion designer and mama Free Bennett has recently launched a range of free spirited children’s clothing. FOCUS chatted with Free about fashion, balance and mum life ‌

Y

ou’ve always been interested in fashion, but what inspired you to start designing children’s clothing?

My inspiration purely comes firstly from my four girls and my large extended family. I love creating unique pieces for them all to wear. I have been fortunate to be a stay at home mum for 10 years. I always wanted to return to the making world eventually and work from home. The progression into making children’s clothing only seemed natural. Children’s clothing is so playful and fulfilling to create.

Tell us about your Spring/Summer collection ‌ All our pieces are limited edition, because of the nature of our fabric selections. The prints are ever changing, but the styles will be repeated and will always tell a story throughout the season. Our collections have a very free-spirited/bohemian feel ... Think a mix of natural fibres linens/cottons, vintage fabrics, recycled denim, global inspired prints and hand crocheted trims, floaty dresses and skirts, playful overalls, kimonos and lots more.

I try to make all styles trans-seasonal, so they can be layered up for winter or stripped back for summer. Children grow so fast, and I like to see them get the most wear out of their special pieces.

How do you balance mum/work life?

14 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Well, any working mum could answer this one for me! Actually, I don’t really see myself as a working mum, because I work from home and love what I do. But, it is always busy; I try be as organised as I can, and my children have to always come first. We have our work days and our play days, and our I don’t think we are going to get anything done days!

Describe a typical day for you.

There isn’t really a typical day or week in our houseDepending on he workload, I can hold. I try to have some do 2 - 5 days, and when in sort of structure in my the midst of production work days, but I also have I can still be sewing well to be hugely flexible. into the night. I have two I love attending all the always there if the little people at home with me, kids’ school activities, and kids need a break which often makes work days a that was a major drawcard from normal life. little adventurous! to working from home ...

Eggs on toast for All of this is still quite fresh dinner is always the for me and my family, so backup plan meal! we are slowly working it Life is always busy out together. ‌ but mostly a good busy!

Depending on the workload, I can do 2 - 5 At the end of the day when the house is fidays, and when in the midst of production I nally tidy and quiet, I enjoy a cuppa and have can still be sewing well into the night. I have my half hour of bliss! two little people at home with me, which What advice would you give to budding often makes work days a little adventurous! fashion designers?

My sister comes to the rescue if the workI am not one to give a lot of advice, as load is overwhelming and cuts/trims/tags/ everyone has their own journey to follow. I presses. My mum and my mother in law are also feel I have so much to learn from others.

Yes, fashion designer is the label and I do love designing, but making and creating is the thing that brings me pure happiness. If it is your passion and it makes you happy, whether it is for yourself or for others, just do it!

Be yourself; it always works out for the best!

Life is too short to wear boring clothes!

Happiness is ...

I feel complete when I am surrounded by all the people I love,đ&#x;§Ąmy family and friends. That, to me, is the meaning of happiness!

Thanks Free.

IG freeasabird_the_label FB www.fb.com/freeasabird.thelabel W freeasabirdthelabel.bigcartel.com

Greater Port Macquarie focus 15

focusinterview.

The origins of Freemasonry may be shrouded in history, but it’s known to have been in existence since the Middle Ages. Lodge Hastings No. 69 - registered under the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory - has itself been around for 140 years, and celebrated this important anniversary in October.

masonic lodge

Hastings

Masonic

D

istrict Grand Inspector of Workings (DGIW) of District 13, Matt Harding shares a little about what it means to be a Freemason in this modern age …

When and how did you personally become involved with Freemasonry and what drew you to this organisation?

I became personally involved in Freemasonry after seeing Masons doing charity work for the betterment of the local community and made enquiries about how I could become a part of the organisation.

What can you tell us about the origins of Freemasonry?

The actual origins of Freemasonry have been lost in time, but it is known that it arose from the guilds of stonemasons which constructed Europe’s castles and cathedrals during the Middle Ages.

These craftsmen were in possession of highly prized skills in mathematics and architecture, which they in turn passed on to apprentices who had been accepted as being worthy of being taught the secrets of their trade. These trainees advanced, depending on their proficiency, to become Master Masons.

In England in 1717, four Lodges decided to create a formal organisation by forming the first Grand Lodge.

Freemasonry then spread across Europe and to other countries with amazing speed.

In Australia, Freemasonry can be traced to the First Fleet’s arrival in 1788.

The United Grand Lodge of New South Wales was officially formed in 1888, and later became responsible

16 Greater Port Macquarie focus

These craftsmen were in candidate. At the close of the for Freemasonry in the possession of highly Australian Capital Territory. meeting, we adjourned for a prized skills in What would you say are the celebratory meal with our wives mathematics and core values of Freemasons? and partners. architecture, which they Freemasonry is a large Why do you think your Lodge in turn passed on to fraternal organisation that has achieved such longevity? apprentices who had been promotes moral and personal Lodge Hastings has been a accepted as being worthy of being development amongst its part of the community for 140 taught the secrets of their trade. members. years, and I think the history and Its core values include caring quality of Masons over the years for others, helping those in has contributed to the Lodge’s need and acting with honesty longevity and its current members wanting to be a part and integrity. of and continue that legacy.

Tell us a little about the structure underlining the Your organisation’s mission is to “make good men Freemasons ... what are “Lodges”, and how do better”. How do you go about achieving this? they work?

Freemasonry practices strong moral principles and The Masonic Lodge is the basic organisational unit develops the core values of honesty and integrity in the of Freemasonry. The Lodge meets regularly to conduct individual and puts its principles into practice through the usual formal business of any small organisation its charitable activities. (pay bills, organise social and charitable events, elect We believe in interacting and working closely within new members, etc.) our local communities to help all people in need and In addition to business, the meeting may perform their communities as a whole. a ceremony to confer a Masonic degree or receive a Who is welcome to join your group - and how do lecture, which is usually on some aspect of Masonic they find out more info? history or ritual.

Men over the age of 18 who can provide and are At the conclusion of the meeting, the Lodge might happy to undergo a police check. adjourn for a formal dinner, or festive board.

Information and enquires to join Freemasonry can be Lodge Hastings No. 69 recently celebrated found on the Masonic website: its 140th anniversary. This is an awesome www.masons.org.au achievement! How was the occasion celebrated?

Thanks Matt.

Lodges from the district joined Lodge Hastings for the evening to mark the occasion and initiate a new Interview: Jo Robinson.

Mid North Coast Art Prize 2018 The Mid North Coast Art Prize is an annual exhibition and competition hosted by the Hastings Valley Fine Art Association, which has its own gallery in Port Macquarie at 2 William Street.

Held each year between Christmas and New Year, the Mid North Coast Art Prize is a major attraction at the Laurieton United Services Club.

80 artists working across the Mid North Coast.

The quality of work is always high and, this year, local artist Gordon Rossiter will have the task of judging the winning entries in categories covering a variety of mediums Watercolour, Oil and Acrylic, Dry Media (Pastel, Drawing, Charcoal) and Mixed Media.

The exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the best work of local artists - all artwork will be available for purchase, and this will be a great opportunity to start or add to your own art collection.

Also included this year is the category of Small Local Scene, which presents the opportunity for those who love to visit Laurieton and the Hastings region to pick up a wonderful memento. There is also the People’s Choice Award, which is always popular with visitors and, of course, the artists.

Over 200 artworks will be on display, representing the wonderful talents of around

The exhibition will be open from 28th December to 6th January, from 10am to 7pm.

Hastings Valley Fine Art Association presents the

Mid North Coast

Art Prize’18 Exhibition and Sale Discover the range of outstanding works by local artists at competitive prices 28 Dec to 6 Jan 10am to 7pm Laurieton United Services Club Seymour St, Laurieton

Enquiries: hvfagallery@gmail.com Entry forms: hastingsvalleyart.net.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 17

F

As Christmas approaches, we find ourselves hearing Christmas music playing in the shops, seeing Christmas decorations everywhere and then there’s the Christmas movies that are all over Netflix. It’s that time of year again.

or some of us, Christmas can mean a time of rushing around purchasing presents, and for some of us it can create an extra level of stress with all the different things to think about.

For others, it’s a time for fun, friends and family! For some of us it may also be a hard time, with reminders of loved ones who are no longer here to celebrate with us ... and for others it is a time to celebrate the season of hope, joy and peace.

But whatever it means for you, Christmas can be wonderful time for

18 Greater Port Macquarie focus

community and connection. We all need these two things, because we were designed for them.

On Sunday 23rd December, the Combined Churches of Port Macquarie will be holding “Carols on the Hill” in the beautiful gardens of St Thomas’ Anglican Church in Hay Street. The heart of this community event is to provide a family friendly evening, and to celebrate together with the amazing community of Port Macquarie, the birth of Jesus Christ.

The evening will kick off with a sausage sizzle at 6pm followed by a

great programme starting at 7pm, which will include a wonderful mix of traditional carols, fun kids' songs, and some contemporary Christmas songs as well.

Everybody is welcome! So come along and bring a blanket or a chair to sit on, and enjoy a great night!

IT’S TIME TO CELEBRATE FIVE YEARS OF HEADSPACE PORT MACQUARIE!

J

oin the festiveness that is MAGIC CASTLE, watch some extraordinary musicians, including Phil Jamieson (lead singer of GRINSPOON), and help raise awareness of youth mental health. MAGIC CASTLE is a non-profit music event that will raise much needed funds and awareness for Port Macquarie's local youth mental health centre - headspace. The mini music fest will be held on Thursday 13th December at The Lounge Room. Headlining will be solo artist Phil Jamieson (GRINSPOON) with special guests Mini Skirt, Grace Turner, Royal Chant, Genes and Vena Klymo.

Come along and join this awesome one-off event - not to be missed ...

Carols on the Hill - Sunday 23rd December, 6pm - 9:30pm.

50 Hay Street, Port Macquarie.

Tickets are $30+ BF - available at magiccastle.oztix.com.au Doors open at 7pm.

PLEASE NOTE: MAGIC CASTLE is 18+

surf SUMMER HAS ARRIVED AND WITH IT, LONG, HOT DAYS RELAXING ON THE BEACH, ALONG WITH BARBECUES and precious time spent with family and friends.

T video of the month.

Video details: One of the best kept secrets of the Mid North Coast is Abundance Lifestyle

and Garden at Sancrox. The café is the perfect place to relax or catch up for friends, and the food is fantastic. We’re a regular; how about you?

# focustv

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

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

CORN

WH

AT ’ S I N

Excavations in Mexico have unearthed wild corn cobs dating back to 5,000 BC, and cultivated corn cobs around 2,000 BC. Australia is a relative newcomer, first cultivating corn in the 1790s. New South Wales produces around half of the national production of corn, but only around 20% of that production is sold as fresh corn on the cob. The balance goes into the processing sector for tinned corn kernels and other products.

Whilst it is ranked in the USA as the third most popular fresh vegetable, it sits at 10th place in Australia - although national consumption of fresh corn is increasing. And, why not? It’s such a versatile vegetable and is a good source of several nutrients. It is high in fibre, as well as containing Folic Acid, Vitamin C and Niacin.

Chargrilled corn cobs are a delicious addition to any BBQ, and there is nothing nicer than a creamy corn risotto, either with chicken or crab. Cook the corn cobs in plenty of water - and don’t throw the water away! Use it as the stock for the risotto, and you won’t be wasting all the goodness and flavour in the water. Corn is grown locally by grower Tony Hudson at Wauchope and is available now at Ken Little’s Fruit & Veg in Munster Street.

WHERE

he beach is a big part of Let others know your plans, wear the correct our Australian way of life safety gear, including a lifejacket, and take the and during the summer it is time to learn as much about the conditions as important that safety is top of possible by checking the local weather report mind, so everyone can enjoy and tide times. their time on the coast safely.

In fact, understanding local conditions is Professional Lifeguards are on duty at many important, regardless of the type of activity beaches along the coast undertaken. At this time on weekdays, while of year, people often volunteer surf lifesavers travel to beaches they patrol each weekend and may not be familiar with, public holiday through so starting your day by If you do find yourself stuck in until April 2019. checking the forecast is a a rip it is important not Sadly, there have vital first step. to panic; attract attention already been 12 coastal The BeachSafe website by raising your arm in the drownings in NSW this and app is an excellent air, and float on your back to season, with many as a first port of call, as it conserve energy. direct result of getting provides information on into difficulty in a rip tides, facilities, patrol current. locations and hazards at It’s important to learn every beach in Australia. how to identify and avoid rips. The easiest way We encourage all beach users to talk to a to do that is to always swim between the red Lifeguard or Lifesaver on duty, as they are there and yellow flags. If you do find yourself stuck to help you. It’s important to supervise children in a rip, it is important not to panic; attract around any form at water at all times. attention by raising your arm in the air, and With a hot summer predicted, protecting float on your back to conserve energy. your skin should be a priority. Wear and If you are a strong swimmer, you can try to regularly reapply sunscreen and seek shade exit the rip by swimming parallel to the beach. during the hottest part of the day.

Rock fishing and boating are popular Surf Life Saving NSW wishes everyone a safe activities, with plenty of coastline to explore. and happy holiday break, and please remember It’s important for recreational water users to be to help us help you by swimming at a patrolled prepared. location between the red and yellow flags.

TIPS FOR KEEPING SAFE AT THE BEACH • Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags. For your nearest patrolled beach, check the BeachSafe app or website.

• Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a Lifesaver or Lifeguard for safety information.

• Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water.

• Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising your arm.

• In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police.

• For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations, visit the Beachsafe Website or download the app.

Find out more about The Other Chef at www.theotherchef.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 19

focusinterview.

Photo credit: Josh Sims.

Bryant ellen bryant

I

Freshly arrived BACK ON AUSTRALIAN TURF FROM TORONTO, CANADA, IT SEEMED AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE A FRESH YARN OR TWO WITH LOCAL MUSICIAN AND PERFORMER Ellen Bryant.

t’s been said travel provides one of the most well rounded education experiences possible, and Ellen’s certainly learned a lot, and received quite a few stamps on her passport, since she grew up at Rawdon Island …

Hi Ellen. It's hard to believe it's been around three years since we last spoke.

You were living and performing with Universal Studios in Singapore then!

You've since moved to Canada ... Where did you settle there, and what did you most love about this experience?

Hi Jo. Firstly, thank you for having me again. Toronto, Canada, is where I was based.

Community, awareness and collaboration is what I loved most about my time in Toronto.

How did you find the Canadian music scene, in comparison to Australia?

Well, I’ve not really been a part of the Australian music scene, as of yet. However, being back, I do look forward to learning about the scene here and being a part of the progression and evolution of it.

What do you feel were some of your major achievements while you were in Canada?

Curating my own shows! In total I put on three shows: Foundations, Stages and my last show, Gratitude. With Stages, I had help from my dear friend and female creative Kelsi Gayda (@Kelsi.Lux). The mission was to create a safe space for people to just be present - to bring 20 Greater Port Macquarie focus

people together who wouldn’t usually find themselves in the same space. Collaboration is key, and the people whom I carefully chose to be a part of these shows really are doing their art from their soul. Intention is everything.

What made you want to start curating your own shows?

Well, my main idea was to create a space that I personally felt comfortable in with artists who make people feel safe and at home … A show that I would wanna go to, a space that I would wanna chill in. My mentality was, if you aligned with my energy as a person/musically, you would most probably, hopefully enjoy the space that I create with the other artists.

I started the shows because I personally wanted to know and create exactly what these people were walking in to - full creative control.

With not many resources, I started that, and made it happen. I can’t wait to do another and explore with different concepts.

Now you're back in Oz, you've decided to move to Melbourne. Why this city ... what drew you there?

I’d never been to Melbourne before now, so it’s a new place altogether - which is a struggle, but also refreshing. I’d been told this city has a great music scene, so I thought I would see what’s poppin’ and how I could give to that.

What types of music are you performing these days ... and are you still working on your dancing/acting as well?

MY MENTALITY WAS, IF YOU ALIGNED WITH MY ENERGY AS A PERSON/ MUSICALLY, YOU WOULD MOST PROBABLY, HOPEFULLY ENJOY THE SPACE THAT I CREATE WITH THE OTHER ARTISTS.

The intention behind my vision hasn’t changed, but my sound and mindset has evolved, for sure. I will let you decide where you want to place it genre wise, but it’s still along the line of Soul/RnB. Not so much dancing anymore as in classes/choreography - more just grooving when I feel like I want. Acting, forever working on my different accents ha ha, but acting is definitely something I see happening in my future.

What are your future plans?

Future plans … Short term is to get to know this city, Melbourne. Releasing the new music, starting with the track That’s just how I feel being released as a single in early 2019 produced by Toronto’s K-Notes (callmeknotes) and Nigel Edwards (@nomvdslvnd), mixed and mastered by Australia’s Becki Whitton (@aphir_). Manifesting new people to work with. Keeping my same family connections in Toronto; create some long distance magic!

Start doing my own show curation here in Australia as I did in Toronto and eventually progress on to be doing that internationally. I have ideas that I am putting into action, and I’m excited to see how they’re all going to come to fruition.

You're not one to shy away from a

challenge, and the "gypsy" travelling lifestyle appears to come easily to you.

What advice would you give our local youth, who may be considering a career in the performing

arts?

The one thing I always be sure I say at my shows is: know that you are capable and create opportunity where it doesn’t exist.

I would further advise people to not limit themselves with fear when looking at an entrepreneurial career choice. Do it and go hard. Choose to believe in yourself, and I truly do believe that the top five people you spend your time with reflect on to you. So, choose wisely, and don’t be afraid to say no if something doesn’t feel right in your intuition.

Also, if a lack of money is a fear of yours … remember that it can always be made. Certain opportunities won’t always come back to you.

Listen to yourself.

Where can we follow your journey/find out what you're up to these days? @ellenbryantmusic on all socials and www.ellenbryantmusic.com Thank you for having me - much love.

Thanks Ellen.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

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64 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Fiona

Lowry “The trees, they whisper”... Capturing the dual elements of our native Australian bushland perfectly, Archibald Prize winning artist Fiona Lowry subtly highlights with her work not only the beauty of the landscape, but the darker events and secrets that form part of our history. On display from December 8 at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery… i Fiona. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the Glasshouse Regional Gallery in Port Macquarie in December!

What are some of the artworks you’ll be presenting in your exhibition?

Thank you! The works will be landscapes from different series that I have done over the last five or so years … From time spent in Bundanon at Arthur Boyd’s property to the high country near Jindabyne, where one particular story caught my attention, after a friend mentioned a tree near his place that has wild dogs hanging from it. I had never heard of anything like it and had to see it for myself.

The drive to the tree takes you past the Gungarlin River, a popular picnic spot for the early settlers and then on to Snowy Plain Road, where the landscape is silent until you see the dogs hanging in different states of decay; some are mummified and remain hanging for months, before falling into the heap of other bones that scatter the ground.

Dog trees go back to the earliest days of European settlement, and this old Eucalypt has been in use for more than 60 years.

The tree, on a remote road in an otherwise magnificent landscape, operates as a flash frame to the dark side of the Australian psyche, reflecting the foundational trauma and pushes against a romantic vision of the Australian landscape.

I’ve only seen photos of your work online (I’m looking forward to viewing your works in person!) but something struck me. You capture the Australian bush magnificently in your landscape work, reflecting the beauty and tranquility perfectly - but there’s also a dark edge to your paintings ... isolation, vulnerability. What messages are you hoping to convey with your work?

I think for me painting the landscape and specifically at the moment painting the Australian landscape allows me to talk about ideas that are connected to all of our experience here. Recently I have been reading Turcotte’s essay, Australian Gothic, and he talks about 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Australia even before it was ever confirmed as a place; it had been imagined as a place peopled by monsters and then with the transportation of convicts, it became embedded as being this dark underworld.

So historically, I spent some time visiting the the landscape in places that held potent memories Australia has always for me and started to been animated with think about the ties that these hidden energies, bind you to a place and harbouring criminals, also how the history of bushrangers, serial a place is intrinsic to our own spent some time growing killings and massacres of experience of that place, even up in. My work often Australia’s Indigenous, though it may be unspoken or explores my own memories but it also holds a unacknowledged. of place but also the great beauty, and I history of place, and this am interested in this was a unique opportunity duality - not just within to immerse myself in my the landscape, but also own history but also to understand the history within ourselves. of this landscape.

So for me, growing in a deeply religious I spent some time visiting the places that held environment I was very tuned in to the potent memories for me and started to think possibilities that a beautiful place could also about the ties that bind you to a place and also hold something quite dark or foreboding within how the history of a place is intrinsic to our own it. All of my painted landscapes are an attempt experience of that place, even though it may be to articulate this anxiety, but also this idea that unspoken or unacknowledged. on the one hand there is pain, but there is also At the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre comfort from that pain.

I learnt about some of this history, and it Describe the airbrushing technique you use amplified and translated some of the voices you in your work … can hear whilst travelling through the landscape.

I use a fine airbrush that’s connected to a The complex mangroves that look out to compressor. The airbrush has a small lever that Aboriginal heritage site, Ukerebagh Island, an allows you to control a fine mist. This technique and the landscape of tall Bangalow Palms on allows you to seamlessly drop the picture in and the road heading out to Mount Wollumbin out of focus, creating a vibration on the surface resonated ... What also resonated was a of the painting that ends up helping to carry sense of self-consciousness that being in this the content of the work, making the viewing a landscape evokes and the idea that if we don’t disorientating, ambiguous experience. acknowledge our own history, a sense of And for me, making work is often about isolation, separation and melancholy can occur. deepening one’s doubt about the situation You’ve achieved a lot of recognition for under discussion. your art - being awarded the Doug Moran Before you begin a painting, how much National Portrait Prize in 2008, you were a research do you do regarding the location/ finalist in the Archibald Prize in 2011 and history of where the painting is set?

2013, and winner of the Archibald in 2014 Recently I did a residency in Murwillumbah. It with your portrait of Penelope Seidler. As was an opportunity to revisit a landscape that I

an artist, how does this type of recognition make you feel?

I have been watching the Archibald Prize since I was a young girl, and it really was one of my first experiences of what was happening in the contemporary art world - a world very distant from my own growing up.

So, in one respect it’s a fulfilment of a thought I had of being in the prize a long time ago, but it is also wonderful to be recognised in this way and to be part of this history. I think every artist wants people to see the work they are making, and the prize highlights your work to a much broader audience.

Where can we see more examples of your work/find out more about you?

I would normally say my website, but I’m having trouble with getting it back online, so: martinbrownecontemporary.com/ArtistFLowry Thanks Fiona.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Fiona Lowry is represented by Martin Browne Contemporary, Sydney, and Jan Murphy Gallery, Queensland.

Artist Talk December 8, 11am.

The trees, they whisper exhibition December 8 - February 10.

Exhibition opens on December 7 at 6pm.

Visit glasshouse.org.au for details.

relax elax with us

at The Westport Club

I

t’s summer-time in Port Macquarie and you’re

friendly service. Relaxing with us is sharing a

invited to come and relax with us at The

chat over a drink, a revitalising morning coffee,

Westport Club. Our club features bar and

delighting in a glass of bubbles, a decadent

dining facilities designed to help you relax! Meet

dessert, an amazing meal and being entertained!

with friends or loved ones, soak up the laid-back

Sit back and relax with us at The Westport Club,

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any day, or every day!

Visit us at The Westport Club 25 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 facebook.com/ thewestportclub

instagram.com/ thewestportclub

w w w. t h e w e s t p o r t c l u b . c o m . a u 26 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Ph: 6588 7201

Trio of lamb chops on sweet potato mash from Drift, Port City Bowling Club.

22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Seared Scallops on Pumpkin Purée

Relaxed dining in a beautiful waterside setting

The Tapp at Panthers

Hastings Coffee Co. at The Westport Club

The TAPP Bar has an eclectic industrial style with spectacular water views across the Hastings River. Boasting a delectable tapas food menu, boutique craft beer on tap, premium wine and creative cocktails daily, sit back and enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday evenings or settle into soft acoustics for your lazy Sunday afternoon. You can’t go past the amazing tapas menu, featuring seared scallops served on pumpkin purée, chilli salted soft shell crab and gourmet pizzas for a casual long lunch. Stay cosy on the deck, or lounge in the king dining chairs indoors.

Hugging the banks of the breathtaking Hastings River is Hastings Coffee Co., the closest thing to dining on the water in Port Macquarie!

Come by and check out the brand-new footpath connecting the Hastings Coffee Co. takeaway window with the popular coastal walk - furry friends are also welcome, with their own dedicated water bowl and maybe even a yummy treat!

HEAD CHEF ADAM LOVETT

From Wednesday to Saturday, bring your friends along for Hastings By Night and enjoy a delicious burger, salad or pizza.

Finish off with one of our pastries and a barista-made coffee.

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUAIRE (02) 6580 2300 WWW.PORTMACQUARIE.PANTHERS.COM.AU

25 BULLER STREET, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6588 7201 WWW.THEWESTPORTCLUB.COM.AU BREAKFAST AND LUNCH 7 DAYS FROM 7.30AM, DINNER WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY FROM 5PM – LATE

OPEN 7 DAYS. SUNDAY - FRIDAY: 12PM - LATE, SATURDAY: 10AM - LATE.

Spaghetti Marinara - prawns, calamari, clams, and mussels in napolitana sauce

Sri Lankan style vegan cashew and chick pea curry

Aqua at The Westport Club

Terracotta Trattoria

Waterside dining featuring a fresh, seasonal menu.

At Aqua Restaurant, our aim is to provide you with a taste of the Hastings region, while offering a relaxing and welcoming local dining experience.

Aqua is proud to introduce our brand-new summer menu. Come in and try the Sri Lankan style vegan cashew and chick pea curry, pork loin with honey roasted sweet potato and creamy mustard sauce, or perhaps the lemon and herb chicken breast with squashed chat potatoes and Greek salad. Our new dessert menu offers a fresh and modern perspective on some of the most popular desserts, such as vanilla slice, sticky date pudding and lemon meringue pie, all made in-house by our talented pastry team.

Aqua is an ideal spot for end of year functions. As we move into the festive season, be sure to book ahead, to ensure you don’t miss out.

25 BULLER STREET, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6588 7201 WWW.THEWESTPORTCLUB.COM.AU LUNCH 7 DAYS 11:30AM - 2PM. DINNER 7 DAYS 5PM - 8:30PM.

You must try our sweet treats and our signature sourdough, all baked fresh for you daily by our pastry chefs. Our favourite picks from the pastry cabinet are the Opera Slice and the “Olivia”, featuring hazelnut cream-filled profiteroles!

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.

HEAD CHEF JESSE MCGARRITY

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.

38 CAMERON STREET, WAUCHOPE 6585 1824 OPEN WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY, 5PM - 9PM.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 25

coffee scene.

Café Buzz Summer is now with us, and that means changing the menu at BUZZ. We always look to cook and bake with the seasons, and summer is probably everybody’s favourite. It means salads, all types of salads, with all the different ingredients we obtain from Ken Little, our own garden and the gardens of our many generous customers.

We love to team our freshly made salads with our range of baby quiche, tarts, slices and pastries - all baked fresh every day.

If you are thinking of something special for a gift, then have a look at the huge range of local produce in the BUZZ retail section.

There are jams, chutneys, chillies, tabascos, chocolates, salts, salad dressings, honey,

and did I mention the chocolates?

T H E

R E V I E W

like the ultimate indulgence of being the new owner. Your Café BUZZ is on the market; drop in and see Vicki if you want to know more.

107 HORTON STREET, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6584 0084

B R E W

Café BUZZ has been serving and selling the best coffees and teas in the world since that heady day we opened over 15 years ago.

Just about anywhere that grows coffee or tea will be represented in our BUZZ Coffee and BUZZ Tea retail areas.

For coffee lovers we have our famous House Blend, our Strong Blend and our Premium Blend. Then we have the biggest range of single origin coffees you will find anywhere.

All our beans are fresh roasted and come in bags of 100 g, 250 g, 500 g and kilo bags 26 Greater Port Macquarie focus

If you love BUZZ and all it offers, you may

priced from $5.95. We can help you select if you are unsure, and we will grind your beans to suit your coffee maker. Need a new coffee maker or grinder? We have a large selection for you to choose from.

For our tea lovers, BUZZ Tea has gained the knowledge of what you like most of all. From the classic and high-quality English Breakfast through other black, green and herbal teas.

Need a new teapot? No problem.

See you at BUZZ for your tea and coffee.

Settlers

INN

We caught up for a Christmas chat with Settlers Inn Publican ALISTAIR FLOWER.

Y

ou have recently won some huge awards at Settlers Inn; please tell us about them? Yes, in 2017 Settlers won at the Australian Hotels Association NSW Awards for Excellence, the prestigious Heart of the Community for the best community centric hotel in the state. From that, we went on to win this award for the whole of Australia! Very exciting stuff. Last month we won the state award again - so super proud of my staff that we have been able to maintain the high calibre consistency required.

We were also voted by the local radio station, Triple M to have the best chicken schnitzel parma on the Mid North Coast.

This is an awesome achievement, and great recognition for our region. Why do you think you won the award for the heart of the community? We had a goal of being the most community centric hotel in the region, right from when we purchased the pub two and a half years ago. In doing that, we wanted to make sure we have very community minded staff who are entrenched in the community, be it through sport, social or charity work. They have been amazing

for us.

In the last two years, Settlers has contributed over $200,000 to the community directly or indirectly through fundraisers that have been held at the pub. We also sponsor over 3,500 locals through 15 sports clubs. This includes 1,500 kids.

To go with this, we have also been upgrading Our staff add the our facilities to become Santa hat to the family focused with a huge staff uniform, and playground. everyone seems to have in ham.

Personally, I’m also a twinkle in their eye Our staff add the very passionate about when they come in.

Santa hat to the the community, and it’s staff uniform, and important the pub leader everyone seems believes in it. All these things to have a twinkle have assisted. in their eye when What does Christmas they come in. Christmas is about being with mean to you? It’s just a wonderful time the family, and Port doubles in size over the of the year; you can’t help but feel festive! holiday period. That’s exciting!

I have three kids at home who are super What do you have on the horizon for excited about Christmas and especially what 2019? We are finishing off more renovations Santa will bring them (which is extra incentive at Setts that will be completed early in the for them to not be naughty for Mum and year, which includes a new alfresco space Dad). For me, it’s about catching up with our that will extend into our bistro. We are extended family and eating our body weight

modernising some furniture, and we can finally say that our Settlers make over will be completed (for now!)

We also have a couple of new exciting projects coming on line - including a collaboration with some other hospitality guys to bring a new café / bar to the Town Green in the Port CBD waterfront called The Little Shack.

We are also launching a function facility in the industrial area called the Board Room, to go with our Fernhill Tavern.

Oh, and did I mention we are having a baby also ...

Congratulations, Alistair!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 27

28 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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 Alicia Fox Photography

Jacqui Ashe, Jessie Myers Founder of Project Goddess and Courtney Haynes at PlumStudios

Vanessa with the ALLSTARS Studio of Dance Crew at The Style Vibe Launch

Lovely ladies celebrating the cup at Sails Port Macquarie

Photo Little Glimpses Photography

Photo Alicia Fox Photography

Vanessa celebrating the launch of The Style Vibe at Sails Port Macquarie

Photo Little Glimpses Photography

Tayla Wright, Laura Collins and Maddi Kelly at the Lexus Melbourne Cup at Sails Port Macquarie

Photo Alicia Fox Photography

Matt Jorgenson & Scott Lawrence at The Style Vibe Launch

social scene.

I

Fabulous reached a truly next level high this month, with fashion events, super styled business launches, race day glamour, surprise award wins and gala events.

t’s amazing how one moment life is completely ordinary and is then pushed to epic levels of amazingness in one single breath! Cue a whirlwind of challenges, major event planning and trips across the country and crazy (SUPER crazy!) plane rides and … gargantuan airport delays. Everyone loves a 10 hour delay in Sydney airport, right! Cancelled flights - love it! Combine grumpy crowds with a chance meeting with Matt Preston of MasterChef and half of Port Macquarie and a just a teensy weensy headache from an awards party the night before, and you have pure bedlam! There really is no place like home, and we are all hurtling towards Christmas on a super-sized sleigh ride out of control!

Congrats to the amazingly talented business woman Jessie Myers, who launched a new product line recently at a charity event for local not for profit Girls Space. Jessie is the founder and driving force behind women’s holistic health community Project Goddess - encouraging a non-diet approach to eating, love of movement and a loving approach to self. The event featured fabulous grazing stations, goody bags, glamour and fun at the gorgeous ecofriendly salon Plum Studios in Port Macquarie.

Over 90 clients and friends were invited to the unveiling of her Goddess Daily Intention Cards and were the first to get their hot little hands on these gorgeous gems of wisdom and inspiration. These little cards are daily reminders of positivity and are the perfect mindful gift to pop under the Christmas tree. Check them out at projectgoddess.com.au Congrats Jessie - a

fabulous human, amazing dancer, trainer and rising health and wellbeing star.

Simultaneously, another business star was rising at Sails Port Macquarie in the stunning event pavilion on the same spring evening. Vanessa Lawrence unveiled her personal styling business, The Style Vibe by Vanessa Jane, to an exclusive crowd at the private launch event. Over 160 guests were treated to a next level fashion show styled by Vanessa, featuring fresh new looks from local boutiques and outlets and some of the hottest locals models and talents. Guests were greeted by blush cocktails, with tracks from DJ Ollie Brooke featuring Melbourne artist Adelaide Clarke on vocals, styling booth

by Sess & Sass Co, gorgeous gift bags, a beautiful blush sweet grazing station featuring divine sweet treats by Fika at Casseras and flowing champagne, fine food and fun. I was delighted to introduce Vanessa and the amazing ALLSTARS Studio Dance crew, who opened the event with an explosive performance, followed by the incredible fashion show featuring Wildhearts Design, The Department Store, Charlize Rose, Meg & Me, Gold Dust Trader, Innervision, Sublime & Blossom, G.Active, My Shack by the Sea, Port Horizons, Connor, Saltwaterwine, Storm Riders, Ossix, Pretty Rad and Jensen Reign. Guests, including Shelley Scully, Roxanna Chan, Amy Smith, Darlene and Nigel Sonter, Vanessa and Anthony Wilson, Lisa Briscoe, Jodie Firth, Samantha Crowe, Irene Mifsud, Kate Harding, Jane Hillsdon, Lusanna Klotz, Shae Glanville, Julie Spurr and Janet Alexander, Talya and Kylie Zeimer, Amanda

Donald, Brett Varcoe, Rebecca and Sam Percival, Rebecca Hickey and Tim Farnsworth, Mitchell Van der Veer, Rebecca Baker and Vanessa's husband, Scott and beautiful daughter Jazmin, to name some of the fabulous few. Congrats, Vanessa on an amazing event and for receiving the prestigious “The One to Watch” award from the Australian Style Institute. Images of the launch were captured by the talented Alicia Fox and videographer Hugo Bittar Productions.

Oh, what a night!

The racing season finished in style, with fabulous events all over our coastal city. Lexus of Port Macquarie partnered with both Sails and Rydges Port Macquarie to present fine afternoons of fashion and fun. Rydges was fashion central, with the MC Tim Maddren and the glam guests including Lexus GM Terry Gleeson and lovely wife Robyn, Mike Reid and Marc Minor did a dynamic duo job of the Calcutta Horse Action, with Trish and David Relf walking way with the Calcutta win! Guests were welcomed by the Lexus CT and Lexus NX on arrival, with Chambord Royale Cocktails and canapés followed by a fashion show featuring Gold Dust Trader, Charlize Rose, Sublime & Blossom, Wild Heart Designs, Connor, Akubra with makeup design by Jamie Finn and her team at Port Macquarie Day Spa and hair design by the glam crew at Evelina Kemp Hair & Beauty. Fashions on the Field guests enjoyed a $3,000 prize pool, including a Luxe Lexus weekend away, jewellery from Le Dãin Designs and lots of fabulous gift vouchers from our supporting fashion houses AND loads of lovely

Angove and Chambord to celebrate post race!

Congrats to our Fashions on the Field winners, Jessica Hodge - Most Elegant Lady, April Styles - Best Millinery, Tim Farnsworth - Best Dressed Gent, and Best Dressed Couple going to Jodie and Roger Firth. A fabulous afternoon of fashion and fun finished with tunes by our faves, Alter Ego !

Sails welcomed guests to Pimms cocktails under the Port Cochere with Lexus Partners Zenon Burton and Mark Bultitude, with the stunning triple treat of the Lexus LX, Lexus CT and Lexus IS. Thanks to hilarious HITFM's Cass Catsoulis who did a fabulous job keeping the glam squad on track prior to the big race. Special thanks to Bethmay and Scott Jones of Vanity Day Spa and the team for the fabulous Fashions on the Field prizes and gift bags full of spa treats for every lucky guest. Fashions on the Field winners included Monique Cotterill - Young Racegoer, Elouise Coble - Most Elegant Lady, and Best Dressed Couple - William Martin and Tayah Charlton. Such a gorgeous day of grazing stations, food carts and fun enjoyed by Leanne Webber, Kodie Shipway, Belinda Charet, Kaylee Collins, Shannon Collins, Jo Martin, Cheree Desmares, Shelley Laing, glam couple Natasha and Best Dressed Gent Andrew Holloway celebrating their wedding anniversary and Lexus crew Zenon Burton and Mark Butlitude with new Sails GM Marcus Taylor. Giddy up! What a month! I’m dreaming of a little Christmas R&R and some much needed fun in the sun! Merry Christmas to you all and a fabulous New Year!

Until 2019! x Greater Port Macquarie focus 29

Pink Haven

The Woop Woop Cup It’s on again - the annual Woop Woop grabs donated by the local businesses.

Cup, proudly brought to you by Parking is available at the course, but we Wauchope Jockey Club. recommend a taxi.

Join us again this year for There will be a full TAB tote another exciting and friendly and bookmakers on course The Jockey Club invite day of racing. The day will with canteen and bar facilities, all the lads and lasses once again see a five card race as well as lots of undercover to dress in their best, as the Fashions program, with the feature race seating. on the Field will being run over 1,800 m.

Each year this race day gets take place in the There will be plenty on for the bigger and bigger and is a great afternoon, with young ones, so make a day of it opportunity to unwind after a some great prizes and bring the family. massive Christmas Day. up for grabs donated First race will commence at The Jockey Club invite all the by the local businesses. lads and lasses to dress in 12pm. their best, as the Fashions on See you there. the Field will take place in the Wauchope Race Course afternoon, with some great prizes up for Beechwood Rd, Wauchope.

30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Raise Your Glass - Pink Tribute Australia’s best and most spectacular “Ultimate” tribute show! With countless top 10 singles, sold out tours and record breaking attendances. P!NK is currently at the peak of her career.

Without doubt, P!nk is the most popular and dazzling pop icon of the international music scene. Australians have an unquenchable thirst for the Goddess of Rock Music, with 58 Australian sell out shows and many fans missing out, Raise Your Glass steps into the arena - a show that can be rightly called “Australia’s Ultimate Tribute Show".

The performer behind Raise Your Glass is Mount Isa born singer and musician Kim Boath. Kim is a powerful performer in her own right - accomplished and versatile with an outstanding vocal talent. Kim is complemented by Queensland’s best musicians.

The Raise Your Glass band are consummate professionals, all with international touring experience.

All in all this guarantees a magical show

spectacular, an experience of a life time. The Raise Your Glass team have toured extensively throughout Queensland and North/Central NSW and later throughout 2018 and 2017.

Raise Your Glass Pink Tribute is a spectacular like no other - a two hour feature packed show with costume changes. Raise Your Glass - it’s time to “Get This Party Started”.

Tickets are available at the club for just $20 each; this is an over 18 years event only, and minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Show commences at 8pm Saturday 8th December 2018.

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

MARTY ARCHER

Port Macquarie has nine butcher’s shops, one each in most of our satellite shopping centres. Susie has a lunchtime chat with one of the longest-serving of them, who’s operated his Colonial Butchery in the CBD’s heart for the past 17-plus years.

C

hristmas is coming: orders for hams, turkeys, festive roasts are piling into the butchery’s shopfront in the Colonial Arcade off Horton Street.

So I’m able to catch up with Marty Archer only when his 75-hour week’s ended at 1pm Saturday. He hasn’t the luxury of relaxing over lunch with me at The Mullet just now, invites me instead to the dining table in his canalside home where he and wife Sam welcome me with a glass of family favourite wine. The immaculate living area hosts a beautifully preserved timber meat-ice chest to one side and a cut-down butcher’s block-cum-coffee table: both, never used, varnished to form tasteful and attractive objets d’art. Sam works a 40-hour week alongside her husband; they’re cheerful as they begin a brief hiatus from the relentless demands of a job that permits just two weeks’ annual break. Christmas and Easter are busy: while everyone else is on leave, their work revs up.

It’s full-on through the summer holidays and daylight-saving barbecue time. Winter brings its own peak demands for roasts and casserole meats. They’re used to it now, he after four decades in the trade, his granddad a butcher too. They’re originally from Warragul, in Victoria’s west Gippsland, 100km southeast of Melbourne. Archer jokes the path to Sam’s heart was through her stomach: “She was a scrawny runt of a thing, lived across the road, looking real hungry all the time.” Sam yelps

in protest, laughing. “She was always after a free feed!” Marty jibes. “We used to take pity on you, Hon,” he tells his wife fondly.

“Wednesday nights were roast nights; I’d knock off early, play golf, then put a roast on.” The pair married 25 years ago.

“I started as clean-up boy in Woolworths’ meat department in Warragul, after school and Saturday mornings. In 1978 I began a three and a half year apprenticeship; I was there seven years. Then I went into a real butcher shop: sawdust on the floor; we made our own silverside, sausages, and dog food rolls with leftovers. The shop owner owned the Warragul abattoirs too: we saw both sides of the industry. It was a huge 18-staff retail outlet and we wholesaled to about 100 shops in Melbourne and surrounding districts.”

Over the times, butchering’s changed, and continually changing, I learn. “Once a butcher could only buy whole carcasses: whole lamb, whole beef. Then abattoirs [began offering] just legs of lamb, loins of lamb, cutlet or forequarter pieces. The downside was in summer everyone’s ordering the front part of the lamb: loins, cutlets, bbq chop areas. No one wants the legs, no one wants a roast. So they’re stuck with them. So they came into this butcher shop and we discounted heavily: legs of lamb $6.99 each. We’d sell 200 on Saturday morning. It was clean [but back then] refrigeration was pathetic, preservatives were rife”, spray-on or dust-on sodium nitrate. “It was in everything. It’s illegal now.”

And what of the newer retail trend to shrink-wrapped cryovac cuts? “Lamb’s getting killed this afternoon and put into big blasters [chillers blowing, circulating air]. Next day it’s cut up and cryovaced: it doesn’t dry properly.”

The ideal way is that meat “hangs” in a chiller, to age properly. “But everyone’s in a hurry now so it sits in the cryovac bag, it marinates there until you heat it. It tastes different; the tenderness is less because it hasn’t aged.”

And those vacuum-pack cuts with the clear lids? It’s boxed meat, out of a central factory in the city. Once, the meat was on a foam tray, cling-wrapped. Now it’s in a rigid plastic container, sealed to the edges around the top.

“All done by machine,” Archer tells me. “As it goes through, the sealer sucks out the oxygen and gas-flushes it, substitutes nitrogen to give it longer shelf life.”

Wholesale’s changed too. “The big boys [national wholesalers] are supplying the food industry with product ready for the deep fryer; chefs don’t have to touch a knife. Here, we do portion-controlled steaks: say, 50 scotch filets at 300g. Same with schnitzels, pork chops: everything ready to go.” Sam prepares value-added retail products. “People want to go home and put it straight in the oven: it’s diced, marinated, rolled-chicken roasts, curries, stir-fries, stroganoff with mushrooms, onions, sauce already in. Add a dollop of cream if you want to tweak it; boost it with a dash of Worcestershire: we do nearly all the work for you.”

Back in Warragul Archer ultimately became manager of the shop but after years of running the massive outfit and he and Sam with two small daughters, the couple wanted their own business. On to Port Macquarie in 2001, and a now-thriving retail-wholesale clientele, operated also with three other staff.

The couple starts as early as 5am for 7am deliveries to hotels, clubs, restaurants. Sam takes the morning phone orders, invoices the accounts, chases payment. There are the usual small business costs such as NSW Food Authority compliance fees to ensure cleanliness and appropriate refrigeration.

And then competing with those “big boys” who offer elastic credit and “incentives” but perhaps indifferent quality. Archer’s beef and lamb carcasses are from rich New England pastures, his pigs reared at Kundabung, processed at Frederickton abattoirs.

When the pair get their fortnight off, it’s always Bali, where they “do nothing”.

Otherwise it’s time with family and a grandson and granddaughter, 4 and 2. And for taking out the boat fishing! “We find a nice spot.

Sam eats fish, but it does nothing for me.”

Fair enough for a butcher, I suppose. But if we ever get time for that postponed lunch I wager he’ll enjoy the Mullet’s standout delicacy, Glacier Toothfish.

Otherwise, there’s always a Wagyu flank steak, or the succulent Cape Grim sirloin ...

Greater Port Macquarie focus 31

30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Rai and the boys are back on the road, celebrating yet another Summer of Thirsty Merc. FOCUS chatted with Rai in the lead up to their show in Laurieton …

Hi Rai; it’s been a while since we last I think they’re always evolving a bit - I do caught up. What have been some temporarily retire a song form a setlist, usually highlights from the past couple of years? more for the reason that you can’t fit it in Well, I have done a lot of travelling lengthwise than we don’t like playing it any internationally these last couple of years and more. also, I guess, just keeping the band moving There’s a certain flow and almost a storyline along. It’s been a new independent style that goes through a setlist, and I guess of our business structure; we have gone that there are certain songs that would be from being a major doubling up the same label signed band to scenes. We often pull a fully independent a song for that reason outfit, so it was a for a while, but then we BEING A LITTLE BIT OLDER huge crash course will find in three tours’ NOW, WE’VE LEARNT THE learning about how time we will put it back INS AND OUTS OF THE that whole industry in there. I guess it’s like INDUSTRY, AND WE GET TO works. It’s been a players on a footy team; JUST DO MORE OF WHAT bit of a triumphant if you change one player, WE WANT, WHEN WE WANT, way of landing that the whole team changes.

HOW WE WANT, WHICH IS somersault - it was I like playing all the OFTEN WHAT YOU DON’T a big undertaking to stuff and even the songs GET WHEN YOU’RE IN A transfer over to that that people request the DIFFERENT SYSTEM ... structuring. most - songs that are We are now singalongs. Crowds are completely self different; they sing along managed with no differently. publishers and no label; we do a lot more in How are you going to spend this house. summer(time)?

Being a little bit older now, we’ve learnt Good question! I think this is going to be the ins and outs of the industry and we get a very busy touring season, and then we will to just do more of what we want, when we see what happens. I will try to get some new want, how we want, which is often what you material out there ... don’t get when you’re in a different system Thanks Rai. ... But in saying that, I wouldn’t have been able to learn it without going through those systems.

After all this time, what song do you not Don’t miss out on seeing Thirsty Merc @ get tired of performing and why?

Laurieton United Services Club, Laurieton, There are a lot of songs in the Merc on Friday, December 28th, 8pm. www.thirstymerc.com catalogue that I like playing continually.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 33

focusinterview.

Eskimo

Hoodoo Gurus You Am I

Under the Southern Stars

Eskimo Joe The Superjesus British India The Getaway Plan Scott Darlow

SUN JAN 27th Westport Park Port Macquarie Tickets from

au underthesouthernstars.com. ticketmaster.com.au | 136 100 In person at

e Glasshouse | The Beach Hous

34 Greater Port Macquarie focus

’90s Rock ‘n’ Roll fans are in for a real treat with the line up of this year’s Under the Southern Stars event. FOCUS caught up with Kav from Eskimo Joe and chatted about their last 21 years in music, his new solo album and of course, Under the Southern Stars.

H

i Kav. This year am a couple of years later with an actual marks 21 years in album completed. It’s a much mellower music for you guys. sound. Eskimo Joe has become this Rock You’ve come a long ’n’ Roll beast; it’s not where it started, way since Ruby but it certainly is where it is now, but this Wednesday, which album is much more gentle ... kind of is still my fave Eskimo Joe song. sit down with a glass of wine and do a What have been some highlights, or puzzle in your library kind of album. what song is a paramount moment How do you feel you’ve developed for you throughout this time? as a band over the years to where From doing EPs, which was just us you are now? playing around and playing as loud as we Well first, it’s always been about trying could in the jam room and writing songs to write really great songs, so we just sit on the go, going down and really into Girl is where work on the great we started to take structure of songs. ourselves seriously But for us, it’s also as songwriters. vital to be challengPLAYING BIG ROCK ’N’ ROLL It wasn’t until A ing ourselves all FESTIVALS IS ALWAYS A Song is a City and the time, and the JOY; THERE HASN’T BEEN A especially the song way we do that is GREAT TOURING FESTIVAL IN From the Sea that we never really stay THAT STYLE SINCE THE BIG I really felt like we in the same place DAY OUT, AND WITH THESE came of age and sonically, so every KINDS OF THINGS WE GET TO that song, despite album we try to FEEL THAT FEELING AGAIN. all the big radio push ourselves and songs we’ve had evolve and change, since, has stood throw new musical the test of time spanners in the ... Especially when we play it live; it’s works, and that’s one of the reasons I did still just a great moment and never gets a solo record as well - to challenge myself boring. creatively.

Tell us about your latest release, your I think it’s an ever evolving thing; I solo record All Your Devotion, which really hope we get to jump back in the you released in September. studio again sometime next year and get All Your Devotion is something I’ve another record together - and that would been working on for almost four years. be a really interesting thing, because At the end of 2013 we released a record Eskimo Joe’s last record was quite called Wastelands and I sat down with experimental. We really tried not to the guys and said, I love doing this, but I stick to any formulas, and I imagine if really want to do a solo record and take we came back together to do another my time doing it, because I want to put album, it would be a really simplistic, out a quality piece of music and not just organic sounding record. rush an album. So we did that, and here I Twenty-one years of music and the

three of you are still very much a tight knit group. What’s the secret?

I think having a good formula as far as your chemistry with each other goes.

It’s just like being in any relationship; if you get together with someone and the chemistry isn’t quite right, then after your honeymoon period you pretty much don’t want to look at each other ever again.

With us, we’ve always had really great chemistry, whether it be on stage or in the studio or just hanging out with each other - it’s always been really good like that. We’ve had lots of serious band meetings over the years, where we’ve talked about people’s feelings etc. so we’ve had to communicate immensely to keep that camaraderie alive.

We’re all older now - we’re not as embroiled and as enmeshed in each other’ lives, but we still enjoy each other’s company, which I think is the main secret to our success.

You’re playing Under the Southern Stars, which is becoming a festival for our most iconic artists. What do you love about playing shows like this?

Watching a bunch of the other great bands that are playing like Hoodoo Gurus, You Am I, Jebediah, Superjesus - they’re all really cool bands. Playing big Rock ’n’ Roll festivals is always a joy; there hasn’t been a great touring festival in that style since the Big Day Out, and with these kinds of things we get to feel that feeling again.

It also means you get to roll into new towns and to play to a bunch of people who haven’t seen us play in a long time.

Having a fantastic day is what we look forward to.

Thanks Kav.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 33

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T

LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

CHEERS!

here’s something about this mess with the time-honoured traditions of month that makes many of us a December? bit crazy. A potent combination Our livers might say yes, but somehow we yet of the onset of summer, the again are swept away by the season. It becomes increasing frenzy of hurtling second nature to once again head off into the towards Christmas, the projects and deadlines night for another soiree. of work to be completed before the summer But of late there appears to be a brave holidays. And then of course, there’s the new world out there for those jaded by ramping up of one’s social life to off the Richter overindulgence of the alcoholic kind - opening Scale proportions! different kinds of bottles in the spirit of Christmas parties, graduations, leaving dos, celebration … The world’s first non-alcoholic presentations and award ceremonies. You name spirit, Seedlip has been enjoying an enormous it, it all happens in December. Kris Kringles, long surge of popularity. lunches, office parties and all kinds of shindigs Made from the finest botanicals on the same go down. vein as premium gins, And so they should, you these beverages deliver the say - bottoms up! And same sort of prestige and cheers! sense of occasion as their December is kind of alcoholic cousins.

Christmas parties, like a get-out-jail-free No longer having to graduations, leaving card. All those tightly submit to the humble old dos, presentations and held and most virtuous lemon lime and bitters award ceremonies. You routines and regimes or lime and soda as a name it, it all happens in can now be abandoned substitute to a lovely December. Kris Kringles, with glee! Exercise? Who glass of wine may assist long lunches, office seriously has enough time one in feeling a little less parties and all kinds of for that in December! dowdy for not partaking shindigs go down.

Healthy eating? It is now in hangover inducing mandatory for salads and beverages … smoothies at lunch to be As always, however, if replaced by carbs and champers. Work? Well, fancy soft drinks don’t float your boat, the old considering that there’s still stuff to be done, it “everything in moderation” maxim always rings is rather amazing that it can be perfectly OK for true, and it is indeed possible to summon up the the work day to end at 12pm on the dot and staying power to sail through the entire festive for your team to retire to the pub around the season and beyond if you just manage to not corner ‘til at least knock off time. play all your cards at one table …

Of course, all of this merriment calls for the Having said all that though, if you somehow opening of many bottles of the alcoholic kind. find yourself just “going with the flow”- so Now’s the time to take to your tipple. Whether to speak - don’t despair … you are in good it’s a mean martini, a cold brew or a never company! Whichever way you decide to tackle ending supply of bubbles - ‘tis the season.

December, fill it with friends, family, delicious Distillers, brewers and winemakers across the food and lots of love. globe contribute lavishly to sore heads on every (And if you do decide to celebrate with us this street … month, know that something good can come Yet somehow the glee and gloss of December out of your hangover by helping someone in starts to wear a little thin, and we may start to our region who isn’t so fortunate, by every one crave a little down time and a lot of detox. But at your table contributing one extra dollar to bravely, we soldier on - as we know it’s a long your bill in order to help the local homeless via old haul ‘til January 10. #streetsmartaustralia #dinesmart ) Is there a better way? Do we even want to Cheers!

36 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Greater Port Macquarie focus 37

38 Greater Port Macquarie focus

TIMMY TRUMPET GETS SET TO PERFORM AT THE NEXT INSTALMENT OF LUNAR ELECTRIC MUSIC FESTIVAL, AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST HOMEGROWN EDM FESTIVAL IN PORT MACQUARIE.

W

here did music all begin for you?

I come from a family of musicians.

My dad played trumpet, and his dad played before him. I’ve been playing since I could hold the thing. I actually wanted to play saxophone, but my parents couldn’t afford it. Lucky though, Timmy Saxophone doesn’t have the same ring to it.

You’re obviously known for your trumpet skills - what other instruments can you play?

“I’m probably better on piano than I am on trumpet, and I can play guitar too. I’ve played a lot of instruments over the years.“ Tell us about your collaboration with Savage and the Freaks; how did it come about, and who else have you enjoyed collaborating with? Freaks was originally an instrumental, and the A&R manager suggested getting Savage on the track. As soon as Savage sent over a demo, it felt like the track was finally complete. He nailed it, and from then I knew it was something special. Since then I’ve been honoured to work with industry legends like Hardwell, Vini Vici, Blasterjaxx and so many others. I love collaborating with other artists!

What goals have you kicked this year? This year I released more music than every before, played more shows in places I’ve never been before and launched my own arena tour called Freak Show. 2019 is going to be even bigger. I can’t wait!

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You’re back for your second consecutive year playing our EDM festival, Lunar Electric. What did you enjoy about last time, and what can fans expect this time around? Lunar Electric has such a great vibe! I love getting to hang out with my mates and play some top shelf bangers.

I’ve got some new music coming out early 2019, and you guys are going to be the first to hear it!

Future plans? I’ve got so many big plans for 2019 that I can’t reveal yet, but I can say I’m hoping to announce a Freak Show World Tour.

Thanks Timmy.

Lunar Electric is on Friday, January 5th at Cassegrain Winery. Tickets are available from oztix.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 39

Façade Escape Room Port’s Macquarie’s first escape room is opening mid-December 2018!

What is an escape room? It’s a mental adventure game where teams of players work together to solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategy to complete the objectives within a set time. The challenges are set in an exciting fictional story that often includes a need to “escape” to help make the story more exciting - but despite the name, players are never actually confined! It’s like a live-action mystery story that uses elements from experiences like scavenger hunts and interactive theatre. In 2007, Japan opened the first escape room, and since then the trend has exploded! Today there are over 8,000 escape rooms worldwide, and it’s still growing!

40 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Australia is also catching on, with almost 100 escape rooms. Façade is the first place to play an escape game between Coffs Harbour and Newcastle /Hunter Valley.

An escape game room is decorated to enhance the story. Although game players usually move through one or a few rooms in the course of the story, it’s a mental challenge, not a physical one.

Players need their problem-solving skills, but no special knowledge - all the necessary information is contained in the game. Popular for groups of friends, workplace team building, and families, most games suit ages “tweens” and up.

So if you enjoy mysteries, puzzles, riddles, clues and exciting stories, you must try Facade Escape Room!

Everything old is new again.

At VAST TAREE, we design with purpose and craft with passion. We know how important each piece of furniture will be when it reaches its forever home, and for this reason we select materials with unique grains and beautiful textures.

We let the materials tell their story and show their distinct personality and soul.

Before up-cycling was even a word, VAST was reusing timber that had lived a full life and already had an amazing story to tell. Whether it’s reused timber from construction demolition or plantation hardwood harvested from sustainably managed forests, we’ve given careful consideration to our impact on the world - and yours.

With Christmas fast approaching, think VAST for readily available dining suites, entertainment units, occasional furnishings, lounging and decorator items. The showroom is filled with so many beautiful pieces to choose from, including the new summer range of linen and cotton clothing, as well as a selection of leather, canvas or sea-grass handbags and clutch purses. Perfect for gifts, or to just spoil yourself!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 41

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Howard Schumann

Y

ou’ve both shaped such iconic moments in Australian Music history, with I was Only 19 and Solid Rock.

Tell us about these songs and the times in your lives when they were written/ released ...

Shane I’d grown up in South West Victoria amidst the “wreckage” of colonial imposition and the consequences of the theft of Australia

by England.

I journeyed to Uluru in 1981 to see if culture had survived in this country. I found what I was looking for and witnessed a powerful “inma”, ceremonial dance and song at the Rock. My experiences there sharpened my sense of historical injustice and awoke in me an anger at the dispossession and entrenched racism. I also awoke to the deep sense of Aboriginal spirituality and cosmology. But, I had no power then. All I could do was write a song. I didn’t realise then how it would command such a presence in the Australian consciousness.

For me, Solid Rock has become such a towering presence, that it almost overshadows the other 300 songs I’ve written. It’s defined people’s understanding of me and it has changed my life as well, for the better. I’m immensely proud of a song I feel came “through” me, not necessarily “from” me. It threw me headfirst into Aboriginal Australia 36 years ago, and it’s been a continuing journey that has enriched my life and deepened my understanding of this remarkable country we live in. I still love to sing it and every time I do, I’m never quite sure where it’s going to take me. You can’t half sing it; you have to “give your spirit” and give in to it fully.

John I wrote I was only 19 in late 1982 after a long, rambling conversation with my brother-inlaw, Mick Storen, who was deployed to Vietnam in 1969 as a member of 6RAR. Mick was courageous enough to step outside what was then the closed circle of Vietnam veterans and tell his story to a singer songwriter in a left-wing folk42 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Shane Howard (Goanna) and John Schumann (Redgum) bring their combined talents and iconic music to Laurieton United Services Club on December 8. Don’t miss this duo performing “Songs That Changed Our Country” ... rock band and hope that it would be okay.

Literally days after it was released, Denny and I got married and left on our honeymoon, which comprised three months backpacking through Indonesia. I didn’t even know how successful the song had been until we got to Jakarta and went to the Jakarta Post Office to pick our mail up.

Even though the song was attributed to Redgum, the only person in the band who actually played on the track was Hugh McDonald - the others didn’t want to record it, because they didn’t think it was going to work!

Redgum had actually decided to call it quits just before 19 was released as a single. Our swansong album was to be Caught in the Act. However, because of 19, Caught in the Act presold enough copies to achieve gold record status before it had even been pressed. So, we stayed together for another three years or so before I left.

How did you come together musically?

Shane John and I met back in the heady days of Goanna and Redgum in the early 1980s. This came together formally when we were both on the bill for the Stop The Drop concert at the Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne in 1983. I’d just returned from the Franklin River, following Bob Brown’s invitation and written Let The Franklin Flow to protest the proposed damming of that extraordinarily beautiful, wild river. Before Goanna played, I asked John if he and the Redgum band would like to join us on stage. He didn’t hesitate.

That moment was the first time the song was performed in public, and the recording went on to be the single we released. We’ve had an ongoing connection since then and see ourselves as “brothers in arms”, advocating for a more decent country and world.

There are lots of connections. We shared the same Engineer and Producer for Solid Rock and I was Only 19, Trevor Lucas and Tony Buettel.

Trevor had been in the English folk rock band Fairport Convention, and he understood how to

take songs that had a folk or acoustic sensibility and translate them into a band structure.

From the moment I first heard 19, I recognised its brilliance and that it was an instant classic of Australian folklore. John and I are different kinds of writers, but we essentially come at the world from a similar trajectory. We each have a strong sense of self and ego, but self interest or commercial outcomes are not our motivating forces.

John I've always been drawn to Shane’s writing - different to mine, but we come from similar backgrounds, have similar concerns and we wallow in similar sensibilities. The first thing we did together was in 1983 at Stop the Drop at the Myer Music Bowl performing Shane’s song, Let the Franklin Flow. (This bloke wandered into our dressing room wearing a hat with what was, clearly, a blinder of a song. Over and above wishing I had written it, I thought to myself, “Who wears a hat?”)

Over the years we’d run into each other and stayed in touch over the phone. In 2005 I invited Shane to join me on my Lawson album - and then in 2015 I invited him to sing with me on On Every ANZAC Day - a song I wrote as a tribute to Indigenous men and women who have served Australia in the ADF over the years.

We’ve been threatening to do some performances together for about 15 years but, last May in Adelaide, the planets actually aligned and we did our first show. Everybody absolutely loved it - importantly, we did too! We co-wrote and recorded Times like These for that show. I really enjoyed the process - to-ing and fro-ing with ideas, lines, images etc. We hope to do more writing and recording together in the future, but our lives are so busy, we have to take things one day at a time! Shane lives on a very beautiful part of the Victorian coast. My idea is to go down there for a week or two, hang out on the beach, do a bit of fishing, drink a few beers - and see what we come up with. I haven’t shared this plan with him yet.

You’re bringing your show, Songs That Changed Our Country, to Laurieton United Services Club. What are some of the songs fans can expect - and tell us a bit about the show in your own words.

Shane Times Like These was our first collaboration as writers. These sorts of projects can often go wrong and not work out. Not so for us. We flew into it. I'll never die wondering what John thinks. He's frank and fearless, and I'm not backward in taking a forward step either. It was a ripping contest of ideas, and ultimately rewarding. John casts a critical eye on political affairs, and I delight in his equally eloquent and ascerbic turn of phrase in songs like 19, The Long Run, Bali, Borrowed Ground.

I also love the collaboration on Faces in the Street that we recorded on John’s Lawson album, some years ago. A song like If I Close My Eyes reveals John’s abiding concern for our country’s harsh fragility.

John The set list is still taking shape. People, however, can rest secure in the knowledge that there will be Redgum songs, Goanna songs, songs from our solo years and songs that we’ve done together. And, a couple of interesting covers! As opposed to other artists who go out together, we actually swap lines and verses in each other’s songs: I get to have a crack at Solid Rock, Talk of the Town and Razor’s Edge - Shane gets to have a crack at 19, Bali and The Long Run. I think we bring a fresh perspective to each other’s songs - and I do know the 2017 Adelaide audience found it exhilarating!

Thanks John and Shane.

See Shane Howard and John Schumann with their show, Songs That Changed Our Country at Laurieton United Services Club.

December 8 - Doors 7:30pm / Show 8pm. www.laurietonclub.com.au

ADULTS

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 43

focus_contributor

MARGRET MEAGHER - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR ARTS AND HEALTH

Photo of Sarah Ashton

The sounds of

Arts & Health Billabong Zoo Some days the Devil whispers, “You are not strong enough to withstand the storm ... and some days I get up and say, ‘Today, I am the storm”.

T

he closing words to Sarah Ashton’s presentation on the lived experience of dementia earned her a standing ovation at the 10th International Arts and Health Conference at Sails Hotel, which ran from 12th to 15th November.

Over eighty presenters gave voice to their areas of expertise in the arts, health and creative ageing world.

Sarah, from Port Macquarie, was one of several speakers at the conference with the courage to share their mental health struggles to help others better understand their condition.

None sought or engendered pity, instead displaying their incredible inner strength to not just cope and reclaim control of their own lives, but actively work to help others.

“My life got turned upside down the moment I got this diagnosis,” Sarah acknowledged. But she has discovered ways to manage what she calls “the everyday frustrations”. All her bills, for example, are on auto payment.

She has diaries everywhere detailing her appointments and what she needs to do. She has clocks and calendars everywhere, “in case I want to check what day I think it is today”.

She keeps busy socialising, as a member of various groups, doing advocacy work, taking part in research, doing art and craft, listening to music and caring for her pets and her garden.

Looking after your diet, walking or exercising every day, engaging in intellectual exercises such as puzzles, brain training, games and reading are also important.

Legal paperwork, she urged, must be put in order as soon as you receive a diagnosis, so you are still considered legally competent to truly know your wishes. That included a professionally written will, advanced care directive and power of attorney, all with “meat and bite” as to where you want to live, and what is to happen to the assets if your home has to be sold if you need higher level care.

But she admitted the challenge of dealing with aspects of dementia and “pretending to be a functional adult” was exhausting.

She described dementia as a process of loss, 44 Greater Port Macquarie focus

“your brain being torn apart from your body and mind”, and warned what was once seen as an older person’s affliction, was now striking all ages, even a young mother.

“No one is immune,” Sarah said, but she has HOPE because “hope opens people’s eyes”.

And there are moments that shine through.

Last week, Sarah competed in the local area’s Toastmasters International competition, in the category of impromptu table topics (speaking off the cuff on any topic nominated). Sarah won and now will compete at the District Toastmasters International competition in March 2019... Congratulations Sarah! (interview Alison Houston, www.artsandhealth.org.au) Further information: www.dementia.org.au or call the National Dementia Helpline on1800 100 500.

When I embarked on the incredible journey of creating the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, I was keen to see arts and health concepts incorporated in the artistic designs of the sculptures. Kerry Smith-Taughkin, who works as an artist in healthcare in Melbourne, submitted a design called “Puzzles: Looking for the Key to Dementia”. It is a very beautiful design of blue sky, soft billowing clouds and a keyhole positioned eloquently on the back of the koala. Our aim is to promote Port Macquarie as a dementia friendly community, while helping to reduce the stigma associated with the diagnosis of dementia.“Puzzles” resides at Port Macquarie Library currently and is planning a visit to several botanic gardens in NSW and ACT next year, to continue to spread the word.

Many artforms are now utilised to support people living with dementia - poetry, music, art, creative writing, theatre, dance. There are many very skilled people living in our region who offer creative activities, including Omnicare Alliance day respite centres in Kempsey, Wauchope, Laurieton, South West Rocks and Port Macquarie. (Tel: 1300 336 488, www.omnicare.org.au) Drop into the library with family and friends over summer and say “Hi” to Puzzles too. We all love a smile and a hug.

The team at Billabong Zoo are delighted to announce the birth of our first ever African Lion cub, to proud parents Milo and Misty. On 27th August, “Amari”, meaning “miracle” and “strong” was born at 7pm.

valuable to the breeding program.

Misty and Milo have been wonderful first time parents, but just like us, being new to the game have required a little help and assistance from their zookeeper family.

conclusion of each lion presentation at 10:30am,

Amari’s birth is not only exciting for the zoo and local community, but incredibly important for the Australasian breeding program for African Lions.

Given that Misty and Milo were imported from South Africa in 2016, this means that Amari is not related to any of the lions at other zoos within Australia. In the future when he’s ready to start his own pride, his genetics will be really

For now however, Amari will continue to explore his new enclosure and build his confidence meeting and greeting the guests. He can be seen enjoying playtime with his keepers at the 1pm and 3:30pm daily.

This is a great chance not only to see our adult lions up-close, enjoy Amari’s playful antics and hear the full account of his birth at the zoo, but a great opportunity to learn more about African Lions and the challenges these magnificent animals face in the wild.

Currently the zoo is raising funds for the Kevin Richardson Foundation. To learn more, please visit kevinrichardsonfoundation.org

Zoo Up-close

One-on-one personal encounters with koalas, meerkats, snakes, red pandas, snow leopards or cheetahs.

Booking essential. Times & costs on our website or call 6585 1060

Zoo Café Breakfast & lunch, daily specials Zoo Shop Souvenirs & great gifts Zoo Kids Children's play area & all day walk-through kangaroo & wallaby feeding area.

Zoo Talks 16 FREE keeper presentations daily

(included in entry fee) + reptile show at the weekends and holidays.

Conservation through education

OPEN DAILY

9am to 5pm

BZ_DISCOVER MAG_FP_210x297_SEPT18_V1.indd 1

Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie 6585 1060 | Billabongzoo.com.au 12/09/2018 5:21 PM

NEW YEARS EVE SEE IN THE NEW YEAR WITH FREE LIVE MUSIC AND COMPLIMENTARY CANAPES

ROWLAND & SHEKINAH PLAYING LIVE & LOUD IN THE BEER GARDEN FROM 8:30PM

MEGA

Drawn DECEMBER 16TH 2018

CHRISTMAS RAFFLE SO MANY PRIZES TO BE WON! MEAT TRAYS, CHRISTMAS HAMS, CHRISTMAS HAMPERS, FRESH SEAFOOD VOUCHERS and MORE!

Tickets on Sale

Monday 10th - Sunday 16th LIVE MUSIC • 3–6PM

DRAW STARTS • 3:30PM

Special appearance from Santa!

Corner of Ocean & Emerald Drives, Port Macquarie NSW (02) 6582 3939 | tackingpointtavern.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 45

focusinterview.

Tacking Point Lighthouse

MANY OF US HAVE USED COLOURED PENCILS - ESPECIALLY AS CHILDREN - AND THEY’VE CERTAINLY HAD SOMEWHAT OF A REVIVAL IN RECENT YEARS, WITH THE RELEASE OF MANY NEW COLOURING BOOKS FOR ADULTS.

Silence at the Table

Beach Treasures

Richard

Klekociuk.

L

ocal artist Richard Klekociuk introduces us to coloured pencils in a whole new way showing just what is possible when you combine quality pencils with skill, an eye for detail, patience and creative flair. Richard’s pencil work is beautiful, and he’s received worldwide recognition for his work.

Hi Richard. You lived in Tasmania, I believe, before you relocated to Port Macquarie. What brought you to the Mid North Coast to live?

My wife, Val and I left Tasmania in 2016 to live in Cairns, but we felt after almost a year there that it wasn’t going to be a long-term proposition, so we decided to move “half way”, to Port Macquarie, early last year and we‘re glad we did!

Your preferred medium to work with is coloured pencils. Why is this?

I started working with coloured pencils in 1988 after 12 years of painting (oils, followed by acrylics) followed by pastel drawing; the latter included pastel pencils great to draw with, but messy at times.

Coloured pencils were my next choice, and

46 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I’m so glad I made the switch! I love their “immediacy”, portability, and lack of mess and their range of colour choices. Oddly enough, I graduated from Art School as a sculptor and painter!

What does your role as an ambassador for Caran d'Ache in Australia involve?

I’m one of three ambassadors in Australia, and I promote their Larger work can take up to products through a month to complete (some my own work and versatile and can be used have taken three months). I on social media, in on paper, mount board, often have two or more demonstrations (such wood panels and even drawings underway at as last year’s ArtWalk), fabric. the same time (usually exhibitions and in Considering how part of a series) as it gives specific workshops detailed your work is, me greater variety in my daily from Hobart to how often do you find workload and helps with my Mareeba and in you need to replace concentration. between. sets of pencils?

My role is voluntary, I usually update my but I’m happy to do pencil arsenal every two it because I believe in the quality of their months, not in sets, but with individual products. The pencils are simply divine to colours. I have 38 sets of pencils, but I work with - lightfast, superb quality and usually work with no more than six sets at the colours are sensational! They are highly a time, four of them being different sets

of Caran d’Ache pencils. The warmer the weather, the more pencils I need to replace, but that’s a small price to pay for their performance!

Typically, how long would it take you to complete most pieces of work?

The rate of production depends on the size and complexity of each subject. I like to finish at least one A2 size drawing each week, up to two if they are A3 size or less.

Larger work can take up to a month to complete (some have taken three months). I often have two or more drawings underway at the same time (usually part of a series) as it gives me greater variety in my daily

focusinterview.

Silent Stones Crowdy Bay

Summer Landscape, Coffs Coast

Journeys into the Unknown

workload and helps with my concentration.

My drawings vary in size from 20 x 27 cm to 80 x 120 cm. I draw on coloured Canson pastel board and pastel paper. I rarely use a white surface, because it often gives an “illustration look”; whereas, coloured surfaces give my work a “painterly” finish, texture, depth and a richness in colour.

What's your artistic process ... where does the inspiration come from to commence a new piece of work, and do you work from photographs or en plein air?

The Australian landscape is my main inspiration, through realism, semi-abstraction or abstract interpretations. I’m currently working in two themes: simplified landscapes and “neglected” landscapes (the ground we walk on, but rarely examine closely).

I spend a lot of time on research for each of my drawings through visiting each location, sketches, notes and taking lots of photos. I like revisiting certain locations to see and record what changes have occurred.

I’m very interested in the impact climate change is having on the landscape, weathering, decay, pattern, mark making

(an example being the tree markings of the Being a Glover Finalist and three times Scribbly Gum Moth at Port Macquarie), shape in the Bay of Fires Art Prize have been and colour. memorable moments for me, as they have I left Art School (Tasmania) as a hard-edged reinforced my faith in my chosen medium. painter, and this is still evident in a good deal Having my work recognised in Australia of my current work. and overseas through You've received awards and published in some significant a number of books and recognition for your magazines continues to work, including keep me energised.

I spend a lot of time on being a finalist in I have two Master Status research for each of the Glover Prize Awards for coloured my drawings through twice. What artistic pencils, one from Canada, visiting each location, achievement are the other, Australia, and sketches, notes and you most proud of? this recognition from my taking lots of photos. I Winning the City peers is very special and like revisiting certain locations of Burnie Art Prize in highly treasured. to see and record what changes 2010 with Silence at What upcoming have occurred. the Table has been projects/exhibitions/ my most satisfying workshops do you have achievement to date, planned for 2019? as it was a coloured pencil drawing in open I’m exhibiting at the Long Point Vineyard, company in a major art award.

Lake Cathie, in March and April, plus I’m I have been fortunate to win over 50 having an exhibition at the Sunset Framing awards in Australia and overseas with my Gallery in Port Macquarie in September. drawings since 1998, a good many against I will be holding workshops next year, but other art mediums. the only one confirmed at this stage is for five

days at Toowoomba in early July.

Where can we see more examples of your work, or find out more about you?

You can see examples of my work at: www.artkleko.com www.RichardKlekociuk.com www.gallerypejean.com.au/artists/ richardklekociuk www.artkleko.wordpress.com Instagram - artkleko Facebook - Richard Klekociuk Redbubble - Richard Klekociuk https://youtu.be/6jxBYHYU_NM Final say …

My blog, www.artkleko.wordpress.com is ranked 12 in the world’s top 25 coloured pencil blogs. Subscription is free and can be found on my blog’s homepage.

If anyone is interested in a coloured pencil workshop, then please email me at artkleko@ gmail.com I have published two adult colouring books, and they can be found on Facebook at You Add Colour, or you can email me for details.

Thanks Richard.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 47

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Christmas A special focus feature

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 49

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The

Christmas

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• Organic ingredients • 100% Vegan • Sulphate and Paraben FREE • Colour SAFE • Cruelty FREE • Australian Made Because we Love Your Locks.

Head to our new website loveyourlocksorganics.com.au and check out the range and like us on Instagram.

50 Greater Port Macquarie focus

A special focus feature

Evelina Kemp HAIR & BEAUTY

Hi Evelina. Thanks so much for speaking to FOCUS. It’s been a big year for Evelina Kemp Hair & Beauty.

Tell us about some of the highlights for the brand over 2018 ...

T

his year has been the most humble and giving year for our team. Volunteering with haircuts at the soup kitchen for those less fortunate and continuing to do so, fundraising for “Cure For Cancer” and helping dear clients overcome their ordeal with losing their health and hair.

Being a finalist in the Business Awards night was a thrill for our team and a great night to mingle with all the spectacular businesses in town. We are always so pleased to be in the finals year after year! This also highlights that by partaking in education by Keune, GHD, Show Pony and Goldwell, the team strives to continually provide our clients with the best fashion forward styles, customised to their hair, face shape and lifestyle. Along with providing an array of cutting and colouring services, the salon specialises in high end hair extensions, including eyelash extensions, balayage, Kerasilk smoothing treatments and straightening.

You have a very talented team of staff members. How does their prowess contribute to the success of the business?

Our business is nothing without our team.

Highly skilled senior hairdressers Sonia Higgins and Jacquelene Price are invaluable assets for our team. Jacquelene has been hairdressing for 20 years. Most of her career has been based in Sydney, working in high profile salons. She has extensive experience in colouring and cutting techniques: “Hair is my art, and I love the process of transforming someone from start to finish.”

Sonia has been in the industry for 24 years, and hairdressing is her lifelong passion and craft.

Always looking for inspiration, she regularly attends seminars and workshops, bringing new and upcoming trends into the salon. Sonia also teaches hairdressing at Trendz and loves the commitment it takes to educate our future hair stylists.

Our wonderful team member apprentice, Bella Hopwood is the glue in our team. Her smile and welcoming attitude is just fantastic. Her skills are phenomenal, and she is offering lots of added extras to our business.

Our skilful beauty therapist and lash expert, Kate Eddy is expanding her business here at Evelina Kemp Hair and Beauty. Port Macquarie

The

Christmas

Lash Studio offers a new room, extended hours and beauty expertise for our lovely clientele. Kate also teaches beauty at TAFE and loves it.

Kate is offering premium quality silk eyelash extensions. These lashes have a soft, tapered tip for a natural and comfortable wear and they’re safe on the natural lash. Clients can also receive tinting, waxing, gel polish and airbrush makeup a perfect add on to our hairdressing services.

Me? Well, colour corrections are one of my specialties that I love doing. It requires years of experience and skill. Bridal up-styles and extra pampering makes my day, but most of all the daily buzz of a smoothly run salon and making people happy is my ultimate wish.

What is your vision for 2019 business-wise?

2019 will be our biggest and most wonderful year ever - continuing the community work and maintaining our high standard, offering a one stop shop with all the pampering you can

imagine. Also, listening to the feedback from our clients to even further better ourselves for them.

Here is Jocelyn’s feedback: ‘I recently came up from Sydney to visit my family and decided I needed a new do. After receiving a warm regard on the phone from the salon, I turned up and had the best, most satisfying hair salon experience of my life. From the minute I walked through the door I felt special and heard. The massage chair while your hair is washed is just magical and my colour is amazing! Thank you so much. Jocelyn, Sydney.’

For new clients, how do we book in for an appointment?

Located on 84 William Street, the salon is central, yet tucked away from the hustle and bustle, making it the perfect escape and easy parking. Call us on (02) 6583 9726 or 0404 277 830. Find us on Facebook or email evelina@evelinakemp.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 51

52 Greater Port Macquarie focus

A special focus feature

Ziera

Summer springs into

at Colonial Cobbler

Summer has arrived; it’s officially time to store your closed-toe shoes and embrace a sandal-only summer.

The options are endless when it comes to sandals, including the wedge, bright coloured flats that allow your feet to breathe, or a stylish low heeled sandal, perfect for brunches with friends in the sun.

So what are the smart women buying this summer season in footwear? It goes without saying, we are looking for superior comfort with summer sandals that will not gnaw at our feet. Adjustable leather straps, comfortable cushioning on the base, and material that doesn’t dig into your toes are all a must when trying on new sandals.

Luckily Colonial Cobbler’s newest range of summer sandals from New Zealand brand Ziera has taken all of these things into consideration for the savvy shopper, with their new styles now in-store.

Ziera footwear is not just another shoe maker. Shoes are beautifully designed in New Zealand, with interesting designs adding a pop of colour for your summer wardrobe, to take you from work to the beach in style, finished in lovely soft leathers and linings.

Colours are vibrant for the new season and offer a great combination of comfort and casual style.

Call in to find your new Ziera summer sandals today at Colonial Cobbler.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 53

100ML!

7

$ 99 EACH

Revlon Charlie 100ml edt Assorted Variants

$

$

$

1499

†

1499

$

EACH

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2499

OFF RRP

Elizabeth Arden Red Door or Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds 100ml edt

Elizabeth Arden 5th Avenue 125ml edt

NEW!

$

19

Reb’l Fleur Love Always by Rihanna 30ml edp

$

6583 4933

MON - WED & FRI: 8AM - 6PM THUR: 8AM - 7.30PM SAT & SUN: 8AM - 5.30PM PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: 10AM - 4PM

$

ENTRY

BOOKFACE

TARGET

(OPPOSITE TARGET)

TRADING HOURS

GROUND FLOOR

ENTRY MICHEL’S PATISSERIE

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Mariah Carey Luscious Pink or M 100ml edp

BAY PARK PLAZA 6583 2697

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Christina Aguilera 75ml edp or Definiton 50ml edp

TENANCY 5, BAY PARK PLAZA 4 BAY STREET

1999

Jennifer Aniston Chapter One 30ml edp

SAVE $29.01

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99

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*Your pharmacist will advise you whether this preparation is suitable for your condition. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Limit 1 per customer. **Vitamins may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate. The pharmacist reserves the right not to supply when contrary to our professional and ethical obligation. Retail quantities only. Limits Apply. 6 or less. «Breast milk is best for most Babies. Retail quantities only. Limits Apply. †The save prices listed in this catalogue are calculated from the suppliers RRP (Recommended Retail Price) at the time of preparation and when no such price exists is the retail price found at competing retailers. Due to discount policy we may not have sold at RRP. All products may not be available from all Chemist Warehouse stores. ^Free gifts subject to availability while stocks last. Free gift is an in-store promotion and not always available online. Not all products or promotions featured in this catalogue are available online. We beat everyone’s prices! At Chemist Warehouse if you find a cheaper price on the exact same item at another Australian Retail Store, we will match it and give you 10% off the difference! (Excludes ‘online only’ offers) Exact same item means exact same product, with the same packaging and where the product on offer at the other retail store is not clearance or run out stock. All products subject to Manufacturers Availability. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

54 Greater Port Macquarie focus

2999

1499

Panache 100ml edp or Tweed 100ml edt

SAVE UP TO

50ML!

SUPER IGA

$

EACH

Davidoff Cool Water 100ml edt

Anna Sui L’Amour Rose 50ml edp or Romantica Exotica 50ml edt

PORT CENTRAL S/C LOCATED AT SHOP 47, PORT CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE

Joop! 100ml edt

19

Sarah Jessica Parker Born Lovely 30ml edp

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RIHANNA 100ML EDP ASSORTED VARIANTS

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Tabu 100ml edc

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BRITNEY SPEARS 100ML ASSORTED VARIANTS

Revlon Fire & Ice 50ml edc

$

Jōvan Musk or White Musk 96ml edc

BEYONCÉ 100ML EDP ASSORTED VARIANTS

Tea Rose 120ml edt

999

Exclamation 50ml edc

120ML!

96ML!

50ML!

TRADING HOURS

MON - FRI: 8AM - 8PM SAT & SUN: 8AM - 5:30PM P/HOLIDAYS: 10AM - 5PM

SETTLEMENT CITY

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PA R

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PIPEWORKS CAFE KMART

PROPRIETORS: ALAN BANH & BASHAR IKBARIEH

SALE ENDS: 6 TH DECEMBER 2018

Greater Port Macquarie focus 55

focusinterview.

A FUNDRAISER FOR HEADSPACE PORT MACQUARIE

After four years in the wilderness, MAGIC CASTLE returns on Thursday 13th December to lift the roof off The Lounge Room in Port Macquarie and raise always needed funds and awareness for headspace Port Macquarie.

I

t’s time to celebrate the 5th birthday of headspace Port Macquarie, a local service that offers young people (aged 12 - 25) access to mental health support, health advice and general information. The team at headspace includes psychologists, social workers, youth workers and a GP. All headspace services are free. Special thanks to Ben Brown for designing the artwork and Panthers Port Macquarie for helping to make this event possible.

Joining us are: MINI SKIRT - coming out of the sun and surf of Byron Bay, Mini Skirt proudly represent the scum and dirt of their scenic hometown's underbelly. Delivering raw and choppy pub punk driven by relentless and direct lyrics, Mini Skirt cut the excess crap of modern rock, simmering it down to the bare essentials and attitude. Not ones to settle for simply riding the wave of the all too familiar 2018 garage punk sound, Mini Skirt deliver

56 Greater Port Macquarie focus

timeless straight up punk rock with enough grit and attitude to make any listener think twice about how true the peace-and-love reputation of Byron really is.

GRACE TURNER - a singer songwriter from Newcastle is renowned for her emotionallydriven indie-folk songs, which are intensely personal. Turner has lived immersed with creative influences - her mother a visual artist and her father a poet. Falling somewhere between alt country and indie rock, her exquisite, smoky vocals, coupled with her knack to write emotive, vulnerable songs is nothing short of addictive.

ROYAL CHANT - are a three-piece fuzzy power-pop garage band from the sleepy coastal town of Port Macquarie. After many line up changes over their eight plus years, the band currently consists of American expat and founding member Mark Spence on guitar and vox, with Adam Murray on bass and Wade Mobbs on drums. Play it loud. Tell a friend. Rinse. Repeat.

GENES Brothers - from the same mumma, Genes are a fun and energetic rock duo. Get amongst their DNA!

TO COINCIDE WITH HEADSPACE’S 5TH BIRTHDAY, PHIL DECIDED IT WOULD BE A GREAT IDEA TO GIVE BACK, BY RALLYING UP SOME LOCAL BANDS AND MUSICIANS TO PERFORM LIVE IN AN INTIMATE SETTING.

VENA KLYMO - is a 21 year old folk songstress living out of an ‘89 Toyota Coaster bus, playing music in every nook and cranny on the East Coast. Her debut album, Motions & Potions launched in August this year and saw the singer/songwriter hit the road for a national album launch tour. Past years have seen the artist tour extensively as a support act to the likes of Ian Moss (Cold Chisel) and James Reyne (Australian Crawl) while landing a spot at a string of festivals like Festival of the Sun, Wingham Akoostik Festival and Mountain Sounds Festival. Her performance is honest and songwriting true to her zeal for telling stories.

And last but not least, PHIL JAMIESON - a headspace Ambassador and mental health advocate brought back to life MAGIC CASTLE (a non-profit organisation) to help raise funds and awareness for headspace Port

Macquarie. Phil has been an Ambassador of headspace Port Macquarie since it opened five years ago.

To coincide with headspace’s 5th birthday, Phil decided it would be a great idea to give back, by rallying up some local bands and musicians to perform live in an intimate setting.

The night is set to be an awesome party starter for the upcoming FOTSUN music event in the days following MAGIC CASTLE. $30 + booking fees 18+ event 7pm.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 57

Enchanted Enchanted Christmas Christmas at at Settlement Settlement City City

Family Family Fun Fun Day Day Sat 15 Dec, 10am to 2pm Sat 15 Dec, 10am to 2pm

Sat 15 Dec, 2pm Santas elves will 10am be busyto providing Santas elves will be busy providing entertainment ages, from Santas elves willfor be all busy providing entertainment for all from facepainting and Christmas entertainment forDIY all ages, ages, from facepainting and DIY Christmas decorations to Christmas Cake tasting facepainting and DIY Christmas decorations to Cake tasting from our friends at Baker’s Delight. decorations to Christmas Christmas Cake tasting from our friends at Baker’s Delight. from our friends at Baker’s Delight.

Wish Wish Tree Tree Mon 3 to Sat 22 Dec Mon 3 to Sat 22 Dec

Monin3front to Sat 22WDec Located of Big for gifts Located in front of Big gifts to be donated Located in front to of children Big W W for forwho gifts to be donated to children who are less fortunate. to be donated to children who are are less less fortunate. fortunate.

Gift Gift Wrapping Wrapping Mon 10 to Sat 22 Dec Mon 10 to Sat 22 Dec

Mon 10 toArmy Satteam 22 Dec The Salvation will be The Salvation Army team will back front of Army Big Wteam to beautifully Thein Salvation will be be back in front of Big W to beautifully wrap in return for gold back in your frontgift of Big W to beautifully wrap gift in coin donations. wrap your your gift in return return for for gold gold coin donations. coin donations.

Capture Capture the the Magic Magic with with Santa Santa Photos Photos

Send your letter to Santa and receive a free^^ gift!

Send Send your your letter letter to to Santa Santa and and receive receive a a free free^ gift! gift!

Sat 1 Dec ..................... 9:00am – 5:00pm Sun 9 Dec ................... 9:00am – 4:00pm Sat 9:00am 5:00pm Sun Dec ...................

Sat 112Dec Dec .....................

9:00am – – 4:00pm 5:00pm Sun 9 910 Dec ...................

9:00am – – 4:00pm 4:00pm Sun Dec..................... ..................10:00am Mon Dec ................ 9:00am 5:00pm Mon 10 Dec ................

9:00am – Sun 2 Dec ..................10:00am – 4:00pm Sun 2 DecSanta* ..................10:00am 4:00pm Mon1110 Dec ................ 9:00am – 5:00pm Sensitive ........ 8:00am ––10:00am Tue Dec ...................

5:00pm Sensitive Santa* ........

8:00am – 10:00am Tue 11 Dec ...................

9:00am – Sensitive ........ 8:00am ––10:00am Tue 1112Dec ...................

Mon 3 DecSanta* .................10:00am 4:00pm Wed Dec ................. 9:00am – 5:00pm 5:00pm Mon 3 Dec .................10:00am – 4:00pm Wed 12 Dec .................

9:00am – 5:00pm Mon 3 Dec .................10:00am – 4:00pm Wed 12 Dec .................

9:00am – 5:00pm Thu 13 Dec ..................

8:00pm Tue 4 Dec...................10:00am Tue 4 Dec...................10:00am – 4:00pm Thu 13 Dec ..................

9:00am – 8:00pm Thu1413Dec Dec.................... .................. 9:00am – 5:00pm 8:00pm Tue Photography* 4 Dec...................10:00am Pet .......4:30pm –– 4:00pm 7:30pm Fri Pet Photography* .......4:30pm – 7:30pm Fri 14 Dec ....................

9:00am – 5:00pm Pet Photography* .......4:30pm––4:00pm 7:30pm Fri 14 Wed 5 Dec .................10:00am Sat 15Dec Dec.................... ................... 9:00am – 5:00pm Sat 15 Dec Wed 5 Dec .................10:00am – 4:00pm Wed65Dec Dec.................. .................10:00am Sat 15 ...................

Thu 10:00am – – 4:00pm 7:00pm Sun 16Dec Dec................... .................. 9:00am 9:00am – – 5:00pm 5:00pm Thu 6 Dec ..................

10:00am – 7:00pm Sun 16 Dec ..................

9:00am – 5:00pm Thu 6 Dec ..................

10:00am – 7:00pm Sun 16 Dec ..................

9:00am – 5:00pm Fri 7 Dec ....................10:00am – 4:00pm Mon 17 Dec .................

Mon 17 Dec .................

9:00am – 5:00pm Fri 7 Dec ....................10:00am – 4:00pm Fri 78Dec Mon1817Dec Dec.................. ................. 9:00am – 5:00pm Sat Dec....................10:00am .................... 9:00am – 4:00pm 5:00pm Tue Sat 8 Dec ....................

9:00am – 5:00pm Tue 18 Dec ..................

Sat 8 Dec .................... 9:00am – 5:00pm Tue 18 Dec .................. 9:00am 9:00am – – 5:00pm 5:00pm

Extended Extended Trading Trading Hours Hours Sat 15 Dec ................... 9:00am – 5:00pm Sat Sat 15 15 Dec ...................

9:00am – – 5:00pm 5:00pm Sun 16Dec Dec................... .................. 9:00am Sun 16 Dec ..................

9:00am – 5:00pm Sun 16 5:00pm Mon 17Dec Dec.................. ................. 9:00am – 6:00pm Mon 17 Dec .................

9:00am – 6:00pm Mon1817Dec Dec.................. ................. 9:00am – 6:00pm Tue Tue 18 Dec ..................

Tue 1819Dec 9:00am – – 6:00pm 6:00pm Wed Dec.................. ................ 9:00am 8:00pm Wed 19 Dec ................

9:00am – 8:00pm Wed 19 Dec ................

9:00am – 8:00pm Thu 20 Dec .................

Thu 20 Dec .................

9:00am – 8:00pm Thu 20 Dec ................. 9:00am – 8:00pm

www.settlementcity.com.au www.settlementcity.com.au www.settlementcity.com.au 58 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Fri 21 Dec .................... 9:00am – 8:00pm Fri Fri 21 21 Dec ....................

9:00am – – 8:00pm 8:00pm Sat 22Dec Dec.................... .................. 9:00am 5:00pm Sat 22 Dec ..................

9:00am – 5:00pm Sat 22 9:00am – 4:00pm 5:00pm Sun 23Dec Dec.................. ................10:00am Sun 23 Dec ................10:00am – 4:00pm Sun 23 4:00pm Mon 24Dec Dec................10:00am ................ 9:00am – 6:00pm Mon 24 Dec ................

9:00am – 6:00pm Mon25 24Dec Dec.................................CLOSED ................ 9:00am – 6:00pm Tue Tue 25 Dec .................................CLOSED Tue 25 Dec .................................CLOSED Wed 26 Dec ................ 9:00am – 5:30pm Wed Wed 26 26 Dec Dec ................ ................ 9:00am 9:00am – – 5:30pm 5:30pm

Wed 19 Dec ................ 9:00am – 5:00pm Wed 19 Dec ................

5:00pm Wed20 19 Dec Dec................. ................ 9:00am 9:00am – – 8:00pm 5:00pm Thu Thu 20 Dec .................

9:00am – 8:00pm Thu2120 Dec ................. 9:00am – 8:00pm Fri Dec ....................

Fri 21 Dec ....................

9:00am – – 6:00pm 8:00pm Fri 21 8:00pm Sat 22Dec Dec.................... .................. 9:00am Sat 22 Dec ..................

9:00am – 6:00pm Sat 22 Dec ..................

9:00am – 6:00pm Sun 23 Dec .................

Sun Sun 23 23 Dec .................

9:00am – 6:00pm 6:00pm Mon 24Dec Dec................. ................ 9:00am 8:00am – 5:00pm Mon 24 Dec ................

8:00am – Mon 24 Dec ................ 8:00am – 5:00pm 5:00pm Bookings not required for general photography. *Bookings Bookings not required for essential Photography and photography.

Sensory Santa*Bookings only. Please Bookings for notPet required for general general photography. *Bookings essential for Pet Photography and Sensory Santa call settlement city on 6583 7377 for booking information. essential for Pet Photography and Sensory Santa only. only. Please Please call call settlement settlement city city on on 6583 6583 7377 7377 for for booking booking information. information.

Thu 27 Dec.................. 9:00am – 8:00pm Thu 27 Dec ..................

Thu28 27Dec Dec................... .................. 9:00am 9:00am – – 8:00pm 8:00pm Fri 5:30pm Fri 28 Dec ...................

9:00am – 5:30pm Fri 28 Dec ...................

9:00am – 5:30pm Sat 29 Dec ..................

4:00pm Sat 29 Dec ..................

9:00am – 4:00pm Sat 29 9:00am – 4:00pm Sun 30Dec Dec.................. ................10:00am Sun 30 Dec ................10:00am Sun 30 ................10:00am – 4:00pm 4:00pm Mon 31 Dec Jan ................

10:00am – 5:30pm Mon Mon 31 31 Jan Jan ................ ................ 10:00am 10:00am – – 5:30pm 5:30pm

focuscommunity

focusfeature.

Lindy Pop FREE Workshop MINI

Learn the basics of an authentic, jazzy and popular type of Swing dance from the early twenties and beyond. Dance Party with great live music from a modern and local Big Band: BluHyp! Dress Code: Cocktail black and white dress code with a vintage touch. Bring your own drinks and food platters to share with dance friends to celebrate the season!

Limited numbers, so please book now via email.

Date Saturday 8th December.

Time 5:30pm - 9pm.

Location Port Macquarie Youth Hub and Outreach Centre, 140 Horton Street, Port Macquarie.

Phone 0432 935 799.

Email oceanstudiossa@hotmail.com

Robbie’s Hazel

Italian Tenors

the

D I R E C T F R O M I TA LY

The Italian Tenors are three of Europe’s most successful operatic tenors, who have become a worldwide pop-opera phenomenon. Fabio La Mattina, Sabino Gaita and Evans Tonon toured Australia in 2016 on their inaugural tour, which saw the group play to sell out performances Australia-wide. The Italian Tenors signed to Universal Records, combine their classical roots with Neapolitan songs and their own blend of Italian pop, which is not only evident on their self titled album, but is sung with the flair and virtuosity that is uniquely the Italian Tenors.

Their encore Australian tour promises all the Italian charm and vocal power of their recently sold out European tour. Together with their live band, the evening promises to be an incredible musical montage of vocal passion and entertainment excellence.

Date Thursday 13th December. Time 8pm - 11:59pm.

Location Glasshouse, Port Macquarie.

Cake

She was always asked about her famous cake, and it’s an honour to print this recipe in memory of our beloved Robbie ... so here it is again … no butter!

STEP 1. Place the following ingredients in a large saucepan: 1 kilo mixed fruit, 2 cups brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon bicarb soda, pinch of salt, small cup of orange juice, 1 cup of sweet or cream sherry, and a large cup of water … I also add ½ cup Buderim Ginger Syrup (optional).

STEP 2. Simmer four to five minutes and cool.

STEP 3. Add 4 large beaten eggs, packet of Bakeo Pastry Mix (fully broken up), ½ cup of walnuts, or whatever nut you like (I put in a cup of nuts, but that is optional … depending on your taste), ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon, ginger, ground spice or whatever you fancy and finally, essences - your choice! I use a splash of almond, vanilla and lemon.

STEP 4. Mix thoroughly. Use a large square cake tin and line with greased brown paper, then line with baking paper. Heat oven to 170 degrees and after 20 minutes, reduce to 160 degrees and bake for 1½ hours. When cooled down a little, pour sherry or whisky over cake and wrap in tea towel, then a big bath towel, and let it cool.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 59

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

WITH SUNDIAL DENTAL

WITH SHANNON L AWRENCE - HE ALTHFUL WISDOM

Traditional Crowns vs.

Swimming

CEREC CROWNS

I

Harness the power of dental technology to design your dental solutions today

f you have ever had a traditional crown, you could probably describe the crown prep as tedious, followed by a gooey impression that possibly made you want to gag. Then you had the luxury of a “temporary crown” for one - two weeks, in which time you had to nurse the temporary crown until your permanent crown arrived, where upon you returned to your dentist, who would spend another 20 40 minutes fitting your permanent crown.

Today it is possible to get a crown in a single visit, in about an hour, with no gooey impressions or second visits. CEREC restorations are fast, precise, durable and attractive. Your personal restoration is made using computer assisted design and manufacturing technology (CAD CAM) and milled out of German Porcelain - in just 10 minutes - without the gooey impressions, wait time, temporaries, second visits, or metal fused materials ... so, what are you waiting for? Best of all, you can even watch while your crown mills!

CEREC crowns are perfectly matched to your teeth, because they can be designed 60 Greater Port Macquarie focus

exactly as your natural tooth in both shape, colour, contour and can fit perfectly, because they mill with such accuracy.

What’s best is they don’t even cost more than your traditional crown; in fact, they save you time, money and worry, if you factor in the second visit and the time off work and away from the things you enjoy.

Crowns have many different uses: • They can protect a tooth after a root canal procedure, • They can cover a broken, chipped, or cracked tooth, • They can support or reinforce a weak or filled tooth, • They can strengthen anchor teeth for a dental bridge.

• They can even serve a purely cosmetic function Whatever your motivation to get a crown, take the time explore the world of CEREC restorations.

For more information about the caring and professional team at Sundial Dental, call our local rooms in Port 6583 3533 or visit our web site www.sundialdental.com.au for a full list of services.

IN THE OCEAN

is good for your health

We all know that swimming in the ocean can make us feel good, but it is actually proven to be good for your health.

T

halassotherapy is the are involved. use of seawater for This limits the thoughts we have about health benefits. For over other things and lets us enjoy what we are 200 years doctors have doing at that time. Studies have shown “prescribed” swimming in that depression and anxiety symptoms the ocean for a variety of health benefits. decrease with regular ocean swimming.

Some of the health Swimming in cold conditions that water, although not can be improved something I usually by swimming in like to do, is good for Swimming in cold water, the ocean include chronic pain conditions although not something I psoriasis, eczema such as fibromyalgia usually like to do, is good for and hayfever. The and increases the chronic pain conditions benefits of fresh levels of good feeling such as fibromyalgia air and sunlight hormones in our bodies and increases the levels combined with the such as dopamine and of good feeling hormones minerals found in serotonin. These are the in our bodies such as seawater are good same hormones that dopamine and serotonin. for these conditions. are increased with the Swimming at use of antidepressants. the beach is good Our immune systems for mental health may also benefit from Being in water is generally relaxing and, regular cold water exposure. ENJOY A as mentioned above, combining this with SWIM AT THE BEACH. sun and fresh air makes for a very relaxing This weekend I’ll be hoping for good time. Swimming in the ocean invokes a weather so I can get my dose of sun, sand sense of mindfulness, as there is a certain and surf with my loved ones to improve level of concentration needed when waves my health and wellbeing.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 61

, d d u

Olivia Tierney

PRESENT THIS AD TO RECEIVE

the University of Newcastle

GROWING WITH THE PORT MACQUARIE COMMUNITY

The University of Newcastle’s School of Nursing and Midwifery has proudly partnered with our Port Macquarie and Mid North Coast communities since 2003 in the development of a vital healthcare industry in the region.

R GLASSES *

OFFER ENDS

SATURDAY DECEMBER 15

anked among the world’s top 100 nursing programs, with the only Bachelor of Midwifery and the longest-running Bachelor of Nursing at Port Macquarie, the University is committed to local education and helping people stay local.

community,” said Olivia.

For Nurse Unit Manager Felicity Tipping, the programs offered through the University of Newcastle at the Port Macquarie Campus meant she could return to study later in life and fulfil her dreams of becoming a Registered Nurse. It also meant that both her daughters, and The way the countless other locals, curriculum is designed, could stay close to home students remain in the while pursuing their one facility for the three passion for nursing.

Port Macquarie Base Hospital’s Midwifery Unit Manager, Olivia Tierney came through years of the degree, so one of the first “It supports our local they really get embedded in midwifery cohorts and children to stay in Port the maternity service. has seen firsthand how Macquarie and study community-focused the while they’re still living program is and how it at home, which is a supports students to enable them to stay in huge advantage,” said Felicity. the region once they graduate.

Our graduates are the nurses working in “The way the curriculum is designed, the emergency department, they are on students remain in the one facility for the the surgical ward, they’re delivering babies three years of the degree, so they really get and caring for your child after birth. Our embedded in the maternity service. graduates grew up here, they love this “Graduates can see how the services are community, and they’re here to stay. contributing to the area in a positive way. newcastle.edu.au/portmac They’re from this community and they want QS World University Rankings by to be able to invest in that service for the Subject 2018

Port Macquarie Settlement City – Ph: 6583 4271 Port Macquarie Clarence St – Ph: 6583 1377 Wauchope – Ph: 6585 2755 // Laurieton – Ph: 6559 9007 Kempsey – Ph: 6562 5886 // Taree – Ph: 6552 2391

*Offer valid at OPSM Wauchope, Taree, Port Macquarie, Laurieton and Kempsey only. Minimum spend is $300. Discount is on frames and prescription lenses when purchased as a complete pair. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer and excludes value packages. Offer ends 15 December 2018, see in-store for details.

62 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Olivia Tierney

Olivia Tierney and Hayley Cook

Greater Port Macquarie focus 63

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Port Macquarie Smoking Cessation Clinic “How To Stop Smoking Without Having To Quit” Memorial Service For Loved Ones We’ve Lost To Suicide Lifeline Mid Coast would like to extend an invitation to all those who have been touched by the suicide of a loved one, to attend our non-denominational Memorial Service to be held at Windmill Hill, Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie, on Friday, 21st December at 6pm.

The gathering provides a space for people to remember a loved one lost to suicide; the happy times and the laughter, as well as those times when life was hard.

It gives permission for grieving, it allows acknowledgement of the pain, in a well-supported environment with others who have the shared experience as suicide survivors.

For those dealing with the suicide of someone they love, it’s important they feel free to talk about their reactions to suicide openly and honestly and to find support.

Christmas is an especially hard time for those touched by suicide, and Windmill Hill is a beautiful spot to go to reflect and wander among memories, even if our loved one’s resting place is not local.

Celebrate the life of your loved one and leave knowing you’re not alone, on Friday, December 21st at 6pm at the Lifeline Mid Coast Memorial Service, Windmill Hill, Port Macquarie.

Dr Karen Counter MBBS is pleased to announce her smoking cessation clinic is now open each Thursday in the rooms of Dr Stephen Begbie, The Highfield Centre, Suite 1, 2 Wright's Rd. Please bring your Medicare and Healthcare or Pension cards.

Dr Counter has a special interest in “painless” smoking cessation, and was trained by the Australian Association of Smoking Cessation Professionals. She has had many years' experience in successfully working with heavy, long-term and dependent smokers. She has worked in general practice for over 30 years and is a supporter of the Australian Tobacco Harm Reduction Association Clients don’t have to be ready to quit, just willing to discuss their smoking and understand their options.

Clients don’t have to stop smoking immediately; one waits until the treatment is working.

Clients don’t need to stop using nicotine if it helps with their mental health (anxiety, depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder), their tension and stress, weightloss, cognition, concentration and memory.

Clients will be offered personalised, evidence based treatment and may be provided with PBS-subsidised prescriptions for nicotine patches and varenicline (Champix) or bupropion (Zyban) if appropriate and they fit eligibility requirements. A carbon monoxide meter (Smokelyser) is used to determine heaviness of smoking and guide treatment.

LIFELINE MID COAST MEMORIAL SERVICE PORT MACQUARIE

Remembering those lost to suicide

Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

focusinterview.

Meet the Bedwell family

When three becomes five … the Bedwell family recently introduced gorgeous twin girls Charlotte and Molly to their family. Mum Victoria was ever so shocked when she found out she was having twins, and she now shares the story of their premature births and motherhood, expressing her sincerest gratitude for the care she and her daughters received from the Special Care Nursery staff at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

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i Victoria. Introduce us to your beautiful family.

My husband’s name is Ty, and I am a stepmum to a gorgeous nine year old boy, Koby. Our beautiful twins, Charlotte and Molly, were born on the 20th September.

How long have you called Port Macquarie home?

Ty was born in Sydney and moved here when he was five, but I was born in Port Macquarie and lived my whole life here.

Describe your pregnancy journey ...

Funny story! We went to have our first ultrasound, to find out how far along I was.

When we walked into the room, the woman there said, “I’m just putting it out there - I haven’t had anyone with twins for a while”.

We both laughed, and I said, “They don’t run in either of our families.”

I lay on the bed, staring at the roof, Ty sitting at the end of the bed. After a few long moments, the woman said, “Oh sh#*t. I spoke too soon!” Feeling confused, I was told to look at the screen. I looked - and started laughing. I mean, surely she was joking?

“You’re having twins! You are eight weeks and five days,” she said. I was in a total state of shock, while Ty was up off the bed saying, “This is going to be so much fun!”

During the appointment I was asked three times if I was OK, or if I needed a hug. Hug - I needed a drink ha ha! (But, of course I didn’t!)

We walked out of the appointment, and Ty kept saying “Two! There are two, honey!”

I’m sure this state of shock lasted ‘til our 12 week scan, when it was confirmed there were still two!

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Twins are often born prematurely. What's your story, in relation to this?

The doctors prepared me throughout my whole pregnancy that twins often come early and that if I went into labour before 32 weeks, I would be flown to John Hunter Hospital.

And sure enough, on the 1st September at 32 weeks they tried to make their appearance into the world. I was flown to John Hunter, where they managed to stop my labour. I spent a long five days down there, before I was discharged and allowed to return home.

Then on the 20th September, at exactly 35 weeks, my waters broke - and they were determined they were coming into the world this time.

What complications were involved with your babies' births?

Charlotte came into the world with a strong cry, but Molly entered the world not breathing, so that was really tough. I lay there with a lot of doctors and nurses in the room and everyone running around. It seemed like ages before I knew what was happening, but it was only a few moments before Ty told me we had two girls.

That was a bit of a shock, because I’d been convinced it was one of each. My dad had said all the way through though, “No love; it’s two girls”.

Both girls were taken straight to Special Care, where they were hooked up to monitors and feeding tubes, and Molly was on CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) as she couldn’t breathe on her own.

How did the staff at Port Macquarie Base Hospital help you cope?

Being my first children, it was such an overwhelming experience. I remember

Throughout our time in Special

thinking, “This is not When were you able Care, the nurses were AMAZING! how it’s supposed to to go home with your They not only looked after be! They’re supposed to babies? every need my two girls go straight on my chest One day short of four had, but also answered after they’re born, I’m weeks was the day we all of my many, many supposed to spend a were finally allowed to questions and attended to my few days in hospital then go home. It was such emotional needs. They made sure I go home and spend a big day, with big was eating and drinking lots, to keep endless days in my PJs emotions, as I was so up my energy ... in bed or on the lounge excited to finally take my getting to know these girls home … Yet, I was two beautiful girls I so nervous, as Special brought into the world”.

Care had become our home, our normal. It In reality, I didn’t get any of that. The was a big adjustment. moment the girls were born, they were We were on our own to finally be able to whisked away, getting the ever so important have quality time as a family, with time to medical attention they needed. really get to know the girls without all the Throughout our time in Special Care, the cords and monitors. nurses were AMAZING! They not only looked Koby is ever so loving with them, and he is a after every need my two girls had, but also huge help - something I’m very thankful for. answered all of my many, many questions and What message would you like to pass attended to my emotional needs. They made along to the staff at Port Macquarie Base sure I was eating and drinking lots, to keep up Hospital? my energy and educated me on life as a new THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! mum.

From the bottom of our heart, we are truly I always felt like I was informed and thankful. As we sat by our girls’ cribs, hour included in the decisions made regarding the after hour, day after day, we saw firsthand girls, and no question was treated as a silly how incredibly hard you guys work, with so one. little recognition.

They almost became like family, and I would What are your future plans as a family? often refer to the nurses as “Aunty”. They We always joke that another set of twins really did become such a special part of our would be fun, but right now we are just lives, and we are truly thankful for their hard enjoying being a family of five and getting work and dedication. They certainly don’t get ready for an extra special festive season. enough recognition for the amazing work Thanks Victoria. they do - foregoing food and toilet breaks and Interview: Jo Robinson. working overtime, providing the best quality Family portrait courtesy of Verity Woods care to all the babies in Special Care and Photography. sometimes being on their own.

Pic top left: Molly, one hour old.

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 67

focusinterview.

A nurse a nurse,

my kingdom for a nurse The story of a six-year campaign by PORT MACQUARIE PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP to obtain a specialist Neurological Nurse-Educator for our region, by Gregg Faulkner.

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bout 300 people in the Greater Port Macquarie region are living with Parkinson’s Disease.

These people are dependent upon specialist Neurologists to maintain the best possible quality - and duration - of life. But, there is no Neurological Specialist in this region.

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressively debilitating condition caused by failure of a small cluster of cells in the brain. These cells normally produce a chemical called Dopamine, which enables nerve cells to communicate their signals around the body. Without enough Dopamine, communication between nerve cells becomes erratic, and many symptoms develop.

People living with Parkinson’s may experience symptoms including disturbed sleep, muscular weakness, tremor and “pill-rolling” finger movements, shuffling gait, speech difficulties and many other diverse malfunctions.

The condition becomes worse over time, and the person may succumb to complications like pneumonia or failure of critical nerves (such as heart controls).

Parkinson’s cannot be cured, but most symptoms can be reduced, and disease progress slowed, by carefully selected and dosage-controlled medication. Diagnosis of Parkinson’s and prescribing of the most suitable medication for an individual is a job for a Neurological Specialist.

Problem! We don’t have a Neurologist in Port Macquarie. We’ve been told that the reason is because the partners of Neurological Specialists prefer to live in the more culturally endowed major cities, rather than wilderness outposts like Port Macquarie. Truth or fiction, the fact remains that the nearest Neurological Specialists are located in Newcastle or Sydney a very inconvenient distance when fine-tuning medications may require frequent consultations.

Twenty-two years ago, a handful of people got together and formed the Port Macquarie Parkinson’s Support Group. Comprised of people living with PD and their partners or carers, the Support Group was established with the

68 Greater Port Macquarie focus

aim of providing mutual if we demonstrated our We look forward to similar support and care for commitment to the nurse benefits in this region, and, who members. Early members and helped to enhance knows? With the presence learned the value of his or her conditions and of a supportive specialist sharing their experiencprofessional development nurse in this region, we es, fears and feelings. opportunities, they would might even be able to attract a One of the biggest issues be more likely to remain, Neurological Specialist to locate with PD is the feeling of to support us in the here. Wouldn’t that be nice! isolation and loneliness. longer term.

It is so darned hard to The role we saw for explain all the weird the nurse is two-fold. symptoms to people First priority is to provide who have never experienced them. But, within immediate support and advice for our region’s the Support Group, people DID understand!

Parkos - and their carers - and to provide a link Because PD is usually, though not always, between us and Neurological specialists in the diagnosed in people in their 50s and 60s, and cities. The second, and almost equally importbecause Greater Port Macquarie has a higher ant role is to communicate with and educate than usual concentration of that age group the region’s medical professionals on the pecudue to sea-changers and retirees - this region liar needs of Parkos, and the special treatment has an unusually high number of Parkos, and and arrangements we need at times. still no Neurologist.

For example, several commonly used anSo, more than six years ago, the Port aesthetics can be lethal for someone using PD Macquarie Parkinson’s Support Group began medication. Highly undesirable! Additionally, lobbying for appointment of a specialist NeuParkos require their medication at specific rological Nurse for this region. We reasoned schedules, with occasional personal variathat a specialist nurse would provide a valuable tions. We learn to judge when we need our intermediary between the “scarce as hens’ medication, and we are generally very skilled teeth” Neurologists and the large number of at managing our own medication. So, it is vital Parkos (our term for people living with PD) in that Parkos in hospital be provided our medithis region. cation when we need it, not necessarily at the We use the term Parkos as a convenient and hospital’s routine medication times. A specialist ice-breaking shorthand alternative to the clumnurse can explain our needs in “doctor talk” sy term “people living with Parkinson’s Disand make life easier all around. ease”. And please, for goodness’ sake, don’t In addition, the nurse can work across all the ever call us “Parkinson’s sufferers” or “people health-related disciplines on which we Parkos suffering from Parkinson’s”. We shudder at the rely - Physiotherapists, Neurologists, Gastro-enthought and, let’s face it, we shudder enough terologists, Social Workers, Psychologists, and already! even providers of assistive technologies and With the strong support of our NSW mobility aids - to share better understanding of Government local member, Leslie Williams our disease and its treatment.

MP, the very active Support Group, which Recently, our entreaties were answered. Six has now grown to more than 110 members, and a half years after starting our campaign, has lobbied energetically for appointment of we have been informed that a Specialist Neu“our nurse”. While we waited for the wheels rological Nurse-Educator has been appointed of politics and bureaucracy to grind in our to the region. We have been very fortunate to direction, we commenced collecting funds for obtain the services of a very highly qualified the purpose of enhancing the working environ- Neurological Nurse-Educator with extensive ment of “our nurse”. Our reasoning was that experience in both clinical and educational

roles at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst and the University of Technology, Sydney.

Rachael Mackinnon RN Masters (Neuroscience), B.A., Cert IV TAA, NVRN-BC, Parkinson’s Clinical Nurse Consultant has now commenced work in the Mid North Coast Health Region.

Rachael’s position is jointly funded by Mid North Coast Local Health District and Parkinson’s NSW. We have been very fortunate in securing the appointment of an excellent Nurse-Educator.

Now the Support Group will work with her to find the most effective ways to provide for the needs of the large number of people living with PD and related neurological conditions in this region. Trials with similarly skilled nurses in the Shoalhaven and Coffs Harbour regions have demonstrated the huge benefits - in terms of improved quality of life and efficacy of treatment, and in significantly reduced hospital admissions - attributable to the nurse. Vince Carroll, a similarly qualified Nurse in the Coffs Harbour area, has been practicing for two years and now has around 500 people on “his books”.

We look forward to similar benefits in this region, and, who knows? With the presence of a supportive specialist nurse in this region, we might even be able to attract a Neurological Specialist to locate here. Wouldn’t that be nice!

It is only fair to recognise the effort made on our behalf by Leslie Williams MP. As a qualified nurse, Leslie has understood our situation and has worked tirelessly toward this outcome.

Thanks Leslie!

Gregg Faulkner is currently President of Port Macquarie Parkinson’s Support Group, a dynamic and growing organisation with well over 100 members. Gregg was diagnosed with PD seven years ago. Contact details for Port Macquarie Parkinson’s Support Group are available on their website: www.parkinsonspmq.org.au Rachael Mackinnon RN can be contacted by referral from your GP. Further information can be obtained from the Parkinson’s NSW Infoline: 1800 644 189.

Port Family Practice

Port Family Practice has been servicing the Port Macquarie community for 20 years. Conveniently located 15 minutes walking distance from Town Beach, our practice is family friendly with highly experienced GPs:

• Dr Joseph McMahon • Dr David Malikoff

• Dr Vinh Truong • Dr Nanette Walpole

We look forward to welcoming Dr Deon Haynes in January 2019 Book your appointment: 6583 2400

portfamily.ipn.com.au

3/85 Lord Street, Port Macquarie Open Monday - Thursday, 8:30am - 5pm | Friday 9am - 2pm

Greater Port Macquarie focus 69

Hearle’s Pharmacy We would like to introduce Steve and Kimberley Duong, new owners of Hearle’s Pharmacy at the Clifton shops, Port Macquarie.

Steve started his pharmacy career in North Queensland and has 13 years’ experience working in regional cities. He currently owns and operates two other pharmacies, which is a huge bonus for Hearle’s with pharmacy supports. “With the combination of all three pharmacies, and the combined experience and knowledge of all staff, this would give our customers a high support network through medicine synergy; if there is something needed or queries with either medical or clinical matters, we can call on each pharmacy

70 Greater Port Macquarie focus

and the problem is solved instantly,” Steve said.

Steve has a vast experience, gained from working in St Vincent Hospital, Lismore and is very customer focused in community pharmacy settings; he is excited to get to know the locals and looks forward to working with the existing team, whom he has found and knows to be very knowledgeable, highly trained and friendly. Steve and Kimberley would like to reassure the customers and locals that it is business as usual at Hearle’s.

They pride themselves on old fashioned customer service and being community focused. Hearle’s Pharmacy will offer the best service, with extended opening hours.

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Hearle Peter and Cate

They’re well known faces about town and are loved and respected by the community they’ve served well for over the past 40 years, but Peter and Cate Hearle have now retired and sold their pharmacy at Clifton.

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ew owners Steve and Kimberley Duong plan to carry on the caring and professional service that Hearle’s Pharmacy is renowned for …

Hi Peter and Cate. FOCUS has spoken with you about your business, Hearle's Pharmacy in Clifton Drive, in the past ... but please refresh our memories. When and why did you start the business in this location?

I guess the story of how we ended up starting the pharmacy in Port Macquarie began soon after Cate and I married. We were both working at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney - Cate a Registered Nurse in a neurosurgical ward and me as a pharmacist at the very busy St Vincent’s Hospital Pharmacy.

We were holidaying with my parents, who’d moved to Port a few years earlier, and they pointed out to us a shop for rent in the Clifton Shopping Centre and mentioned that it would be an ideal location for a pharmacy.

After returning to Sydney, Cate, after a particularly stressful day at the hospital, said, “How about opening a pharmacy in Port?”

Within a few months, with absolutely no money, a bank overdraft, a second-hand till and typewriter, we were opening our doors as Hearle’s Pharmacy at Clifton.

What have been some of the highlights for you running the pharmacy over the years?

Business was hardly booming in the early

days and to make matters worse, Cate was pregnant and suffering badly with nausea - and, in the later stages of pregnancy, preeclampsia.

However, throughout all this our kind and loyal customers were a constant source of comfort, and many knitted and crocheted presents accompanied the birth of our son, Michael.

After that first year, we employed Lindy Dick (now Mackinnon) as a 15 year old, and she still remains as a wonderful asset to the business to this day.

All our other staff members have been fantastic as well, loyal and long-serving three for well over 20 years and the rest for ten or so years! We also employed many young people after school and on Saturdays, and they have gone on to become doctors, pharmacists, teachers, academics etc.

The latest young one, Lindy’s daughter Caitlin, is doing a degree in graphic design.

I like to think that in some way we have encouraged these fantastic young people to make a success of their lives.

In my time at the pharmacy, we have intervened to help and in some cases saved the lives of people by judicious referrals to GPs and by identifying dangerous drug addictions or adverse side effects.

Pharmacists now serve an important health function to pick up problems in people who are reluctant to visit doctors!

After 40 years running your business, you're now starting the next phase of

your life! What will our hearts - it’s been a happen to Hearle's great 40 years, and we DON’T JUST BECOME Pharmacy now you're wouldn’t have done RETAILERS AND retiring? it without our hugely OBSESSED BY PROFITS. Now that I’ve retired, loyal customer base and IF YOU DO THE the business has been fantastic staff!

PROFESSIONAL SIDE OF bought by a Sydney Given your successful THE BUSINESS WELL, pharmacist, Steve Duong career in the industry, YOU WILL MAKE YOUR and his wife, Kimberley. what's some advice BUSINESS SUCCESSFUL! They have over 15 you'd like to give to years of experience our future, aspiring running pharmacies, pharmacists? both in regional and city For aspiring locations, including in Lismore and Mackay. pharmacists I would say concentrate on the Their intent is to maintain the friendly, profession side of pharmacy and use your professional service that has been a feature clinical skills to assist the patients. Don’t just of the pharmacy over the past 40 years, become retailers and obsessed by profits. If including Webster Packs, home medication you do the professional side of the business reviews, blood pressure checking and all well, you will make your business successful! pensioner, D.V.A and NHS prescription And, don’t forget there are other strands dispensing. of pharmacy in hospitals and pharmaceutical They will continue running Hearle’s companies that can be equally rewarding.

Pharmacy with its existing staff as a caring What are your future plans? and valuable community pharmacy.

Now that we’ve sold the business, Cate What will you miss most about the will continue working at St Joseph’s Primary pharmacy?

School in her chaplaincy role, and I intend The two things I’ll miss most are my spending my time with grandchildren, golfing, fabulous staff and also our wonderful fishing and travelling. customers!

Also, you never know - there could be However, as I say to everyone, “We’re not a book in me, as I can’t let my father, Tom going anywhere, so we’ll see you around Hearle of Still Air at Dawn fame and my son town”.

Michael of the Winter series be the only What would you like to say to your literary geniuses in the family ha ha! customers/staff upon your retirement?

Thanks Peter.

Just a big thank you from the bottom of Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 71

focusfeature.

Highfields

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A state of the art diagnostic medical imaging facility “highfields imaging” investing in a healthier community

ighfields Imaging is a new, comprehensive imaging facility located near Port Macquarie Base Hospital. Delivering new specialist scanning services for the region that were not previously available while enabling better diagnostic, treatment and patient outcomes.

Chrissy Jones also spoke with both Shayne Trotter, Area Manager for Mid North Coast Diagnostic Imaging and Matt Ayers, State Manager, Regional NSW for Healthcare Imaging Services about the state of the art, multi-million dollar facility now open at 14 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie.

The building is a comprehensive diagnostic

72 Greater Port Macquarie focus

medical imaging facility. Tell us what it is equipped with.

The complex is a culmination of existing imaging site consolidation that allows for future growth with new levels of convenience and cutting-edge medical imaging technology.

“Highfields” brings service sophistication to the local community’s doctors while ensuring patient comfort and well-being is at the forefront.

The world-class technology includes the region’s first 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner with BioMatrix technology for fast, accurate precision imaging of musculoskeletal conditions like knee, ankle and shoulder trauma,

brain and spine conditions including stroke, disc protrusions and sciatica. This technology also accurately pinpoints prostate and breast cancers and causes of infertility and complex cardiac malformations.

The facility also features the region’s first Positron Emission Tomography Computerised Tomography (PET CT), ‘the Gold Standard’ of cancer imaging. This technology can detect cancer and other pathology that can’t be seen with other imaging modalities. It can also track patients treatment response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

This massive investment from MNCDI enables

our most unwell patients to have access to imaging as part of their diagnosis and treatment for cancer, at home supported by family and friends.

Another first for the community is the low dose 256 Dual Source/Dual Energy CT scanner which allows imaging specialists to do a lot more around the characterisation and detection of pathologies such as tumours. This CT scanner delivers precise diagnostic results for every patient by taking into account each patient’s physical condition.

Rounding out “Highfields” services will be Digital X-Ray, Dental Imaging, Nuclear Medicine, 3D digital breast mammography. The introduction of five ultrasound rooms will include a specialist

focusfeature.

Highfields

interventional ultrasound suite to support a range of women, sports, dental, musculoskeletal imaging and interventional radiology.

Also we’ll have DEXA bone mineral density and whole body composition imaging plus Fluoroscopy; moving real-time X-Ray studies.

The building itself is a contemporary design with many unique features, tell us more…

MNCDI “Highfields” has supported the local community by engaging local builders. Built to exacting, eco-friendly standards, the design includes a curved, solar panelled roof, one of the largest solar arrays in the area.

Interiors feature a custom-created perforated middle screen wall which filters natural light from outside, allowing for softly-lit, comfortable settings throughout the building.

Tranquility takes centre stage in the MRI room.

The high-tech equipment is overlooked by a mural of the Milky Way named “The Hastings

We are very proud to showcase our new purpose-built imaging centre at 14 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie that enables better diagnostic, treatment and

Galaxy”. Taken by local imaging specialists have GP and award-winning worked closely with photographer Doctor medical professionals to David Malikoff at nearby deliver trusted, successful patient outcomes.” - Shayne Watonga Rocks on Lightpatient-centred services Trotter, Area Manager for Mid house Beach, the image in the region. Pro-active North Coast Diagnostic. of the stars brings a sense collaboration with Govof reflection and natural ernment, local Doctors wonder to the high tech and their communities has MRI room. given everyone better health.

Every care has been taken to make each and MNCDI believes in affordable healthcare. In the every patient experience at “Highfields” pleasant private clinical setting, we bulk bill for all eligible and worry-free. The unique design features of Medicare rebateable examinations, including CT, “Highfields” and the outstanding professionalism X-ray, MRI, Dental, Ultrasound and BMD. of the experienced MNCDI staff provides a facility Doctors have direct access to highly experithat will help cater for the region’s future health enced radiologists like Dr. James Bowden - our needs. Patients now have convenient access to Medical Director since 2013. Dr Bowden has multi-specialty needs without having to travel to extensive tertiary level experience in brain, spinal, the city. musculoskeletal and body imaging reporting, For 40 years, our team of highly qualified mammography/tomosynthesis and breast MRI re-

porting, MRI-guided breast vacuum-assisted core biopsy, major trauma, cerebrovascular and spinal angiography/intervention, fluoroscopic, stereotactic/tomosynthesis, ultrasound and CT-guided therapeutic injection and tumour core biopsy.

Dr. Peter Stein has more than 20 years experience as a qualified radiologist in both public and private sectors. Dr. Peter Stein is a former Chairman of the Diagnostic Imaging Clinical Council and is a Consultant Radiologist at Mid North Coast Diagnostic Imaging, where he is a specialist in Oncology, CT and Ultrasound Interventional procedures.

Dr. Moatasem Gomaa, has extensive experience of general diagnostic radiology in all modalities including MRI, CT, Ultrasound and X-Rays, and is a skilled interventional radiologist in vascular, non-vascular, hepatobiliary and genitourinary procedures, as well as a specialist in paediatric and oncology intervention.

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www.stoweaustralia.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 73

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TH E R E I S A B E T TE R WAY !

√ Personalised Treatment Program √ Clinically Proven Results √ Zero Side Effects

Frequency Specific Microcurrent Therapy (FSM Therapy) FSM Therapy is the pillar of Somatherapy Clinical Practice.

A unique course of treatment that targets the real cause & source of pain. A therapy that supports the body to self-repair damaged tissue. A course of FSM Therapy has proven to end chronic pain for these common conditions and so much more:

Book your 30 minute OBLIGATION FREE discussion with Krystyna from Somatherapy today.

• Nerve Pain,Sciatica • Whiplash • Fibromyalgia • Shingles

• Joint & Muscle Pain • Spinal Disc Injury • Peripheral Neuropathy • Post-Surgical Scar Tissue

C A S E STU DY: SA M A NTH A Samantha suffered debilitating pain for 30 years. A bone condition caused fractures to her back, coccyx, right foot and both legs. The fractures resulted in muscle and nerve damage. Post-injuries and post-surgery scar tissue aggravated further pain. Samantha relied on crutches and strong medication to manage pain and depression. She believed she would end up in a wheelchair. Unable to achieve a medical answer for a PAIN FREE life, Samantha had lost hope. Until she discovered Somatherapy.

“After 3 sessions with Somatherapy, I was walking without crutches. The treatment has helped my hip and back pain and the depression has subsided. I no longer need medication. I’ve started dancing again, my life’s passion. I have a full life back - this is a MIRACLE to me!”

74 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Krystyna Zawadzka Tactile Therapist Accredited Practitioner International Association of HealthCare Practitioners Australian Traditional Medicine Society The Medical Register of Australia Master Degree Uni (Warsaw) Dip MFR, Dip Ref, Dip RMCert FSM (USA), Cert LDT (USA) Gov Cert IV Tactile Therapies

Phone 1300 877 011 • 0414 332 037 23 Serene Circuit, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 ABN: 73 718 575 340

Krystyna of Somatherapy is a Certified FSM Practitioner and has been using FSM Therapy since 2003. She also has multimodalities extensive experience in treatment of chronic pain for over 20 years. Krystyna is a member of IAHP - International Association of HealthCare Practitioners since 2008.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

December 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A fresh start is about yo be yours. You are about tumble into an experience filled with such happiness that you will probably pinch yourself regularly, to see if it is real. Passion will be high on your list of priorities. Finding new gifts and talents will also bring an air of excitement.

Tourmaline brings an inner peace, which helps us receive our true reward.

You don’t need to worry as much as you do. You are currently being given the opportunity to find your inner strength. You are much more capable than you realise. Work with your self-esteem by thinking three compliments to yourself three times a day for three weeks and marvel at the difference. Chrysocolla is wonderful for new discoveries. Wear it on your being whilst thinking about what you want.

The world is your oyster. Set some goals to aid your availability to what the universe is trying to bring into the picture. A journey will help settle your itchy feet/restless energy and when you return home, you will be positively focused and ready to succeed.

Sodalite enables our imagination to take us journeying into alternate realities, so we can realize what we desire.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You deserve to have far more happiness than your current circumstance allows. Set some new goals and KNOW you deserve these things. Some outer influence has taught you to believe this is as good as it gets for you. This belief is not accurate.

Pyrite will strengthen your self-beliefs and alter your reality.

Your thought processes are at times your own worst enemy.

Take some time to reassess where and how you would like to be living in the future and pay attention to the beliefs which hinder this. Then, you will be able to bring forth change.

Hematite will aid in goal setting, as it shifts negative thought processes.

Total change to your current circumstance can be expected. The new beginnings will bring such a difference to your attitudes, emotions and intellect, that at times you may feel you don’t know yourself. Travel plans may be on the agenda, as a means of dissipating some restlessness. Rhodochrosite connects us to our inner child energy. This will help you through change easily.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

The feeling of being suspended won’t last much longer. New growth awaits. Justice will be granted, bringing a sense of inner peace. Training or learning something new will align you with exciting opportunities, while travel with educational benefits are also on the horizon. Amethyst brings a sense of calm. Sit by the water and hold a piece while stilling your mind.

This feeling of suspension is not going to last much longer.

Look for any tendrils of unsolved emotions, and work through them. You cannot take these hurtful things into the future, so be kind to yourself. Labradorite helps with new experiences. Carry it with you for a couple of weeks to set new patterns.

Your leadership skills are about to be tested in the work place.

Keep your “win/win mentality” strong, as this will guide you toward further success. Avoid listening to other people’s fears, as these could hinder your progress should you take them on.

Selenite strengthens our connection to our higher consciousness.

Carry some on your being for a couple of weeks.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Find your inner harmony by breathing slow deep breaths, then set some goals (short term, and some further in the distance), change some stubborn thought processes and enjoy the experience you’re about to tumble into.

Herkimer Diamonds are great for initiating change.

Discovering your motive behind your current actions will free you from your torment; all you need to do is be totally honest with yourself. You may not like what you discover, but simply remove your judgement and change the pattern and motive.

Rhodonite helps us to free binding circumstances from our reality.

The universe is trying to herald you with an answer to a prayer.

All you have to do to receive this blessing is know you are deserving of the reward. Angels will help you every step of the way. You will be looked after if you get out of the way and let Heaven help you. Malachite helps bring past hurts to the surface for releasing. Enjoy the newfound changes.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 75

focusinterview.

with Michelle Parker from Parker & Co Communications

Carla S P E C I A L I S T D O M E S T I C V I O L E N C E M A N A G E R

A

personal drive to create positive change in the world led Carla Davis to start working with the then named “Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge” in a Residential Support role almost 10 years ago.

After living in numerous rural and regional communities across NSW, Victoria and South Australia, Carla and her family moved to Port Macquarie in 2003, and she started working in domestic and family violence support in 2009.

The organisation started life as a temporary refuge in 1980 and has expanded over four decades to offer a range of crisis accommodation and outreach support services, this month revealing a new name, Liberty Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Services.

Carla now manages three program areas based at Liberty Cottage - Assessment and Intake, Outreach Support for women in the community, and Community Partnerships Against Domestic & Family Violence.

Carla also finds the hands-on elements of the role very rewarding, whether it’s helping a woman put a safety plan in place or leading a group workshop. She co-facilitates Dusk - a domestic violence support group for women; Engage2Change - men’s behaviour change program; and Kids Club - a support group for 8 to 12 year olds.

76 Greater Port Macquarie focus

life AY IN THE AD

Carla works with a very special team of goals. empathetic, dedicated people at Liberty, who “It is an honour to walk part of the journey share the vision of a safe community where with the women, children and men that women and children are empowered to we are able to support through our various achieve their potential. programs. We help people tap into their own The team demonstrate respect for those strength and resilience and make choices for they support, each other and themselves. their own lives. When we see changes taking “Self-care is extremely important, so that we place, it is very fulfilling.” can come to work each The personal stories day with the energy and can be emotionally compassion we need to challenging, and help empower people to seeing the impacts of make a difference in their trauma on children is IT IS AN HONOUR TO lives,” Carla said. always difficult.

WALK PART OF THE The team combine For Carla, spending JOURNEY WITH THE their strong personal time with her two WOMEN, CHILDREN AND values with educational grandchildren, with MEN THAT WE SUPPORT. qualifications and another on the way, ongoing training provides a welcome to provide the best reprieve and the outcomes possible for inspiration to continue the women and children creating positive they support. Carla completed a Diploma of change in our community.

Community Services, then went on to obtain www.libertyservices.org.au a Bachelor of Social Science Welfare with After 62 columns over five years, that’s a Charles Sturt University. wrap! Thank you, Carla, for being such an “I am now four years into completing the inspirational conclusion to my Day in the Life Bachelor of Social Science Psychology, and will column. It is a privilege to work alongside you soon transfer to the Bachelor of Psychology, and the team at Liberty. Thank you to FOCUS again with CSU.” for the opportunity and to all the amazing Carla finds it incredibly fulfilling to work people who have shared their incredible stories with people as they grow and achieve their over the years.

M Y D AY

6am: My alarm wakes me up.

8am: Arrive at work and catch up on emails from the team, respond to requests for financial assistance and support for clients, and return phone messages.

9am: Informal team meeting to cover off what is planned for the day ahead.

10am - 12pm: Facilitate our women’s domestic violence support group, Dusk, with 10 participants.

2pm: One-on-one meeting with a team member to discuss case management options and solutions, check in on their self-care and oversee their workload.

5pm - 8pm: Co-facilitate the men’s behaviour change program, Engage2Change, with seven participants.

9am: After dinner it’s time to study and work on my uni assignments.

11pm: Aim for bed before 11pm, so I have energy for another day.

A bcu Coffs Tri entries open for the 2019

Entries are now open for one of the Mid North Coast’s most enjoyable and picturesque triathlons, the bcu Coffs TRI on March 2nd - 3rd.

The event offers a weekend of races for ages six and over, held around Coffs Harbour’s scenic Jetty Foreshores.

fter the success of the 2018 event, which attracted 1,200 competitors, Triathlon Australia has awarded the 2019 Coffs Tri Standard Distance Race a World Championship Qualifying event for the third year running. It will also double as the State Championship event to determine the fastest triathletes in NSW. The event is also part of a new competition - the North Coast Interclub Series, an initiative of Triathlon NSW - which will see six North Coast triathlon clubs between Port Macquarie and Kingscliff compete for the title of Regional Club Champion. Seven races, ranging from Sprint Distance to Long Course will decide the Series, culminating at the Byron Bay Triathlon in May 2019. The Series will see a mix of small and large, old and new clubs going head to head in a friendly challenge.

The Hat Head Hammerheads and Byron Breakers Clubs are less than 12 months old and see the Interclub Series as a great way to grow the sport of triathlon in their local areas. At the other end of the spectrum, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour Tri Clubs were both established over 20 years ago and are two of NSW’s largest membership bases.

The bcu Coffs Tri is the penultimate event of the Series and is a very unique triathlon, providing a course that is unrivalled in Australia, showcasing all the Coffs Coast has to offer. Triathletes enjoy a pristine ocean swim in a protected harbour that takes them around

the iconic timber Jetty.

The two-lap ride is on fully closed roads.

“There are not many triathlons that can offer this, ensuring it is one of the safest events in the country,” said Race Director, Noel Phillips.

“The run hugs the harbour foreshores and is hard to beat.

"It is completely flat and takes in the jetty and southern breakwall, with spectacular views back across the harbour towards the Great Dividing Range and the Coffs hinterland.

“The beauty of the Coffs Tri is that it is suitable for experienced athletes, as well as those doing their very first triathlon.

"And with the introduction of the new Interclub Series, it is also a great opportunity for local clubs to compete against each other. It is a safe, fun, family-friendly event and we encourage early registration, as we anticipate entries to reach capacity,” said Phillips.

The bcu Coffs Tri includes kids' events for ages 6 - 13, an Enticer triathlon (300 m/7 km/2 km), for ages 13 and over, as well as the Olympic or Standard Distance event (1.5 km/40 km/10 km), with individual and team options. It promises to be a weekend full of racing action for all ages, motivations and abilities.

Entries for the bcu Coffs TRI on March 2nd and 3rd 2019 are now open, with early bird specials on offer for a short time at www.villagesports.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 77

focuson_business

FOCUS ON

110 Greater Port Macquarie focus

BUSINESS

focus_contributor. _contributor.

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS MINDS

Edmund Barton Centre Grant Burtenshaw + John Oxley

G

rant, you are the Group General Manager of the Edmund Barton Centre.

Can you please tell us a little bit about what the Edmund Barton Centre

does?

Jane first let me say that I don’t use the title Group General Manager - I felt guilty when they handed it to me. Like all our mentors, I am a volunteer, so no one is more important than the other. The Edmond Barton Centre has been providing mentoring to business in our region for 10 years; during this time we have assisted over 500 clients, the majority of which were start-ups.

Can you both give us a brief outline of your career backgrounds?

Grant: I have been fortunate to have experienced a range of careers in my lifetime.

The first was as a Radio Electrical Engineer in the Navy. On leaving, I worked in the same field for a number of years before switching to senior sales and marketing roles in the technology sector, my last being a National Sales and Customer Service Manager for Telstra. Then my wife and I bought multi-award winning Chiltern Lodge Country Retreat in the Manning Valley. I then came back into the corporate world as Director International and Commercial for North Coast TAFE here in Port.

I realised the vital need for assistance to startup business and founded the Edmund Barton Centre.

John: After I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in South Africa, I went overseas to gain further experience. On my return, I joined an industrial bank, whose mission it was to grow industry in South Africa through lending and investment. It was a stimulating experience for a 25 year old to be working with some of the best business minds in South

UNFORTUNATELY, MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW

Africa. I then went into the corporate sector as financial director, eventually ending up as CEO of industrial companies in steel and engineering businesses. I was then involved in a number of start-ups, some of which were successful, others not. I moved to Cape Town, where I worked for the tax office in South Africa, before emigrating to Australia. I worked for a firm in public practice in Kempsey as audit manager, before moving out into my own small accounting and audit practice in Port Macquarie.

Grant, according to data registry and analytics business Illion, 86.9% of small businesses (20 employees and under) failed in the FY2017/2018. In your opinion, what are the biggest reasons that small businesses fail?

It is our observation that there are two main reasons for this very high failure rate. They are, first, that the business did not have a chance to succeed from day one; unfortunately, most people don’t know how to evaluate the chances of success for their business. Often, it’s their love of the product/service, and then believing that everyone else must want the same.

The second reason is that they don’t have the skills to run the business; you don’t know what you don’t know. Edmund Barton Centre mentors assist the business owner to work through both of these reasons, with the view to them understanding the viability of their business.

John, what key factors do start-up businesses need to focus on to not only survive their first year in business, but to build a thriving and sustainable business for the future?

Firstly, businesses need to focus on their customers or clients. Who are they and why do they buy my product or service and specifically,

HOW TO EVALUATE what is the value of of the service customers THE CHANCES OF my product or service receive.

SUCCESS FOR THEIR to them? Secondly, What is the most BUSINESS. OFTEN, understanding how rewarding part about IT’S THEIR LOVE OF THE the decisions made by your role as a business PRODUCT/SERVICE, AND the business owner mentor with the THEN BELIEVING THAT impact on cash flow and Edmund Barton Centre?

EVERYONE ELSE MUST how that needs to be John: The most WANT THE SAME. well managed. Thirdly, rewarding aspects of getting good people my role are in helping around you to support aspiring business owners and maintain the growth, profitability and cash to think through their ideas and how these will flow of the business. fulfil their expectations for themselves. Often John, how important do you think it is people come to us with little or no knowledge for small business owners to have a basic of how business works. It is very satisfying to knowledge of their business numbers? see them learn and grow in confidence when What are some of the key numbers that they have a viable business idea. Even when you recommend that business owners the numbers don’t stack up and the wouldtrack regularly? be entrepreneur walks away, we regard it as It is vitally important to know your numbers a win, because a loss-making business chews and to realise their impact on your business. cash - be it the owner’s own money, or that of Key ones are sales, gross margins, overheads, banks, friends and family; because loans have and profits. Benchmarking these against your to be paid back. Using my expertise to guide expectations and/or your budget (often there and assist others is most enjoyable, and I look is no budget) is important. Of course, keeping forward to my mentoring sessions with clients. close track of cash balances, debtors and Grant: I agree with John! creditors is critical. Forecasting the inflow and And finally, if you could invite two outflow of cash, even if informally done, keeps business people each to lunch, who would the business financially sound. they be and why would you invite them?

Grant, can you share your opinion on the John: I would invite Warren Buffett for his importance of the sales and customer incredible business knowledge and expertise, service functions in a small business? and Janine Allis of Boost Juice and Shark Tank Many say the key to increasing sales is fame to hear her view on what it takes to make good targeted marketing. I agree, but if the Australian business start-ups successful. customer and sales services don’t match the Grant: I would invite both the PM and marketing message, then the result is not that the Federal Minister for Education and try to the marketing is wrong, although it could be. convince them of the need to include basic The problem is more likely to be the standard business skills to every level of education.

I too of customer service. I don’t believe that money often hear of businesses failing because of a should be spent on marketing until your customer service/sales skills are the best. I have lack of basic skills. seen too often the sale does not occur because Thanks for your time, Grant and John.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 79

focus_contributor

MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

remains very good. On the Federal scene the Morrison Government, with the opposition’s support, has recently brought forward a small business tax rate reduction to 25% into the FY2021/22. This is several years ahead of the original policy plan, and it now means a small business can realise savings earlier and re-invest into expanded production or employ more people with the growth it brings.

Minding your Local businesses have continued to experience buoyant conditions during 2018, and a recent business survey has seen respondents reporting a high level of confidence for the future.

M

uch of this has to do with relatively good economic conditions nationally coupled with this region’s natural attributes, popularity and growth. At the national level, Australia has now completed a world record 26 years of sustained positive annual GDP growth, due to booming resource exports and relatively stable government policy, including sensible monetary policy that

has kept both interest rates and inflation at historical lows. In NSW and in particular here in Port Macquarie we’ve also had a property boom, which has fuelled building and construction investment, resulting in strong employment growth for the past several years.

Whilst there is some cause for caution as we enter 2019, due to uncertainty in global markets and the upcoming State and Federal Elections, the overall outlook for businesses in this region

A further recent announcement by Morrison Government is the establishment of a $2Bn Business Securitisation Fund, which will make it easier and cheaper for small businesses to borrow money. The fund effectively provides additional funding to smaller banks and non-bank lenders for loans to small businesses on more competitive terms. Recent commentary from finance and business experts has highlighted the very tough lending conditions for small and medium enterprises and this policy is aimed squarely at removing that burden, so that the economy can continue to grow.

The NSW Government recently announced a very welcome reduction in the payroll tax burden through the threshold being increased to $750,000, which is when the tax becomes payable. The policy includes further staged threshold increases over the next few years, taking the threshold to $1m and helping to make NSW competitive with other states. Most recently the State Treasurer, Dominic Perrott has included a concession for businesses with payroll tax bills of less than $20,000, such that returns are only required annually. This also helps reduce the

compliance burden and running costs for small businesses.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has also weighed in to support our small business sector with Tendering Local Preference Policy. This policy gives a preferential weighting to local suppliers and will assist them compete with bigger out of town firms, that may otherwise have an advantage in the tender assessment procedure.

Despite these very positive policy changes, there remain many challenges and constraints to small business sustainability and growth in our region.

The high cost of power, stamp duties, regulatory fees, and other compliance costs are all still unnecessarily high. In addition, expenditure and delivery of critical transport and services infrastructure by all three tiers of government remain a priority area of advocacy for Chamber.

As we look ahead to 2019, the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce intends to maintain its stance of being the advocate and voice to governments at all levels to resolve these challenges on behalf of its members. We will also coordinate a series of planned “Business Beyond 2030” forums in the New Year, involving business leaders to map out the future needs for a vibrant local economy.

On behalf of the Chamber Board and staff, I would like to thank all our members for their ongoing support this year, a Merry Christmas, a no doubt well earned break over the holiday period and continued success in all their enterprises throughout 2019.

Delivering for the Hastings and Camden Haven The $3-million upgrade of the Wauchope Pool is now complete and officially opened. Thank you again to the many locals who have been involved in the push to upgrade this important regional facility. I was pleased to be able to secure $1.5-million in Federal funding to help deliver the project.

Dr David GILLESPIE MP He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, National Party of Australia, Corner High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope NSW 2446.

80 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

The future of Australian city design looks to be in good hands, with passionate and creative Year 12 student Lily Smith making great strides in understanding and developing sustainable ideas for urban planning.

L

ily studied and was a high achiever in both Design and Technology and Visual Arts at St Joseph’s Regional College and was recently invited to speak at the International Urban Design Conference in Sydney …

Hi Lily. Please tell us a little about yourself and your interests.

I am a 17-year-old student, having just completed my Year 12 HSC. I have a keen eye for design and a great passion and interest in sustainability in urban design and architecture.

What subjects did you study for your HSC at St Joseph's Regional College?

During the course of my HSC studies at St Joseph’s Regional College, I studied Design and Technology, Visual Arts, Italian, English Advanced and Studies of Religion. Without a doubt, the subjects I enjoyed the most were Design and Technology and Visual Arts, and I consequently ranked first in both, as I have a creative intellect and enjoy the challenge of practical, hands-on subjects.

For Design and Technology, I designed and created a satellite city design for regional NSW, which was the project I presented at the International Urban Design conference.

How did you develop an interest in urban planning/city design?

It was ultimately through the development of this project that established my interest in urban planning and city design. Previous to undertaking this project, I had a strong passion for design and architecture, but urban design wasn’t an area I had ever explored before.

Growing up, I was an avid lover of city models and architectural scale models. I’ve also grown up very familiar with our Australian cities, and further, have had the opportunity to visit cities all over the world in Europe, Africa and America.

Having visited both Sydney and Melbourne

countless times over my youth, I have witnessed the rapid change and development that has occurred in our cities over the past decade.

Since completion of this project, my interest in urban planning and city design has intensified, and I am fascinated by both the possibilities and power of urban design to transform and provide lasting solutions for our cities and improve citizens’ quality of life and happiness.

You were recently accorded a great honour, having been invited to speak at the International Urban Design Conference in Sydney during November. How did this come about, and what were your feelings when you found out about the invitation?

Initially I was only interested in attending the conference and hadn’t even thought about the possibility of presenting, so I had contacted the conference secretary asking whether I was eligible to attend the conference as a student. I briefly explained in my email about my Year 12 Design and Technology project as reasoning for why I would like to attend.

I received an email back saying I was eligible to attend and asking if I would be interested in presenting my project at the conference, and, if so, could I please submit an abstract.

After submitting my abstract, I was alerted of my acceptance into the programme and received my invitation to the conference. I was allocated a 20-minute time slot within the student stream of the programme, which included discussion time at the end.

What can you tell us about the conference itself, and the type of speakers it generally attracts?

The International Urban Design conference is an annual event that attracts design professionals to exchange ideas and experiences, to be creative and visionary and to contribute to redesigning our urban future. The conference programme showcases innovations in

ATTENDING THIS

to contribute to their projects and research CONFERENCE HAS embracing and creating internal discussions.

GIVEN ME A WEALTH OF transformational change in What was it like, KNOWLEDGE FOR MY urban environments. presenting your topic STUDIES NEXT YEAR, This year, the conference before an audience in AS THE INFORMATION was held over two days the SMC Conference PRESENTED AT THE (Monday 12th - Tuesday Centre? How did you CONFERENCE IS THE 13th Nov) at the SMC LATEST RESEARCH IN handle the nerves?

Conference and Function URBAN DESIGN. Presenting my project centre, Sydney. before an audience at Your talk at the the SMC Conference conference was about Centre was an amazing satellite city design. experience and opportunity. I have had prior Please explain this in a little more detail ...

During my preliminary research, I stumbled experience in public speaking, which allowed across Melbourne-based, Australian private me to combat my nerves. This, in combination company, CLARA, who have a bold vision to with my confidence and passion for the project, design and develop eight new inland cities enabled me to present my project in a fluent in NSW and Victoria, in conjunction with a and professional manner.

High-Speed Rail network connecting each What are your goals/dreams for when you city between Sydney and Melbourne. I got in finish school? contact with CLARA and worked with them In 2019, I intend to study a Bachelor of Design to design, completely from scratch, one of the at the University of Melbourne, majoring in cities proposed for regional NSW. architecture and urban planning. I also plan on Australia’s population is proposed to reach staying in contact with CLARA and continuing to 41.5 million by 2061. It is therefore vital that work with them on their revolutionary cities plan we plan ahead to accommodate this anticipated for Australia’s future. growth, considering our current cities already suffer from the effects of congestion, Attending this conference has given me a unaffordable housing and lengthy commutes. wealth of knowledge for my studies next year, The basis of this project was to design and as the information presented at the conference create an innovative and sustainable concept is the latest research in urban design. city design in regional NSW, to decentralise our After completing my bachelor studies, I society, responding to the growing population plan to go on to study both my Masters in crisis in Australia, that incorporates emerging Architecture and Urban Design. I have gained and renewable technologies that will also help professional contacts from the conference, who pave the way for a sustainable future for the will be valuable assets in guiding me to achieve city. my future aspirations.

My project was highly regarded by CLARA, who are in the process of master planning a new Thanks Lily.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

SMART sustainable greenfield city in Victoria, Photo (right) courtesy of Phil Pares. for which my ideas and approach are at a level Greater Port Macquarie focus 81

focusinterview.

Display

Night 2018 Projects and performances from students of St Joseph’s Regional College (SJRC) formed an exceptional Display Night in late November for the parents, community and friends of the Parish to celebrate and view. We spoke to Tracy and Phil Pares about the special event.

C

an you please introduce yourself and your role at SJRC? Phil: I am Leader of Learning for Technological and Applied Studies (TAS). I am fortunate enough to have led my impressive staff for 12 years and seen the faculty grow from five to 12 staff. Our passionate staff deliver a wide variety of courses and work hard to deliver new and innovative activities for the students. We pride ourselves on working with our students to produce work that exceeds their expectations.

It is what makes me a proud leader.

Tracy: I am Leader of Learning for Creative Arts at St Joseph’s Regional College. I lead a team of professional and deeply creative and energetic educators who facilitate rich learning experiences for all of our Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Arts students. I am truly, very proud of the amazing work that all of the “creative crew” at the college produce each year.

Tracy, what is the history of the event?

Tracy: Our annual Display Night has been around for several decades. It started at the old site on Walters Street as a fun way to engage the school community in our students’ achievements over the year. In those days, it was only about 500 students in Years 7 - 10. Now we are showcasing the work from 1,100 students in Years 7 - 12.

Specifically, the night showcases the work from the Creative Arts and TAS courses, with student work from a huge array of subjects such as Drama, Music and Visual Arts to Industrial Technology Timber, Industrial Technology Metal, Textiles Technology, Food Technology, Hospitality, Design and Technology, iSTEM, Marine Studies and Information Software Technology.

These days we also have our newest course, 82 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Dance and our amazing co-curricular Music evening with wood fire pizza, pork sliders, department headed by Mrs Sharon Green, great coffee and other culinary delights. with ensembles such as the Jazz Band and One of the favourite presentations is the very SAAPS Marching Band and our award winning dynamic fashion parade by Textiles Technology Vanguard Drumline on display. students!

The event has a long history, and I have In our Performing Arts Centre, the Dance, flyers that I helped design from as far back as Drama and Music students ran two separate 1997! So, Display Night has truly become a concerts, to showcase the best of their work must see on our annual calendar. from the year. This year we will see rhythmic Phil, can you tell us what was displayed Year 7s on Djembes, choir performances, our at this year’s Display Eisteddfod-placed dance Night? performers, our talented Phil: The hall was full Year 9 and 10 music of projects and artworks classes and hilarity from Our values are modelled that ranged from the the Drama Department, on the example of Jesus incredible senior HSC among so many other Christ; the work of our cabinetry and fashion brilliant performance College is embodied in our design all the way down pieces. Concert tickets Display Night, where our to gorgeous and fun were highly sought after Parish and community empower ceramics by Year 7 art and this year were sold our young people to shape and students. The artwork out earlier than usual. enrich our world. showcases a variety of It looks like it was a pieces from Year 7 right great event, supported through to Year 12 - we by both families and even had some offers of purchase due to the staff? quality of student work. Most year groups Phil: It certainly was. Staff are especially in all of these subjects have work on display; enthusiastic to be involved. Our Principal Jim we fill the hall full of student work - it looked Dempsey has said the Display Night is always incredible! an important event to share with the commuOne of the highlights this year was the TAS nity. works that were nominated for excellence.

He said about the event: “It is an opportuThese are Ky Eichmann and Samantha King nity to witness the student experience of awe for their timber work, and Matisse Bird’s and wonder in their educational journey. Our Design and Technology work. Also, Lily Smith values are modelled on the example of Jesus displayed her Design and Technology work, Christ; the work of our College is embodied in which she was recently invited to present at our Display Night, where our Parish and comthe International Urban Design Conference in munity empower our young people to shape Sydney. and enrich our world.”

Outside in the courtyard, the Food TechnolThe night was a great success; we are sure ogy and Hospitality students catered for the there are some other people who you

would like to thank?

Tracy: It is a magical mix to make nights like this happen; add together one whole year of hard work from teachers and students, the energy of some key teams in making the event come together and the good will and support of over one hundred staff! Hey presto - an awesome community showcase full of food, fun and families!

A big “thank you” to our immediate school community, without whom the night simply could not have run. It is at an incredibly busy time of year; many of our teachers and other staff generously supported the night to do jobs ranging from car park attendants to supervisors of some very excited young performers, which is no easy feat, I can assure you! Truly, it is staff generosity that facilitates this community event; it is never a tired cliché to say - “We couldn’t have done it without you”. A huge “thank you” to these excellent people.

Many thanks also to our broader school community - all the beautiful mums, dads, brothers, sisters, grandparents and friends who made it to see the incredible achievements of their young people over the college year. Your support this year was awesome - our biggest numbers through the college yet, and two sold out concerts!

Most importantly, thanks to the students of our college, who created, baked, danced, built, prepared, painted, sung, played, served, generated, designed, researched, performed, acted, sewed, welded, sculpted, constructed, practiced and innovated! You made us very proud. Thank you for being young people involved in your work and community.

Thanks Tracy and Phil.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 83

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

This year has gone by so quickly! Christmas is so close - lots of carols to celebrate this great time of the year.

Lake Cathie Carols by the Lake - 8th December; 5:30pm.

Wauchope/Bonny Hills Surf Lifesaving Club at Bonny Hills - 9th December, 5pm.

The Westport’s Club Christmas Under the Stars featuring special guest Tim Campbell - 9th December, 5:30pm.

Wauchope and Hinterland Community Christmas in Bain Park - 15th December, 5:30pm.

The 7th, 8th, 9th December are the dates for the Touch State Cup this year, with over 6,000 people coming to our area. The Touch State Cup marks a special milestone for Port Macquarie, as we have hosted this event for 30 years. The State Cup contributes substantially to our local economy and encourages competitors and support teams to come back and have holidays in our beautiful region. Thank you, Greater Port Macquarie, for welcoming the competitors,

families and friends to our region.

Woolworths Food for Less Site, which has been a blemish for over six years, is finally being demolished. As the gateway to the Central Business District, the end result will certainly improve the vista of the area.

The Hastings River Drive and Newport Island Rd intersection roundabout is now complete. What a difference to traffic flow at this dangerous corner. The completion is a great result for all concerned.

Great News that Port Macquarie-Hastings Council voted to roll out community engagement activity for the proposed Orbital Road - a much needed infrastructure project.

See our area from a different perspective - Port Macquarie Helicopters have a brand-new, stateof-the-art, air-conditioned helicopter which will fly you in comfort, as you discover the majestic Port Macquarie coastline. No matter what the occasion, Port Macquarie Helicopters has a scenic helicopter flight. Now based at Stoney Creek Water Park - Telegraph Point.

The results from the highly competitive State Tourism Awards are in. Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel - silver, Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail - silver, Sails Resort by Rydges - bronze and Port Macquarie Koala Hospital highly commended.

Settlers Inn Hotel won the coveted Heart of the Community award at the AHA Awards for Excellence - for the second year in a row.

Fantastic results for our Greater Port Macquarie region. A huge congratulations to these

members for achieving recognition at a state level.

With the school holidays fast approaching and many locals having visitors staying, you need a copy of the Eat See and Do Guide as a handy reference. There are so many options. You can pick up a copy from any Council office or Visitor Information Centres at Kew and Port Macquarie.

Animal encounters - are popular and there are plenty of ways to get up close and personal with animals.

Billabong Zoo has opened an exciting new Africa Exhibit with cute baby lion cubs and cheetahs, plus the new Jurassic Pond exhibit is home to a 4.6 metre monster croc called Shrek.

There are shows and feeding times all day.

In the hinterland, Bellrowan Valley Horseriding offers a variety of treks through lush valleys which ends sharing damper, scones and jam with the farm animals.

Every day at 3pm the Koala Hospital offers a free Feed, Walk and Talk tour to learn about the sick and injured koalas at this unique, volunteer run attraction.

If have a sense of adventure, a Camel Ride along Lighthouse Beach for a 30-minute gentle safari is another option.

Two major events that are happening in December: Festival of the Sun, 13th - 16th December, NRMA Sundowner Breakwall Caravan Park; and Oysters in the Vines, 29th December, Cassegrain Wines.

Check out other events happening in our region: www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

At St Columba Anglican School we believe that students thrive in a supportive and holistic educational environment.

We have dedicated and experienced staff and a wide range of first-class facilities and learning centres, such as the Iona Performing Arts Centre and Iona Sports Gymnasium.

To find out more about completing Years 11 and 12 at SCAS, contact the school today. Limited scholarships are available.

A world of opportunities T: 6581 4188 | info@scas.nsw.edu.au | www.scas.nsw.edu.au 84 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focus_contributor

focus_contributor

Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

DON MACKENZIE

community S E R V I C E

Photo: Graeme Murray.

A

Places to be seen, 2019

re you travel tired? Been to Bali too, too many times? Familiarity’s for the home front; travel’s supposed to be about new horizons, fresh experiences, the excitement of discovery - not a repetitious rut. Sure, a favourite camping or fishing spot, a long-loved beach shack, are the stuff of building happy family holiday memories. But when it comes to big-ticket travel and tourism, variety is the spice of life.

With this fact in mind the world’s biggest guidebook brand and pre-eminent travel authority, Australia’s Lonely Planet guidebooks group, has released its annual Best in Travel 2019 in print and electronically. In the tourism industry today lists are a plague, lazily summing up a destination in arbitrary dot-points, with minimum detail. By contrast, LP’s 2019 guide doesn’t merely stick a pin in a map or swirl a globe of the world and isn’t influenced by commercial interests. Its catalogue of the Top 10 Countries; the Top 10 Cities; the Top 10 Regions and the Top 10 emerging “best value” destinations comes with the trustworthy authority, knowledge and insight of its international spread of editors and on-the-ground researchers. Other categories it features include the Top 10 best new openings, best new places to stay, best new food experiences, best new attractions for kids and top trends. The top country nominated is Sri Lanka; number 10 is a nation I’ll be visiting in 2019: Belize, in the Caribbean. Of the cities, Copenhagen tops the list and some of the more surprising are Dakar, in Senegal, Zaar (Croatia) and Meknes (Morocco.) The recommended best-value destination is the Southern Nile Valley in Egypt. See videos at www.lonelyplanet.com for compelling reasons supporting LP’s choices. Albania, Ecuador and Slovenia also make the top 10 suggestions for optimum tourist-dollar value. The latest edition forms an inspirational travelogue, its annual best-seller status earned over 14 years. Not mere lists but with full backgrounding. In print and online versions, it’s an ideal Christmas gift, to others or yourself. Hard cover version

$27.99.

SEEKING SOMETHING CLOSER to home?

New Zealand Tourism offers superb travel information at www.newzealand.com Discoveries include the south island township of Kaikoura, 180km north of Christchurch.

Where mountains meet sea, it’s renowned for whales, dolphins, fur seals and rare southern ocean birdlife. Visitors can feast on the fresh crayfish cooked simply with garlic and butter at many “seafood caravans” around Kaikoura while sitting on the beach looking out to the Pacific Ocean. The most famous is Nin’s Bin (pictured.) A Kiwi specialty.

THE YEAR OPENS with a free event in Sydney that attracts one of Australia’s biggest audiences, as many as 100,000, to Opera in the Domain, under the stars on Saturday January 19 at 8pm. The picnic-style concert will feature bestloved opera highlights, arias and overtures performed by our finest opera singers and Opera Australia Orchestra’s musicians. Settle in early and enjoy a selection of food and beverages from pop-up stalls and a garden bar, and pre-entertainment activities in the lead-up to the show.

TRAVELLERS IN 2019 are booking for Japan where 20 nations will compete for the Rugby World Cup from September 20 to November 2, the first time the tournament’s staged outside the traditional heartlands of the sport.

St Agnes’ Parish Community Services provides support for people in their homes and local communities. As a registered NDIS and My Aged Care provider, we assist people maximise the capacity of either their NDIS Plan or Home Care Package to enhance health, wellbeing and social participation.

O

ur Therapy team provides assessments new people in a relaxed environment, call us on and ongoing allied health therapy 6581 6800 and ask for more information on our related to disability and aged care.

Group programs.

This includes professionally qualified We are currently looking for professional and occupational therapists caring people to fulfil the and behaviour support duties of Support Workers practitioners who can assist with our disability and with advice, information aged care services. We and therapy. Call us on provide ongoing training in Centacare in Port 6581 6800 to find out a supportive and positive Macquarie offers a how these services can be team environment for wide variety of group tailored to individual needs. a rewarding career in a programs for people Centacare in Port growing sector. Support with disabilities.

Macquarie offers a wide Workers undertake variety of group programs duties such as: personal for people with disabilities. care and support; meal For example: Sailability; preparation; household cooking classes; gym and fitness; fishing; men’s cleaning; and supporting clients to participate in shed; indoor sports; Arts and Craft; IT classes; the community. For more information, visit the Performance and Drama; restaurant dinners; Careers page at stagnesparish.org.au or keep in and evenings out. If you would like to meet touch via our social media links below.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR CAREER

To rev up for the occasion, some ideal new

Cal 6581 l on for 6800 infor more mati on

Looking for a rewarding career in a growing sector?

holiday reading: Eddie Jones, Rugby Maverick

Centacare is looking for energetic, positive people to make a real difference in people’s lives.

is the biography of the enigmatic super coach, one of the biggest names in international rugby. From his Sydney playing days to his

We have roles in disability support, aged care and as Registered Nurses. For more information, go to the St Agnes’ Parish Careers page at stagnesparish.org.au or follow us on social media.

years as Wallabies coach, masterminding Japan’s amazing victory over South Africa in 2015 and revitalising the game in its English birthplace. Brisbane sports writer Mike Coleman draws on hundreds of interviews, exploring the career of a world coaching great.

Allen & Unwin. RRP $32.99.

Follow us:

Centacare Mid North Coast

@CentacareMNC

@CentacareMNC

Happy new year travels!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 85

focusinterview.

SNEAKY SOUND SYSTEM GETS SET TO HEADLINE LUNAR ELECTRIC. FOCUS chatted with Miss Connie and Black Angus in the lead up to the festival ...

Sneaky sound system

H

i guys. Thank you so much for speaking with FOCUS. It has been a big year for Sneaky Sound System ...

Please tell us about some of your highlights from

your sound evolved?

We started back then playing deep house and disco records at our Sneaky Sundays club night, and to some extent we’ve come full circle. Along the way we flirted with our pop side and also performed as a six-piece band, but our club night 2018? has always been a big part of who we are, so the Thanks for having us. Musically it’s been glorious sound of house music is well and truly another very, very good year for us. Our latest running through our veins right now. track, Can’t Help The But, we just do our Way That I Feel, spent thing and don’t get over a month at #1 on too influenced by the the Beatport global house mainstream. We only chart, and #2 on their make music we love, and BUT WE JUST DO OUR overall chart, and is still if other people love it ...

THING AND DON’T GET top 5 three months later. well, that ain’t such a bad TOO INFLUENCED BY Beatport is the principal thing!

THE MAINSTREAM. WE source of music for DJs and Tell us about some of ONLY MAKE MUSIC WE electronic music fans, so Sneaky Sound System’s LOVE, AND IF OTHER we couldn’t be happier. accomplishments you’re PEOPLE LOVE IT ...

BBC in the UK have also most proud of?

WELL, THAT AIN’T SUCH supported the track, and To still be doing what A BAD THING! we’ve had lots of love from we love all these years DJs around the world. later is probably our On the live front we had biggest achievement. The a huge fourth summer season at world-renowned music industry can be a fickle business, but it’s Mykonos hot spot Scorpios, with 3,000 people been very kind to us, and we’re grateful for all the packed in every Sunday, and back in Australia opportunities we’ve been given. we’ve done some really fun shows, like the Hot What does 2019 look like for the band?

Dub Wine Machine tour.

Lots more writing, recording and touring You’re set to headline Lunar Electric in everything we love doing. We have some exciting January 2019 in Port Macquarie. What are collaborations underway too; watch this space! you most looking forward to about this gig?

Thanks guys.

We’ll be doing a road trip down from Byron Bay, which is always fun. Cassegrain Winery looks like a beautiful venue, Lunar Electric has a solid line up, and we love playing Australian festivals, especially in the middle of summer, so there’s a lot Lunar Electric is on Friday, January 5th at to look forward to.

Cassegrain Winery.

Since the band formed in late 2001, how has Tickets available at oztix.com.au 86 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Port Macquarie Helicopters Port Macquarie Helicopters welcomes you to experience the scenic landscapes of the Port Macquarie region from a whole new perspective.

Operating out of Port Macquarie Airport, Port Macquarie Helicopters offers the experience of scenic joyflights above the famous Mid North Coast beaches that extend from Port Macquarie.

Visit portmacquariehelicopters.com.au for more information on the range of flights available. Alternatively, you can create your own custom charter.

Port Macquarie Helicopters welcomes guests to take photos and videos and make the most of their special time with family and friends.

Their brand-new, air-conditioned helicopter is state-of-theart. With onsite quality assured, Port Macquarie Helicopters focus on safety first; you can rest assured you are in the hands of experienced, professional pilots. Port Macquarie Helicopters do not claim to be the biggest; they just strive to be the best.

Spoil someone special with an experience of a lifetime. Gift certificates are available online.

Sit back and enjoy your flight!

PHONE 0487 771 200 Greater Port Macquarie focus 87

focusinterview.

April Saunders - Laurieton Public School, Roger Mika - Hastings Public School and Lake Cathie Public School, Shannon Larkin - Tacking Point Primary School, Nick Philip - Port Macquarie Public School Jane Moye - Tacking Point Primary School.

Year 2, Tacking Point - Volunteer Teacher Angela Magner.

Five hundred primary schools across New South Wales currently offer ethics classes, which are an alternative for those students who choose not to attend weekly special religious education sessions. April Saunders, Ethics Coordinator/Teacher, Laurieton Public School; Shannon Larkin, Ethics Coordinator Tacking Point Public School; and Nicolas Philip, Ethics Teacher, Port Macquarie Public School tell us more about the Primary Ethics Programme and how it works …

P

lease explain the principles behind the Primary Ethics programme. The programme provides public primary school students from Kindergarten to Year 6 with a space to discuss ethical issues with their peers, facilitated by a trained volunteer ethics teacher. All classes follow a set curriculum and support children to develop their moral reasoning capabilities. In each class, the focus is on skills development, rather than the promotion of any particular view.

Children develop the skills to identify ethical issues, a willingness to engage in respectful discussion with their families and friends about a range of complex topics and the ability to think widely and critically in exploring reasons and developing arguments.

A typical class involves children exploring a range of stories and scenarios, discussing what we ought to do, how we ought to live, the kind of society we should have and what kind of person each of us should strive to be.

Primary Ethics teachers undergo training in behaviour management, and each ethics class adheres to six principles, called “Ethics Class Rules”. In ethics classes, children learn that their opinion is respected, it’s OK to have a different opinion from their classmates, and that it’s also OK to sometimes change your mind. Students learn how to disagree respectfully, to build on each other’s ideas, and to make their own decisions based on ethical reflection instead of peer pressure or habit.

What schools in the Port Macquarie region currently offer this programme? Hastings, Laurieton and Taree West Public Schools were early adopters of the programme in 2013 and 2014, joined soon after by Cundletown, Beechwood and Wauchope Public Schools. 2018

88 Greater Port Macquarie focus

has seen the biggest growth of new programmes, with many volunteers taking advantage of the first ethics teacher training held in Port Macquarie in June this year. Children at Lake Cathie, Tacking Point, Port Macquarie and Hallidays Point are also now attending weekly ethics classes, thanks to those who've volunteered to teach and coordinate the classes.

Shannon Larkin is the ethics coordinator at her children's school at Tacking Point.

"My work makes it a bit hard to teach at the same time each week, so I jumped into the ethics coordinator role. We've got a great team of five other parents who all trained at the Port Macquarie training, and since Term 3 have been running four classes at the school."

Shannon's daughter, Isa (5) is delighted about her Kindergarten ethics class.

"In ethics class the kids get to ask all the questions!" Isa said.

Nicolas Philip began teaching ethics this year at Port Macquarie Public School. Nicolas is teaching students in Year 1 and 2, and he hopes that other volunteers will join the programme to enable children to continue their education in ethics as they get into the older primary school years.

"One of the key messages in training is that this is not about sharing your ideas with the children - it's really a space for them to share theirs," Nicolas said.

With his son in his class, Nicolas also enjoys the opportunity to be more involved in his education.

"For the first couple of lessons I did have to remind my son not to speak in French, as that is the language we mainly use at home!"

April Saunders began volunteering at her children's school in Laurieton in 2014.

"We have been lucky to have had several teachers at Laurieton continue with us from the very beginning. However, volunteers eventually

move on, so for continuity of the programme, it is important to maintain a pipeline of interested people from the community who are willing to join the programme who we can draw on when the need arises."

Approximately half of all children enrolled at Laurieton Public School attend ethics classes each week. Vacancies for ethics coordinators include Hastings, Lake Cathie, Wauchope, Cundletown and Port Macquarie Public Schools, and all schools are welcoming new volunteers to teach the classes in 2019. The next ethics teacher training session is planned for April next year.

How was a need for this type of class/ programme identified? Parents, the Federation of P&C Associations of NSW and The Ethics Centre recognised an opportunity to provide philosophical ethics classes to primary school students who have opted out of weekly special religious education classes (SRE) at their primary school. Each week in NSW, over 100,000 students do not attend SRE. In 2010, after eight years of lobbying, Parliament amended the NSW Education Act to allow schools to offer ethics classes as an option.

The NSW Government then tasked The Ethics Centre to develop and deliver ethics education classes in urban, regional and rural primary schools. A new not-for-profit organisation, Primary Ethics, was established to take on the task.

There are currently 500 primary schools across NSW offering the programme, with 40,000 children attending an ethics classes each week, delivered by 2,500 trained volunteers. Of these, around 1,700 are ethics teachers, with other volunteers supporting the programme in the roles of coordinators or by offering classroom support to ethics teachers.

All classes are based on the approach where

students are encouraged and supported to make their own judgments about whether something is right or wrong, good or bad and to explain why, using evidence and reason. Volunteer teachers do not teach their own personal ethics and values.

How is this programme implemented?

Apart from a handful of staff in Head Office, Primary Ethics is run completely by trained volunteers who have an hour a week to spare and an interest in helping children to make better decisions.

Ethics teachers use detailed lesson materials to deliver a curriculum of 79 topics. The curriculum has been designed by Dr Sue Knight, a distinguished academic in the field of philosophical education for children, with each topic reviewed by an expert panel, chaired by Dr Simon Longstaff of The Ethics Centre.

Typically, what are some of the topics covered in class? Infants’ ethics classes are focused on developing core skills such as listening to others, taking turns to speak and giving reasons. Topics have a largely practical focus such as asking and answering questions, disagreeing, changing your mind, working out what is true, giving and evaluating reasons as well as giving examples and counter examples.

Classes for children in Years 3 - 6 include stories, contemporary issues and real life scenarios which form the basis of discussions on ethical issues such as selfishness, how we should treat living things, promises, greed, friendship, cheating, voting, punishment, homelessness, teasing and fairness in society.

Where can we find out more info? The Primary Ethics website (www.primaryethics.com. au) provides a wealth of information about the Primary Ethics programme and details on how to become a volunteer.

Thanks everyone. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 111

Greater Port Macquarie

96 Greater Port Macquarie focus

McGrath Estate Agents

At McGrath, WE’RE SO VERY PROUD to call Port Macquarie home.

Time and time again, our town establishes its credentials as a unique lifestyle destination; not only a progressive and expanding region which produces strong economy and employment opportunities, but also a warm and inviting community which entices new residents into its magnificent surrounds.

F

or the property sector, stability and reliability are words which come to mind and these assurances were further evidenced on the evening of Thursday November 8th, at McGrath’s November Auction Event.

Held at beautiful Rydges Hotel, the event attracted a large group of potential buyers, as well as many interested onlookers. Fresh from his successful appearance on a recent popular television show, McGrath’s celebrity multi award-winning auctioneer, Scott Kennedy Green, offered his services as guest auctioneer for the occasion, proceedings got under way promptly at 6pm and the room was soon ringing with the sound of competing bidders.

Suffice to say that, in a real estate climate which many claim to be languishing, the event proved very successful, with several properties selling just prior to auction, others securing offers, and two in particular selling in circumstances which not only proved to dismiss any suggestion of ailing local demand, but also served to reinforce the auction process itself: One Lighthouse Beach listing, a mature but very liveable home, well-located, with ocean views, sold under-the-hammer for a figure which exceeded the

first offer by over $300,000. During McGrath’s marketing campaign, this particular property attracted 16,000 media views and 65 physical inspections; interest which resulted in 11 registered bidders on the night.

Another property, a two-bedroom ground floor terrace apartment in the exclusive ‘Sandcastle’ complex, achieved in excess of $110,000 above its first offer; further evidence that the right selling strategy, matched to the right property, invariably serves to deliver the right results.

In recent months, the daily media has consistently released negative commentary in relation to perceived downturns in “Australia’s Property Market” or even “the Sydney (or Melbourne) Market” but in reality, these terms very much generalise what, throughout Australia, is actually a multitude of regionally unique property marketplaces.

Value adjustments can be cyclically anticipated in volatile city markets such as Sydney and Melbourne although exceptions still occur, even during the most difficult times.

Interest rate variations, bank lending criteria and such undeniably carry a universal effect but not one which other local influences cannot combat.

Port Macquarie is not a volatile marketplace. It’s a market

driven by growth, opportunity and sentiment. Local property values have shown no significant falls; in fact most reports indicate ongoing (albeit modest) increases and at this point in time, the region’s five-year average annual increase remains quite healthy, at 7.4%.

In terms of “lifestyle” markets, Port Macquarie has been compared by some property analysts with the extremely popular area of Byron Bay (www.propertyology.com.au).

So when the press reports indicatively about “the property market” it may not necessarily be need for universally serious concern. Consider the good fortune that, from the myriad of actual property marketplaces around Australia, your home is in beautiful, reliable and secure Port Macquarie, where the most applicable property market can be found just outside your own front door.

Without cost, obligation or pressure, your friendly McGrath agent is always happy to provide a fully-supported and totally honest appraisal of your home’s value on today’s local market; indeed you may well be pleasantly surprised!

At McGrath, we’re so very proud to call Port Macquarie home.

Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter

Greater Port Macquarie focus 91

the W I T H

Experience

Dead Sea

M I N E R A L

S W I M

I N

Y O U R

O W N

P O O L

“With the combination of 100% natural Dead Sea minerals with ozone-tooxygen water purification and natural skincare, Mineral Swim™ creates a therapeutic and healthy, crystal clear swimming experience.”

I

magine you’re swimming in the ancient body of water known as the Dead Sea. Immersed in its natural beauty, your skin tingles and at once feels softer, rejuvenated by the salts and minerals revered over centuries for their healing qualities.

The warm sun shines down upon you, filtered through layers of mind-clearing oxygen and saline mists. Buoyed by the salts, you swim peacefully and in harmony with the Earth.

Your body returns to balance in the unique Dead Sea waters. Now you can experience this daily in your own swimming pool. Mineral Swim™ is

92 Greater Port Macquarie focus

composed of authentic salts and minerals from the Dead Sea. An infusion of these minerals in your swimming pool is like bringing the Dead Sea home, offering its natural health benefits and relaxing properties to you, right where you live. 100% Dead Sea Minerals recreates the relaxing, natural and healthy pool experience that people have enjoyed for thousands of years in the Dead Sea. Ozone-to-Oxygen purification harnessing the power of nature - Ozone-to-oxygen is the smart environmentally friendly choice for pools and spas. Popular in public pools across Australia,

Mineral Swim™ is a naturally occurring and powerful process that’s up to 3,000 times stronger than traditional purification systems.

Combined with mineral sanitation, it delivers crystal clear and healthy water.

The Mineral Swim™ system is also fully endorsed by AHAVA skincare, one of the world’s leading natural skincare brands containing magnesium rich ingredients to hydrate your skin.

Now you can continue your mineral swimming experience beyond the pool. Discover superior AHAVA skincare quality products and how active Dead Sea minerals can recharge, rehydrate and

illuminate your skin naturally.

Vegan friendly and paraben free, the brand’s ethos stems from a balance between science and nature. All products undergo strict allergy testing and are approved for sensitive skin, with all ingredients sourced form nature.

Experience the skincare ranges for both men and women, which include bath and shower products, hair products and hand and body lotions.

Mineral Swim™ and AHAVA skincare is now in-store for Christmas at Pollard Pools & Spas. AHAVA skincare gift packs available.

Retire by the waterside at Queens Lake Village VISIT US TODAY TO EXPERIENCE VILLAGE LIFE

What could be more relaxing than waking up to the tranquil view of Queens Lake? It may sound like a scenic holiday scenario, though this could be your reality every morning.

Waterside living and picturesque views are just a few of the many benefits that come with retiring at Queens Lake Village. Set on the shores of Queens Lake, with access to the jetty, this Stockland retirement community is a bushland haven for active retirees. Featuring social activities such as fishing, water aerobics, table tennis and outdoor bowls, as well as a billiards room, library and a heated indoor pool, you will never be at a loss for how to pass your time at Queens Lake Village.

Offering you total peace of mind, Queens Lake Village is equipped with supportive staff, a 24-hour emergency call system, and is located in close proximity to the local shopping centre, cinema and library. And with a community of friendly like-minded residents to keep you company, your social schedule will be constantly occupied.

With over 11,000 Australians already calling a Stockland retirement village home, there has never been a better time to retire your way.

Located just 1.5kms from the centre of Laurieton, the community offers practical housing options in the form of self-contained, fully refurbished Independent Living Villas. Two and three bedroom designs – that feature open floor plans and a courtyard or balcony – are available, ensuring you’ll feel right at home the minute you arrive.

“View our beautiful offerings and see firsthand why Queen’s Lake is an amazing place to retire.”

Come and visit us at 349 Ocean Drive, or call 1800 72 71 70 for more information

Freecall 1800 72 71 70 stocklandretire.com.au

focus_contributor

JULIE HO FROM PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE

landcare. update Trees for Christmas.

I

If we didn’t have trees for Christmas, where would we find the gifts?

n 1832, Princess (later Queen) Victoria was delighted by her decorated tree with presents underneath it. This idea became a Christmas favourite for many people, who copied whatever the royals did.

Evergreen trees and branches symbolised eternal life to ancient Egyptians, Chinese and Hebrews.

In Europe, pagans worshipped trees, and this carried over into the Christian era.

The tree tradition is part of an age-old reverence for nature. The trees we enjoy at yuletide remind us about the natural world trees come from, and the life that trees support.

Right now, a koala is dozing outside in a Tallowwood tree that shelters it from the elements and predators.

The koala climbed up there yesterday, after eating from a Swamp Mahogany and a Blackbutt.

Koalas use many trees to get a variety of leaves, and eat a lot because the leaves are low in nutrition.

We see that koalas can survive in town, as long as we keep the trees they need. Saving mature trees is one way to guarantee native animals have habitat in the future.

I regard koalas as “gifts” that come with our big native trees. Many other beautiful things live in mature trees growing within our suburbs.

A few doors up, nesting in a large Blackbutt, is a pair of gorgeous russet and white Brahminy Kites.

The old eucalypt gives them the height they require and it supports their massive nest made of sticks, where they raise their chicks.

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Other gifts come with trees and some are nocturnal, so stepping outside after dark can be rewarding. Night noises can mean seasonal visitors!

On Tuesday night about 10pm, a big owl swooped silently over my head and perched in the Swamp Mahogany. The owl turned a pale face to watch me - but identifying birds at night is tricky.

Then it began to trill, the same “begging” sound I’d heard and wondered about the night before.

It’s a clue that this was a young Powerful Owl. Adults had been calling from a nearby old growth reserve with their distinctive double hoot.

Powerful indeed is Ninox strenua. Measuring 60 cm with massive yellow feet and long talons, it preys on tree dwelling mammals - possums and bats.

To breed, Powerful Owls need old trees with large hollows that take 200 years or more to develop. Such trees are rare now, even in forests, and these owls are classed as Threatened.

They just might have a future, if we humans insist that no more old native trees are cut down.

Our Aussie animals can’t wait decades to get a supply of the right leaves, or 200 years for a hollow to nest in. Life depends on having enough trees in the right places.

Please give yourself a present by planting a eucalyptus tree this Christmas: it will give you a lifetime of rewards. All you need to know is at Plant Profiles on www.landcareportmac.com.au Merry Christmas to you and yours!

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Come home, to your effortless coastal lifestyle ... To your sophisticated, contemporary residence, within a friendly village atmosphere

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Catarina offers Australian coastal lifestyle at its best, on the NSW Mid-North Coast.

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Nestled with direct access to Rainbow Beach, surrounded by acres of coastal bushland and open space.

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Listen to the ocean as you relax in Marchese Partners architecturally designed terraces.

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Engineered timber flooring throughout and elegant stone bench tops feature in a sleek and functional kitchen.

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Stylish interiors connect you with the surrounding natural beauty and create an atmosphere of casual sophistication.

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Timber design cabinetry, stunning feature ti les and tasteful high-gloss finishes are complemented by premium quality appliances.

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3 Bed • 2 Bed 2 Garage Price $799,000

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 1800 223 768 OR 0447 020 742 Greater Port Macquarie focus 95

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focusinterview.

Nationwide Property B R O K E R S

Nationwide Property Brokers (NPB) in Port Macquarie reveals the changes to the market, and what it really means when investing in property in this dynamic and diverse area … now and for 2019. It’s been a bumper 2018 … and there’s more to come! Chrissy Jones spoke with Paul Loughland about the team’s achievements, what the team has to offer customers and what’s on the cards for 2019 …

P

aul, what sets you apart from others in the property industry, and what does this mean to your customers?

We are very focused on the needs of our purchasers and vendors in a wide range of coastal markets.

The unique point of difference at NPB is we also offer a customised property investment advisory service, helping people feel informed and confident about their property decisions, and helping people to grow their portfolio and wealth through property. This service, coupled with the ability to introduce property opportunities outside of our area, including the wider Mid North Coast and growth areas within NSW and QLD, broadens our expertise by understanding the property market on both a state and national level. This allows us to provide a solid, comprehensive knowledge base when helping our customers make important property decisions.

Without our clients’ trust, we wouldn’t be who we are.

From developers, to residential vendors and of course property investors and purchasers, we are super grateful to help and drive for results on a daily basis.

Who are Nationwide Property Brokers? What do you do and offer?

As the name of our business suggests, and as I mentioned earlier, we have experience in property right across our beautiful country. We help our customers secure or sell well positioned properties, saving them time and money and mitigating risk in the property process where possible.

In saying that, we are extremely particular in what we offer our potential and existing customers.

We aim to select properties that are quality and well located, often with a special feature … seaside, forest surrounds, views, hinterland, golf course estate developments, located near infrastructure and seniors’ lifestyle precincts … are prime examples.

With this level of flexibility, skills, knowledge and understanding of the challenges and

deliverables of a successful sale or purchase, our diverse range of clients feel easy and completely confident that we know how to manage their buying and selling requirements.

You have had an exceptional year; tell us about your team’s achievements.

Whilst it’s terrific to touch on the achievements, it’s all systems go when looking for more high quality developments to be involved in.

Completed successful projects in 2018 include: • Bermuda Breezes - 44 coastal town houses; • Toorak Court - 32 well located apartments; • Thrumster Gateway - land lots and medium density site; • Wauchope - The Mill Estate and builds within the Glenview Estate; • Catarina Living - Lake Cathie - unique coastal land and beachside terraces; • Bonny Hills - land development project of over 180 lots; • Port Macquarie - Brierley Hill - a number of successful high yielding properties.

• Whilst this question focuses on us, and that’s always nice, without our community what we do would not be achieved.

• It’s our community that continues to expose our “backyard, playground and activities” to the world.

It’s our community that continues to deliver those activities and events that are enjoyed and celebrated by all.

The population growth on the Mid North Coast is booming; to what do you attribute this?

The Mid North Coast of NSW is an ideal location, offering an enviable lifestyle with access to stunning beaches, magical hinterland, National Parks and cool rivers.

Yet, we boast continued investment into infrastructure; roads, rail, airport, hospitals and medical, educational facilities including unis, world class entertainment facilities (Glasshouse) and national/international sporting events, such as the Ironman Triathlon, each year.

Affectionately known as the Grey Army or

Grey Tsunami, self-funded or an ocean view from retirees from Tasmania, your luxury apartment The Mid North Coast of NSW Melbourne, Sydney and balcony, Catarina is your is an ideal location, offering Newcastle travel the new destination. an enviable lifestyle eastern coastline looking Nestled between Lake with access to stunning for a nicer climate with Cathie and Bonny Hills, beaches, magical less congestion and this cleverly designed and hinterland, National Parks pollution to hang out for thoughtfully planned out and cool rivers. the rest of their life with precinct has direct access family or friends. to Rainbow Beach via a It’s a favoured holiday nature centric boardwalk, destination, as we where you can sink your experience the most ideal weather, and once toes in the sand and let any left-over stresses of visitors experience the quality of our hatted life drift away. restaurants, relaxed coastal cafés and beautiful ASCOT PARK hinterland treasures, they understand you can What strikes most people about Ascot Park have “living with a social life while pursuing a is that you can be surrounded by bushland bliss professional career” … and often that’s what while only 10 minutes’ drive to some of the most creates family happiness and harmony. spectacular beaches on the Eastern Seaboard.

It’s not surprising the Mid North Coast is still The carefully designed estate offers path experiencing solid growth. and cycleways, meandering parklands and What are the benefits to all from the playgrounds. If you’re lucky to secure a block population growth? within this exclusive enclave, you will also enjoy Property development takes on a life of its no rear neighbours in many cases … with just own, when you think about it from a flow sounds of what bushland living affords. perspective.

WATTLEBIRD ESTATE The numerous fields of expertise, employing Wattlebird Estate is ideal for the family who literally thousands of skilled people, is significant. wants the perfect tree/sea change!

Developers, financiers, councils, civil The manageable acreages allow the family to design, civil construction, building design and get their hands dirty and be somewhat selfconstruction, property fit-out, landscaping sustainable. … and the list goes on, right through to our If a couple of cows, a horse or chooks for communities. those fresh egg on a Sunday morning for Population growth generally means access to breakfast is what you are looking for, this is the greater services. ideal lifestyle acreage location. Only 25 minutes Nationwide Property Brokers have three prime lifestyle estates on offer – local to Port Macquarie; Catarina, Ascot Park and Wattlebird Estate. Tell us about those individually.

What’s exciting about these three estates is the variety they give to the different lifestyles clients want to enjoy.

CATARINA Sophisticated and Contemporary.

Whether you are after your dream house and land, a stunning architecturally designed terrace,

from work in Coffs Harbour … Wattlebird is your estate to enjoy.

WATCH THIS SPACE! Right now we are working on another series of developments in stunning locations both north and south of Port Macquarie … announcements with more detail will be released very soon!

How do we contact your team?

I can be contacted toll-free 1800 223 768 or paul@nationwidepropertybrokers.com for any property questions.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 97

Topstitch Curtains

Wauchope Norco Wauchope Norco would like to wish their customers a merry Christmas and happy New Year.

December is a busy time of year and if you are not socks and jocks hunting, Norco Rural Wauchope has plenty of gift ideas for everyone, from the serious farmer, horse enthusiast, pet owner and serious gardener.

Norco Rural Wauchope has been open for business since March this year; however, as locals Meg and Paul Hillard are by no means strangers to the Wauchope community.

Opening a Norco Rural store has enabled Meg and Paul to extend the range of the products and services that they are able to offer their community.

Norco’s established business relationship with many of the most respected suppliers in the market place today enables Meg and the team the ability to offer more than essential products. The Wauchope team are excited to offer additional services and support by keeping customers abreast of new and changing technology via specific information days, the first in March 2019.

Shop at Norco Wauchope and support Aussie farmers, just like you or someone you know!

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The Team @ Topstitch Curtains and Blinds would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our valued customers, local suppliers and fellow businesses a very happy, healthy festive season; whether you are staying in the beautiful Hastings area or travelling away - stay safe!

Whilst we have reached our peak for pre-Christmas completion, we are still consulting and quoting for your window furnishing requirements for completion in the New Year.

From curtains, roller blinds, shutters, venetians and awnings; we cater for all styles of window coverings. Call us now and be prepared to beat the summer heat!

Our highly experienced staff have a combined total of over 150 years in the industry; manufacturing the majority of our quality products onsite here in Port Macquarie.

We will be closing for our annual Christmas break on Friday 21st December and resuming on Monday 14th January.

Best wishes to all, and thank you for your loyal support.

Kind regards, The Team @ Topstitch.

Visit our showroom at 38 Jindalee Road Port Macquarie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 99

Whether it’s your first or possibly last Christmas in your home this year, Team HEM wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy ever more in 2019!

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2018: ANOTHER GREAT YEAR FOR HEM AND THE PORT MACQUARIE PROPERTY MARKET. In a year of many changes in the property market, HEM are proud to see that Port Macquarie continues to prove itself as a property hot spot!

In 2018, the media was dominated by negative news on the property market, focusing on Sydney’s falling prices and auction clearance rates dropping to 40%. But we all know they love a bad news story and can exaggerate the facts. For example, some areas actually saw huge growth, such as Hobart where prices rose 15% annually. Prices cannot keep rising forever and factors such as tougher lending rules, a drop in investor numbers and a rise in homes available has led to a general correction in the market. But don’t panic, whatever the market conditions there are always opportunities to buy or sell well. We just all just need a re-adjustment in our way of thinking.

In Port Macquarie, it has been another great year! Population growth and our towns continued development means housing demand is still strong. This year, over 1300 properties will sell, with the median house price up by $12,500. We should be encouraged that Port Macquarie is still a town on the up!

In 2018, the HEM way of doing things has continued to deliver great results. Our team grew in numbers and we SOLD over 145 properties, with more than 30 record prices. Next year, we do expect there to be more changes in our market place, but at HEM, we are all about change and are constantly evolving and innovating to ensure we deliver the best service and results for our clients. For us, it’s more than just getting a home sold. We have Port Macquarie’s most experienced team, who adapt to individual situations, take the stress out of moving and go the extra mile to help people achieve their happy ever more.

2019 is going to be a big year, with some exciting new innovations and changes coming your way! So whether you are buying, selling or renting in 2019, Team HEM will be here to offer the right advice, get the best result and make the moving journey just that little bit easier.

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 8 New signage goes up at HEM HQ.

F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 8 HEM scooners available at The Beach House.

M ARCH 2018 HAPPY BIRTHDAY! HEM turns 1!

APRIL 2018 Proud sponsor of Port Saint’s Soccer Club.

M AY 2 0 1 8 Mother’s Day Classic – walk for cancer research.

JUNE 2018 Annual State of Origin Competition.

J U LY 2 0 1 8 HeM&M’s keep kids happy at open houses.

AU G U S T 2 0 1 8 Golf – PMGC Junior Seaside Classic sponsor.

SEPTEMBER 2018 “HEMobiles” out in force.

OCTOBER 2018 HEM reach 250 SOLDS!

N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 8 Showing “talents” at Multi-sports.

DECEMBER 2018 Rudolf SOLD stickers all over Port!

Buying, Selling, or Renting...

There is no place like hem!

02 6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 107 101

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WITH DEBBIE SOMMERS

Many of us have watched the recent demolition of the Plaza Shopping Centre with interest and possibly relief. Over the past decade, the site has become a controversial and much talked about landmark - for all the wrong reasons.

n March 1968, a local news report reflected on the Kooloonbung reclamation project: “Many people in Port Macquarie were not happy with the decision to reclaim Kooloonbung Creek, a naturally lovely spot in the heart of the town when the tide was high, yet

at the same time a desolate mud flat when the tide was out”. Reports that a large chain store was planning a huge supermarket within the reclamation were welcomed and the reclamation itself described as a “dominating influence in a new look for Port Macquarie”.

The Plaza Shopping Centre opened to great ing a butcher, baker, fish shop, chemist, coffee fanfare in December 1968. The 30,000 square shop, homewares, dress boutique, baby wear, feet shopping complex was built at a cost exceed- florist, American sundae bar, boat hire and bait, ing $300,000 and was referred to as “the pride real estate agency and Woolworths department of Kooloonbung”. Local press claimed it was store. The first shop to open was John Dingle’s already being hailed as “a very wonderful and Homeware Centre, facing Short Street. beautiful addition to Port Macquarie”. Perhaps Woolworths officially opened on 19th for a time it was.

December, with one hundred staff kept busy.

The building was Customers were lured described as “not only with opening specials, beautiful but also funchygienically packaged tional with everything meat and smallgoods and designed to suit shopcellophane wrapped fruit The building was described as pers’ needs and to make and vegetables. Customer ‘not only beautiful but the housekeeper’s lot a assistance was offered by also functional with pleasure”. The Plaza had courtesy maids dressed in everything designed to also been designed for beachwear. suit shoppers’ needs and easy maintenance, with The opening of the to make the housekeeper’s lot special glazing on the Plaza Shopping Centre a pleasure’. bricks to keep their clean effectively marked the appearance. Large glass end of the Kooloonbung windows between the reclamation scheme and brick walls provided views the reported beginning of the harbour and a sense of spaciousness to the of a “new and exciting era”. The scheme left shops within. A playground, parking for 200 cars many welcome and enduring legacies, such as and public rest rooms for shoppers capped off the Sesqui-centenary Bridge and additional land the shopping centre’s features. in the CBD. The Plaza Shopping Centre was not In keeping with Port Macquarie’s Sesqui-cenone of them. You can read more about the Plaza tenary celebrations that year, a series of bronze Shopping Centre and Kooloonbung reclamation plaques noting the names and birth dates of men scheme in the book Shifting Sand by Tony associated with the early history of our town Dawson, available at the Port Macquarie Muwere inserted into the adjacent footpaths in Short seum, 22 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie. The and William Streets.

Museum is open Monday to Saturday. Admission The Plaza opened with nineteen shops, includon the first Sunday of each month is free.

10.12 hectares (25 acres) $870,000 - $950,000 + 3 mins to St Josephs Regional College + Three minutes to the new Sovereign Hills Town Centre + Build your dream home or land-bank for the future + Abandon the burbs, this could be the ideal place to raise a family

PRIME ACREAGE FOR SALE

186 BUSHLAND DRIVE, SANCROX

Located on the western edge of Port Macquarie, this prime parcel of real estate will offer a host of possibilities.

10.12 hectares (25 acres) of tree-studded, undulating and cleared land, with a natural water supply consisting of a series of dams running through the property; there is plenty to love here.

Imagine escaping the hustle and bustle of city living, yet only having a short ten minute drive to town. With plenty of room for the kids to have a horse or ride a minibike, grow your own veggies or even run a few head of cattle.

There is currently a large 13.6m x10.0m machinery shed plus awning on the property, which would be perfect for the tradie or machinery enthusiast, looking to store his equipment.

Located on Bushlands Drive, this area has recently been identified by Hastings Council as an area of interest to be included as part of the future Urban Growth Management Strategy.

Contact Chris Koch M 0427 831 100 E chris.koch@lsre.com.au Beyond the expected™ | 6583 7733 | lsre.com.au/portmacquarie

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THE ALL- NEW LEXUS UX

LUXU RY I N A CO M PACT SU V — Th e UX c o m e s w i th th e l u xu r y of ch o i c e . An in g e n i o us s e l f - ch a rg in g H y b r i d e l e c tr i c e n g in e 1 , o r th e m os t a d va n c e d p etro l e n g in e , c o u p l e d w i th a wo r l d fir s t in a e ro d y n a m i c te ch n o l o g y.

I nsi d e , l u xu r y cra f t sm a nsh ip is b u il t a ro u n d yo u w i th Clim a te C o n ci e rg e , Wire l e ss Ph o n e Ch a rg in g 2 a n d th e l a rg e s t H e a ds U p D isp l ay in i t s cl ass . Th e All N ew Lexus UX . I t isn’ t j us t a c a r th a t yo u d r i ve , i t ’s th e l u xu r y c o m p a c t SU V th a t ex p e c t s yo u .

E XPER I EN CE TH E UX AT LEXUS O F PO RT MACQ UARI E 1 8 1 H a s t i n g s R i ve r D r i ve | 65 8 3 9 1 2 2 | l e x u s o f p o r t m a c q u a r i e . c o m . a u | M D 8 3 93 1 2

Hybrid Electric Engine available on UX 250h only.

Only Qi-supported devices are compatible. Refer to device manufacturer to determine compatibility.

Devices may require purchase of Qi-supported accessory to enable wireless charging.

Overseas model shown. Specification may vary. Not all features available on all grades.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 95

The new C-Class range.

Never stop improving. That’s the philosophy behind the dynamic new C-Class range, which offers more innovation, and more style than ever before. Its sporty exterior, combined with intuitive next-generation technology provides personalised luxury and intelligence for every journey, for every lifestyle. The new C-Class is an homage for those who demand more from themselves. Be the first to experience the new C-Class model of your choice at Andrew Miedecke Motors today. www.mbportmacquarie.com.au

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100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 6583 8855 DL8071 www.mbportmacquarie.com.au