Zumba with Jodie Sallustio
April 2019//issue 161
live at the
Glasshouse
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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MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont
info@focusmag.com.au
SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au
SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson jo@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING SALES / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Chrissy Jones JP chrissy@focusmag.com.au
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ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Phiranno Chuon phi@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHER Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au
COPY EDITING Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services rnrmedia@bigpond.com
TRAVEL EDITOR Susie Boswell sunconsulting@ozemail.com.au
Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. 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. FOCUS is printed by Fairfax Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation. FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.
WHAT’S ON 02 6581 8888
I
Welcome to the April issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.
I
t's been a busy month in the Greater Port Macquarie area, with plenty more busy months ahead. We kicked off the beginning of March with our Women in Business edition launch party. Forty of our fabulous business guests dined on canapés prepared by Bills Fish House and enjoyed a night to celebrate being part of this wonderful community. Thank you to all those who attended! On March 8th, the celebrations continued with the International Women’s Day event, hosted by Leslie Williams MP and the Hastings Business Women's Network. With
300 guests eagerly attending and listening to Safe Space Workplace and domestic violence survivor Lisa McAdams, we managed to raise over $18,000 for the local refuge - Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service. Congratulations to all involved in the event and making it such a success! Coming up in April, we are looking forward to attended the Chamber's boardroom lunch to hear from CommSec Chief Economist Craig James. Arriving just two days after the Federal Budget is delivered, we expect to hear a lot from Craig about how the budget affects us
here locally. Specifically, he will give us insights into our local industry and how they are changing. You can grab more info on his visit from page 73. On the cover this month we have the wonderful artists from The Sapphires. FOCUS are proud to be sponsoring this show when it appears at the Glasshouse on April 27th, and you can read the interview with one of the performers, Mindy Kwanten, on page 41. If you love The Sapphires and want to be our special guest at the show, simply send us an email and give us your best 25 words
on why you want to see the show with FOCUS. We’ve got two double passes to give away. Entries close 10th April. Email info@focusmag. com.au Over 55 and loving it? Well, we have good news for you! Our Seniors and Retirement section is now a permanent fixture in FOCUS every month - what would you like us to cover? If you have a suggestion for content that you love and you're retiring here, then please drop us a line. Enjoy our April edition, be safe these school holidays, and go easy on the choccy eggs! See you next month in FOCUS!
ABBASOLUTELY FABBAULOUS
THE ABBA SHOW –
TONI CHILDS – RETROSPECTIVE
LANO & WOODLEY
FRIDAY 5 APRIL, 8PM
FRIDAY 19 APRIL, 7.30PM
FRIDAY 26 APRIL, 7PM
A full-scale theatrical production featuring more than 2 hours of live musical performances with a live backing band, replica costumes, theatrical lighting and effects and all the dancing an ABBA fan can handle.
Join the legendary Toni Childs for a special two hour performance. Emmy Award winner and three-time Grammy nominated recording artist, Toni is a celebrated singer/songwriter known for her powerful voice, inspiring independent spirit and crafted storytelling.
After scoring stellar reviews and winning the Melbourne Comedy Festival People’s Choice Award, Lano & Woodley are bringing FLY to Port Macquarie for one night only. Don’t miss this opportunity to see this magnificent show live.
glasshouse.org.au
Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,Port Macquarie NSW 2444
Follow Glasshouse:
SEWING WORKSHOPS
GLASSHOUSE
Kate Hallett will step you through the process of making your own personalised fashion accessory.
REGIONAL GALLERY Gallery closed on Mondays
SEW A SLOUCH CLUTCH,
GALLERY CLOSURE The Gallery will be closed for Ironman 2019 and our annual maintenance program from 23 April until Friday 17 May. The Gallery will reopen on Saturday 18 May.
WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL, 6PM – 8.30PM
JACKIE DEANE: SUE BELL & JANN KESBY: DRIFT TWO OBSESSIONS Jackie Deane, Pacific 2, 2017, mixed media.
Sue Bell, Composition with 4 objects, 30cm x 30cm, mixed media on canvas Jann Kesby, Landscape Platter 1, black clay, white slip, woodfired 70 hours anagama, 2018. Image credit: Tony Webdale
Local Artists
ON VIEW: UNTIL 22 APRIL
Get Creative
YOUNG MOVERS & SHAKERS
Only $35 per child
SEW A BOHO BAG,
WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL, 6PM – 8.30PM
A design and digital experience to develop creative confidence and problem solving skills – and HOLIDAY FUN! Ages 8-14 years
$45 single, $40 Member
TUESDAY 16 APRIL, 9AM – 3PM THURSDAY 18 APRIL, 9AM – 3PM
Greater Port Macquarie focus 3
contents Issue 161 - April 2019
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Currently on display at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery is the National Photographic Portrait Prize 2018 …
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Rose Wilson Kendall-based singer, teacher and choir director Rose Wilson has a passion for opera, a deep-set belief in the power of song, and harps called Esmeralda and Gwendolyn.
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the Usual
Suspects
08. WHAT’S ON for April 22. EAT local restaurants
Abigail French
28. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye 34. OUT TO LUNCH with Susie Boswell
Sixteen year old Abigail French is an extremely talented musician. Living away from a major city hasn’t deterred her from following her dream of becoming an orchestral violinist - and she’s well on her way to achieving this goal!
36. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri 43. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell 44. TOURISM with Janette Hyde 67. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 71. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon
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72. PORT CHAMBER UPDATE with Michael Mowle 101. LANDCARE with Julie Ho
Street Artz Festival Live2U - Media & Production Services and the Conservatorium Mid North Coast in conjunction with local youth present Street Artz Fest ... this innovative festival will combine urban visual arts, live music and street performers, appealing to young people and family groups!
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COUNCIL community CONNECTIONS
Call Out For Creative Mural Design Ideas If you’re a budding local artist, graphic designer or have a creative flair for design and want to brighten up a public space with your creativity, then now’s the time to submit a design to be painted on the Rainbow Beach Reserve amenities block in Bonny Hills. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is thrilled to announce an exciting creative partnership with the Bonny Hills Progress Association and are inviting local creatives, young and old, to submit their designs and have the opportunity to win $1,000 in prize money! Imagine your design permanently on display at the entrance to the Rainbow Beach Reserve, which will be seen and enjoyed by many people in years to come. Public art is a great way to overcome unwanted
instances of graffiti, and vandalism to the reserve toilet block has been the catalyst for the mural design competition, using a creative way to create pride in place and a sense of ownership. Through the use of public art, design and murals, Council and the Bonny Hills Progress Association are looking to tackle the problem and improve the look and social amenity of the Bonny Hills Reserve. It is hoped mural design will foster interest in embracing our vibrant cultural lifestyle, respecting our heritage and welcoming locals and visitors alike to the Rainbow Beach Reserve. Competition entry forms and further information, including terms and conditions, are available at pmhc.nsw.gov.au/bhdesigncompetition or by contacting Council on (02) 6581 8111.
Greater Port Macquarie focus 5
focusinterview.
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or those of us who don’t know you, can you introduce yourself? Hi. I’m Jodie. I’ve lived in Port Macquarie most of my life. I moved here with my parents and brother when I was five years old and attended Port Primary School and Regional High School. I moved to Cronulla for six years, but decided to return to Port Macquarie to have my son, Keeghan, 14 years ago. Fitness has been a big part of your life. Can you tell us a little about when you got started and what sports you did? I worked for Armaguard as a Teller for 20 years, but my career path changed in 2012 when I completed my first Fitness Training Program with Les Mills. I currently instruct RPM/ Cycle classes at 5 Star Fitness and Challenge Fitness and will soon be adding more programs to my repertoire, which is very exciting. Fitness is my love and my passion. Growing up in Port, my family was very involved in the Surf Clubs, Nippers, Swim Club, and my main love back then was Physical Culture and Jazz Ballet. I also played representative netball and hockey and always desired to be a dance aerobics teacher. I was too shy and uncertain until recently. You competed nationally in Body Conditioning Competitions. What did that involve - and did you win any? I had a massive health scare just after
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Zumba with
JodieSallustio.
completing my High School Certificate, which fees - it is a pay as you go setup. steered me towards the gym and fitness. Tell us about your classes; what type of I started training and competing in Body people come along? Shape competitions and Amatuer Aerobics comI am certified to teach Zumba Kids and Zumba petitions. I was placed second at my first compe- Kids Junior. My classes attract all ages, males/ tition, the famous Five Star Classic, third at the females, all dance and fitness levels. Australasians and first and overall female winner We have created an easygoing, relaxed, at the Knight of Champions in Newcastle. non-judgemental atmosphere. All my partici“ZumbaFit” is what you run locally; so, pants are beautiful and very welcoming to new what exactly is Zumba? dancers. Zumba came about by Zumba is for everyone accident. I approached my - from five years to 105 boss about teaching Les years, men and women, Mills ShBam, and he sugbeginners to absolute Zumba is for everyone gested I do Zumba Dance superstar dancers. It - from five years to 105 Fitness. I thought “Wow! also helps people with That’s a bit daggy!” Ha Ha coordination, strength, years, men and women, …Then I fell in love. fitness and core stability. beginners to absolute Zumba is an exercise - every class is different. superstar dancers. fitness program involving Zumba is for everybody! dance aerobics to modern I have a gorgeous lady or Latin inspired music. I who has been a regular include lots of Hip Hop, for over a year now. Dembow, Dancehall, Salsa, Cha Cha and old This lady had a terrible accident when she was school aerobics, with strength and core work, a young child and had never been confident secretly thrown in. enough to do a group fitness classes. She Zumba is different to other dance programs, brought her girls to Zumba Kids, and I offered in that it is a mix of different dance styles that she stay back to participate in my adult class. can be low to high impact and intensity. I cried when she told me she has NEVER ever The other reason people love it so much is danced. Who doesn’t love to dance? that it is fun. We don’t go over and over the Zumba has absolutely changed her life. same dance track. If you go the wrong way or She has some incredible new friends and her do the wrong arm movements, no-one cares. self-confidence has boosted massively, not to There are no lock-in contracts, nor expensive mention her fitness levels. Chris claims that
Zumba is the BEST thing she has done, and she thanks me daily for getting her on the dancefloor that day. She has never looked back! Why is Zumba a popular sport/fitness choice? Zumba is becoming more popular. Who doesn’t love to dance without judgement or fear? It is a fun program of dance aerobics that is disguised exercise - burning up to 1,000 calories per hour. When are classes, and how do we join? My classes run daily. Monday 4pm at 1st Sea Scout Hall in Buller Street. Wednesday 5:15pm, Friday 5:30pm at St Joseph's Primary School. Thursday 5:30pm at Wauchope Rotary Hall. Tuesdays and Saturdays if requested. Also available for kids' birthday parties. I take a class every year for St Joseph's Primary School Year 5 camp at Bonny Hills. I have also taught classes at Jumbos Play Centre during school holidays. Getting married? Why not try something a little different for your Hen's Night? Zumba dance fitness with a twist. If you would like more information and/or if you would like to come along and experience the dance of your life and fitness, you can contact me on 0402 035 897 or on my Facebook page: Zumba Jodie. Remember, there are no contracts, and you pay as you go. Thanks Jodie.
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ENDS APRIL 30. BOOK A TEST DRIVE TODAY. LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE 181 Hastings River Drive PH 6583 9122 | lexusofportmacquarie.com.au | DL10691 *Complimentary stamp duty, 12-month registration and 12-month compulsory third party insurance available on new CT, IS, RC & RX purchased and delivered between 1/3/19 - 30/4/19. Lexus reserves the right to vary or extend offer at any time. Excludes dealer delivery and Luxury Car Tax. Not available in conjunction with the Lexus Corporate Programme or any other offer. At participating Dealers only. Limited stock available on CT. Overseas model shown. Greater Port Macquarie focus 7
focus_What’s On Port Macquarie
A P R I L
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Eddie Woo speaks during TEDxSydney International Convention Centre on June 15, 2018 (Photo b Enzo Amato)
Ted-X Youth Made by young people, for young people, but with the eyes and ears of the world in mind, TEDxYouth Sydney is an event with all speakers under the age of 30. Like TED, TEDxYouth Sydney covers almost all topics - from science to business to global issues - but all with a youth focus. The theme for TEDxYouth Sydney 2019 is: Cusp. Cusp is a point of transition between two states - that point when something is about to change to something else. TEDxYouth Sydney is about fresh ideas and approaches to existing and future problems. When Thursday 4th April, 9am - 3pm. Where Glasshouse, Corner of Clarence and Hay Streets, Port Macquarie. Info/Bookings (02) 6581 8888, info@glasshouse.org.au
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BottleButt Bash Trail Run The "BottleButt Bash" is a 21 kilometre bash through the magical Burrawan State Forest, through stunning tracks and trails with lots of hidden secrets - and one of these is the "Old BottleButt" Tree. The "Burrawan 10 kilometre Bash" is down Burrawan Forest Drive; bash through the magical Burrawan State Forest on tracks and trails. The "Burrawan five km Dash" is a shorter version of the 10 kilometre. It is a fast dash through the Burrawan Forest. When Saturday 27th April, 5am - 11:30am. Where Corner of Burrawan Forest Drive and Aintree Close, Wauchope.
Animal Workshop
Back by popular demand, Healing Touch Workshop for Animals. The Australian Foundation for Healing Touch Inc. is offering two one day workshops for dogs and horses for their owners and trainers, animal lovers, equine enthusiasts and vets. The workshops will demonstrate effective ways to improve general wellbeing and performance. Learn from renowned animal educator and practitioner Annis Parker. www.annisparker.co.nz When Saturday 4th May (Dogs) and Sunday 5th May (Horses). Where Highway Stables, 733 Fernbank Creek Rd, Port Macquarie. Contact Glenda Audsley 0488 554 423 or email htanimalworkshop@gmail.com Cost $250 members. $275 non-members.
More info 0434 048 688, run@coastaltrackandtrailrunners.com.au
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Eureka Explorers
Eureka Explorers is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) school holiday workshop initiative suitable for children in primary school Years 3 to 6, 2019. Our workshops run at authentic local locations where science takes place. Children are inspired being one with nature and having fun with hands-on, age appropriate activities at our creative environments.
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Garden Village Art Show
Garden Village is hosting an art exhibition in the new "Cascades" complex. A number of local artists will be exhibiting their works for sale. The event will be hosted by accomplished local artist Erika Rohr, with 25% of all proceeds going to support the planning and development of a new Memory Care Centre at Garden Village to better support those living with dementia in our community.
Friends for Bec Fundraiser Friends, families and the community are invited to join a special fundraiser for the Lancaster and Scully families, to assist with the treatment for Bec, who has brain cancer. Free entry, with Pete Murray as MC, live music by some amazing artists, loads of raffle prizes, auction including one exciting major prize and activities for the kiddies.
When April 15th to April 26th.
Where Garden Village Cascades Complex, 7 Garden Cres, Port Macquarie.
Our wonderful community are always so supportive and giving, so come on Greater Port Macquarie - let’s get behind Bec, Joel, their two little boys and the Lancaster/ Scully family and do all we can.
Register Now Online! www.eurekaexplorers.com.au/register
Time Friday 4:30pm to 7:30pm and Saturday 10am to 1pm.
When Saturday, May 11, 5pm - 11pm.
SMS 0455 331 010 for other enquiries.
Entry $5 entry at the door.
Where Settlers Inn Hotel.
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When Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th May.
Greater Port Macquarie focus 9
focus_guest contributor Ainslee Dennis from
beyond cure
TWO WORDS DEVASTATED DAVID MCDONALD. TUMOR AND INCURABLE. STAGE 4 LUNG CANCER AND ITS BRUTAL CHEMOTHERAPY REGIME PLUNGED HIS BODY INTO A TOXIC WAR TO LIVE, AND HIS MIND ON A QUEST FOR HOPE. HIS JOURNEY IS SHARED IN "HOPE BEYOND CURE", AND THE NEW BONNY
H
HILLS PASTOR REVEALS WHAT HE LEARNED ABOUT LIFE, FAITH AND HOPE.
ope Beyond Cure is a When he told me I would probably only live remarkable story of a life 10 to 13 months, I remember praying a prayer, a and faith exposed and tested kind of 'bucket list' prayer. I wanted to live long by the diagnosis of terminal enough to see grandchildren, I wanted to live cancer. How did it begin? long enough to see my second child married ... In 2011 when I walked up a I had this list of things ... and now, it's been a flight of stairs I would stop and pant, and blame privilege to go to that son's wedding, it's been myself for being so unfit. Then one day when a privilege to spend time with grandchildren, I was meeting with friends at a coffee shop I I've walked my daughter down the aisle at her felt pain in my chest and between my shoulder wedding, and seen my youngest son graduate blades, and then my left from high school - my arm and left leg started 'bucket list' prayers have to go numb. I interrupted been answered, and I feel my friends and said, look there is so much to wake As a pastor I've sat with the there's something going up to each day. sick and dying, prayed with wrong, and I don't know Your life is built on a them, and comforted them what it is. One of my foundation of faith; you with the hope of life beyond mates was a doctor and are the National Director death, but my diagnosis said, quick we've got of the Fellowship of brought me face-to-face with to take you to hospital Independent Evangelical fears and doubts that were because he thought I was Churches in Australia, very personal, scary and raw. having a heart attack. you were the pastor of When I got to hospital, Crossroads Church in the ECG seemed normal Canberra for nearly two so I wasn't having a heart decades, you were the attack. I went for an x-ray, which showed nothing chaplain to the Brumbies Super Rugby Team, and so they wheeled me off for a CT scan. By and now you are the part-time pastor at Salt the time my wife, Fiona arrived everyone was Community Church in Bonny Hills. How did baffled. They knew something was wrong, but the cancer diagnosis test your faith? didn't know what until they examined the scan. As a pastor I've sat with the sick and dying, It showed a huge build-up of fluid around my left prayed with them, and comforted them with lung and there was a dark patch on the edge of the hope of life beyond death, but my diagnosis the lung. brought me face-to-face with fears and doubts The oncologist came in a few days later and that were very personal, scary and raw. said, you have lung cancer. I didn't understand I'd grown comfortable with my faith over because I thought you had to be a smoker to get the years, and my cancer diagnosis began to lung cancer, and I had never been a smoker. He seriously test that faith. I began questioning said it's incurable, we can't get rid of it, and I just my convictions, I went back to the Bible to broke down at that point. read things afresh. I asked questions, watched interviews with experts, and read books about
10 Greater Port Macquarie focus
the reasons for Christian belief. I found myself asking questions and searching for answers with an eagerness I hadn't experienced in years. It was like plugging my life into high definition, it helped me to see the urgency and the importance of things more clearly. I had the privilege of being able to meet with some people with whom I had damaged or broken relationships, and to mend those relationships. It gave me an urgency in wanting to share with people the truth about life and death, it gave me a new compassion for people who were really doing it tough, a lot of things changed. Your fight to live required chemotherapy, how did it impact your life? Chemotherapy is brutal and it had a huge physical impact. One doctor described it as figuring out the dose of poison that would kill the patient and then dialing it back a notch. I'd have the chemo in hospital, and then a couple of days later I would be sick in bed, and I'd be sick in bed for up to a week. Generally people would only have something like four, or maybe eight cycles of chemo, but I ended up having mid-60s over a four year period. It's pretty hard to work out how much damage that has done to other parts of my body in the process. You chose to have a break from chemotherapy three years ago. How big a step of faith was that for you and your family? The treatment had become very hard mentally and physically to tolerate, and remarkably the scans were showing no evidence of the cancer after 18 months, but my oncologist wanted me to stay on treatment, and initally was terrified that I would stop. We talked it through, and it was particularly important that Fiona was on the same page about the decision, and so we
decided that it was a risk worth taking. I'm not fatalistic but I do believe that God has me in His care. It was something that we were praying about, and prayer had been part of the whole cancer journey with literally hundreds of people praying for my recovery. What inspired your decision to write Hope Beyond Cure? I was at the funeral of a good friend who died of cancer, and she died as someone who was trusting in God for her future after death. Her funeral was very sad but there was strong hope. I came out of her funeral thinking that I'd like to write something to help people to see what she believed, and what I believe; that there is a hope even if you are given no hope of a cure. 'Hope Beyond Cure' came out at the beginning of 2014 and it's sold over 20,000 copies. The Cancer Council is now saying that one in two people are going to get cancer in their lifetime, and I want to help people to be prepared for those challenges when they come. People often ask the question, if I had my time again would I want to have cancer? and I say absolutely not, but I wouldn't want to miss out on what God has taught me through having cancer. I've been deeply humbled, I've had so many areas of my life reshaped and challenged, and it's given me a window into the struggles and suffering of so many people. I know cancer and I know God. And it's because I know God that I believe there is real hope for those who have cancer, for those who are struggling, for those who have lost hope - for everyone. Thanks David. Hope Beyond Cure is available from Koorong Books in Port Macquarie, and Salt Community Church meets every Saturday at 5pm in Lake Cathie Public School on Ocean Drive, Bonny Hills.
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focusinterview.
DREW L I N D S A Y
Prolific author Drew Lindsay and his wife, Narelle, recently relocated to Port Macquarie from Sydney. Drew’s currently working on novel number 33 - and the hero of his books, ex-Police Detective Sergeant Ben Hood, manages to get himself involved in all kinds of exciting escapades. Drew’s loving life on the coast - and his family connection to the area is helping him to feel right at home …
H
i Drew. You have a family connection with Port Macquarie; could you please tell us a little about the time you spent here
as a child? Around Easter of 1841, John and Agnes Dick arrived in Port Macquarie from Scotland and made it their home. In 1889, my grandmother, Ivy Agnes Dick, was born and raised in Port Macquarie and married Maurice Walsh. In 1919, her daughter Josephine was born and spent much of her youth living at Grantham, on the hill just above the TAFE. She married David Lindsay, another Scotsman, and in 1949 I was born. I was transported as a baby and young boy by steam train from Sydney to Wauchope and thence bus to the side of the road at Grantham and up the milk box track at the side of the red oxide mine to the grand old house, where I spent every Christmas holiday. Later, when my dad could afford a car, we did the trip by road until 1964, when my grandmother died. My mum and dad were married in St. Thomas’ church, and I was christened there in 1950. You and your wife, Narelle, recently relocated here from Sydney. What led to this decision? Narelle, her mother and I basically got sick of Sydney. Too many cars. Too many people. Too many assaults and home invasions and murders. “Time to move,” my wife said. “You love Port for so many reasons, so we’ll go there.” We found this magic place near Lake Innes, overlooking a billabong. It had been on the market for a long time - no one seemed to want it. We loved it, and it didn’t take long to make it ours. How have you settled in at Port Mac so far - and what are you enjoying most about your "sea change"?
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We love Port. We stay out of the CBD as often as possible, because it’s become a bit of a mad house - especially in the peak hour - but the beaches never change. The river never changes. We are surrounded by all kinds of birds and wildlife here. Kangaroos and koalas roam freely in our backyard. Ducks and herons have made the billabong their home. Your career has undergone a few twists and turns ... but when/how did the idea to write novels start to gain momentum for you? Yes, I’ve had a go at a few things. I have a trade in general engineering and then did three years in a Theological college in South Australia. I served three years as the Pastor of the Five Dock/Drummoyne Uniting Church in Sydney, then I joined the Police Force. I served as a designated Detective for most of my 14 years as a Policeman and then operated my own private investigation business (mainly insurance fraud) for 12 years. I took up various positions as Investigations Manager for a number of major insurers, until the corporate rat race and the ever-present element of corporate corruption eventually overpowered my attempts to prevent it, and I was forced into unemployment. In an attempt to deal with depression and a very strong feeling of being thrown on to the corporate rubbish heap, I turned to something I had done in my teens and early 20s for fun … writing. Ben Hood (my main character) was born in 2010 - and the rest is history. Introduce us to Ben Hood - the character who plays a central role in your novels. What are his main characteristics? Ben Hood is an ex-Police Detective Sergeant from NSW. He was basically asked to resign from the Police Force because of his rather aggressive way of dealing with violent criminals. He reluctantly found his way into a VIP protection agency, where his new “boss” and eventually best friend continues to serve him up assignments which test his martial arts
skills, as well as his emotional stability and moral attitude. He is a big man, tall and strong. He works out. He’s now in his mid 50s and divorced. He’s gentle and also tough … even cruel. He won’t take crap from anyone, especially criminals. It’s often been said that authors should write about what they know, or have experienced themselves. How much of this is true in your case? I write lots about what I know and some things I have experienced for myself. Most of the locations within Australia and overseas which form the backdrop of each of my novels are places I have been. TREASURE, novel number 9, for instance, is set mainly in Port Macquarie. With 32 novels already published (and the 33rd currently underway) - what motivates to keep writing? Do you ever experience that dreaded "writer's block"? I began to experience “writer’s block” in novel number 31, THE LIME PIT. I have no idea why, because the previous 30 were such a joy to write. I struggled through it, forcing myself to write for at least three hours each day. I didn’t like the book, but everyone else seemed to like it - and it is still selling well. What do I know? I struggled through novel 32 even more (RAPTOR). That book has just about outsold every other book I have written in a worldwide market, mainly in the USA. Now I’m into book number 33. I’ve learned that the best cure for “writer’s block” is to keep writing … even if it doesn’t seem to be going the way you want it to go, or you are struggling a bit with the story line … keep going. Resist the strong temptation to simply give up. Novel number 33 has the temporary title DEATH IN YOUNGHUSBAND. Younghusband is a tiny town on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia. The mutilated body of a young male person is found tied to a high branch of a Blackbutt tree in the bush not far
from the river near Younghusband. A young female, who happens to be a practicing witch from Adelaide, is implicated in the horrible murder. Ben Hood reluctantly accepts the assignment on behalf of the young girl’s mother, to put his own experienced investigative eyes over the police investigation. The further he delves into the murder, the more deadly the situation becomes - not only for his clients, but for himself. What does your writer's "cave" look like ... and how does this space help you to focus on your work? A photo of my my “writer’s cave” is above. It’s a mess! I gain inspiration from the strangest of objects, from Chinese cats that wave to me, to bones and skulls, spiders, curiously carved creatures, clocks, watches, forceps used for pulling teeth and my aqualungs which allow me to escape to the bottom of my swimming pool any time I like (day or night) for silence and weightlessness. Where can we find out more about you/ purchase your books? My books are proofread by my wife, Narelle, and a special friend Barbara (who I went to school with). I know you are not supposed to end a sentence with “with”, but I have a rather quirky way with words and sentence construction, which often breaks all the rules but I don’t care. It drives my proofreaders wild, but as long as I can clearly communicate, I don’t worry too much about grammar. Narelle publishes my books via the internet through Amazon and Smashwords. Smashwords distribute my books to Barnes and Noble, Apple iTunes, Kobo and most other e-distributers. We also publish some of the books in print via Createspace (which can be ordered through Amazon). My first book, CORAL SEA AFFAIR, is free to download on just about any e-reader. Once you are hooked on Ben Hood … you may want more. Thanks Drew. Interview: Jo Robinson.
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Brenda Sarno is a multitalented individual … a reflexologist (her passion) and photography (her artistic outlet) fill her days. Brenda’s gentle and empathetic touch can be observed in her images...
Brenda
Sarno i Brenda. What's your association/connection with the Greater Port Macquarie area? Originally, I first fell in love with Port Macquarie as a child, when we would come for a holiday to visit family - but as soon as we got the chance, we moved our family here in 1982 from Sydney. Our four children have all attended school here and now all live back here and work here with their families. For many years my business was Reflexology ETC in Clarence St, which delighted people with a treatment on their feet that was relaxing and therapeutic. Nowadays I still do reflexology, but work two days a week, one day at Body IQ in Lake Rd and one day at Port Podiatry Clinic. Reflexology is my passion, and photography is my artistic outlet. What first motivated you to pick up a camera? My father was a keen photographer; in fact, he was President of Qantas Staff Camera Club for 16 years, and we had many slide nights with his adjudication of photos. A slide photo is an original, and they didn’t get a chance to correct it, as it was straight from the camera - not like now, when we can do so much post-production on our computers. I had a small Box Brownie growing up, but really developed enthusiasm when I had my own children to capture the delights of their growing years - and all their cousins. I was keen, but not a good photographer. However, the photo albums are appreciated 14 Greater Port Macquarie focus
every 10 years or so, to bring back the precious memories of the large extended family in Sydney where the children grew up. There was always something for me to photograph for charity, or a few dollars Santa Claus at Kingfisher Park and Settlement City, weddings, school activities. My cameras were upgraded over the years, and my skills improved. Who/what inspires I see so much natural beauty you to take photos endlessly, and it’s the these days? addiction I have to I see so much capturing the profound natural beauty beauty that motivates me. endlessly, and it’s That morning sunrise gives me a the addiction I have me. The photographers, high, and all I want to do is share to capturing the who are keen to share that feeling with the next person. profound beauty that and learn, have nurtured motivates me. That my skills and enthusiasm. morning sunrise gives It’s a great community to me a high, and all I be part of, that I highly want to do is share recommend to anyone of that feeling with the next person. any age if they’re trigger-happy like myself. Port Macquarie is abundant in natural Regular competitions are held for those up beauty. So, when someone shows for the light-hearted challenge. appreciation for my work - that completes the The club itself has evolved a lot in the experience. I feel like I’ve shared something last few years, with smaller groups meeting that others weren’t so lucky as me to during the month for photographic experience; so many artistic things all around adventures with our cameras and tripods, and me, and I constantly want to capture it. we meet to explore the art of photography How has being a member of the Panthers with a passion. For me, it’s a pleasant Photographic Club benefited you? addiction - and I don’t want to stop. Joining the Panthers Photographic Club What photographic projects have you eight years ago has allowed me to socialise been involved with? with other addicts and improve my skills and I have made several books of people’s be inspired with new techniques taught to homes, before they sell and move on, or just
for the memories and incorporating some of their old photos within their home. The Hastings Koala Orchestra also invited me to travel with them to Japan in 2017 to photographically record their exciting travels. I’d be happy travelling and recording different towns and countries for posterity. I printed a small book of my landscapes, and Sea Acres and Sunset Gallery have had them for sale last year; it’s called Love Life, Love the Journey, and each page has a sentiment that I have found appealing and relative to the photo. It makes a great coffee table book to sit back and read and also appreciate the scenery around Port Macquarie. They’ve been good gifts to give overseas visitors to take home, without taking up too much space in their suitcase. When you travelled to Japan with the Hastings Koala Orchestra, what were some of the sights you saw that have
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become treasured memories? We travelled to Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Handa (our sister city). It is such a contrasting country, with both the traditional and ultra-modern elements. All of the orchestra participants were always ready with a smile or pose when I wanted to capture a shot, and I just loved the landscapes, like the amazing cherry trees in flower. In 1964 my parents took me on the bullet train (maybe it was even the maiden journey) and I got to travel on that again, which was great. On my return home I created a book of our journey and a diary. Everyone wanted a copy! What is your favoured camera equipment? I have a Nikon D7200 (and Olympus OM-D that fits into my handbag) and a mobile phone that amazes me with the quality of photos it can take. What are some photographic projects
you have in mind for the future? book that is very personalised. The book Currently I have my framed and canvas includes a family’s own photo albums of their photographs for sale at Inside Out Café at choice, but I incorporate my own images of Lighthouse and Sea Acres. These are local their choosing, whether it be of their house area-based images that are great for this and garden, for a simple tourist town; visitors example. can take a bit of I collect images of paradise home with their personal things they them, or a proud local hold dear and treasure, would love them. and I work with their My future plans include some But, my future sentiments to create their international trips this year, plans include some very own family history which will be the source of international trips this book, so that everyone more 'coffee table' style year, which will be the in the family can have a books and more large source of more “coffee copy - Historic Book for wall mountings with a table” style books the Future, I call it. more 'worldly' theme. and more large wall So far, my works have mountings with a more been well received. “worldly” theme. When people move from Another theme close the house they grew to my heart is family, up in or have lost someone dear to them, and I’ve developed a type of coffee table this book becomes a beautiful collection of their treasured memories. I’m keen to keep working on more of these, because it’s work with heart. So for me, the future horizon will be full of landscapes, sunsets, family and all captured
from the heart to share back in beautiful Port Macquarie. Where can we follow your journey/find out more about you? I can be reached directly via Facebook. I have two pages for my two passions. Photographic enquiries can use “Simply Art 2444”, where I love to post regular shots that I’ve recently taken. Contact me there if you’d like any information on having photos taken, books created. You can book your Reflexology treatment with me via my other page “Brenda Sarno Reflexology” (you won’t believe how relaxing and non-invasive it is until you try it). In the meantime, Cherie and Scott at Sunset Gallery will be exhibiting my work at their new location - Central Road. My photos will be on display from 13th to 27th April, and it’s called A Trio of Perspective, as I will be exhibiting with photographers Cherie Morton and Linda Appleby. Official opening from 10am Saturday 13th April 2019. We look forward to seeing you there! Thanks Brenda. Interview: Jo Robinson.
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Acclaimed singer songwriter Jake Davey has RECENTLY OPENED HIS STATE OF THE ART PROFESSIONAL RECORDING AND PRODUCTION STUDIO AND CREATIVE HUB IN TAREE. Sarah Dunstan caught up with Jake to hear his news.
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i Jake. Thanks so much for speaking with FOCUS. You’ve just launched Jake Davey Studios, or JDS - a purpose built professional studio based on the Mid North Coast. Tell us about some of the services you are offering to aspiring artists. Hey Sarah! Thanks for having me. My new studio is a space that is designed to ignite creativity and passion within each artist that steps through the door. We offer a multitude of services, such as recording, video production, content creation, private tuition in guitar and vocals, alongside our artist management program. Being involved in JDS allows musicians to transform and develop their own music and skill set to reach a professional level. I believe you’re also extending your music knowledge to supporting children in schools with music education. Can you elaborate on this for us? For sure! Without the support of my family and friends within the industry, like local musician Matty Zarb inspiring me to take on music 10 years ago, I’m not sure I’d be able to say music is my job today and every day. I wanted to give back the feeling to the young musicians in our area that I felt all those years ago - someone believing in me and my passion for music. I worked with the Australian Children’s Music Foundation throughout 2017 and 2018, teaching in public schools in the local area; it allowed me to do just that - inspire. It was such an incredible experience! I’ve now directed my focus towards JDS, which is allowing me to broaden my horizons as a producer and songwriter, while still allowing me to cultivate the music within our youth via private tuition. You are certainly a very busy 22 year old. Aside from working solidly on JDS, you are also in the middle
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Jake D A V E Y
of a regional tour as an up and coming pop country is simply being able to say creating, performing and sharing music artist. How do you find the process of switching music is my full-time job. between performer and tutor? What’s on the horizon for Jake Davey? My life is a mad mix of performing, songwriting, recording, JakeDaveyStudios has always been in the back of mind, even travelling and collaborating, and I wouldn’t have it any other at a young age. It’s a dream come true to be where I am today, way. There’s an excitement that comes with the territory of but I’m always looking for ways to innovate and upgrade to running a studio, as well as being a musician. Every single day make the studio experience the best it can be for the artists is different, from songwriting sessions to performing on stage, who record with me. Over the next five years I plan to develop then back into the studio to produce albums. I’m loving every into a multi studio business. As well as the original studio in minute of it! My life motto is simply Taree, I plan to expand to the Hunter "make it happen", and I’m doing just and build another creative space. This that. will open up a whole new opportunity You have gained much industry network for collaboration and create experience supporting a number of a much needed musical connection Over the next five top-billed artists including Taylor between the two areas. years, I plan to develop Henderson, Thirsty Merc, Diesel, With my original music, I plan into a multi studio Daryl Braithwaite and Rick Price. to continue to hone my skills as a business. As well as the How has working with renowned songwriter and focus on playing more original studio in Taree, I plan leaders in the industry influenced festivals. I just booked my first Nashville to expand to the Hunter and you? songwriting trip, and I can’t wait to share build another creative space. It’s always a great experience to the results. It could be an EP, it may even work with artists of this calibre, from be an album - we’ll see soon enough. backstage chats about songwriting to I can’t wait to see and experience what analysing their performance on stage. the future holds; I’m just getting started. I’m able to take this knowledge and implement the skills I have I know you also perform at a number of private learnt into my own performances. functions. How can people get in touch with you and Since releasing your first single, Open Road, what find out more about your work? have been some of your greatest accomplishments Sure do! The best way to get in contact with me and find professionally? out more is via my websites: www.jakedaveymusic.com and Throughout my time over the past eight years as a musician, www.jakedaveystudios.com and also via my social media @ I’ve been fortunate enough to perform over 1,000 gigs, write jakedaveymusic and @jakedaveystudios. For all enquiries, and record original music in studios up and down the coast contact bookings@jakedaveymusic.com and collaborate with some of the East Coast's finest musicians! Thanks Jake. From my point of view, my greatest accomplishment so far Interview: Sarah Dunstan.
focusinterview. Exhibition installed at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Rogers. Charlie, 2017 by Lee Grant.
Blue Mountains escape, 2017 by George Voulgaropoulos.
National PORTRAIT PRIZE 2018
Dr Christopher Chapman - photo courtesy of the National Portrait Gallery.
Currently on display at the GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY IS THE NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT PRIZE 2018 … THE PRIZE IS AN ANNUAL EXHIBITION organised by the National Portrait Gallery that aims to showcase the wonderful skills of both aspiring and professional photographers.
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enior Curator at the National Portrait Gallery, Dr Christopher Chapman explains the exhibition in more detail … Hi Chris. What does your role as a senior curator at the National Portrait Gallery involve? My team looks after the portraits that come into the gallery’s collection; we plan the displays and exhibitions. It’s a great job, because we are telling stories about people. Please fill us in on a little of the history behind the National Photographic Portrait Prize ... when and how was it established? The NPPP has been running for 12 years now. It was set up to celebrate portrait photography - which is the main form of portraiture of our time. Everyone is able to take portrait photos! We are surrounded by photographs of people! What's the aim behind the Prize - what is it hoped both contributing photographers and the general public will gain from being a part of of the process? The NPPP is our most popular exhibition, because audiences can relate to the diverse stories it tells. It is a great opportunity for aspiring and professional photographers to have their work seen across Australia. Every year the exhibition includes portraits of people from all walks of life, from children to older people; it reminds us of our own experiences, memories and emotions. These are things we all share! I believe there were 3,224 entries submitted for the Prize in 2018 - of which 43 were selected to form the travelling exhibition.
How were entries judged - what was the criteria? Every year the NPPP is Sometimes particular topics can look at them in the judged by a panel comseem to emerge across the flesh. All the way through prising an NPG curator selected photographs. We don’t the process, we felt that and two invited guest select the exhibition with Lee Grant’s portrait of judges, who are leading any particular overriding Charlie was a compelling photographers and/or theme in mind. We did photograph. It is stripped curators. notice this year that there was a back. It shows someone We view the entries strong sense of cultural diversity whose life experience has as digital images and on as something completely normal been precarious. It’s a the first pass, our shortlist to Australianness. raw and tender image. usually comes down from The photographer Lee thousands to 400 or 500. Grant has made a lot of Then we get together and portrait photographs; she is interested in differview the images on a large screen, and over ent communities and the individuals that make a couple of days the selection is honed down up those communities. even more. Once it gets to about 150, the job What were some of the surprises or "eye gets really difficult! There is lots of discussion. openers" for you regarding the entries We each bring our own informed view to bear selected for this exhibition? and must defend our choices. Sometimes particular topics seem to emerge My fellow judges were Robert Cook, a curaacross the selected photographs. We don’t setor from the Art Gallery of Western Australia, lect the exhibition with any particular overriding and the artist Petrina Hicks. Right down to the theme in mind. We did notice this year that finish we talked about why we thought each there was a strong sense of cultural diversity as photograph deserved to be in the exhibition. something completely normal to Australianness. The winner of the National Photographic Also, we noted some photos of men, by womPortrait Prize 2018 was a photo by Lee en, in watery environments … Grant, titled Charlie. What can you tell us Given the Prize is now around for its 12th about both this portrait and the artist who year, in what ways do you think photograsubmitted the entry? phers can continue to push the boundaries/ The final winner is chosen when all of the explore what's possible with portraiture in finalist photographs have been printed, framed future? and delivered to the gallery, so that the judges
Even though we are very familiar with photographs of each other, a compelling portrait photograph is not so common. There’s no formula for creating the perfect photo, but I think that a successful portrait brings together two aspects: a sense of aesthetic integrity - how is the photo composed? That can be balanced, or deliberately off kilter. How is the depth of field set? The cropping? Then there is the conveyance of a strong feeling of inner life of the subject. Can we really feel by looking at the photo that we are looking at someone who is being their true self? Can we recognise something familiar and feel empathy for them? When these elements come together, a portrait photo can be powerful. Where can we find out further info about the National Photographic Art Prize? You can check out all the finalists on the NPG website, from 2007 to now: https://nppp. portrait.gov.au/ Thanks Chris. Interview: Jo Robinson.
The National Photographic Portrait Prize exhibition will be displayed at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery until April 22nd. Greater Port Macquarie focus 17
SHINE Mid North Coast Festival
Tucked away in museums big and small all over the Mid North Coast are some rare treasures and some everyday objects. All have a story to tell of the fascinating and varied history and changing lifestyles of the region. This rich heritage is found not only in the stories and collections of our museums, but in our buildings and landscapes.
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he SHINE Mid North Coast Festival provides the opportunity to shine a light on this heritage, with over 25 special events across the Mid North Coast from April 22 to 28, as well as showcasing 12 smaller museums, 20 heritage walks, five lighthouses, two online exhibitions and much more to explore. As you would expect from one of the earliest settlements of New South Wales, there is much on offer from Port Macquarie. At Sea Acres Rainforest Centre you can journey through time with local Aboriginal guide Steven Donovan and walk in the footsteps of the original custodians of this area by
experiencing Birpai culture firsthand through story, music and dance in our subtropical rainforest. The multi award winning Port Macquarie Museum will show an outside digital projection of photographs from the 1960s, showcasing Port Macquarie’s culture, fashions, events, landscapes, hobbies, sports and people during that decade. Sit back, relax and perhaps reminisce in the museum’s garden, as you take a journey back in time with accompanying music from the period. Spoiler alert: locals may see photographs of themselves. Take a step back in time at Innes Ruins near Port Macquarie, as the lone piper plays old Scottish tunes. You'll be guided through the
extensive ruins of a convict-built estate that extended far beyond the horizon in the 1830s. You will learn how Major Innes and his family were one of the richest families in the colony. Their hospitality was legendary. You'll hear about the changing times and the lives of the convicts who served out their time here. Then as you watch the sunset over Lake Innes, a lone piper will, according to tradition, play. At the charming Douglas Vale Winery and Homestead you will also get a unique taste of history, with a wonderful evening of history, performance, food and wine. The Mid Coast Maritime Museum, not surprisingly, has a strong nautical theme in its twilight event, Lighthouses ... Beacons of Hope
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and Safety. This essential source of light for so many years will be featured in a range of special displays and film screenings regarding lighthouses. This is a family friendly event, with displays, games and competitions for children, and food and beverage also available for purchase. Looking for more? Well, there are graveyard tours at the historic Port Macquarie Cemetery, exploring the stars at the Port Observatory and a backstage tour at the Glasshouse. You can also explore a number of events at Trial Bay Gaol and Smokey Cape Lighthouse or a range of events on the Coffs Coast and in the Manning Valley. All can be found at the Festival website: www.artsmidnortcoast.com/shine
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Michelle Sharman
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i Shelly. Tell us a little about your family background and growing up in Wauchope … Growing up in Wauchope in a big family definitely had its charms - I’m one of six kids. Mum and Dad each worked really hard to support us all and allow us to pursue our passions! I have five older brothers, so sport was a massive obsession in our household - but so was music! We all sang and played assorted musical instruments, so it was a pretty busy little household! When/how did the dance journey begin for you? Mum had me in a yellow feathered chicken suit at age four, prepped to sing and dance at my first concert! But when Elizabeth Galloway came to town and opened up a dance school called La Vive Classique, that was a game changer. I adored her. Luckily for us, she was and still is one of the most incredible classical ballet teachers out there! She taught me a beautiful ballet technique, as well as discipline, dedication and drive. She has an infectious laugh and a playful personality. It was a VERY fun childhood having Elizabeth in it! When you were at school, what were your dreams/aspirations - and have they come true? By high school (St Joesph’s Regional), I was entirely obsessed with dancing. I would sit on my long bus ride home and just listen to the radio and choreograph routines in my head. One day I was pulled aside by my maths teacher; he asked me what I was going to do with "all this dancing”. I was confused, as it seemed obvious I was going to be a dancer!
Michelle Sharman grew up in Wauchope, studied dance at La Vive Classique, and her career has since landed her on international turf. RUBBING SHOULDERS WITH HOLLYWOOD ICONS, TRAVELLING THE WORLD, BRANCHING OUT INTO SONGWRITING, Michelle leads an extremely busy life, but she never forgets her Australian roots ... Who have been some of the people you've I had no clue dancing would lead me to met, worked with and been influenced singing, and singing into songwriting. Dancing by? has provided so many creative opportunities in Well, working at Body By Simone I’ve had my life that I didn’t even think were possible as the opportunity to personally train Reese Witha kid. So, my dreams have been far exceeded erspoon, Jen Garner, Naomi Watts, Sean Hayes by expectations. (Will & Grace), Rosie Huntington Whitley, Cara How did you end up living and working in Delevigne and Chrissy Teigan. Elvis’ grand the U.S.A.? daughter came to class one day! I took a job working in Japan at Universal I’ve drawn from techniques learnt at the Studios some years ago now, where I met perWauchope stadium from formers from the U.S.A; “Miss Elizabeth” (a masI organised a trip to LA sive influence in my life) to shortly after. prepare Hollywood clients I was instantly drawn for film/TV and modelling to the city and the LOST HAS BEEN STREAMED shoots! entertainment industry SIX MILLION TIMES AND LA has also presentthere. The energy is WENT TO NUMBER ONE ON ed opportunities such electric, with big, beauTHE BILLBOARD DANCE as singing with Britney tiful open blue skies and CHARTS LAST MAY, NEXT TO Spears, Arianna Grande plenty of sunny days KYLIE MINOGUE! and Jason Alexander. very much like Australia! I’ve sung for Sylvester I got myself an agent Stallone, Melanie Griffith, and started working Matt Damon and George there 12 years ago now! Clooney at private parties. Describe your current job/role. What's So yes, Hollywood has its “perks” … but I involved with this position? learnt so much in my little hometown before I I just returned from Osaka, where I worked landed there. as a show director/choreographer at Universal You've achieved success in another studios. I’m currently in LA working at Body By creative field too, co-writing the song Simone daily. It’s Hollywood’s latest obsession Lost, which was performed by VASSY and with dance based fitness! Afrojack, featuring Oliver Rosa. How did Performance-wise, I just played the lead singthis come about ... and how much did you er for a production at the Venetian in Vegas, enjoy the songwriting process? with 25 beautiful dancers for NYE. A highlight Songwriting is a process I LOVE so much. was singing Never Enough from the movie To see Lost go from a seed, to a song, to a The Greatest Showman. It was a wonderfully music video and then to a number one on the produced evening, visually stunning, and the Billboard Dance Charts was a process that I’d material was challenging and so rewarding. Working in Hollywood must have its perks. love to repeat over and over!
I met VASSY a few years ago in a writing session in LA. VASSY co-wrote Bad with David Guetta, which was a double platinum record! She was collaborating with Afrojack and decided to throw him one of our ideas! Lost has been streamed six million times and went to number one on the Billboard Dance Charts last May, next to Kylie Minogue! How often do you get back to Oz to visit ... and what are some of the things you do when you first land back on your home turf? I am lucky enough to get home at least twice a year for an extended period! I work as a casting consultant for Universal Studios, which has me auditioning performers in 11 cities around the U.S.A., U.K., ending in Australia. After that, it’s straight home to Mum and Dad’s for not enough cups of tea, family catch ups and a bit of Home and Away. There’s nothing like Vegemite on toast in the house you grew up in. I get to see my nieces and nephews, who are growing up way too fast. I giggle at hearing the Aussie slang that I don’t get to hear on a daily basis anymore! What's in the pipeline for you in the next year or so? I’m excited to go to Italy in May to perform at a private function at the Hotel Borgo Egnazia with Imagination Entertainment, and I’ll also be showcasing some new songs live in LA soon. I plan to come home to Oz in July for family time before touring with Universal again, and I’m so excited for that! See you soon, Timbertown! Thanks Shelly. Interview: Jo Robinson. Greater Port Macquarie focus 19
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getting to know Patrick
Conaghan
For 56 unbroken years, the National Party has served the Cowper Electorate, now covering the area from Coffs Harbour in the north to Port Macquarie in the south and the towns in between and around the electorate. Meet the man who’s offering consistency, continuity, and mature ability to work with others in the local network of Nationals MPs, both State and Federal.
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ith the generosity typical and challenges. of communities across the Later, to move up in the force he took the mid-north coast, those a little detectives course, requiring transfer to the city. better off than others regularly His advancement saw him attached for five years dropped off vegies from their to the drug squad, two years as an undercover gardens, meat from their farms, and surplus fish operative, an elite unit of just six, his high-risk they’d caught on the front verandah of eightwork infiltrating criminal organisations importing year-old Pat Conaghan’s childhood home. The heroin, cocaine and other prohibited substances house also served as the evening consulting succeeding in removing from circulation millions rooms of his dad, country of dollars worth of drugs, GP, baby deliverer and and the dealers, and the surgeon John Conaghan. disaster resulting from Between days spent their crimes. Promoted Dad said education was the most swinging from the willow to police prosecutor in important thing. School taught me trees on the riverbank Manly, securing justice discipline. That routine was easy to with his older brother through the courts, like transpose into my later life when I and three sisters, the so many cops he studied needed it. youngster was charged concurrently for a law with ensuring the fresh degree. produce reached locals By 2001, after 12 years’ doing it tough, easing their road a little. service and at the age of 30, he’d pursued and It was this experience that probably triggered won his goal of graduating in law - two years on Conaghan’s inclination to help others, to reach setting up his own legal practice in Manly, and across the spectrum of the poorer, unemployed later the CBD - and of marrying Ilona. and aged and become involved in working to The lure of involvement in public life persisted create better lives. meanwhile and, with the Four decades on, at 48, couple renting in the North Conaghan is seeking to Sydney local government step up into the Nationals’ In my gap year I worked in Kempsey area, Conaghan was long-term role as the as a plumber’s labourer, builder’s elected a councillor, Member for Cowper in labourer, brickie’s labourer. It made me requiring meetings and the federal parliament. realise quickly tradies work very hard. committee work four It’s an opportunity he’s nights a week and at keen to grasp to continue weekends – a job he the work that’s seen our thrived on. region prosper ahead of many others around the But with two young sons, Hamish, 3, and nation. And to deal, too, with the many ongoing the elder boy Hugh, 6, having started school, issues we face. his bush upbringing beckoned and Conaghan Conaghan chose a career in the law and law brought the family back to the mid-north coast. enforcement and the benefits it brings to people’s Two of his sisters remain here: Teresa, a music livelihoods. Graduating teacher, married to solicitor from Goulburn Police Tony Cox, and Louise, a Academy, he asked former teacher, whose to be stationed back husband Zane Grigg is an I loved every second of the 12 years in his Macleay Valley accountant. The Conaghan I was in the police. hometown of Kempsey, siblings’ offspring typical of the smaller comprises 10 cousins, a settlements between and solid family network. Ilona, around the twin peaks a born and bred Sydney girl, loves the country of Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie, with their life. commonality of populations, aspirations, lifestyle, Four years ago Conaghan sought to represent
Even as a kid, I couldn’t - can’t - stand it when I see the wrong thing being done, or something that can be done better.
to solve problems, create the region in the Nationals-held state seat job opportunities, and of Oxley, bowing out improve lives. to now Roads Minister Ilona, a city girl who Melinda Pavey who’d travelled widely pre-marriage, now works as a the advantage of having served 12 years in the visual merchandiser and interiors stylist and as a NSW upper house. Now, onto Cowper and the reflexologist. Amid regular mum duties, the boys’ determination, and energy, to join the mid-north sport and taekwondo, she’s organising renovating coast Nats’ team that supports each other, in the couple’s ’80s-era the state and federally, to house. make things happen. The tenets of It’s Saturday and ten taekwondo the I have to lead by example with my boys aged between nine Conaghans value are boys. I’m out there having a go. I and 12 are running and courtesy, integrity, hope it rubs off on them. tumbling in the grassy perseverance, self-control, backyard of the Conaghan indomitable spirit and home with the highmodesty. spirited pre-teen energy Tall, and once a professional dancer, actor, you’d love to be able to bottle. Scout, the family’s singer, pianist, dance and drama teacher, Ilona’s four-year-old English Springer Spaniel, is into it background runs from a Sports Science degree too. and work in US summer camps and as a nanny, As in many homes in our neck of the living in Paris as a Moulin Rouge dancer, cabaret woods there are palms, trees, frangipani and work across Europe bougainvillea thriving in and Asia, to starting a the humidity, a small herb “live-release butterflies” garden. Tonight the young friends will sleep over for business (for wedding I pride myself on loyalty. And if I say Hugh’s birthday. In the celebrations or at funerals). I’m going to do something, I do it. kitchen, Pat Conaghan’s Romantically, the pair preparing food for them: married with just a handful marinated slow-cooked of guests in Tuscany. racks of ribs for crisping in the oven. He loves Conaghan’s GP dad died early, 30 years ago. cooking, family life, playing guitar with his sons, His mother Stella, a nurse when she met her weekends, spends half the working week at his husband, is now 82 and still lives in the original local firm, Conaghan Lawyers, half commuting century-old family home. She makes the trip by to his Sydney law car to visit her nearby practice. Sydney’s been grandchildren twice a on hold this year while week. he campaigns vigorously, There’s a stability It would be nice to take some talking to the spectrum about the Conaghans, dignity back to Canberra. Because of people across Cowper, the sort electors are of the actions of a few ... normal and will be divested if people want to see politicians not demanding. More than he goes to Canberra. promoting themselves, but just ever voters are rejecting Modest by nature and, doing their job. the preoccupation refreshingly, not a show with “identity politics” pony (he doesn’t say in favour of certainty, so but his good friend dependability: they want a safe, steady choice, Manu of TV’s My Kitchen Rules visited for a a representative with a solid reputation to be fundraiser function) he’s nevertheless an outgoing relied on for dedication to family and community, personality with the experience to absorb and beyond self. action a wide range of briefs and an ambition Greater Port Macquarie focus 21
Venison with smoked beet puree, binorie labna, broccolini, baby beetroot, miso, onion jam and curry leaf from Abundance Garden Centre + Lakeside Dining. 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus
Veal Scallopini served with prawns, creamy mash and brandy peppercorn cream.
Seafood Paella to share.
Aqua at The Westport Club
The Kove Kitchen at Panthers
Waterside dining featuring a fresh, seasonal menu. As the sun sets over the Hastings River, Aqua Restaurant is one of the most magical locations to dine in Port Macquarie. We offer a warm and welcoming dining style, accompanied by a taste experience we know you’ll return for. As we step into April, we hope you are delighted by our brand-new seasonal menu, offering gorgeous dishes to share. Try the Seafood Paella with clams, mussels, prawns, swimmer crab and those decadent Spanish flavours. Or, the 800 g Rangers Valley Wagyu rump served with house chimichurri and roasted baby chats. To keep you snug as we move into the slightly cooler months, our dessert menu offers comfort with our warm apple tart, caramel banana mousse cake and pecan pie. Aqua is the ideal location for your next family birthday celebration, with a number of tables accommodating up to 12 people.
The Kove Kitchen has just had a complete renovation, so of course we had to bring a fresh and exciting new menu to the table! Boasting our delectable new menu, providing gluten free and vegan options, we have gone above and beyond to ensure we can cater for your dietary requirements, while jam packing every dish with an array of flavours to get your taste buds tingling. Our signature dish this month has got to be the Veal Scallopini served with prawns, creamy mash and topped with brandy peppercorn cream.
HEAD CHEF JESSE MCGARRITY
The Kove provides options for everyone, with an extensive children’s menu and amazing members' offers, including our $20 Kove Combos, available for lunch and dinner daily. With views of the Hastings River, two areas for children’s entertainment and a mouth-watering new menu, you can’t beat the Kove Restaurant at Panthers. 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 LUNCH 7 DAYS 11:30AM - 2:30PM DINNER 7 DAYS FROM 5:30PM
OPEN 7 DAYS. SUNDAY - FRIDAY: 12PM - LATE, SATURDAY: 10AM - LATE. BREAKFAST 8AM - 12PM SATURDAY AND SUNDAY.
Caramelised banana mousse with hazelnut crumb, lemon curd, meringue and burnt coconut gelato
Grilled halloumi stack.
Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant
Abundance Garden Centre + Lakeside Dining Now Open Friday & Saturday Nights
Drift is a place we have created with you in mind …
Abundance Garden Centre + Lakeside Dining is opening its beautiful grounds for evenings under the stars. You can now enjoy this stunning lakeside venue of an evening for dinner and drinks.
A place where you can share a delicious meal with family, graze and laugh with friends over a coffee, or kick back and relax with someone special.
Now fully licensed, and with a new autumn menu launched. Abundance is ready to entertain you and your friends, with an evening with fine dining in a beautiful, yet relaxed environment. Opening every Friday and Saturday from 6pm; bookings essential. If you have not been to Abundance lately, come and experience lakeside dining, beautiful plants, expert advice, design and landscaping and the peace and tranquility that is Abundance. New autumn menu now available! 274 RAWDON ISLAND RD, SANCROX, 15 MINUTES FROM PORT MACQUARIE. (02) 6586 0030 WWW.ABUNDANCE.NET.AU OPEN 8AM WEEKENDS; 9AM WEEKDAYS. UNDER THE STARS 6PM UNTIL LATE FRIDAY AND SATURDAY ONLY.
HEAD CHEF ADAM LOVETT
Our mission is to bring you simple food done well, where every ingredient on the plate can be a hero and will make your taste buds sing. CAROL GOULDING & MITCH SKRINNIKOFF
Try our lunch and dinner menus today, and be sure to catch our constantly changing daily specials board.
HEAD CHEF ANDY WHITEHEAD
Weekly Specials include: $20 Steak & Schooner Sunday $20 Chicken Schnitzel Tuesday $20 Proper Roast Thursday PORT CITY BOWLING CLUB, OWEN ST, PORT MACQUARIE 6583 1133 WWW.PORTCITY.COM.AU LUNCH 11:30AM - 2PM AND DINNER FROM 5:30PM.
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Selections from our brunch menu: Corn Fritters, Hotcakes, Belgian Waffles, Tasting Plate.
Café Buzz
Middle Rock Pizza and Eatery
There is nothing the BUZZ team enjoys more than sharing time and coffee together. Most days the flow of customers can keep this to a few minutes, but, these are the minutes where we can enjoy sampling a new single origin coffee. It also the time to share some laughs, like all coffee lovers do. One thing you know at BUZZ, there will always be many laughs floating around for you to enjoy. We have a new single origin coffee bean for you to sample; it is from El Salvador. Coffee is one of El Salvador’s most important exports, accounting for up to 50% of their trade. Coffee is very important and taken very seriously. This coffee showcases their distinct flavours. We also have an old favourite back, Ethiopian Limu. We have sold this since we opened, and it is one of the beans in our BUZZ House Blend. The current crop maintains the classically excellent flavour, with a strong chocolate influence. Grab 10 minutes and enjoy a BUZZ Coffee and buy a bag to enjoy at home. Would like to get into the café business, or would you like to know more about our wholesale coffee options? Please call Harry on 0412 825 882.
With a delicious brunch menu and yummy fresh baked goods paired with locally roasted Holy Goat Coffee as well as our ever popular pizzas and pastas, with a few sneaky specials thrown in! Middle Rock Pizza and Eatery at Lake Cathie is the favourite go to for something sweet or savoury!
PEACHTREE WALK 9/72 HORTON STREET, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6583 7979 OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 6:45AM - 3PM
Bacon & egg roll with tomato relish on brioche.
Hastings Coffee Co. at The Westport Club Have you joined us for breakfast at Hastings Coffee Co.? We offer a delicious breakfast menu, with a side of uninterrupted views of the beautiful Hastings River, every day of the year. Wander along the popular coastal walk and you’ll find our takeaway window, where you can grab a bacon and egg roll or banana bread and enjoy the sunshine by the river, or take the kids to Livvi’s Place Playground. Inside the club you can watch the boats bobbing and maybe spot a dolphin while enjoying your eggs benedict, housemade beans or Hastings (big) Breakfast. Our delicious barista-made coffee goes delightfully well with a treat from our pastry cabinet, so be sure to try one - there are so many to choose from: eclairs, tarts, macarons and beautifully layered mouse cakes. Our in-house pastry chefs work hard to ensure you indulge not only in the sight of them, but in every single mouthful. Why not pop in for a visit?
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.
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Mention the Dining Guide for 2 for 1 Coffee* *Offer valid for dine-in only. Customer must purchase one regular coffee to receive one regular coffee free. Cannot be used with any other offer. Valid until the 30th April 2019.
2 for coffe
*Voucher valid for card holder only. One vo Offer valid for dine in only. Card holder must coffee to receive their second regular coffee used with any other offer. Valid until 31
HEAD CHEF/OWNER IAN MARTIN
6585 5
Shop 5/1613 ocean Driv
open Wedn 7am till 1pm
SHOP 5/1613 OCEAN DRIVE, LAKE CATHIE. (02) 6585 5566 OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY; 7AM 'TIL 1PM - 5PM 'TIL 8:30PM.
coffee scene.
Bean SPOTLIGHT. with Vicki from Café Buzz
Café Buzz, Peachtree Walk Port Macquarie BUZZ Coffee Beans are available for you to purchase to enjoy in your own coffee maker at home or work. We have our top selling BUZZ HOUSE BLEND, our Premium Blend and our Strong Blend. Our range of SINGLE ORIGIN COFFEES is second to none. We have coffee beans from all over the world, and, we encourage you to take a journey and taste them all. We sell the beans whole, or we can grind them for your coffee maker. You can also order online at www.
buzzcoffee.com.au Coffee maker, did I hear you ask? We have a large range of FRENCH PRESS, POUR-OVERS, SYPHONS and IMMERSION COFFEE available for you to purchase, for yourself, or as a gift. At Café BUZZ, we delight in ensuring your coffee needs are met every time you walk into our café. Maybe you would like to get into the café and coffee business? Call Harry on 0412 825 882 to discuss.
port mac's biggest port mac's biggest two up is back! two up is back! For a second year, Tacking For a second year, Tacking Point Tavern is hosting a For a second year, Tacking Point Tavern is hosting a commemoration of all things Point Tavern is hosting a commemoration of all things that make Australia great on commemoration of all things that make Australia great on ANZAC Day, April 25. that make Australia great on ANZAC Day, April 25. ANZAC Day, April 25. Tacking Point Tavern’s ANZAC Tacking Point Tavern’s ANZAC Day celebration will offer Tacking Point Tavern’s ANZAC Day celebration will offer punters the chance enjoy the Day celebration will to offer punters the chance to enjoy the simple pleasure of two-up, punters the chance to enjoythe the simple pleasure of two-up, the same aspleasure our diggers did, onthe the simple of two-up, same as our diggers did, on the only of the year it’s sameday as our diggers did,legal! on the only day of the year it’s legal! only day of the year it’s legal! Featuring a pair of coins flung Featuring a pair of coins flung off a kip for a punter to bet Featuring a pair of coins flung off a kip for a punter to bet on outcome, two-up is a off the a kip for a punter to bet on the outcome, two-up is a on the outcome, two-up is a
deeply Australian tradition deeply Australian tradition deeply Australian tradition that stretches back as far as that stretches back as far as that stretches back as far as the gold rushes of the 1800s. the gold rushes of the 1800s. the of the 1800s. The gold gamerushes was popular among The game was popular among The game popular among diggers of was all Australian military diggers of all Australian military diggers of all Australian military campaigns looking to pass the campaigns looking to pass the campaigns looking pass the time and make theirtoown fun in time and make their own fun in time and make their own fun in the trenches. the trenches. the trenches. Doors will open at 9am Doors will open at 9am Doors will open at 9am with classic Aussie hits playing with classic Aussie hits playing with classic Aussie playing all day, Roosters vs.hits Dragons all day, Roosters vs. Dragons all Roosters vs. Dragons on day, our huge outdoor screen, on our huge outdoor screen, on outdoor screen, andour livehuge entertainment from and live entertainment from and live entertainment from Andrew Best. Andrew Best. Andrew Best.
Corner of Ocean & Emerald Drives, Port Macquarie NSW Corner of Ocean Emerald Drives, Port Macquarie NSW (02) 6582 3939 | & Corner of Ocean &tackingpointtavern.com.au Emerald Drives, Port Macquarie NSW (02) 6582 3939 | tackingpointtavern.com.au (02) 6582 3939 | tackingpointtavern.com.au
It’s an honour to host a two-up It’s an honour to host aa two-up It’s an honour to host ring for a second year attwo-up Tacking ring for a second year at ring a second at Tacking Tacking Pointfor Tavern, pay year tribute to our Point Tavern, pay tribute to our Point Tavern, tribute toof our ANZACs, and pay enjoy a piece ANZACs, and aa piece ANZACs, and enjoy enjoy piece of of Australian history. Australian history. Australian history. Click ‘attending’ Click ‘attending’ Click on our‘attending’ Anzac Day on our Anzac Day on our event Anzac to Daywin Facebook Facebook event to Facebook to win win a $250 barevent tab for you aa $250 bar tab for $250 bar tab for you you and your friends! and your friends! and your friends!
Greater Port Macquarie focus 25
Club North Haven School Holiday time is near, and that means that Club North Haven have a jammed packed April just waiting for you and your family - not to mention amazing Easter raffles.
salads, gluten-free dishes, burgers and other snacks, kids' menu, barista coffee, ice cream, desserts and plenty more.
Come on down to the club and enjoy everything we have to offer. Enjoy a meal or a coffee and sweet treat at either one of our cafés. Enjoy the range of cuisine, prepared by our team of qualified chefs and aspiring apprentices, headed by the award winning Warren Thom.
Why not meet up with friends and enjoy a barista made Grinders Coffee in our coffee lounge! Grinders Coffee was established in 1962 in Lygon Street, the centre of Melbourne's famous Italian quarter. Today, Grinders is the largest roaster of Fairtrade coffee in Australia. We also offer a range of freshly made cakes and pastries for you to enjoy.
As well as our daily specials, the regular menu caters for any taste, with a wide variety of meat dishes, pastas, Australian seafood,
We look forward to seeing you really soon and sharing another day in paradise with you and your family.
Seasgulls Restaurant:
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The Coffee Lounge:
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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
Meraki Photography
Photo by MMedia
Meraki Photography
Stunning Ladies in Red at Rydges
Stunning Ladies in Red at Rydges
Kurt Fearnley with Melissa and Steve Begg at Tacking Point Tavern
Photo by Nikki Rose
Zebu Relaunch
Zebu Relaunch
Newlyweds Lindal and Craig Yarnold
social scene.
A
BOOM! The first quarter of the year is already down! In case you hadn’t noticed, perhaps you blinked and missed it - it has absolutely been a certified crazy kick off to the year, with a whirlwind of epic events, fundraisers, launches, lunches and new faces everywhere! The endless summer just keeps going, and I am certainly not going to complain about it.
pril usually signifies all things cooler, delicious and divinely chocolatey! Easter is arriving a little later this year, but it is definitely on its way with its luxuriously lengthy long weekend and lots of family time and fun. I am super excited this year, as we have family jetting in from the UK to soak up some Aussie magic and a healthy dose of Port Macquarie sun! DIVINE! Congrats to gorgeous couple Lindal Munro and Craig Yarnold, who were married on March 16 in a ceremony at the Pavilion Chapel at Sails Port Macquarie, followed by a reception in the Cape Ballroom. The skies threatened rain, but it didn’t dampen the celebration with their closest friends and family, including Tamara King, Leisa and Mark Rowell, Nicole Small, Emma and Rod Yates, Sarah Wood and Cathal Ladden. Lindal was attended by daughters Tiegan and Ellianna Munro, and the groom by Best Man Aaron Atkins and son Lachlan Munro, with gorgeous daughters Piper and Evelyn Yarnold as little flower girls. Guests enjoyed canapés over the water, followed by a stunning raspberry and white chocolate wedding cake created by Fika at Casseras. Special mention to celebrant Julie Ash, Jardine Wright of Botanic Merchant for florals, Nikki Rose Photography for capturing the day, and the gorgeous vintage bridal cars. Congrats,
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Craig and Lindal! Two hundred and fifty fine ladies all dressed in a sea of stunning red, ready for fashion and fun, took over the first floor of Rydges Hotel recently for the ninth annual Ladies in Red. Amanda Perrin of Rydges, Vanessa Jane of The Style Vibe and Amanda Donald of Settlement City collaborated to create a fabulous fashion show featuring looks from retailers at Settlement City. The show was all about family, with stunning models including family duos such as Sue Reid and Ebanie Green, Julie and Lyla Jamieson, and Maureen and Jazmin Lawrence, to name just a few of the glamazons on the catwalk. The show opened with a live performance by sassy Tania Cassidy, with plenty of cheeky appearances by gorgeous gents Bradin Costmeyer and Tanni Teaupa. The cute factor was high, with performances by local kidlets dressed in their best, Will, Charlee, Malia and Jack. Hair was styled by the amazing Evelina Kemp and her team, and makeup created by Jamie Finn and her bevvy of beauties at Port Day Spa. The ladies enjoyed Angove bubbly, a new release of canapés with cheeky desserts including rocky road smash and raspberry cheesecakes, with crimson cocktails from mixologist Kyle Kliousis. Over $3,500 in prizes were awarded on the night, with Best Dressed Lady in Red being
awarded to the stunning Shari Armano, with a $500 Settlement City Cash Card, a personal Wardrobe Edit by The Style Vibe and stunning florals from Botanic Merchant. Best Red Accessories went to Ika Mitchell with her hand designed creation, with prizes to including a Settlement City Voucher and Glow Laser Clinic Package. Best Red Heels was awarded to Rosemary Gebhardt of the Salvos for her seriously hot red patent stiletto boots, winning her a Zebu dinner for two “Feed Me” experience! Raffle winners enjoyed French sparkles and a Goddess Retreat Voucher, courtesy of Jessie Myers and Francessca O’Donnell. A huge night of merry mayhem on the dancefloor, all to kick off the local Salvos Red Shield Appeal! Congrats, and thanks to all involved! Zebu has emerged with a fresh new look - the team celebrated with a select group of guests with an evening in the newly styled bar and restaurant. The gorgeous ladies from Sess & Sass, Jess Hodge and Ashley Hawthorne collaborated with the team to create a new style for the iconic waterfront venue. Guests enjoyed Zebu’s signature Flamingo cocktail and sampled the delicious new menu. Guests, including Hiroko and Andrew Plowright, Emily Pitt and Michael Godwin, Kodie and Anthony Shipway, Sue and Roger Munro, Connie Porter and Andrew Norman, Shayne and Mark McGuire, Mark and
Kylie Lyons, Sue and Paul Jogever, Alisha and Simon Bank joined New GM Steven James as he revealed the funky, fresh new interior, furniture, tastes and team. Guests were looked after by Sean Funston, the Food and Beverage Manager and enjoyed the delicious new release menu from Group Executive Chef Ryan Pearce. Looking forward to lots of cocktails and fun in this space! Kurt Fearnley kept a 110 strong crowd enthralled with his inspirational tales of tenacity and triumph at a recent charity luncheon at the Tacking Point Tavern. Rory Duncan, Ritchie Baker and the team hosted a delicious two course feast in the beer garden to raise funds for the Cancer Council. The lucky guests enjoyed the powerful and passionate retelling of Kurt’s gutsy journey to the word stage as a multi medal winning athlete, mobility advocate and global citizen. Guests, including Bree McDonald and John Hutchison, Michael Mowle, Steve Bryant, Brett Varcoe, Amanda Donald, Marcus Taylor, Steve James and Jodie and Mark Wilson all enjoyed a relaxed afternoon in the sun. Congrats to the team involved! It’s time to take a breath! Easter Long Weekend come at me! Book me in for some serious sleepins, sunshine and a certified Cadbury overload. 'til next month! Kate.
W H A R F FOOD: MATT GILLIGAN • DECORE : HUGO BITTAR
W H A L E B O N E
P O R T M AC Q UA R I E
W
e caught up with Nathan Tomkins, proud owner and operator of the Whalebone Wharf for 22 years, and uncover the successful restaurant’s inspiring and historic tale. The building dates back to the 1930’s when this end of Hastings River Drive was known predominantly as ‘Hibbard’ and Fredrick Staples operated the business as a boat shed and bait shop. Brian Young acquired the venture in the late 1950’s and turned it into Shores boatshed selling oysters and boats for hire. It was in 1963 the Whalebone tale began when a whale washed up on the North Shore and Mr Young was determined to get his hands on the whale’s skull bone. He placed the bone on the banks of the Hastings river adjacent to his business. Holiday revellers would travel to Hibbard and view the magnificent animal artefact. Then in 1971, Mr Young decided to transform his humble boatshed into the Mid North Coast’s most sought-after seafood restaurant and inspiration for its name derived from the large whale bone which
had become integral to his success. The business was later purchased by a gay couple, Ana and Elkie who promoted the restaurant as a popular nightspot where many locals recall partying into the wee hours to live music. It was in the year 1997 the current day Whalebone was born. The business was purchased by my Father who saw incredible potential in the rustic seafood eatery. For decades the restaurant has been synonymous with weddings, proposals, birthdays, anniversaries and a myriad of special memories held in people’s hearts. We have been granted many awards for business excellence and proudly played a prominent role in our community. In 2017 I knew it was time for a revamp- a complete overhaul. With the collaboration of Hampton’s Design Co., we have transformed this once 1930’s boatshed into an exquisite waterfront dining venue. We now see over 15,000 new faces walk through this door every year. Our growth is a clear representation of the region’s exceptional population growth and flourishing tourism trade. The future of Port Macquarie is exciting, and we are so proud to be a part of it.
Nathan Tomkins Whalebone Wharf owner
BELOW
phone. 6583 2334 web. whalebonewharf.com.au
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Easter Arrives this Month! Petula Clark
This year we have a colouring competition for all the kids, so come on in and collect your picture to colour! Competition closes 15th April. Great prizes to be won!
THE LEGENDARY FILM AND THEATRE MUSIC STAR AND TWO-TIME GRAMMY AWARD WINNER, PETULA CLARK RETURNS FOR AN AUSTRALIAN TOUR IN 2019.
Easter will be celebrated in April this year, together with ANZAC Day, which will make this month very busy. Our trading times during Easter are as follows:
Petula Clark’s extraordinary career, spanning over 69 years, has to be recognised as an outstanding achievement in today’s music industry.
We will be open every public holiday, i.e. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday; however it will only be from 9am to 2pm.
Having sold nearly 70 million records throughout her career, Petula continues to reach for an even more impressive level of perfection. In 2017 the UK pop legend released yet another brilliant album, Living for Today.
April is a good month for William pears. They have a great flavour, but you must remember that they do ripen quickly. Navel oranges and mandarins will be in stock by mid April.
Music review critic, Mark Deming (UK) noted:
Peaches and nectarines will be finished this month; however plums will still be available.
“It’s hard to imagine an octogenarian pop singer who is able to get over, without nostalgia, being part of a formula. But Clark comes very close to that here; her voice still possesses a remarkable clarity, and her command of her instrument is precise.” - July 2016.
In the vegetable side of things, some locally grown vegetables are the fancy lettuce and salad mixes, shallots, Asian greens, snake beans, Ricardoes tomatoes, Lebanese cucumbers, zucchini from Rolland Plains, beautiful beans and rhubarb from Comboyne, and Tony will have snow peas by the end of April.
Petula’s live concerts are produced for sheer enjoyment for her audiences. All of the favourite hits are still there.
Avocadoes are slowly coming into season, and a better supply means the prices will improve.
Downtown • I Know A Place • My Love • Colour My World • A Sign Of The Times • Don’t Sleep In The Subway • This Is My Song
Just a reminder ... we are closed Thursday - ANZAC Day, 25th April - we will be open on Friday as normal.
We are also privileged to hear some of the current tracks from Petula’s latest album.
Look forward to seeing you in our shop in the near future. Ken.
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“Lest We Forget.”
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With an amazing line up of local musical talent and a vibrant atmosphere, Bobby Jack’s Festival at Walcha is set to rock the town on April 13. GOLDHEIST (aka Hester Fraser) is just one of the acts we’ll be able to see on the day … i Hester. We last spoke back in 2017, and at the time you were just about to launch your album, REALM, at the Sydney Opera House. How’s life been treating you since? Life is great! Being a musician is a constant adventure - writing and performing, travelling to new places, meeting new people. You’ve had a few interesting collaborations recently. What was the experience like working with AUSLAN sign language interpreters at Sydney’s VIVID Festival last year? I didn’t know what it would be like, working with the AUSLAN Interpreters - some of the lyrics they had to translate were quite poetic and a little abstract, and I wasn’t sure how each song would be realised in AUSLAN. I was completely blown away by the results! I saw the stories, emotions and messages of my music come alive in the hands of Amanda Galea and Jennifer Maclaughlan, not only making those songs accessible for the deaf community, but showing a whole new dimension of communication and expression for those who could hear. It was poignant and moving - truly an amazing experience. How did the collaboration with artist James Needham come about? You toured regional Australia together, presenting live art and music shows - which is an interesting concept! The concept James and I developed came about from a desire to connect our artistic practices to the local communities in which we performed, making each concert individual and tangible to the audience. It was an incredible journey (over 7,000 km around NSW!) and we really enjoyed being able to focus our creativity on exploring new places and people. James’ artworks reflected the diversity of the landscapes we travelled through, which was quite profound, considering we only really covered NSW! Artistically, how do you repeat, or even top, the success of an album like REALM? Where do you go from there musically? This is an interesting question, and in answering it, I think I have to consider why I make music in the first place. For me, it’s not about a groundbreaking new musical technique or a song unlike anything every heard before. For me, it’s about a message or a story, using music to speak to
For me, it’s not about a groundbreaking new musical technique or a song unlike anything every heard before. For
me, it’s about a message or a story, using music to speak to and connect with my
and connect with my audience in some loved ones in support, that it’s OK to capacity. not be OK, and seeking help is always audience in some capacity. In this respect, there is always a good idea! somewhere to go! There’s always Also, some new pieces - Wayfarer, another story, another issue we need to a song I wrote about the journey talk about, another experience to relate. with James - I’d always felt like such a I also love working with other country girl until I visited the outback musicians and instrumentalists - some of the music I am and felt like a complete tourist! I realised there is so much currently working on features some beautiful work from some more of this ancient country to explore - perhaps I am a Grey amazing artists. Working with other people opens up your Nomad at heart! music and takes you down artistic paths you never dreamed of Will you get any downtime while you’re in our area - a before, so you’re constantly creating new and magical things. chance to explore/be a tourist? We’ll be welcoming you back to New England for Bobby I will have a little downtime before the festival, but Jack’s Festival in April. How much are you looking unfortunately will have to go straight back to Sydney forward to playing to this crowd? afterwards, as I am performing at the Sydney Royal Easter Home crowds are the best crowds! I am so grateful for the Show from Monday 15th - Tuesday 23rd April! sustained support I have received across my career from the What’s on your agenda for the rest of 2019 ... any New England, where I grew up. exciting projects in the pipeline? Life as a musician is tough - there’s a lot more to it than just I’m currently working in the studio on some new music, the glossy, glorious time on the stage! You face rejection every which I am very excited about. I’m also exploring some new day, you are running a small business with all the management musical collaborations for later on in the year - more on that quirks and complications that includes, you’re often on the soon! road (trying not to live on Maccas!), you never have any Where can we find out more about you/follow your money (and when you do, it goes straight into the studio for music? the next project!), and every Saturday night is a work day. You can find me on the wonderful world wide web! Search Home crowds remind you where you’ve come from, where GOLDHEIST to find my website, Facebook, Instagram, and you’re going, and why you love what you do, despite the less Youtube, or find my music on Spotify, iTunes, GooglePlay, glamourous aspects of the lifestyle. Soundcloud, Bandcamp ... I’m everywhere! What are some of the songs you’ve chosen to perform Thanks Hester. especially for this festival? Interview: Jo Robinson. I will be performing some old favourites - Dust, to remind our farmers and regional communities that we understand how difficult their jobs are during drought, and that we value Bobby Jack’s Festival - 13th April at Walcha Showgrounds. everything they do. You Were There - a call to break down bobbyjacks.com.au for tickets and details. taboos surrounding mental health issues, and to reach out to Greater Port Macquarie focus 32
NEW KITCHEN | NEW MENU
NOW OPEN 7 DAYS | LUNCH 11:30AM – 2:30PM | DINNER 5PM – LATE
1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS
panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au
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Out to Lunch
with Susie Boswell
OUR TRADIES
It’s been a boom: Port Macquarie’s housing and commercial development over the past few years has seemed limitless. New residents, new businesses, new health, education and roads facilities. Our tradies have been enjoying the benefits.
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here’s a saying on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast: If the surf’s up or the fish are biting, the tradie’s ute’s sure to break down. Someone with a dry sense of humour perhaps. In Port Macquarie in recent years there’s been no time for “breakdowns”: our chippies, sparkies, plumbers, painters, bricklayers, concreters, tilers, roofers, fencers, landscapers, aircon installers, staircase builders, interior decorators - and others - have been more than fully employed. For individuals wanting one-off jobs done the waiting list has been long, if not entirely non-existent, particularly for qualified operators. There’ve been spinoffs in other employment: suppliers of building and associated goods and services, real estate sales, vehicle sales and service and so on. As noted in my column last month, the Federal Government has projected employment growth in our statistical region over the next three years to be the seventh greatest in Australia. The first six are regions of Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast. Port Macquarie council says 624 new jobs were created here in the construction industry alone over the five years to the latest national census date, August 2016. In the 12 months to June 2017, 22 months ago, PMHC approved $333million worth of building development, including 712 projects for dwellings (new homes, and alterations/additions), 70 per cent of the total. Strikingly, to the north and south of us, the comparative figure for Coffs Harbour LGA was just $180m and for Mid-Coast council (Taree region) $172m. In
the following financial year, to last June, the boom was consistent: the comparative figures were $315m (including 667 dwellings projects), Coffs $200m and Taree $160m. These most recent FY17-18 figures show approvals for new houses in Port Macquarie were up, to 551 from 495 the previous year: an increase of 11 per cent in the 12 months to June 30 last. Allowing two weeks off for Christmas and Easter, that’s - note, approval for - 11 new houses a week! (The council says the 551 do not include commercial dwellings such as retirement-aged care developments.) A born and bred local tradie and son of a local tradie, Jamie Harrison - pictured with an off-grid solar module his company fabricates here - has witnessed the progress over many years. His business has developed from his dad’s down-home Harrison Electrical 40 years ago to become Harelec Solar (not only paralleling local growth but expanding intrastate, interstate and offshore.) An electrician by trade for 20 years who began at 13 on elementary jobs at his dad’s side, Harrison also holds a business (economics) degree and is a former PMHC councillor, now at the helm of his company. “We’ve had an extra 30,000 people come into Port Macquarie in the past 10 years, the place has completely changed. There are many more shops, more services, and the trades have grown. You can get things here in Port now that once you could only get in Newcastle. From an industry point of view, we used to have to go and get things made in Sydney or Newcastle; we can get them made locally now.” Harrison cites a roof sheeting plant,
and trade services he uses in manufacturing solar control systems: “There’s a little nucleus here: two powder-coating plants, a water-jet cutter up the road ... we’ve diversified. So it’s more local jobs, the multiplying effect. Port Macquarie has got to a point with the increase in population that it services itself. Ancillary industries are growing on top of it; construction has led to the industries, led to greater population, better health care, bigger hospital, training facilities, Charles Sturt Uni, Uni of NSW, Newcastle University. We’re a regional city growing on itself. Dynamic.” And with the completion of the new highway in these recent years Harrison says tradesmen have been coming from, for example, Coffs Harbour to keep up with project home construction going on in the new estates. (Plus, faster travel has seen local businesses like his expand to service surrounding areas.) It’s not all good news. When companies involved in the construction industry collapse seemingly prospering tradies are left owed large sums. There’s the credit squeeze and capital-city property, and confidence, downturn, with a dive of 25 per cent in newly-approved home loans, with flow-on effects. Harrison feels we’ll be resilient: growth may slow but as a self-reliant economy we’re not so susceptible to external shocks. “I think we’ll be well insulated from it. A lot of [building] is new construction but a lot is due to people coming in and buying and renovating. When it’s slowing on the new-home front builders say ‘We can finally catch up on renovations people have been waiting for two, three years for us to do’. Even a lot of granny
flats are going in.” Then there’s the impetus of commercial development, Bunnings’ $43m store opening last month a prime example, itself a direct result of the boom and then again offering the flow-on of what’s claimed as 250 jobs in its construction (it looked like it, from the tradies’ adjacent car park) and 80 extra in-store, albeit many part-time, jobs. Also last month 148 new aged care homes were opened at Sienna Grange and Pozieres, with more selfcare homes under build at Pozieres opening midyear. At the same time the operators and Federal Government announced a $15m 30unit Garden Village expansion (90% of trade jobs mandated for locals) and CSU with the NSW Government confirmed $61m of further construction. Gowings has proposed a $15m commercial complex for the William/Murray streets corner; a $35m commercial hub is mooted near K-Mart. Among units going up, sites being readied, and prospective developments there’s the Woolies CBD waterside land and an apartment site in Clarence Street near Murray. A commercial complex is mid-build at Sovereign Hills; a new police station coming. Not surprisingly, we’ve a skills shortage; training apprentices chews up professionals’ time in a busy environment. But, Harrison says: “It’s a great time for young people to pick up a trade. Newman College gives them a standing start. While ever people are moving here this is the place to have a trade - electrical, painting ... whatever trade it is, is in demand.” Out To Lunch is hosted by Lou Perri at The Stunned Mullet on Town Beach.
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LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET
C L A Y
K O A L A
Ceramics about
ALL ABOUT THE PEOPLE There’s a very particular recipe at play when it comes to building a team in any business. A sprinkle of this personality, a little bit of this visionary, a good dose of hard work, and a bucket load of passion and then some go into producing the crucial epicentre of an organisation.
A
dding another layer of complexity to this "recipe" is the fact that there’s not a passive ingredient in sight, but a collection of actual living, breathing humans here, and they all come with ... well ... what we all come with - vastly differing and infinitely individual belief systems and personalities. Factor in the daily demands of the workplace, spending loads of time with the same few people, and you have yourself the final product of "team". It’s all about who we are, how we work together, how efficiently our business runs and how organised it is. It’s about finding a balance within all these variables and hopefully reaching a point where all the forces at play seem to complement and enhance each other, where a shared work ethic and cohesive vision can be felt throughout the group and somehow bring our the very best in each other. In an ideal world, this would be a piece of cake, but in the real world it is pretty much impossible. People are, after all, people. Not robots, not computers, but living, breathing beings that come with all the beauty, power, forces of nature, as well as all the unpredictability that comes with humanity at large. It isn’t an easy feat. They call it "human resources" - this attempting to populate a workplace with fellow humans and then somehow run a profitable business, whilst simultaneously keeping said people happy, productive and in regular paycheques. Doing all this whilst keeping the other important (make that indispensable) bunch of people happy - the actual customers themselves, without whom this house of cards woudn’t even remotely exist …
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Time to take a deep breath here … There’s no denying that recruiting and maintaining a great team is one of the absolutely hugest challenge of running any business. Factor in external challenges, such as attempting to do this all this in a regional area, where the available and suitable candidates are way fewer and further between, adds an extra dimension of difficulty - and then some. It definitely doesn’t help matters either, when you are searching for people with very particular skills and levels of experience. It seems so improbable, but somehow - more often than not - it all comes together. Running a successful business and having passion for what you do doesn’t hurt matters. In this day and age, one can still never underestimate the power of word of mouth when it comes to finding the right people. And if that fails, we always have our friend of the moment, social media - a huge and ever-expanding player when it comes to connecting with people everywhere, and one that certainly assists with getting on the radar in our industry. As "they" say, there’s no "I" in team and rapport is mandatory - in-jokes and laughter need to be interspersed amongst the hard work going on. Letting off steam after a busy night with a couple of beers is par for the course. This is how teams really get "built", forget the paintballing and trust exercises - it's all about getting through the challenges of the working day and having a few good folks to share the load with. And laugh (or occasionally cry) about it … And somehow, after all that’s been said and done - I seem to be surrounded by the most incredible team. Now, there’s proof it can be done!
SUE BRANGWIN HAS BEEN CREATING WITH CLAY SINCE HIGH SCHOOL AND IS NOW SHARING HER PASSION WITH
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A D U LT S A N D C H I L D R E N AT H E R S T U D I O , C L AY K O A L A .
ow long have you been a make a business from art. I’ve learned a lot potter, Sue? about the business side, marketing and so forth, I’ve been creating with and I’ve met some amazing friends through the clay since high school, when course. A lot of creative people are a little bit out I did an elective ceramics on their own, so it’s really great that it’s brought course and got hooked. local artists together. We’ll get to showcase But it goes further back than that, I think; our work at the ArtWalk event in July, which is I remember my grandmother had beautiful exciting. terracotta pots, and she also had lovely English What sort of things do you do in your crockery like Wedgewood. At Christmas we’d studio? have our food on these beautiful plates - I think I’m a Creative Kids Provider and run after some of my love of pottery goes right back to school and holiday classes for children, as well that. as day and evening workshops for adults. I teach When I left school, I really wanted to study hand-building using various techniques like coil pottery, but I needed to and slab and I’ve also got pay the rent - so I went four wheels for throwing, into nursing. I still did a bit and I glaze and fire the of pottery and ceramics, creations in my kilns. I try though it was hard to fit to make the sessions fun, WHEN MY KIDS it in with the shift work. but also as a teacher I want WERE SMALL, I HAD Then we moved to a farm to make sure that people A POTTERY WHEEL in Condobolin and when get proper instruction - it’s WITH A PLAYPEN my kids were small, I had not just mucking about AROUND IT, SO THE a pottery wheel with a with clay! I also make and CHILDREN COULDN’T playpen around it, so the sell various different pieces GET AT IT ... children couldn’t get at it. in the gallery. I even used to get clay out I saw on Facebook that of dams and fired it in pits! you’ve had date night Later on I did a teaching pottery sessions! degree and taught art - I’ve changed career Yes, one of my husband’s friends wanted to a lot! After 15 years in Condobolin, we were do pottery with his wife; they used the wheel concerned about the drought and the future out together, and we made it like that scene out of there, so we moved to Port. My husband, Robert Ghost, with Patrick Swayze; we had the music on had always dreamed of having his own auto and projected the movie scenes on the wall! The workshop, and now he does! I got a teaching couple had a really fun time, and it’s definitely transfer and I work part-time in a primary school. something I’d do again. In fact, it’s given me an We’ve been here 12 years now; I love it. idea for ArtWalk: I’ve got this vision of a potters’ How did you come to start Clay Koala? wheel and big cardboard cut-outs of the actors I belong to the Port Macquarie Arts and Crafts - I’m sure people would love to see that scene Centre, and it’s great; I really enjoy it there, re-enacted! and I figured we need more opportunities for Contact details: Sue Brangwin 0427 953 824 pottery in Port Macquarie. I’ve been doing an claykoala.com.au ArtSmart course with the Council; it’s a business Thanks Sue. mentoring program where you learn how to Interview: Ruth Allen.
“The Proms” A Musical Spectacular - touring 2019 With a lavish program for 2019, this stunning spectacular salutes the famous BBC
gala finale including Rule Britannia, Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory.
Proms Concerts of London’s Royal Albert Hall, including all the well-known favourites
Feel the romance and emotion of the Hungarian Gypsy Orchestras, haunting
- Rule Britannia, Jerusalem, Radetzky March and Elgar’s Land of Hope and Glory.
renditions of Irish favourites and the pipers’ tribute to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, as together they evoke the sheer exuberance of An Afternoon at the Proms A Musical Spectacular.
Join Australia’s most acclaimed international violinist Ian Cooper with opera stars, prima ballerinas, pipe band and the Blue Danube Orchestra to evoke the sheer exuberance of An Afternoon at the Proms - A Musical Spectacular.
This jubilant musical and visual spectacular will raise the roof!
Enjoy selections from the great movies of the 20th Century, such as Singin’ in the Rain,
Bring your flags and come join the fun and frivolity of Ian Cooper’s An Afternoon at the Proms.
Dr. Zhivago, South Pacific, Oklahoma, Mary Poppins plus a Last Night of the Proms
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheProms-A-Musical-Spectacular
Urban Grain Bakery In the bakery at the moment we’re featuring beautiful seasonal fruit from Kenny Little's on our danishes. Come in and try our Fig and Custard Danish, or our luscious Blood Plum and Yuzu Curd Danish. We have fresh individual tarts available daily, and stone ground flour croissants too. Our twice baked Almond Croissant is another great choice - it’s so popular with our regulars, that we always recommend that you order them ahead of time to avoid disappointment! We have a variety of sourdoughs that are available every day, which can be sliced to order. Our Heritage Sourdough loaf is made
from stoneground flour, so it retains the nutrients in the flour - it actually holds up to 80% of the whole wheat, making it a very nutritious loaf. We also make a Grain Sourdough and 100% Spelt Sourdough daily. On alternative days we make Baguettes, Fruit and Nut Sourdough, Ciabatta, Bok Sourdough, Emmer Sourdough and a delicious Olive, Basil and Pesto Sourdough. All of our loaves can be pre-ordered to ensure you don’t miss out on them! In March we started making our traditional Hot Cross Buns. Make sure you get your orders in for Easter! Please call us on 0423 545 258, or place your order instore.
AUSTRALIAN GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS
Rule Britannia, Land of Hope & Glory, The Can-Can
Selections from: Carmen, The Merry Widow, Sound Of Music, My Fair Lady, Johann Strauss II and other favourites
Sat 1st June 2019 - 2pm Show BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 | ONLINE: WWW.GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU TICKETS - ADULTS: $79 | CONC: $77 | GROUPS 8+: $75 | v iolinmaestro. c om . au
|
THE PROM S - A Musical Spectac u la r
| info@austentertainment. c om.au
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Rose WILSON
Kendall-based singer, teacher and choir director Rose Wilson has a passion for opera, a deep-set belief in the power of song, and harps called Esmeralda and Gwendolyn. hen did music start to be a part of your life, Rose? That always strikes me as an odd question, because it seems like it was always there. Mum used to drive us from Singleton to Newcastle for early childhood music classes, which was no mean feat, because it was about an hour and a half each way. She has a cassette tape of me singing a nursery rhyme when I was about three, already in tune! We always played lots of instruments at home, and always sang, and looking back I really appreciate the utter good fortune and gift of that, because it meant that as a teenager I had a thing that I loved and that I was good at. I started a little ensemble at my school with other music geeks, and then I went to the Newcastle Conservatorium and got all opera-nerdy! How did opera influence you? When I say opera, I basically only really mean Mozart - that’s my passion. I don’t like all the romantic opera, where the tenors and sopranos just sing in unison and the soprano dies of consumption; I find them overdramatic and terribly dull! In July 2006 I had just one final performance subject left to do in my music degree, but it was Mozart’s 250th birthday party at the Salzburg Festival and they were putting on all 22 of his operas, so I decided I would defer, go overseas, watch lots of opera and learn German! I spent five wonderful weeks hanging out in a youth hostel in Salzburg and going to the opera at night. Then I went on to Bremen, where I met up 38 Greater Port Macquarie focus
with (Australian composer) Gordon Hamilton, the teaching and performing and became a fullwhom I knew from the Con, and ended up time mum and a counsellor with the Australian touring Spain with his choir. We’d sing in these Breastfeeding Association. little churches in tiny villages, and the whole For a while I was totally uninterested in village would come out and listen and then give music, couldn’t imagine ever doing that again, us dinner afterwards! but gradually that changed. Scott and I started Did you have ambitions to sing and tour thinking about what we wanted our life to look with an opera company? like, and I began to ramp No, because I think I up a little bit of work, with would absolutely hate the the hope that he could scale lifestyle! I’m nowhere near back. That went OK, to the competitive enough, and extent that he and I kind of SINGING IS AS NATURAL I’d be incredibly miserable “swapped jobs”, and Scott TO OUR BODIES AS if I did do it. stopped work last May. He’s BREATHING AND But what I do really love now at home with the kids SPEAKING, BUT WE’RE is when I perform arias in and establishing a farm, OFTEN BLOCKED recitals and people come and I’m out there giving BY FEAR AND PAST up afterwards and tell me singing lessons, performing EXPERIENCES OF BEING they’d never really thought with the harp at weddings, TOLD WE ‘CAN’T SING’. about opera that way and playing and singing before. I’d really like to be anything from jazz to pop able to do that here, to and opera at events and sing and explain the arias parties. to people and break down the barriers that stop Aside from performing and teaching, you people connecting with opera. It is sometimes a also direct choirs, Rose? bit overly hoity-toity! Yes, I’ve got four at Saint Columba Anglican How did you come to settle in this area? School, two primary and two secondary, and I’ve I met my husband, Scott at a mutual friend’s just started another at Saint Joseph’s Regional party not long after I came back from Germany. College. And then there are my adult community We were living in Scone, and then we went off to choirs, two mixed groups in the evenings in Melbourne and did our turn in the city for a year, Kendall and Wauchope, and two women’s and then were done with it! Scott grew up in choirs on Friday mornings. They’re very joyful Wingham and had always liked the area, as I did; and relaxed - I understand that for many people it seemed so incredibly lush and green compared coming to a choir can feel incredibly scary - but at to where I’d been before. the same time we learn to make a lovely sound. So we moved, and then I had two children and Singing is as natural to our bodies as breathing went very, very deep into baby-land; I stopped all and speaking, but we’re often blocked by fear
and past experiences of being told we "can’t sing". With every creative process in our culture, a lot of us have been wounded - have been made to feel that we’re not good enough. And, that’s just wrong! For the world to be functional, it’s crucial that people are in touch with being able to be creative, to make something. A choir is beautiful, because you get to make something with other people, and you really do get something greater than every individual part. Tell me about your new project. It’s called SingaMamma - it’s a choir for women who want to sing with others, and who need to bring their kids with them to make that happen. I want to create a safe, warm and space where kids and bubs are welcome, but this is not a session for kids - it’s for women to sing together. The music we sing is a cappella - unaccompanied songs - in two or three part harmony, but you don’t need any experience or music reading skills to join in. There’s no child-minding, but we sing in a circle, and the bubs can be wrapped on mums, or wriggling on a mat, sitting in strollers, playing at a table, whatever works for them and their mum. We accept and acknowledge the little ones, and the various interruptions that come with them, so it’s just a 45-minute session, but with time for a cuppa and a biccy on the lawn afterwards. Where can people find out more? SingaMamma is on Fridays, 9:15 - 10am at Innes Lake Community Centre; $8. Full information about my choirs, teaching and performance is at www.rosesong.com.au Thanks Rose. Interview: Ruth Allen.
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WITH DEBBIE SOMMERS
This year marks the centenary of the pneumonic influenza pandemic, often referred to as Spanish Flu. In February 1919, Port Macquarie, like most regional towns and villages, began to prepare for a possible outbreak of pneumonic influenza.
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sub-committee comprising the Mayor, John Hill and Aldermen P. Hayward, D. Stewart and A. Denham was appointed to deal with an outbreak should it occur, with the Mayor asking Mr Orr, the town’s chemist, to order a dozen masks just in case. The same month, an inoculation depot for local citizens commenced at the Town Hall under an arrangement with the Municipal Council. Dr Sproule treated 95 adults and children with the influenza antidote at the first session. Pneumonic influenza reached Port Macquarie in late March, with the arrival of the steamer Macquarie. On 1st April, just prior to sailing, an ill seaman was seen by Dr Sproule, who deemed his illness suspicious and had the man moved to an isolation compound established at the showgrounds. Later that day and the following day, six locals who had visited the Macquarie were "seized with illness". Some were moved to the isolation compound, whilst others were treated in their own homes under strict quarantine. Nurse Tidboald, who was treating the patients at the showgrounds, also fell ill. On their return to Sydney, seven members of the Macquarie crew were found to have influenza, with the vessel quarantined at North Head. A week after his diagnosis, the seaman, Charles Mattson, aged 31, succumbed to pneumonic flu. He was buried the same day at West
Port Macquarie cemetery. Mattson was not a regular member of the Macquarie crew, and was filling in for an injured seaman. With no further cases diagnosed, Dr Sproule lifted the contact embargo, and isolation measures throughout the town were relaxed. The following day, there was quite a scare when the Macquarie arrived back in town flying the yellow flag. The ill seaman, Thomas Jenkinson, was also deemed a suspicious case and isolated. However, two days later his condition had returned to normal. The quarantine imposed on the vessel and crew was lifted. The remaining seven cases from the initial outbreak recovered fully. Feelings about the cause of the local outbreak were high, with Captain F. W. Merrett writing to the local newspaper: "…Certain unfair statements have come to my knowledge. My position as master of the steamer is on deck. I do not go near the forecastle and was quite unware that there was a sick man in it. When we lie here on Sundays it is customary for some of the townsmen to visit the men in the forecastle, and on the particular day referred to, they were unfortunate enough to become contacts with a man developing influenza. I surely cannot be held responsible for that …" By early July, it was reported that the disease had "practically petered out" here. There was only one local death from pneumonic influenza recorded. Sydney and many other regional areas were not so fortunate.
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The The Sapphires DPS
HIT Productions brings one of Australia’s most popular and best loved stories to the Glasshouse … THE SAPPHIRES, WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY TONY BRIGGS, IS INSPIRED BY THE TRUE STORY OF FOUR YORTA YORTA WOMEN WHO WERE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRAVEL TO VIETNAM DURING THE WAR TO SING AND ENTERTAIN THE AMERICAN TROOPS. Proud Wiradjuri woman Mindy Kwanten plays Cynthia in the production; she’s thrilled to be touring such a positive and inspiring show to major cities, regional and remote areas of the country … 40 Greater Port Macquarie focus
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i Mindy. What’s a little of your background? I was classically trained as a singer by my grandma, when I was younger, and I got into musical theatre when I was 17. My first lead role was in the original cast of Fame the Musical - and that was back when tours used to go for a really long time. That went for two years, and we even toured to Asia. I was also in David Atkins’ production of Hair the Musical, and did a return season to Sydney as one of the divas in Priscilla Queen of the Desert. In between those productions, I’ve done a lot of backing vocals for artists, I run an adult pop choir, but my main focus - which I’m still working on while I’m on tour with The Sapphires - is my electric soul duo with my husband, Mitchell, called Bow and Arrow … We recorded a few pieces before we went on tour, but Mitchell is travelling with us, and we plan to do some more recording along the way. What have you loved most about being a part of The Sapphires production? The bunch of people who were cast, and also the crew who are part of this team ... it’s really a testament to the people up top who have brought this group of people together. Everyone involved with the production has the most massive heart - they’re all beautiful people. It’s always such a joy to come to work! It’s really great to make art every night with them, and to share this story of four wonderful Yorta Yorta women. This brings me to my favourite part … The fact that there are four female lead roles in this show, and that they’re Aboriginal women - you don’t get to see this anywhere! You play Cynthia in the show. What’s her character like? She’s so much fun. She’s all the sass! She’s the electric current of the four sisters, but that’s also a front for a lot of her insecurities as well. I enjoy playing her a lot and trying to bring out the many layers that I’m finding in her. I also love that the more I play her, the more things I find - she’s really deep. I do relate to all four of the lead girls, but Cynthia’s definitely more like a younger version of myself - she’s a bit wild and out there! (Laughs.) Many of us are familiar with the story of The Sapphires. For people who may have heard the story before, or seen the movie, how much do you feel they will relate to this production? Tony Briggs wrote this story based on a true story about his mother and his aunties, who travelled to Vietnam during the war. The movie was actually based off this play; there have been several smaller productions of this play around over the years, and then the movie was made - which boosted the story into the stratosphere. There was even a soundtrack made from the movie! The show was also performed in London at one stage. I guess the only thing left to tick off on the list is to do a major tour of this production all around Australia! There are a lot of essential things I missed when I watched the movie, and they’re actually integral to the storyline. If you loved the movie, I’d say definitely come along and see the show … and if you haven’t seen the movie, definitely come along and experience it too! There are some things that were left out of the movie, which I was a little sad about - but you should come along and check out what they are if you’re curious. The music from the show promises to be spectacu-
lar - but what are some of your favourite songs to perform? I think that’s one of the clever things Tony was able to do - he was able demonstrate what was happening in that climate with Aboriginal women and Aboriginal people in general, and particularly how they felt in another country, which was such a different experience. So, for the show to be peppered with and to sizzle with these amazingly awesome songs - it’s such a great mix! I love doing my solo song, I’ve Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, by Aretha Franklin. It’s my favourite one to sing it’s quite ballsy; it’s out there … I remember practicing this song before I had an audition for the show. I was at the gym - it was around 12:30am - 1am - and I was on the treadmill, singing this song over and over, crafting how I’d perform it at my audition. When I woke up the next morning, I found out Aretha Franklin had passed away just hours before. I saw this as an omen … there I was, this little black duck on a treadmill in an empty gym, singing her song over and over again, while Aretha was rising up into heaven. I hope she saw me there! I also love singing Ngarra Burra Ferra, which is a famous song in the Briggs family. It’s a song that all four of us girls sing. In the show, we’d been touring in Vietnam for a little while, and Dave, our Manager, organised a phone call with our mother - who wanted to hear “our song”. It was a Hebrew song originally. Theresa Clements, who was the great-grandmother of Aunty Lois [one of the original Sapphires] did the translation of that song into Yorta Yorta language. The song has been passed down from generation to generation in the Briggs family, and it’s such a treat to sing it in the three part harmony with the girls. It’s very special. This tour is taking you far and wide, and to some very special places. Are you in Queensland at the moment? I am! I’m staring at the most beautiful view of the coastline going up north, the vast ocean and the glistening sun making diamonds on the water. It’s so lovely! There’s something so amazing in every place we visit though. When we were in Wiradjuri Country, at Dubbo, it was quite stricken with drought. But, we got to visit a grinding group - where people sharpen their tools and axes and even grind seeds. No one knows how old these grinding groups are - but they know from the rocks used that they are
over 20,000 years old, and they’re the oldest grinding group in the world. Australia is just so amazing! It’s really great to be touring such a strong Australian story around the country - it’s so important to share our stories. This tour covers major cities, regional areas, but also remote areas. We’re taking the show out to places where there aren’t any theatres. Phil Harris from Troppo Architects, based in Adelaide, has created a popup stage for us. It will be a slightly stripped back show, but we’ll be performing on this stage in remote areas - free - for these communities, under the stars. This is such an amazing thing for HIT Productions to do, and I’m really proud to be involved with this. No show, in the history of Australia, has toured in this way. It’s such a courageous show! We’ll tour to over 140 venues in eight months. Wiradjri Country is where your roots are, I believe? Yes. It’s such a big, big Country - my grandma was from Cowra. I was super proud, and it was really overwhelming to visit the area. We had such an amazing time there … What do you feel are some of the messages people will take away from watching the show? I love the whole notion of stepping outside your comfort zone and the great things you can achieve when you do this. I love the idea of the four women coming together they’re all very different, even though they’re sisters - but it’s amazing what they can achieve when they come together. Another major thing is getting out there and following your dreams - that’s such a massive theme in this production. It’s such a beautiful, positive show to be a part of. I feel it’s very important to share a show like this with the current climate in our country - youth suicide is a massive issue, so it’s important we share a story like this. Thanks Mindy. Interview: Jo Robinson.
The Sapphires is proudly presented by the Glasshouse Port Macquarie and Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS. See The Sapphires at the Glasshouse on April 27 at 8pm. Tickets: adult $64.90 / conc. $59.90 / U18 $29.90 Visit glasshouse.org.au for tickets and details. Greater Port Macquarie focus 41
It began with a suggestion from park ranger Mike Dodkin (still involved 40 years later) that the newly formed Mid North Coast branch of NPA UNDERTAKE SOME ON-GROUND CONSERVATION WORK IN CROWDY BAY NATIONAL PARK.
Regeneration
bush camp
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42 Greater Port Macquarie focus
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efore its park status, the area The achievements will be celebrated in was sand mined. On completion Laurieton on the 18th May as part of the now of mining operations along annual bush regeneration camp (13th - 19th many parts of the coastline, a May) held at the gorgeous spot of Kylies South African plant, bitou bush, Beach, 15 minutes south of Laurieton and 10 was sown. Thriving on our dune systems, it minutes north of Coralville. became highly invasive Volunteer coordinator and spread into other Sue Baker said, "As we habitats, including have just completed endangered littoral a three-year grant rainforest. program from the NSW Forty years later, the Since its simple Environmental Trust, the project is nationally beginnings of one need for volunteers to recognised as two days per year of carry out follow up is Australia’s longest volunteer working bees greater than ever." running bitou held on the park’s icon NPWS supplies a trailer eradication project. - Diamond Head - the fully equipped with eating project has seen many and cooking utensils and government grants, facilities. NPA provides a with aerial spraying of BBQ on Saturday night. foredunes, on-ground So, why not come work by contractors and thousands of hours along and contribute to the project’s fantastic of work by volunteers and NPWS. Forty years achievements, join in the celebration and later, the project is nationally recognised as enjoy the company of your fellow members Australia’s longest running bitou eradication and long term volunteers. project. It must also be one of its longest bush Contact Sue on (02) 6559 7134. regeneration projects.
focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.
I
Going to the ends of the Earth
t’s the end of the earth, of the Australian continent at least: remote Port Davey on the southern tip of Tasmania is one of the world’s most unspoiled areas and the best destination anywhere in our country for travellers seeking a true wilderness immersion and all that nature delivers in such a region. The reserve’s remained relatively untouched due to its remoteness but today is reached easily by a one-hour flight by Par Avion twin-engine Islander aircraft from Hobart, landing at Melaleuca airport on Bathurst Harbour - three times the size of Sydney Harbour. From there visitors embark on a guided expedition cruise through south-west Tasmania’s spectacular World Heritage Area. The 20m cruiser Odalisque accommodates up to six guests, or a private group of 10, in its cabins for four-, five- or seven-day tours, or specially-tailored itineraries exploring the magnificent surrounding national park, Huon Pine forests and rugged coastline. Walk the trails (graded easy to moderate), hike to mountain-top vantage points, go beachcombing and picnicking in untouched locales, take in abundant rare birdlife, drink in the cleanest air and soak up amazing scenic views of peaks rising out of the ocean - ideal for photography buffs - and the serenity of the virgin bush environment. The limited number of passengers makes for an intimate, personalised experience. The vessel carries two tenders: one, a jet-engine rigid inflatable boat with comfortable seating for close-up dolphin-spotting and excursions along the winding, tree-lined bends of the Davey River marine park and Gorge. The
second, the “tinny”, is a 14ft aluminium dinghy that’s both versatile and safe in the sometimes changeable weather conditions. It’s deployed for exploring fascinating local sea caves, rock arches, blowholes and rocky islets because of its easy handling and manoeuvrability, and for travel over longer distances thanks to its speed. The operators describe Odalisque as a “floating boutique hotel with hot showers and soft beds” (some cabins include an ensuite bathroom) where guests are tended to by an expert skipper and interpretive guide, or “passionate, personal walking encyclopaedia”, as well as a guest chef “borrowed from Hobart’s best restaurants” preparing gourmet Tassie produce, wines and boutique beer. Past guests declare it’s “the trip of a lifetime”. Port Davey is named for Tassie’s second Governor, a First Fleet British marine who also served in the West Indies and at Trafalgar. Interestingly, and like the Kimberley, it was once mooted as the location for a Jewish homeland in the post-WWII search that eventually established the State of Israel. Begin by visiting www.tasmanianboatcharters.com.au When it’s not at Port Davey, Odalisque tours Bruny Island, south of Hobart, and its gourmet produce farms – one of the best day-tours I’ve enjoyed anywhere in the country – and offers charters of several other appealing Tasmanian marine locations. See www. paravion.com.au for flight information and other same-day and longer tours and luxury wilderness camping in charming bush cabins.
From rags to bags for sustainable travellers If travelling unspoiled Port Davey appeals so will this eco-friendly fashionable and tough Conversion collection of backpacks, laptop messenger bags, cross-body and waist-bag styles made from a blend of reclaimed recycled polyester materials. It’s by trendy quality Crumpler brand, also offering dozens of other bags on wheels, hard-case luggage, cabin luggage and ergonomic backpacks. Available at Crumpler stores nationally or online with free domestic shipping at www.crumpler.com For a chance to win the weatherproof backpack pictured, with tablet pocket and padded left or right shoulder strap, RRP $169, list five benefits of owning sustainably-conscious luggage. Entries to: Crumpler at sunconsulting@ozemail.com.au with name, address and phone by 18 April 2019. Game of skill; prize awarded to the entry judged as listing the best five Crumpler attributes.
Greater Port Macquarie focus 43
focus_contributor
J A N E T T E H Y D E F R O M P O R T M A C Q U A R I E T O U R I S M A S S O C I AT I O N
tourism UPDATE
Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard will be the venue for the official opening of the Port Macquarie Hastings Heritage Festival on 6th April at 12pm. Lots of fun and entertainment. Douglas Vale will also be hosting Light Up the Museum on the 26th April. There will be many other events associated with the festival, so watch the press and Facebook for further details.
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olunteers: The Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Ambassadors are looking for new recruits to join them at the Glasshouse! As a volunteer, you will be part of an enthusiastic and friendly team who support the Visitor Information Centre. Your role would be to share your local knowledge with visitors on things to see and do during their visit to the region. Interested? Contact the Glasshouse to collect an application pack, or call on (02) 6581 8000, and they will mail you the information. In May, Ironman is happening again, and volunteers are still needed. Check out www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/asiapac/ ironman-70.3/port-macquarie.aspx and then go to volunteers to register. If you enjoy being part of a team and have a passion for our beautiful region, then why not volunteer for any of our major events! Greater Port Macquarie hosted fifteen youths from Kids in Dangerous Situations (KIDS) Foundation when they took part in a recent four-day camp in Port Macquarie. Camp favourites over the trip included a Cruise with Port AdVenture on the Hastings River, Jet Boat ride hosted by Port Jet, visiting the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and golf at Port Macquarie Driving Range. Some camp attendees tried stand up paddle boarding at Settlement Point and shared a great morning at Billabong Zoo, with a close encounter with the albino Carpet Python, Walter, which was a really different experience for most. Paul Dawson, Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association Board Member, assisted the facilitation of the four-day itinerary. It was wonderful to see these special kids having fun. A big thank you to the GPMTA businesses who were involved in the camp. We welcome nine new members this month: Laurieton Hotel - has it all! Beverages, dining, kids’ activities, accommodation, function facilities and entertainment: www.laurietonhotel.com.au 44 Greater Port Macquarie focus
Facade Escape Room - Port Macquarie’s only Escape Games Room. www.facade-escape.com.au Cruise HQ Restaurant and Bar - (previously Latin Loafer and Yesterday's Jam) Recently has been purchased by David Lazarus and Elsa Barbosa, re-named Cruise HQ Restaurant and Bar: www.cruiseportmacquarie.com.au Limitless Tours - offer customised tours from the Port Macquarie area, to all regional events and venues: www.limitlesstours.com.au Cardinal Spin Communications - a fullservice communications agency, specialising in all areas of communications, public and media relations, publicity, events, and VIP/celebrity engagement: www.cardinalspin.com.au The Other Chef - specialises in producing award winning jams, relishes, sauces, pickles and other essential condiments: www.theotherchef.com.au The Grill Restaurant - located on Clarence Street overlooking Hastings River. This is the perfect spot to go for a relaxed lunch or dinner. www.thegrillrestaurant.com.au Ocean Star Deep Sea Fishing Charters locally owned and operated, the Ocean Star is a 40 ft custom Randel charter fishing boat: www.portmacquariefishingcharters.com.au TAFE NSW Port Macquarie Campus - many courses are available: Travel, Tourism, Hospitality, Commercial Cookery and Event Management, to name a few: www.tafensw.edu.au/courses/ tourism-hospitality-events The Old Butter Factory - provides you with a stunningly rustic and chic setting for functions, and they also do a great breakfast. Contact the website for more details: www.theoldbutterfactorytelepoint.com.au With the school holidays fast approaching, this month why not pick up a copy of the Eat See and Do Guide at the Visitors Information Centre in the Glasshouse, at the iKew Visitor Centre, all Council Offices and Libraries. Lots more happening in April; check out the number of activities at 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, Trade Training Centre and the Iona Sports Gymnasium.
To find out more about what we offer in Secondary School at SCAS, contact us today.
A world of opportunities T: 6581 4188 | info@scas.nsw.edu.au | www.scas.nsw.edu.au
focusinterview.
Hump Day FOCUS CORRESPONDENT RUTH ALLEN BRAVED HER FEAR OF HEIGHTS TO CHAT WITH CAMELEER JOHN HARDY FROM PORT MACQUARIE CAMEL SAFARIS.
J
ohn, how did you end up running camels on Lighthouse Beach? I bought the business 12 years ago; it started in 1989, but I met a lady who said she rode a camel here on her honeymoon in the '60s, so they may have been here much longer. I’m the third owner, now with my business partner, Michael Doust. I’ve been mucking around with camels since I was about 24. I was a miner in Kalgoorlie and needed to get off the grog, and my wife told me to go find a hobby. I tried licking stamps for a hobby, but the taste didn’t agree with me! I’d ridden a camel at the Perth Show and as soon as it stood up, I thought, “I’ll do something with this”, so I found a bloke on a cattle station at Coolgardie and asked him to teach me about camels. I’d go out there at the weekends for about seven years, and then I had camels as pets. What made you move to the East Coast? I actually came over here with the idea to do camel rides, but I was as dumb as mud and I thought I’d just bring the camels down the beach and get going. I hadn’t thought about insurance and permits and all that; there was already a business here, and the other shires weren’t that interested. By this time my wife had started working in Kempsey, and I couldn’t go anywhere, so I sold my camels and went working with the mentally disabled for about seven/eight years. And then one day I called up the guy on Lighthouse Beach and asked if he had a camel he didn’t want that I could buy to ride at the weekend. He said he didn’t, but that he was selling the business, so I bought it and all of
My camels all have very different personalities. You can’t train two of them the same way; they’re all individuals. One of mine
them! Tell me a bit about the you can cuddle and pat camels? Where do they as much as you like, but come from? another one - a farmer took Yes, at the moment Our camels are part of his ear off, and it took six we’ve got seven, and Dromedaries and they months for him to stop kicking we’re getting four have one hump, unlike the out when we got him ... more after Easter. I lost Bactrian camels, that have a couple recently, one two. Australian Dromedaries to a snake bite, and are descendants of Arab another swallowed camels that came here in the some rope that was inside a hay bale. We’ll be 1860s for the Burke and Wills expedition, and up to 11, but we don’t want too many, because they basically became outback trucks carrying between the drought and the floods the price pianos, bales of wool, mining equipment - all of hay has gone right up - and not only that, it’s sorts. In the 1920s, when cars and trucks began getting really hard to come by. But the camels to arrive, they let the camels go, and now can eat from ground level to 3.5 m high; maybe I we’re the only country in the world with a large should take them to the reserves and charge the population of wild Dromedaries - maybe up to Council for pruning! 1.5 - 1.7 million. It must be hard on days when you don’t get My camels all have very different personalities. many people on the beach? You can’t train two of them the same way; Throughout the winter, and even February they’re all individuals. One of mine you can sometimes, we’re only doing it for the love of it. cuddle and pat as much as you like, but another We’ll get down here, and we might only make one - a farmer took part of his ear off, and it eight bucks - sometimes we mightn’t make took six months for him to stop kicking out when anything - but we just keep going. If it wasn’t we got him. Some are more affectionate, others for the holidays every ten weeks, we wouldn’t a bit more wary. Some of them we’re not entirely survive. We’re allowed a maximum of six camels sure how old they are - you can guess from their on the beach; when we’re not particularly busy, teeth. The ones here are between about 10 and I bring four down to the beach, and in the busy 14 years old. season we just do more trips. They can live up to about 60 years old, but Have you ever had any famous people do that’s rare - generally it’s more like 30 to 40. The your rides? previous owner had one whom we reckoned was Once I had a Tongan opera singer - he let rip, about 43 when she stopped working. and there can’t be too many places you could I understand you’re getting some more listen to live opera from the back of a camel camels soon?
while watching whales and dolphins jump! I’ve had David Hicks, the guy they locked up in Guantanamo Bay, and that bloke off The Bachelor, the one they called the Honey Badger. You obviously enjoy a good yarn. Who would you most like to chat with while you’re leading the camels? Other camel trainers - in India they have camels in the Army and they give them ranks, so a camel might be a Sergeant, and if he misbehaves he’ll get demoted. And there are people who teach them to dance; there’s an English woman who uses them for dressage; she says they’re better than any horse, and they never put a foot wrong. That would be interesting. What are your plans for the future? I’m 57 - there’s a lot of walking in this job! When it’s busy, we might do 15 trips, that’s 30 km in a day. You need younger legs, and it’s good to pass it on to the next generation. I’m not very good with computers and the internet and all that, and Michael can take that stuff on. And I’m thinking we might go into perfume Camel Number Five; what do you reckon? I’ll pass on the perfume, but thanks for the chat and the ride, John! More info: Port Macquarie Camel Safaris, Sunday Monday, weather permitting, 9:30am - 1pm at the southern entrance to Lighthouse Beach on Matthew Flinders Drive. Tel: 0437 672 080. Greater Port Macquarie focus 45
in Greater Port Macquarie “IT’S ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE!”
BELLROWAN VALLEY HORSE RIDING
BAGO MAZE AND WINERY
Port Macquarie’s authentic Horse Riding Experience
Take time out to visit Bago Maze & Winery, a unique adventure for the whole family.
We’re open 7 DAYS; bookings essential. Phone 6587 5227 Web: bellrowanvalley.com.au
Enjoy a wine tasting in the Cellar Door followed by a cheese platter on the pergola overlooking the picturesque Vineyards and Maze.
■ Take to the hills and explore the hinterland, a real Aussie bush experience ■ Daily 1hr & 2hr Trail Rides, Overnight Packages, 2 Day Bush Pub Ride, Chicks in the Sticks, 3 Day Trek, 3 Day Kids Camp. ■ Small groups w experienced & friendly guides ■ Shady, picturesque trails, abundant wildlife ■ Easy scenic 30 min drive from Port Macquarie ■ Happy, quiet, healthy horses; the best!
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Lose yourself or the kids in the largest hedge maze in NSW – 2m High and 2km long! Join us on the second Sunday of every month to enjoy live music and a picnic on the grass. Phone: 6585 7099 Open: 9am - 5pm with last Maze entry at 4pm (7 days) Address: Milligans Rd (off Bago Rd), Wauchope Web: www.bago.com.au
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We’re open 7 DAYS, ■ Awesome ocean thrill rides We’reRider, openPort 7 DAYS, ■ Wave Macquarie's and bookings are essential.newest and bookings custom built boatare essential. Phone 6587 5227 ■ Whale Phonewatching 6587 5227 web: www.bellrowanvalley.com.au ■ Eco - National Park river cruise web: www.bellrowanvalley.com.au ■ Daily sunset 1 & 2 hrcruise Trail Rides. Pub Ride 2 Days ■ Famous ■ Daily 1 & 2 hr Trail Rides. Pub Ride 2 Days ■ Boom Net Cruises ■ Tuition before and during every ride ■ Tuition before during every ride ■ Private charter for and functions and parties ■ Quality horses, beautiful scenery and ■ Jet Ski hire horses, in our exclusive jetscenery ski park and ■ Quality beautiful friendly guides ■ Freshly baked damper & ■ No licence required friendly guides ■ Freshly baked damper & refreshments after adventure every ride.with Port ■ 10% off your second refreshments Cruise Adventuresafter every ride. Phone: 6583 8811 or 0419 620 765 Address: Cnr of Town Green & Short Street, Port Macquarie www.portjet.com.au
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46 Greater Port Macquarie focus
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2019 ADVENTURE CAMPS MAJESTIC Outdoor Adventurous Holiday and Weekend Camps CINEMAS n An unforgettable ‘experience based’ present Movies Alive in Port Macquarie for KidsCome 7-14yrs. Horseback surfing, ■nNew Screensriding, ■ New Foyerswimming, hiking, waterfalls ■visiting New Candy Bar & rainforests and engaging in creative craft, sports and more n Camps are interspersed with team building theactivities Movie Club & socialisationJoin games, and free time, forthink great discounts! allowing kids to and behave creatively. n Children are under full supervision throughout the camp by qualified and Majestic Cinema's experienced campSelect leadersSeries (NDIS showcases Provider). an range of high content Campers arequality given the spaceto toengage explore new experiences friendships in picked a supportive the discerningand audience. Hand for environment. excellence. n Offers parents respite during the busy holiday periods. To book and for session times, head Adventurer Camp” 21st – 24th to“Audacious our website. January 2019 Web: majesticcinemas.com.au Bookings: aussiekidsadventurecamps.com.au Phone: Phone:6583 04228400 089 635
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What's on this April
Appearances by PJ Masks Character, Moana, Poppy Troll, Leo (TMNT) and Elmo
EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA
STAND-OUT EVENTS: Appearances by PJ Masks Character, Moana, Poppy Troll, Leo (TMNT) and Elmo. CRAFT: Plaster painting, creative textile and sensory art, cooking - biscuit decorating and fruit kebabs and more. SEE OUR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA SITES FOR MORE INFO. Sun-Fri 10am-3pm • Sat - 9am-4pm
Easter Saturday, 20 April 2019 Come and meet the Easter Bunny!!!
WAVE BOWL ■ Ten Pin Bowling Fun n ■ Awesome Bowling Deals n ■ School Holiday Early Bird $ 7 Games from n 8.30-9.30am everyday during the school holidays. n BeersHoliday ’n Bowling Every Monday, School Deals valid throughTuesday, April Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday. 8pm 2019 NSW school holidays only. - 10pm $ 4 Beers - $ 6 Games ■ Beers ’n Bowling Every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday. 8pm Phone: 6583Thursday, 2238 - 10pm $ 4 Beers - $ 6 Games Address: 159 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie Web: www.wavebowl.com.au Phone: 6583 2238 Address: 159 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie Web: www.wavebowl.com.au
JUMBOS PLAYLAND PORT Don’t let your kids be bored these school MACQUARIE holidays. We provide all the fun and activities while ticking all your boxes for healthy and GOLF CLUB active kids. ■ Enjoy a tasty meal at Aspire overlooking 4 golf Exercise 4 Healthy Café Menu the course 4 Craft and Activities ■ Bingo Monday AM and Thursday Evenings EVENTS: Appearances by Paw ■ STAND-OUT 18 hole challenging golf course Patrol, Poppy Troll, Moana, Elmo and Leo ■ Golf lessons (TMNT) ■ Junior clinics and classes CRAFT: Plaster painting, creative textile and ■ Trivia Wednesday evenings sensory art, cooking - biscuit decorating and ■ fruit TABkebabs & Foxsports and more. ■ Friendly, comfortable and relaxing SEE OUR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA SITES 6582 FOR MORE Phone: 0409 INFO. Address: Ocean Drive,• Port Sun-Fri 10am-3pm Sat -Macquarie 9am-4pm www.portmacquariegolf.com.au Phone: 6581 0909 Address: 17 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie Web: jumbosplayland.com.au
SEE EVEN MORE AT WWW.52THINGS2DO.COM.AU Greater Port Macquarie focus 53
Phone: 6581 0909 Address: 17 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie Web: jumbosplayland.com.au
BILLABONG ZOO TRIPLE THE CUTENESS! Billabong Zoo invites you to come meet our latest arrivals Kiros, Zoraya & Nuru are our newest Lion cubs and they want to meet you this School Holiday. So put on your safari suit and make sure you bring your camera to capture something cute! Check the daily presentation schedule so you don’t miss out on a chance to see these little cuties this school holiday at Billabong Zoo! Plus try a milkshake from our café, just like these guys! Open: Daily 9am to 5pm Address: Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie Phone: 6585 1060 Web: billabongzoo.com.au
BILLABONG ZOO WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT? Don’t forget about our SPECIAL Up Close Zoo Encounters these school holidays. You can meet a Meerkat, converse with a Cheetah, participate with a Red Panda, smile with a Snake, study a Snow Leopard or contemplate with a Koala Our special range of premium up close experiences at Billabong Zoo – all waiting for you! VE SA
0 $1
CUT ME OUT
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE, SNAKE ENCOUNTERS APRIL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ONLY
2019
Open: Daily 9am to 5pm Address: Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie Phone: 6585 1060 Web: billabongzoo.com.au
Greater Port Macquarie focus 47
Focus_coffs_advert_v1.pdf
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18/2/19
8:40 am
Belinda Johnson, SMART Coaching
Eureka Explorers Welcome! Eureka Explorers is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) school holiday workshop initiative suitable for children in primary school Years 3 to 6, 2019. Our workshops run at authentic local locations where science takes place. Children are inspired, being one with nature and having fun with handson age appropriate activities at our creative environments. C
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William Crighton THE Tambourine Girls DONNA AMINI | SYNTAX ERROR GOLDHEIST | THE WARTS CAPTAIN TRAGIC | UNIGL O DAVE FAVOURS AND THE ROADSIDE ASHES DUNGHUTTI DANCERS PLUS ... Food, Bar, Bellydancing, Puppetry, Lily’s Kids Explosion & MUCH more!
WALCHA SHOWGROUND | ONSITE CAMPING GET
OF YOUR T OEU for local emerging talent
GARAGE pril ...5-9pm Fri 12 A
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EARLY BIRD TICKETS FROM
$20 ENDS SOON! (SEE WEBSITE)
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We encourage young minds to learn through genuine scientific enquiry, so they can make sense of the world around them. Eureka Explorers workshops include all materials, safety gear and healthy, allergy-free snacks for each child. All staff are trained in first aid, and all adults are Working with Children certified. The high ratio of staff to children at our workshops delivers on our commitment to quality care. We look forward to meeting your child at your next session with us! Petriea Skitek.
Dedicated business woman Belinda Johnson is on a fundraising mission to raise funds for a charity close to her heart, whilst launching her new Pilates services at SMART Coaching. Her recent fundraising venture was an amazing success, which also brought a community together. Approximately 200 people attended the swimming event, with 40 relay participating teams, from ages five years to over 65s all coming together for the joy of swimming and to raise money for a good cause. A beautiful and touching speech was made by Belinda at the race brief, recognising the loss of her father at only 50 years of age, when she was in her early twenties. The sentimental reasoning for the Business House Relay was then communicated. It was something her whole family used to run at the Coffs Harbour pool with her dad by her side growing up. In less than two weeks, the community will come together again and have some fun on the dance floor to support Belinda, who is taking part as a dancer in the 2019 Stars of the Hastings Dance for Cancer event here in Port Macquarie, to raise money for cancer research. Belinda is truly a formidable force. A positive attitude is with her in everything she does. The event was special, to say the very least.
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French Sixteen year old Abigail French is an extremely talented musician. LIVING AWAY FROM A MAJOR CITY HASN’T DETERRED HER FROM FOLLOWING HER DREAM OF BECOMING AN ORCHESTRAL VIOLINIST - and she’s well on her way to achieving this goal!
H
i Abi. Please tell us a little about yourself, your family, and your connection to the Port Macquarie area … My mum grew up holidaying in the Camden Haven every year, and then her parents retired in Laurieton. I originally grew up in Perth, but 10 years ago we came over for what was supposed to be three months, while my grandma underwent cancer treatment. We all loved the area so much, we didn't go back! I now live in West Haven with my parents and younger sister. I originally attended Laurieton Public School, until I moved in Year 5 to St Columba Anglican School in Port Macquarie. Whether it was concerts at the Glasshouse, Eisteddfods, the Mid North Coast Youth Orchestra or productions at the Players Theatre ... I was involved, so I quickly became part of the music community here. When/how did your interest in music begin? Which came first - playing music or singing? My mum plays both flute and piano, so I guess my introduction to music came from her. She performed with a Perth orchestra when we were still in WA, so that was really where it all started. I don't remember, but apparently I used to sit quietly through her orchestra concerts from when I was two. It raised a few eyebrows with the other concert goers, as they were sure I would disturb them all! By age four I was asking to play an orches-
tra instrument. Mum wanted me to start on the piano first, but after a few months of me constantly asking to play a violin, I started Suzuki lessons with my first instrument made of cardboard and a stick! I've never had singing lessons, but being in choir with Marie van Gent from SCAS has made me love singing at a much higher level. What style of music do you most enjoy for both playing and singing? I don’t have a particular style that I stick to; I try to incorporate as much variety as I can. Most of my solo violin playing is classical across all the main periods of western music. My favourite pieces at the moment are 19th Century by Saint-Saens and de Falla. I think that's what I love most about music - the link to history and culture - the composers and performers all have a story. My regular play list is of current popular music, which I sing along to at home and love hearing other music students perform. The chamber choir at SCAS sings a fantastic range of music with a classical base, but extending to traditional music from other cultures. At 16, you've already enjoyed quite a few phenomenal music experiences! You've travelled to Singapore as the leader of our local youth orchestra, and to New York - Carnegie Hall, no less! with the school chamber choir. What are some of your favourite memories from these experiences? On both occasions I was fortunate enough to travel with the most amazing people, so
learn from them. Not almost everything we By age four I was asking to having access to major did was memorable, play an orchestra instrument. city conservatoriums but New York had been Mum wanted me to start on the and music scenes, I got on the bucket list for piano first, but after a few so many ideas that had a while; it was just so months of me constantly me consider options I surreal to be able to go asking to play a violin, hadn’t even considered and with my friends - so I started Suzuki lessons before. I’m extremely grateful. with my first instrument - made I have recently just My personal of cardboard and a stick! major highlights were started distance educaperforming Viotti’s violin tion a few weeks ago concerto solo with the to allow me to increase MNCYO on tour in Singapore and a mastermy daily practice - I thought my teacher was class with the Singapore Symphony. Stepping only joking when she said I needed a miniout on to the Carnegie stage for the first mum of four hours a day to have a chance at time was beyond incredible and of course, a performance career! meeting Paul Mealor - the mastermind beMy camp experience gave me a clearer hind the Requiem! understanding of what being a professional In January this year, you also took part musician involves and how much I love playin the Australian Youth Orchestra ing in an orchestra. Summer Camp in Adelaide, after a sucWhat advice would you like to share cessful audition. How did this opportuni- with other young aspiring musicians? ty come about? Although the exposure for these opportunities may be greater for those in capital I was introduced to the camp by my teachcities, no matter where you are it can only be er in Newcastle - Olena Zaporozhets - who an audition away! All the AYO programs and encouraged me to audition back in August auditions details are on their website: last year. I didn’t expect to get in first time, www.ayo.com.au especially as the camp is open to players What are your future goals/dreams? up to age 23, so was thrilled when I got a To become an orchestral violinist. I’m not second round offer! sure what that means yet - in what orchestra How much did you enjoy the camp ... or where in the world it might take me - I and what were some of the most valuable things you learned by attending? just know that I appreciate it more than I I loved the camp. Apart from the new ever have and I’m excited for the future. friendships, it was such a brilliant way to Thanks Abi. meet so many talented musicians and to Interview: Jo Robinson.
Greater Port Macquarie focus 49
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10-18 April 10-18 April 10-18 April
NSW Youth Week 2019
10-18 April ’s YO U TH C o u n ci l E D I U G MAKING HELP E CI S I O N D D E S U FOC
2019 THEME - COMING TOGETHER TO CONNECT, SHARE, SPEAK OUT AND CELEBR ATE.
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outh Week began as a NSW Government initiative in 1986, and has since grown to be a celebration of young people in every state and territory across the country. It is organised by young people, for young people, in and across NSW and Australia. Following the success of the NSW Youth Week program, Youth Week became a national event in 2000. National Youth Week is jointly supported by the Australian Government, State and Territory Governments and Local Governments. National Youth Week is an opportunity for young people to share ideas, attend live events, have their voices heard on issues of concern, showcase their talents, celebrate their contribution to the community and have fun. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council recognises the important contribution young people make to the Hastings region.Our young people are vibrant, creative and talented in so many ways. They have strong opinions and great ideas for the future of the area, our state, the country and the world. Council has continuously led programs for Youth Week for more than a decade focusing on supporting the ideas of our young people by building capacity, leadership and promoting new inclusive opportunities. Working alongside our young community, our region’s Youth Week program in recent years has won awards for The Most Innovative Youth Week Program, Best Local Youth Week Program and Best Ongoing Commitment to Youth Week. This year’s program is also shaping up to be a winner. For the first time and as part of Council’s ongoing commitment to its youth community and also with an emphasis on capacity building, Council has set up and is promoting the ‘YOU’th Events Grants, providing young people and youth-related groups/services with the opportunity to apply for grant funding between $500 and $1000 to assist with presenting a youth-focused event or activity. Another new item on the region’s Youth Week program this year is ‘Youth Voice’ - a youth forum organised by Council in collaboration with young people, focusing on the issues affecting our young people. Young leaders in our community have been working with Council to plan the forum taking place from 8am – 11am, Wednesday 10th April at 50 Greater Port Macquarie focus
the Glasshouse. The solutions-focused session, giving young people a voice, will not only highlight the issues experienced but will also workshop ideas for improvement and have a say on the development of our place. Young people between the ages of 12-24 who are keen to make a difference are encouraged to register online, on the Council website. Street Artz Fest - An amazing group of young people studying event management and mentored by the equally amazing Melinda Miante have pulled out all the stops to organise a festival to celebrate urban arts and music, showcasing the talents of the region’s youth. The events program is massive with activities such as The Mini Makers Markets, Street Performers, Rap & Lip Sync Battles, Graffiti Workshops, Tie Dye Workshops, Night-time Neon Dance and all topped off with live local music performances. The Street Artz Fest is a recipient of Council’s ‘YOU’th Events Grants and we are very proud to support this event. The Street Artz Fest will be held on the 13th April at the CON, 56 Hollingworth Road. For more information, times and booking workshops jump onto the event’s Facebook page. Youth Environmental Empowerment Program – this program is designed to equip, support and mentor young people across the region to encourage them to promote environmental change within schools, community groups/ sports groups and homes. The program which is also a recipient of Council’s ‘YOU’th Events Grants, will educate young people on climate, pollution and environmental impact issues as well as empower them to tackle those big issues in smaller ways. The program will be run during Youth Week by our local Queen of Sustainability and CEO of The Rhi Rebellion Rhiannon Simmons. To find out more Follow @TheRhiRebellion on Facebook or Instagram #rhirebellion Other programmed events include The Youth Week Moonlight Movie in Wauchope and the Cosplay and Manga Mania Art Exhibition at the Port Macquarie Library. The Port Macquarie Museum is also offering free entry for all young people aged 12 to 25 years to the multi-award winning museum during Youth Week. Stay informed by heading to the Port Macquarie Hastings Council website (search Youth Week) or by following us on Facebook @ pmhc2444 /@HastingsYAC
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THE
pathway
St Agnes' Parish educational from early education to life-long learning
St Agnes’ Parish provides a unique education pathway that is unmatched in opportunity and access, locally and nationally. The group that represent this pathway includes (from back row); St Joseph’s Family Services Executive Manager Wendy Ward, St Peter’s Primary School Principal Geoff Leary, Coordinating Executive Officer of St Agnes’ Parish Education & Training Stephen Pares, St Joseph’s Regional College Principal Jim Dempsey, John Henry Institute Manager Ben Castles, MacKillop College Acting Principal Cath Eichmann, (seated) St Joseph’s Primary School Principal Tess Koning, Newman Senior Technical College Principal Mark Nunan and St Agnes’ Primary School Acting Principal Rick Galvin. Accompanying them are students from across St Agnes’ Parish schools.
ST AGNES’ PARISH HAS EDUCATED LOCAL YOUTH SINCE THE SISTERS OF ST JOSEPH ESTABLISHED A PRIMARY SCHOOL IN PORT MACQUARIE IN 1913. Coordinating Executive Officer of St Agnes’ Parish Education & Training Stephen Pares says that while the educational pathway offered to students today is significantly different from 100 years ago, it is well-recognised and respected by the local community.
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tephen Pares says St Agnes’ Parish’s strong grounding in the Catholic faith is the basis for an unmatched education pathway that provides a well-rounded combination of academic, cultural, sporting and pastoral programs. “The pathway begins in early education and goes beyond high school graduation. This approach develops our students into resilient, socially-conscious individuals wanting to make a difference in the community,” Stephen Pares said. “Four decades ago, the Parish identified the need for early education that was opened up to local families from all backgrounds. From there, St Joseph’s Family Services now offers innovative learning programs and holistic family support that equips families with the solid foundations for children to develop knowledge, skills and mindsets in our primary school environment.” “Our primary schools build on this strong foundation through a modern and specialised learning model which supports and extends students capabilities. At its core, students receive a holistic education within communities
which support them and their families as they offering that answers local training and skills grow, learn and develop. We are very proud development needs for school students and of the breadth of opportunities that students people of all ages. receive within our primary schools.” “Parents that experienced this pathway “At the secondary school level, we help our have in turn, placed their children and grandstudents discover knowledge, skills and values children on the same educational journey. To that will serve them me, this is clear recognition well for the rest of something special that of their lives. Our we are offering over multisecondary schools ple generations.” We could not achieve this are the springboard “We could not achieve without the exceptional for students to this success without the leadership and extend themselves exceptional leadership and commitment from our spiritually, intelleccommitment from our edueducational leaders, their tually, physically cational leaders, their leadleadership groups and support and emotionally. ership groups and support from parents and families. Newman College, from parents and families,” our specifically dedStephen Pares said. icated world-class To see first-hand how facility focusing the Parish educational on vocational pathway prepares your education also has an enviable reputation for family for lifelong learning, you can book a providing our students with practical skills that tour at one of our primary schools during prepare them for the workplace.” April or attend a Year 7 information session. Stephen Pares says the Parish’s training More information is available at: provider, the John Henry Institute, is a newer enrolinexcellence.org.au
Year 7, 2020
Information Nights
REGISTER NOW: enrolinexcellence.org.au
Monday 6th May 2019 6:00pm
Tuesday 7th May 2019 6:00pm
Enrol in Excellence at St Agnes’ Parish Schools P I 6588 7444 E I enrol@pac.stagnesparish.org.au W I enrolinexcellence.org.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 53
focusinterview.
Live2U - Media & Production Services and the Conservatorium Mid North Coast IN CONJUNCTION WITH LOCAL YOUTH PRESENT STREET ARTZ FEST ... THIS INNOVATIVE FESTIVAL WILL COMBINE URBAN VISUAL ARTS, LIVE MUSIC AND STREET PERFORMERS, appealing to young people and family groups! ella Miante, from Live 2U: Hi Mella. What is the Street Artz Fest, and when is it taking place? Street Artz Fest is going to be an exciting, uniquely different, all ages drug and alcohol-free event held on Saturday 13th April at 11am, as part of Youth Week celebrations. It’s all happening at the Conservatorium MNC (The Con) and Girl Guides Halls on Hollingworth Street, Port Macquarie, and the entry cost during the daytime is only "a gold coin". This innovative festival will showcase a variety of Street Art, such as spray paint and stencil graffiti, street installations and sculptures, plus live music, dance, market stalls, art and craft, local youth services, fun workshops and a stack of other activities. We hear the committee is made up of younger people, which is great; how have you put this concept together, and what are the aims of the event? I was inspired by how Townsville have embraced Street Art on a recent visit; in addition, our teenage son is an aspiring graffiti artist, plus I am passionate about live music and I am the Event Manager for "The Con" - so combine all these elements, and Street Artz Fest was born! We also wanted to ensure this event reflects what local young people want, so we established a committee incorporating youth to be a part of planning/organisation, who are known as our Street Artz Fest Crew! Our youngest member is Tianah Mckinnon, aged 11 years, then we have around 15 other members ranging up to age 26 - plus the addition of a few more mature members to guide the group. We thought this event could also provide work experience opportunities for young people, so we reached out. We have two members who are studying Events Management at TAFE, 54 Greater Port Macquarie focus
and one of our chief organisers/PR rep Joey is keenly pursuing a career as a Youth Counsellor. It's rewarding and mutually beneficial to help support them with their study/career goals. Our crew meet regularly (weekly at present) and everyone contributes to the festival operations, from planning to distributing flyers. We have a Facebook group, and we communicate a lot via this forum. The crew is a bit like a fraternity, where we encourage all members to participate every year and as the festival continues to grow, we hope they will nominate new members to join and/or take over from them. It sounds like a lot of fun! What type of activities do you have planned during the daytime? It’s a really hands on art and culture festival, and it should be a blast! First up, before the festival officially begins, Street Artz Fest will embrace the process behind the spray cans and stencils, providing a safe workshop environment for young artists to learn and/or perfect their art under the guidance of professional artist Damon Moroney from Iknograffix. Young artists will produce their own Street Art before the festival starts, and their work will be on exhibit during the day (pre-booking required to participate). At 11am, the festival kicks off - and tinytots won’t miss out either, with a safe spray art fun activity and artist competitions. Other exciting daytime activities for everyone include: Drumming Workshops, UV Body Paint/Glitter Station, Tie Dye Art Workshop, Circus Skills Workshops, Dance Showcase by Movement Studios, Mini Makers Markets, Music Mixing Demo, Lip Sync/Rap Battle competition, Raffles, a variety of retail market stalls and live music provided by local duos Dubbele, and On the House, Jamie and Pablo, plus some electronic beats by Holotropik and a few local buskers. It’s
going to be pretty full on entertainment between 11am and 5pm! Tell us about the Evening Dance
Our crew meet regularly (weekly at present) and everyone
contributes to the
walls in their city centre. To quote their Council, “The Street Art movement in Townsville provides local artists with exciting professional development and career opportunities and adds value to Townsville’s arts and culture product. Economically, Street Art helps to activate the CBD, encourage cultural tourism, and strengthen the city’s arts
Party? festival operations, from At 6pm, our Neon planning to distributing Dance Party kicks flyers. We have a Facebook off, featuring live group, and we communicate a music by local Hip lot via this forum. Hop group manicSoul and electronic dance music by Holotropik. We will also have a black light set up and UV body painting sector.” available, which will provide an extra visual I would like to see our Council consider a extravaganza! Movement Studios will have a similar framework/approach here to our local art dance troupe performing, and we also have and culture, and in relation to our festival, we some local Poi Dancers lighting up the stage hope Street Artz Fest will grow each year and with their LED lights. The night time event is attract graffiti artists and musicians from all over open to all ages; however, under 13s must be the globe! accompanied by a parent or guardian. Tickets are Do you have any supporters or sponsors to $10pp and numbers are limited, so booking is acknowledge? recommended. Firstly, I’d like to thank The Conservatorium Mella, why is it important to give our youth MNC for believing in this initiative and backing opportunities to express themselves in the it and the ongoing efforts of the Street Artz Fest community through art - and how do you crew! Other sponsors include Hastings Council, see this event growing? Live2U, RS Media Consulting, Iknograffix, Damon and I both share similar views on YPSpace MNC, Constable Printing, Holotropik, this; we feel it is important to offer young Holden Port Macquarie, Port Macquarie Girl street artists and safe "legal" space for artistic Guides, Kids Port Macquarie, InnerVision, expression. Just to be clear, the Street Art/ 95 Store, Harvey Norman, Coastal Hire, Graffiti we represent is MURAL ART; it is NOT headspace Port Macquarie and friends of the tagging! We see this type of modern Mural Art Conservatorium MNC. as a wonderful way to transform and beautify Where can we find out more? ugly empty spaces into vibrant decorative art and For more info and tickets, visit deter vandalism. www.live2u.com.au/streetartzfest Earlier I spoke of visiting Townsville, where I Facebook Events www.facebook.com/ was impressed by the amount of Street Art used events/216932602560886/ to vibrantly dress the otherwise bland urban Thanks Mella.
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Many of us require glasses, but probably don’t consider how - or where - the frames are made.
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ould it surprise you to learn there’s an entrepreneur amongst us, who manufactures environmentally conscious, customisable spectacle frames, right here in Port Macquarie? Meet Greg French, from Optex Australia … Hi Greg. How was Optex Australia was established in Port Macquarie ... Optex Australia was formed on the back of an idea. I didn’t seriously consider it a business possibility, until an opportunity arose in early January 2018 to secure assets from one of Australia’s last remaining eyewear manufacturers. I’d heard about an eyewear business that had fallen on hard times, and I remember thinking to myself, “If only I could get all of that machinery into premises in Port Macquarie, it would be possible to develop this idea into a great business”. What does your business specialise in? Australian manufactured, high quality frames that can be customised to fit the wearer. Successfully dispensing prescription eyewear can be challenging, mainly due to the many different lens technologies available. Frames should look amazing, fit comfortably all day, and functionally support the prescribed lens design. The problem with manufacturing spectacle frames is it so much cheaper and easier to mass produce for 70% of the market across a few standard sizes. Over the past 12 months, we have developed an innovative and economic way to custom make a wide range of unusual frame sizes and styles. For now, we are focused on the Australian optical industry, but are very excited at the future export opportunities in a niche market. How do you currently distribute your products?
The business has been established as a wholesale manufacturer for the Australian optical market - an industry we are proud to support and partner with. We do not have any immediate plans to retail directly to the public from our factory, although we will closely watch the market to see how it develops. Our focus is on bespoke manufacturing and working with our reseller network to ensure that our frames always look great and are made to the highest standards. From next month, we will have our first frames available and on display at most independent optical outlets. What is involved in making a pair of glasses from scratch? Wow! There is so much involved in making a pair of glasses from scratch. Most people don’t realise that there are over 50 steps, from cutting, milling, moulding, to bending, polishing and assembly. Most of the components we use come from all over the world. Our hinges and screws have been carefully chosen for their strength and quality. We source these from a manufacturer in Germany. Our organic high-density acetates are sourced from Italy and Japan, and our machinery incorporates cutting edge technology from France. In what ways does your business ensure sustainable/environmentally sound practices are used? Our frames are made from cellulose acetate that have environmentally sustainable qualities. The CAs we use are made up of 85% cotton fibres and 10% wooden fibres. The other 5% is made up of small components of polymers and resins that help bind these bio materials into a hard but malleable product. There are numerous benefits to using CA over the cheaper plastic imports. Plastic frames are terrible for our environment and once lost, almost always will end up back in the environment as either landfill, or in
our oceans. There are many other problems with plastic frames in our environment. Plastic over time becomes brittle and uncomfortable to wear. CA has wonderful hyper-allergenic properties and offers unparalleled colour options. There is just so much more I could discuss about the benefits of CA over plastic. How does your business consider fashion trends when you create new products? We tend to be guided by our resellers and our international supply chain as to what people want, rather than following set trends. The problem with following fashion trends is that they come and go quickly. That said, we have just returned from Fashion week in Milan. We attended the largest trade fair in the world, being immersed in the latest European styles and designs. In eyewear, you need to be constantly innovating and trying new things - which is our objective. Identifying fashion trends in eyewear is easy to spot, and I’ve always been of the view that you don’t want to be just another company doing what everyone else is doing. What are your business plans/goals for the next year or so? That’s a great question! Currently I'm working on an exciting project, incorporating new technologies that directly connects our manufacturing facility to resellers around the country. We are currently in discussions with several investors, but I would ideally prefer to work in close partnership with a talented software developer - ideally someone local, who shares the same entrepreneurial flair. How do we contact you? Phone: 6584 8907 or email: info@optexaust.com.au Thanks Greg. Interview: Jo Robinson. Greater Port Macquarie focus 55
focushealth
Health Wellbeing and
BY ADRIAN CORNALE, EYEQ OPTOMETRISTS
W I T H P E T E R E L FA R F R O M S U N D I A L D E N TA L
diabetes and your
teeth
Many people with Diabetes are aware that their medical condition increases their risk for developing oral health problems, such as Gingivitis (early stage gum disease) and Periodontitis (serious gum disease).
D
iabetes can cause blood vessels to thicken, reducing their ability to remove waste products and deliver nourishment and oxygen to body tissues, including the gums. So people with diabetes have a heightened susceptibility to bacterial infection and a decreased ability to combat oral bacteria. If your blood glucose levels are well-controlled, your risk of serious oral health complications is similar to those of people without Diabetes. However, many Australians will experience Gingivitis (the mildest form of gum disease) during some point in their lives; while 30% to 40% of us will experience Periodontitis (the severe form of gum disease). New research also indicates that serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of Diabetes. In essence, good oral health can help you manage your Diabetes. Taking Care Of Your Teeth Bacterial plaque is the primary cause of 90% of all dental disease. Bacteria secrete acidic waste products; this creates an acidic environment in your mouth that weakens teeth and leads to decay. Over time, without proper oral hygiene and dental care, the plaque clinging to teeth works its way under the gums, resulting in oral infections, Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Your best defense against plaque is consistent removal of the bacterial plaque - regular brushing and flossing! In the absence of good oral hygiene, plaque starts to build up on the surfaces of your teeth - and that’s where harmful bacteria can flourish. Put plaque bacteria together with a lowered resistance to bacterial infection, and you’ve got a recipe for a more aggressive form of gum disease than normal. If plaque it left alone for about 48 hours, it begins to harden - this is called tartar - and is
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extremely difficult to remove by simple brushing and flossing; you need professional cleanings to remove tartar. Even if you do brush regularly, it’s easy to miss tartar that can be lurking between your teeth, in tiny chips and cracks, or just under the gum line, and that’s where your dental team comes into play. It is recommended that most patients benefit from a full check up and a professional clean with the dentist, hygienist or an oral health therapist every six months. Gingivitis or gum disease, if left untreated, can progress to a more serious form of gum disease called Periodontists. This serious, but treatable, disease can attack not only the gums, but also the bone that supports the teeth, leading to tooth loss. As a result, people with Diabetes have a significantly higher rate of tooth loss than the general population. Other oral problems associated with Diabetes include thrush, an infection caused by fungus that grows in the mouth. Diabetes can also cause dry mouth. Saliva is the mouth’s major defense against tooth decay, and also helps to control the bacteria and other microorganisms that live in your mouth. Too little saliva can cause accelerated tooth decay, gum disease, oral sores and pain, bad breath and even interfere with your ability to taste. Talk To Your Dental Team at Sundial Dental Let your Dentist, Hygienist and your Oral Health Therapist know that you have Diabetes, and keep them up-to-date on your medical status and medications. Your dentist will likely want to see you every six months for checkups and cleanings, perhaps more if you show signs of having an oral infection or other complications. If you have a dental emergency or are looking for a caring dental team to keep your family smiling and fit for life, call our caring team at Sundial Dental Port Macquarie on (02) 6583 3533.
GLAUCOMA the sneak thief of GLAUCOMA is one of AUSTRALIA’S LEADING CAUSES OF VISION LOSS, affecting two in 100 people.
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he most common form has a very slow onset, with no pain or symptoms. Sufferers are completely unaware they have Glaucoma until its final stages, at which point there is significant and irreversible loss of vision; hence, why it is referred to as the "sneak thief of vision". Glaucoma is hereditary: People who have a close relative with Glaucoma have 10-fold more risk of developing the condition. So, if a family member has Glaucoma, it is imperative to have regular eye examinations.
have regular eye examinations - at least every five years for children and adults, every three years after the age of forty, and annually after the age of 65. What is the treatment for Glaucoma:
Most commonly, drops are administered each evening, and new surgical treatments are now available. The treatment used will depend on individual People who have a close requirements in consultation relative with Glaucoma with your Ophthalmologist.
have 10-fold more risk of developing the condition. So, if a family member has Glaucoma, it is imperative to have regular eye examinations.
Glaucoma can occur at any age: Although more common over the age of forty, it can occur at any age. Some are born with Glaucoma, and others can develop it in their teens, twenties and thirties. When it develops at a younger age, the loss of vision can be devastating later in life. Hence, everyone should
How does Glaucoma impact your life: If detected early, Glaucoma will have little or no impact on your lifestyle. If left undetected, there can be significant vision loss and even blindness.
The only way to prevent significant vision loss from Glaucoma is by early detection and treatment. Even if you think everything is fine, Glaucoma may be present "sneakily stealing your vision". So, have regular eye examinations, to ensure you are not at risk.
You don’t have to live with pain. BOOK YOUR 30 MINUTE OBLIGATION FREE DISCUSSION TODAY. GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF PAIN FREE LIVING.
IF YOU’RE NOT RESPONDING TO CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT... THERE IS A BETTER WAY!
THIS IS JULES’ STORY... Jules injured his shoulder in an accident 25 years ago. He suffered limited mobility and severe pain. Weekly physiotherapy treatments were not improving his medical diagnosis of shoulder tendinitis. Jules had resigned himself to a life of pain.
Frequency Specific Microcurrent Therapy (FSM Therapy) FSM Therapy is the pillar of Somatherapy Clinical Practice.
“About 3-4 months ago I heard about Somatherapy Clinic and decided to try this new therapeutic approach. Three months into the weekly A unique course of treatment that targets the real cause & source of treatments I have had gradual major improvements in the pain. A therapy that supports the body to self-repair damaged use of my arm and shoulder. At present my tendinitis tissue. A course of FSM Therapy has proven to end chronic pain and other post-injury pathologies are gone. I have full Prescription for these common conditions and so much more: mobility in my shoulder and arm and can sleep again pain-killers only treat the at night with no pain.” • Nerve Pain, Sciatica • Joint & Muscle Pain symptoms, while ignoring the underlying problem and introducing • Whiplash • Spinal Disc Injury This is a fantastic outcome for Jules. It’s so rewarding a litany of side effects. Long-term • Fibromyalgia • Peripheral Neuropathy to relieve patients from the misery of pain. use of these drugs can introduce a host • Shingles • Post-Surgical Scar Tissue MANY MORE PATIENTS’ FEEDBACKS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST of new health problems. As with most drugs, they treat one symptom while introducing a new one. The best way to fight pain is to address the root cause.
Krystyna Zawadzka Krystyna of Somatherapy is a Certified FSM Practitioner and has been using FSM Therapy since 2003. She also has multi-modalities extensive experience in treatment of chronic pain for over 20 years. Krystyna is a member of IAHP - International Association of HealthCare Practitioners since 2008. Tactile Therapist Accredited Practitioner • International Association of HealthCare Practitioners Australian Traditional Medicine Society • The Medical Register of Australia
Phone 1300 877 011 • 0414 332 037
Master Degree Uni (Warsaw), Dip MFR, Dip Ref, Dip RM, Cert FSM (USA), Cert LDT (USA), Government Cert IV Tactile Therapies
ABN: 73 718 575 340
23 Serene Circuit, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
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World TAI CHI and DAY World Tai Chi and Qigong Day is an annual event held the last Saturday of April each year to promote the related disciplines of Tai Chi (Tie Chee) and Qigong (Chee Kung) worldwide.
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he annual event is open to the general public. It is free of charge, and a variety of Tai Chi exercises and styles, including Yang, Sun and Wu, as well as a little known ancient Chinese Qigong breathing technique known as Xiangshan, will be taught. This form of Qigong is known to exist only in a very few locations outside of China. It has been brought to Port Macquarie by the Master of Port Macquarie Academy of Tai Chi, who studied the system in Northern China during the early eighties. It consists of a series of movements, or forms, that are co-ordinated with deep diaphragmatic breathing.
IT WILL IMPROVE ENERGY AND FITNESS LEVELS AND CREATE HAPPINESS AND A SENSE OF WELLBEING WITHIN YOUR DAILY LIFE.
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese system of exercises that had its origins many hundreds of years ago and has become more popularised in recent years. In the early 1950s, the Chinese Government commissioned the Physical Culture and Sports Commission of China to develop a set of Tai Chi that contained basic features which allowed the greater population of China to be involved in daily exercise. It is now played by millions of people worldwide each day. It will improve energy and fitness levels and create happiness and a sense of wellbeing 58 Greater Port Macquarie focus
within your daily life. Learn how Tai Chi and Qigong can become part of your daily health regimen. Tai Chi has no age limitations and is equally beneficial for either young or older participants, male or female. The public will be invited to participate in all exercises. Learn more by attending World Tai Chi and Qigong Day at the Girl Guide Hall in Hollingworth St. Port Macquarie on Saturday April 27, 2019, at 10:30am. Please call 6583 3886 for further information.
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PRESENT THIS AD TO RECEIVE Cooltech Fat Freezing Available at Port Skin Clinic It's universally accepted that most women have a stubborn little pocket of fat that no diet or extreme exercise plan can blitz. And, this nuisance bulge can come in all shapes and sizes - inner-thigh thickness, bingo wings, or postpregnancy muffin tops. Whatever its form, it's usually downright impossible to banish without surgery. Well, that is before Cooltech. What exactly is Cooltech?
GLASSES
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THURSDAY 18 APRIL 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 18 April 2019, see in-store for details.
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Cooltech is a premium fat-freezing device at an affordable price. It is designed for treating localised fat pockets in various areas of the body. Cooltech technology is based on the proven science of cryolipolysis and has been studied in numerous clinical trials, with certified clinical predictabilty and maximum results. What are the results? There's a 20 - 30 percent reduction of fat in the area treated. This cell death is permanent, making it harder for people to put the weight
back on in that area. Results take about two three months to be fully seen. Who can use it? Sadly, this isn't a weight loss tool. Instead, it's more suited to those who are generally healthy, but have an area which is really hard to shift. Is it safe? Some patients do suffer from numbed nerve feelings or mild discomfort, but this is temporary and only lasts for a few weeks. Generally, this is a low risk safe procedure in comparison to liposuction. How much does it cost? Cooltech treatment is currently $350 per area (usually $500, reduced for a limited time!) To book your free consult, please call (02) 6584 7788. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @portskinclinic
focus_contributor
DON MACKENZIE
community S E R V I C E
Behaviour can be challenging to manage for people with a particular condition or disability. A behaviour support plan can remove some of the diďŹƒculty experienced in managing behaviours.
W
e all display behaviours as a way of communicating our needs. It is only when these behaviours present a concern to the individual exhibiting these behaviours or to those around them, that we need to look to alternative strategies.
functional behaviours and restrictive practice; develop interim or longer-term behaviour support plans; enhance support networks of people and organisations; and provide training, coaching and review with clients, families or carers, employees or organisations.
All interventions provided by the Behaviour Developing a behaviour support plan with Support Practitioner are person-centred, measurable goals and outcomes-focused and strategies to address proactive. The Behaviour behaviours of concern is Support Practitioner critical to ensuring the can also identify all the Developing a behaviour safety and quality of life behaviours of concern in an support plan with measurable for the person and those objective and measurable goals and strategies to address around them. way, so that the plan can be behaviours of concern is implemented and progress Centacare employs critical to ensuring the measured. two Behaviour Support
safety and quality of
Practitioners, who are A Behaviour Support life for the person and those professionally qualified Practitioner also ensures around them. and registered with that people and the NDIS Quality and organisations comply Safeguards Commission. with behaviour support It is important to note, legislation and regulations you do not have to be a participant in the such as reporting of restrictive practices or NDIS to be referred to a Behaviour Support critical incidents. Practitioner; they can work with anyone of any To make a referral to a Centacare Behaviour age. Support Practitioner, please phone The Behaviour Support Practitioner can: undertake biopsychosocial assessments of
(02) 6581 6800 to discuss any behaviours of concern and agree on the best way forward.
Live life, your way Personal care and help around the house Access to social and community activities Parental skills and child behavioural support Improved mobility and access
C (02) all on 658 1 to s ee 6800 we how ca hel n p
Centacare services the Mid North Coast with locations in Port Macquarie and Kempsey providing: Disability services for individuals and families Home Care Packages Family and parental support Therapy and Allied Health services
REGISTERED NDIS provider no. 29709979
Follow us:
Centacare Mid North Coast
@CentacareMNC
@CentacareMNC
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Modern Orthodontics | Your Questions Answered
Confidence delivered with a smile.
What age should my child visit an orthodontist? Orthodontics Australia recommend an orthodontic assessment between the ages of 7 and 9, or earlier if you notice any issues. At this initial check-up, we can identify potential problems and, if needed, intervene early while the jaw and teeth are still developing.
Signs something’s not quite right: • • • • •
Early or late loss of baby teeth Difficulty chewing or biting Breathing through the mouth Thumb-sucking Crowded, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
• • • • •
Jaws that are too far forward or back Biting the cheek Protruding teeth Upper and lower teeth that don’t meet Grinding or clenching of teeth
Call us today to book your child’s first consultation with Dr Eric Saacks – it’s FREE. 62 Greater Port Macquarie focus
Your Questions Answered | Modern Orthodontics What is “two-phase” orthodontic treatment? This best-practice method involves two separate stages of orthodontic treatment – first when the child still has many or most of their primary ‘baby’ teeth, and then, if needed, when the child has most or all of their permanent ‘adult’ teeth. My child is only 8 years old. Should I pay for Phase 1 and Phase 2 treatment upfront?
Phase 1 Treatment (from approx. age 7) Prevents problems, intercepts developing issues and guides the growth of the jaw bones that support the teeth. Early intervention is key.
Moves permanent teeth into their final positions.
• • • •
Improve jaw alignment and facial structure Help breathing and reduce sleep problems Better long-term oral health Improve self-esteem
You want the best for your child – healthy teeth and a happy smile. Orthodontics are a big investment in your child’s future. You want the most appropriate treatment, long-lasting results and value for money. Your child’s jaw development and teeth eruption patterns are unpredictable. Future technology advancements and improvements are unknown. Dr Saacks continuously evaluates these factors as your child grows to recommend the right treatment at the right time.
Phase 2 Treatment (from approx. age 13)
A beautiful smile, and more! Modern orthodontic treatment offers so much more than straight teeth.
No, we recommend you avoid being locked in to a treatment plan or provider.
Does Saacks Orthodontics recommend
?
Yes, if Dr Saacks believes that Invisalign will provide you or your child with a quality result he will recommend Invisalign as an option. In some cases, Invisalign may be the best option and in other cases traditional braces may be the best option. Every case is different, and we will always discuss the advantages and disadvantages of all treatment types. We don’t recommend only one treatment type for all patients.
Modern Treatment Types When it comes to your unique smile, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. ‘Quick-fixes’ carry potential health and financial risks. Dr Saacks will develop an individual treatment plan for you to ensure the best results.
Why choose Saacks Orthodontics?
Traditional Orthodontics
Clear aligners (eg. Clear Correct, Invisalign)
Dr Saacks is Port Macquarie’s only local Orthodontist and will personally oversee your treatment plan from start to finish. As an internationally trained Specialist Orthodontist with 25 years’ clinical experience, Dr Saacks brings the latest technologies and expertise from Australia and America to Port Macquarie.
- Customised, personalised treatment
- Appropriate for adults and some teenagers
- Suits young children, teens and adults - Tried and tested, long-lasting results
- Suits simple to moderate cases of teeth straightening
- Appropriate for more complex cases
- The clearest, least visible alternative
- Individual treatment plans may involve expander plates, orthopaedic appliances and modern braces
- Removable, so discipline is required
• • • • • •
FREE consultation No referral needed Visit us from age 7 Children, teens and adults 0% finance plans* No down payments*
- New technologies are more comfortable, less visible and efficient - Clear and coloured appliances available
- Need to adhere to strict treatment plan - Wear for at least 22 hours each day to obtain good results - Can be removed for brushing teeth - Need to remove for eating
- Best results for treating complex malocclusions
02 6584 2333 85 William Street, Port Macquarie saacksorthdontics.com.au
* for approved applicants.
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A perfect partnership. Local Optometrist Selwyn Peake partners with George & Matilda Eyecare
Local Optometrist Selwyn Peake is officially the Managing partner of the G&M Eyecare practices in Port Macquarie and Wauchope. Selwyn Peake joined the team at Hanks Optometrists by G&M Eyecare back in March 2018. Since then he has relished expanding and improving the frame range as well as introducing the very latest in technology and equipment.
of a large-scale business model and maintaining personal service and local independence. G&M’s independent partners have access to a continually improving frame range with competitive pricing. They also now have access to ZEISS and Australian labs to cater for all lens types for patient needs. As a Port Macquarie local himself and 40 years’ of experience, Selwyn understands the importance of providing the highest level of personalised care and service to the community.
Selwyn has relished expanding and improving the frame range as well as introducing the very latest in technology and equipment. Selwyn was impressed by George & Matilda Eyecare’s business model. He recognised the advantage of providing the benefits of scale to some of the best independent Optometrists around Australia, allowing them access to the most advanced technology and products in the industry, whilst also maintaining their independence and uniqueness as a practice. It is this initiative that has been the key to G&M and their partners’ success to date; they have established a finely-tuned balance between the benefits
Selwyn and the team at G&M Eyecare are committed to bringing advanced, affordable eye care to the community as they believe that everyone, regardless of their financial situation should have access to the best vision care possible. Standard consultations will continue to be bulk-billed to Medicare, with only a nominal fee, for any advanced imaging. Call the practice or book online at georgeandmatilda.com.au to make an appointment.
your second pair of lenses when you buy a pair of glasses* Unearth a unique gem with our Opal inspired styles
Port Macquarie 95 William St. Ph 6583 7333 Port Macquarie 29 Horton St. Ph 6584 3948 Wauchope 6 Bransdon St. Ph 6585 2393 georgeandmatilda.com.au
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64 Greater Port Macquarie focus
*Terms and conditions apply. See instore for details.
Colonial Cobblers' new range of Reiker ankle boots German brand Rieker has long been renowned globally for blending fashionable styles with incredible comfort in every product created. Striking the perfect balance between fashion and practicality, every Rieker shoe is designed and built with the Rieker difference, that makes its footwear a step ahead of the competition. Patented technology Rieker Antistress ensures that every pair of shoes comes with the best level of support, flexibility and durability. Every shoe incorporates special construction and utilises lightweight and elastic components to achieve the special antistress features, including minimal weight, optimal shock absorption on varying surfaces and maximum reflexibility. “Rieker footwear is a great choice! If you stand for long hours at work or walk around travelling, they feel like they have been tailor made for your foot, providing optimum
support and comfort. They felt like I was wearing nothing at all!” “The fit is perfect and amazingly comfortable from the first day. Very stylish look, adaptable colour, and excellent quality. They also fit correctly and didn’t cause me any blisters when new!” “Rieker are the most comfortable and flexible shoes I have ever worn. I have had several pairs over the years and have been happy with every single one of them - highly recommended! Fantastic shoes; I love them.” “All of their shoes are made of light weight materials. I thought this would mean poor quality, but the quality is excellent.” Rieker; walk in comfort, wear with style. New range at Colonial Cobbler now.
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66 Greater Port Macquarie focus
with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343
April 2019
AQUARIUS.
GEMINI.
LIBRA.
JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19
MAY 22 - JUNE 22
SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23
Expect the unexpected. It is a terrific time to discover new gifts or talents. Travel opportunities are likely to manifest to dissipate some of your restlessness. Set some goals for the next three months. Turquoise is great for self-worth and focus.
Hear your own kind, loving words and just be patient with yourself. It is time for you now, as your focus has been on everyone else. Simply love yourself enough to know you deserve GREAT things. Rose Quartz connects us to self-loving nurturing.
Now is a good time to connect with your sense of purpose. Your sensitivity is on the increase, so don’t allow yourself to live unnecessary stress - especially if it belongs to others. In times of turmoil, simply focus on your qualities you like. Turquoise is great for boosting our personal power.
PISCES.
CANCER.
SCORPIO.
FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20
JUNE 23 - JULY 23
OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22
Instead of being tempted to run, use that restless energy productively. Set some new goals or intentions and be your beautiful free spirit again. You have worried about trivialities; it’s time to change these patterns. Turquoise is great for self-worth and focus.
You are a natural nurturer and home-life is such an important aspect of your life, so enjoy some tranquil feelings of justice and loving balance of your heart. Keep your mind occupied with productive thoughts to maintain balance. Clear Quartz is a natural amplifier; carry some.
The only reason you are feeling suspended at this time is because there has been some undigested emotions playing with you and although you want change to happen, your higher self does not want these influences as part of the future. Clear them with healing and get ready for change. Malachite brings past hurts to the surface for releasing.
ARIES.
LEO.
SAGITTARIUS.
MARCH 21 - APRIL 20
JULY 24 - AUGUST 23
NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21
Avoid unnecessary stress; things will appear calmer soon. You may have needed to be unsupported to find your own inner strength. Justice will deliver new opportunities and new friends. Turquoise helps our self-worth and selfesteem.
Connecting through your loving heart to the Angelic realm will bring peace, tranquility and purpose into reality. Try spending some time stilling your mind, and communicate with your loving guides. Amethyst connects us to our wise higher energies.
This next few months should bring productive change into play. Set some new intentions and goals, and then get out of your own way to allow things to happen. Avoid micro managing situations, as there is vulnerability around being too controlling. Blue Lace Agate is a powerful mind clearing crystal.
TAURUS.
VIRGO.
CAPRICORN.
APRIL 21 - MAY 21
AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23
DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20
Avoid buying into future related fears. Complete contentment can be experienced in matters of the heart, and conflict will lose its impact in your reality. Shield your energy from other people’s negativity by imagining yourself inside a bubble. Selenite shatters negative energy and charges the aura with bright, positive energy.
If you’re feeling unsupported, try finding within what you are hoping to feel from another person, and wake up that emotion by breathing it through every cell consciously. Be as independent emotionally as possible and be grateful to yourself. Rose Quartz helps connect us to our selflove.
You are a wise person; this is why others offload to you. Hearing your wise words and acknowledging them will also help you grow. When others are drawing on your strength to overcome challenges, imagine yourself inside a bubble. This will be a win/ win. Rose Quartz initiates self-reward.
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focusinterview.
Thomas
Lynne
Artist Lynne Thomas’ work has evolved over the years from creating beautiful pieces of pottery to now exploring wax and the various marvellous effects it can create. Lynne’s work can be viewed at the Q Popup Gallery …
i Lynne. What is your background in the Hastings and Camden Haven areas? As the Norwood family, we bought our then New England Pottery from Bingara out west of Wauchope, renamed it Norwood Pottery, and we built a workshop gallery opposite Timbertown in 1987. I moved to Kendall as a single mum and built a small workshop making miniatures - an old favourite, and under-indulged in during the years of functional store demand. RSI was also an issue, so small worked best! Blue and white pieces were a favourite. I found an encaustic art kit at the Riverwalk Market in North Haven and was instantly impressed with what the wax can do. I worked as a volunteer at the newly formed Kendall meeting place and attended Port Macquarie TAFE in 2005. I studied Design Fundamentals with Carol Randall, who pressed me to keep at it! I have been involved with our “messy” art group in Kendall, as we became Tactile Arts
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Group (TAG). We have acquired space at the showground for our workshop, and our kilns both gas and electric - will be installed this year. The opening of the Q Popup Gallery presented the perfect place to show my art for the first time. Where did your interest in art and creativity begin? My father was a musician, songwriter, and painted great sea gulls; he taught us all to play in our family band. Mum was “crafty”, as they say … so, it rubbed off! How has your artistic journey developed over the years … has your initial style/ medium changed since the early days? With my childhood full of craft and music, I would have a run on something and when satisfied, I’d try something else. I carried pens and ink when I travelled and loved fine line work. I went to TAFE in Cairns, to studio ceramics. Jumping forward to the encaustic art I now work with, I have noticed my pieces are becoming much more complex, as I explore the medium.
Each time I do a little work? series, I notice the change My wax work was first … it’s a tough world we live in the work … and when shown when Q Popup in, and I try to put some I add the music layer with Gallery opened last year respite in my pieces the sweeping rhythm, this - I’ve received good sales and leave room for the holds it all together. and feedback. eye to wander around Tell us about the What inspires you as an and find things in the otherprocesses you currently artist? worldly effects. use when working with The music in nature and wax … the nature in music … I melt coloured waxes it’s a tough world we live on to my upturned in, and I try to put some iron and gently apply to very shiny paper. I can respite in my pieces and leave room for the eye move the wax around and add more. I use pure to wander around and find things in the othercolours and let them mix on the page; as I add worldly effects. new colours and touch them on the page, it What upcoming exhibitions/workshops do remelts the spot, changing what’s underneath. you have planned? The light sits behind the work, and I like it to As we are forming a cooperative at Kew gallery, float on the page; I use clear beeswax to give we will have the opportunity to hold exhibitions space between the colours. there. Workshops have been discussed, but no The side of the iron is used to sweep through the dates have been set yet. work, and I lay down colour at the same time. Where can we see more of your work/find The natural texture of the wax guides me around out more about you? … I don’t so much paint it - I find it, by going My work is on display at Kew Gallery. with what it gives me, with coral and nature-ish Thanks Lynne. patterns in the wax. Interview: Jo Robinson. Working to Bluegrass music always produces Photos: Anthea Johnston. something lively, as I dance the iron around For more info on the Q Popup Gallery through the texture and hope for the best … and their future plans, visit: https:// there is much to explore with this medium. qpopupgallery.com/ or visit their Facebook What are some of the acknowledgements/ page: https://www.facebook.com/ recognition you have received for your QPopUpGallery/
focusinterview.
FAST CARS, SMOKE AND AND EASTER EGG HUNT; FUN FOR ALL THIS EASTER LONG WEEKEND.
S
PAWN THE DRIFT is a race car many grassroots drifters, including a few Port event that will be held over two Macquarie and Coffs Harbour locals attending, days on the Easter weekend 2019 who have a real passion for drifting. at the Port Macquarie Go Kart On both days we are offering a drift Hot Lap Track. of the Port Macquarie For those track (over 1.1 kilometres of you who haven’t seen in length, with around Fast and the Furious 11 turns) to passengers Tokyo Drift, drifting is a over 18. Pre purchased driving technique where OVER 70 DRIFTERS FROM Hot Laps will also be the driver intentionally MAINLY NSW, QLD AND given priority in the over steers, with loss VIC WILL BE ATTENDING queue on the day. If you of traction in the rear THE EVENT. QUITE A FEW purchase your Hot Lap wheels or tyres, while OF THE DRIFTERS AND on track, it is cash only maintaining control and THEIR CARS COMPETE on the day. driving the car through IN THE NATIONAL HI TEC On Easter Sunday the entirety of a corner. It OILS DRIFT SERIES. there will be a real family is an amazing Motorsport focus. There will be an to watch, with lots of appearance from the skill, smoke and action. Easter Bunny and an Drivers majestically slide Easter Egg Hunt. There will also be face paintacross the track at high speed and maximum ing, pony rides, an icecream truck, a jumping angle, whilst smoking and burning rubber. castle and inflatable slides for the children. For Over 70 drifters, from mainly NSW, QLD and the adults we are running a mechanical bull VIC, will be attending the event. Quite a few ride competition. This will be a fun day for the of the drifters and their cars compete in the National Hi Tec Oils Drift Series. We also have entire family.
EASTER WEEKEND Port Macquarie Go Kart Track. Entry: $20 per day; children under 12 free. Drift Competition 9am - 5pm, Saturday 20th April. Easter Bunny and Easter Egg Hunt Sunday! 0466 156 834 info@spawnthedrift.com
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ell us a little about yourself and how long you have lived locally ... I was born in Port Macquarie and have lived here most of my whole life. I am 27 years old and live with my girlfriend here in Port. When did you first get involved in motorsports? It was about five or six years ago when my dad and I started building the car I drift now. From there, we started going to small events, and I started competing at Raleigh near Coffs Harbour, where they have a drift track. What attracted you to drifting? I guess it was the fact that you can get out there and go a bit crazy; I mean, you have to follow the set rules, but you have the room to do what you want, whilst still being as safe as you can. Drifting is a little bit slower than other types of car racing, but it does take a lot of skill to keep the car on the road, whilst spinning around. You need to keep control of the car, while making round the track. You can drift solo, or tandem, or do team events. The one on one events are where you have to drift side by side around the whole track. How do the judges judge you on the day? Different events have different criteria - some will judge on the proximity between the cars, others will want to judge on speed, or whether you emulate the car in front of you - which is where you copy the car, and it’s almost synchronised like a ballet! Are there different levels people can compete at? At a grassroots level, it is guys like me who build their cars in the back yard and just drift
with all their friends and enjoy the social side of it. Then you can go up to competition level with local events, and then from there there are national and international events with big prize money that you can compete in. What are the technical skills required? You need to be able to control whatever car you are in, and you want to meet the criteria of the judges - and you have to be able to do that without crashing, or without having too over-correct the car. You can judge when people make a mistake in drifting, as you can see them either stall or back off - you can see the hesitation, and the judges can see that too. The Spawn the Drift comp is coming up in April; what are you looking forward to about the event? It's getting really big! There are more entertainment and sponsors on board, and it is getting a lot of people together for a great day. There are lots of people coming from out of town to get together and have this regional event. Normally you would have to travel as far as Queensland for an event this bi, or even Sydney. Craig, who organises the event, has been focused on making the Port Macquarie event at the local track really big. Tell us about your car. I have a 1981 Toyota Corolla - it has a VY commodore 5.7 L V8 in it and makes about 400 hp at the wheels. We have rebuilt the engine, upgraded the oil pump, camshaft, valve springs and other parts that you want to reinforce in a motor. It has a factory Commodore gearbox and Hilux dif in it … it’s a tiny little car that we stripped out and weighs about 900 kg - and it is crazy fast! Thanks Deeken. Greater Port Macquarie focus 69
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Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing
BUSINESS MINDS
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icha, you are the dynamo behind Port Macquarie’s newest Thai cuisine sensation - Thaicoon. Can you tell us a little bit about your business and how it came about? For the past six years now I have watched the Lake Innes area grow and the area develop significantly. I recognised the very high potential to have a restaurant there, so when the shop we are in became available, we dived in and signed a lease. We then went through a very emotion filled and stressful, although highly satisfying, shop design and fit out process. We wanted to ensure a good quality and very special fit out. Thanks to the awesome team at Joyce Constructions, we have an extremely beautiful shop to work in and promote Thai food. I have also been lucky enough to have my cousin Nuttapong (Arm) from Thailand, who is hospitality trained, as my Business Partner. He has worked in five-star restaurants in Sydney for the past fifteen years and brings a wealth of experience to the restaurant. Thaicoon is not the first business you have owned. Can you tell us a little bit about your background and your life before coming to live in Port Macquarie? A few years ago I opened Heart Of Thai, a
retail shop opposite the Glasshouse Theatre. We sell Thai art, crafts, homewares and gifts from there. Thailand has many high quality products that are still produced by hand and are very beautiful. I wanted to bring these great gifts to Port Macquarie. My husband’s family has a long history in Port Macquarie. We met in Thailand, when he moved there to work for Tyco Water; where I was working as the Business Development Manager. We moved to Sydney from Thailand and stayed there for a few years, before getting married at Harry’s Lookout in 2003. We then moved to Port Macquarie and have lived here since then. What is it that you love most about running a business? I love the whole experience of running a business. From the initial idea starting in your mind to then making the business a reality is such a satisfying personal experience. We have been so lucky to have a very supportive customer base, that includes local Lake Innes residents, students and teachers from St Columba Anglican School, St Joseph’s Regional College and Charles Sturt University, the Base Hospital and many more. We have been getting so much positive feedback about the beautiful restaurant fit out and the quality of our food, which we very much appreciate. What advice would you offer to other people looking to open a restaurant or
I love the whole experience of
for the moment is to café in a regional area? running a business. From the Port Macquarie already maintain excellent initial idea starting in has a range of very good, customer service your mind to then making well-established Thai and food quality, the business a reality is restaurants, so competias well as catching such a satisfying personal tion is strong. When we up on some sleep! experience. We have been so were assessing where to We will definitely be lucky to have a very supportive start this business, we looking at adding customer base ... looked primarily at the some more authenlocation. We wanted to tic and traditional ensure we chose a restauThai meals to our rant location that had the potential of good menu as winter arrives. population growth. We did not want to As a restaurateur, what would you be affected by the seasonality that we can deem as your essential tools of the experience in Port Macquarie and experitrade and why? ence the highs and lows of holidays periods. This is job where you need to be prepared We wanted to ensure we had a steady, local to work very hard and for very long hours! customer base. We also wanted a location Surround yourself with experienced and that was easy to access and that provided knowledgeable people who can provide you plenty of parking for our customers. with advice and support. We have prioritised using local suppliers An essential tool for any business is to wherever we can, as they are reliable and have a love and passion for your product. care about the quality of their work and I also think it is essential to show respect their products. Our suppliers have also to your peers and encourage good teambecome our good customers. work. My biggest advice is to stay positive! And finally, if you could invite any three When you are starting a business, there are business people to lunch, who would many obstacles that will occur, but you can they be, and why would you invite overcome them if you work through them them? calmly. I would invite my family to lunch, as they What have you got in the pipeline for are who inspire me. They are the reason Thaicoon? that we work hard, and they are our future. To be honest, we have been too busy to think too far into the future. Our main focus Thanks for your time, Nicha! Greater Port Macquarie focus 71
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MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The benefits of growing small businesses into medium and large enterprises are more employment opportunities, innovation, investment, a more diverse economy, competition for multi-nationals, greater skills training and greater resilience within the local economies in regional areas. Despite governments at all levels and of all political persuasions talking up their credentials when it comes to supporting small business, the fact remains that small to medium enterprise is highly taxed and over-regulated.
Minding your Businesses are the lifeblood of any community, particularly in regional areas like Port Macquarie. Too often governments at all levels are distracted by the media driven white noise of fringe and single interest groups, instead of focusing on economic pragmatism. Without a vibrant and successful business sector, unemployment rises, people can’t pay their mortgages, and there is reduced revenue to support the community.
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n Australia today, there are over 2 million small businesses employing 4.8 million people, or 44% of the workforce. Here in Port Macquarie, there are nearly 3,000 small businesses employing over 9,000 people. Hence, small business is the backbone of the economy at a national level,
as well as being at the very heart of every local community in regional areas. Compared to other developed countries, we have a vibrant and dynamic small business sector. Despite this, we are not as good as we should be at encouraging and supporting those small businesses to grow into medium or large enterprises.
Government intervention, including taxation and compliance or red tape, is one of the main impediments to growth in small business. Company tax rates for larger companies remain at an internationally uncompetitive 30%. Whilst tax cuts have been legislated for small businesses, our political parties cannot agree on passing that on to larger enterprises. State based payroll taxes are being progressively reduced in NSW, to bring them into line with other states. However, this tax burden increases as a business grows and employs more people, so it is effectively a disincentive to business owners to increase the size of their operation. Why then do State Governments impose payroll tax at all, when it is simply a regressive tax that penalises businesses for employing more people? Similarly, stamp duties levied on the purchase of commercial premises are much higher than residential property. This makes the cost of premises where people work and enterprise is
conducted more expensive and acts as a further penalty for business growth. Registration of passenger vehicles for business is also more expensive than private use, which is contradictory to the notion that economic activity should be encouraged, not penalised. The Australian Finance Regulator (APRA) often sets lending policy against the backdrop of the latest corporate scandal, and the unintended consequences can be detrimental to small business. As we saw with the recent Banking Royal Commission, lending policy was tightened ahead of the final report, and from October 2018 until February 2019 there was an effective credit squeeze. These tighter lending rules often make it more difficult for small business operators to obtain finance for expansion. Many small business owners are forced tomortgage their homes to obtain finance, resulting in an unwillingness to take greater risk and more debt, which is, in turn, a barrier to expansion. The Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce is continuing to support the NSW Business Chamber to advocate for lower taxes, less regulation and more incentives for our small businesses to grow. When business owners feel unconstrained by punitive intervention, they will inevitably grow their operations to reach their full potential. That is a situation that will benefit everyone through more employment and a vibrant economy.
Delivering for the Hastings & Camden Haven Delivering Federal funding towards the Kew Main Street and Wauchope CBD upgrades.
Dr David GILLESPIE MP He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.
Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, Nationals Party of Australia, Cnr Hastings & High Streets, Wauchope NSW 2446.
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Craig James is the Chief Economist with CommSec; he is highly regarded for his insights and understanding of our economic landscape. AS THE GUEST SPEAKER AT THE PORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARDROOM LUNCH IN APRIL, two days after the announcement of the Budget, Craig will be sharing his thoughts and insights into what this means for local business. It's the same in terms of the Aussie Dollar; the Aussie Dollar tends to be influenced not by just national matters, but the broader global economies. So if the Aussie Dollar weakens or strengthens, that will have an influence on local businesses as well. If people decide to travel domestically, rather than overseas, this is super positive for regional towns such as Port Macquarie. With the Aussie Dollar below 71 US Cents, we have a greater focus on people travelling domestically. Provided Port Macquarie cuts through with a message that it's a good place to visit, then you will gain the advantages of that Aussie Dollar remaining low. Bigger regional towns like Port Macquarie are important, because they provide services for the broader region. What days, means I need to we have seen over time What we have seen over have my strength coming time is that these regional is that these regional through from my health towns tend to get bigger towns tend to get bigger to support what I'm as the services become as the services become doing. In particular with more concentrated more concentrated in the doing a lot of radio and in the town, and that town, and that provides TV work, I need to be coprovides more diversity more diversity as well. herent in what I present. as well. In many of the slides I try to focus on one in my presentation the thing a day - whether it is data comes from the going for a run or some Bureau of Statistics, but weight training, body weight exercise - just also from a couple of groups from Remplan something - and also, I have good control of and Economy.id.com.au - they provide regional my diet. information. For instance we can get an idea Craig, you will be coming to Port Macquaof the number of registered businesses in Port rie in April, just after the Federal Budget. Macquarie and how that has changed over How does the wider state of national time. economic issues impact local and regional Across all the businesses in Port Macquarie, businesses, such as those in Port Macquaconstruction, rental and real estate industries, rie? as well as agriculture, represent the biggest Well, at the moment there is a lot of focus number of businesses in the region. on Sydney and Melbourne home prices, as they If you are looking at the top six, say, of are easing, and then we ask if Sydney and Melindustry sectors, they cover something like two bourne are easing, what does that mean for thirds of Port Macquarie - so the area is quite spending? It has a knock on effects throughout diversified in terms of the businesses and the the economy. industries that operate, and this provides a Things like the national job market - the degree of support for the town. Reserve Bank is very much focused on the If there was a downturn in the agriculture job market at the moment and while unemsector, there is a degree of strength elsewhere, ployment remains low, then interest rates will such as in tourism and construction, that can remain low. Clearly, what happens in terms offset the weakness in the rural sector. with national economy will affect interest rates, You will be visiting Port Macquarie to and that will have an impact in terms of local speak at the local Business Chamber economies. luncheon, just two days after the budget
Craig James
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hank you, Craig, for joining us for the April edition. We know you're an early riser - talk us through your morning routine. Well, I get up at the precise time of 4:27am - you’ve got to be fairly precise when you have to get up that early in the morning! I start here at five o’clock, as we have a number of television crosses and radio crosses, with the first radio cross being at 5:25am, as well as TV crosses at six and six thirty. The early part of the day is a busy part of the day, because the US share markets are in operation, so what we are doing is covering what is happening in the United States and writing up a sheet about what has happened yesterday/overnight in the US, so people have an understanding of that before they start their daily routine. For me, it is a case of trying to catch breakfast between the crosses and have my one coffee, which I sort of use to focus on and to get through the morning information which is coming out from the United States. Keeping on the personal side, we know you have a keen interest in athletics and sports; how does a healthy body and mind contribute to a good work day? It goes hand in hand; unless you are getting enough exercise and enough sleep, then you are not able to function properly. Given the fact I do a lot of media work, presentations and being on the road and tending to work longer
is delivered. This must be a very busy time for you; talk us through what you will be looking for in the Budget as an indicator of where we are headed. I think stability, more than anything else what we don’t want is a lot of change to come through. I think people have been through a lot lately with a lot of change coming through, particularly in terms of the finance industry and superannuation. What a lot of Australians probably want is a very settled Budget - and I don’t think there are high expectations for the Budget this time around, because we do know the Coalition Government is handing down a Budget in a time when politically they are behind in the polls. So, just because they are handing down a Budget doesn’t mean that what they come up with in terms of major measures will go through the Parliament, as we have the small matter of an election - which is coming up in May. I think there will be promises for things like tax cuts and spending, but there is the knowledge that many Australians will think, well, you might not get into Government to enact the changes. The major focus for many of us will be how many of the measures get through. Final words? My presentation will focus a lot on Port Macquarie, featuring registered businesses and how they have changed over time. We will be looking at things like dwelling approvals, home prices and employment figures. Nowadays there is a lot more information available on a timely basis that comes out on regional towns - and that is what I will be using to look at a town like Port Macquarie. Thanks Craig.
Boardroom Lunch with Craig James, CommSec Chief Economist. When: Thursday, April 4, from 12pm to 2pm. Cost: $80 Port Chamber members; $90 non members and guests. Where: Rooftop Room, Mercure Centro Port Macquarie,103 William Street. Tickets from: events@portchamber.com.au or (02) 6583 4412. Greater Port Macquarie focus 73
Meet Anais Blacklock Group Training Field Officer and Trainer/Assessor with Novaskill Mid North Coast.
Billabong Zoo Billabong Zoo, Koala and Wildlife Park is NSW’s premier regional wildlife park, located in Port Macquarie. World-renowned for its koala breeding programme, Billabong Zoo is a significant regional zoo with a diverse range of Australian and exotic animals and birds. We have recently renovated our reception area, café and upstairs offices, providing light, airy and modern facilities where we welcome visitors from all over Australia, as well as overseas.
in a beautiful setting in the country, we have special add-on animal encounters and zoo educational talks that will provide a welcome break for your participants, as well as a memorable team experience. We offer tailored catering to suit all dietary requirements, with delicious platters or grazing plates, all made from scratch in our on-site kitchen. We source fresh, local and seasonal produce as key ingredients.
As part of our renovations, we now have an elegant boardroom for hire that includes a kitchen, chill out corner and boardroom facilities for corporate functions of up to 12 delegates.
If you’re looking for something different, ask us about our Night Zoo options. Alternatively, for other events, we can accommodate large parties of up to 100 people for corporate functions, private parties and wedding receptions.
Why not choose Billabong Zoo for your next meeting? Not only do we have everything you need to run your professional meeting
Call us now to book your next meeting or function at Billabong Zoo on 6585 1060 or visit billabongzoo.com.au
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I have been with Novaskill for just over one month now, and I am absolutely loving it! The staff have been extremely welcoming and supportive since I have come on board. My role is to assist businesses with management of employing and training apprentices; I am able to assist with the recruitment, efficiently manage payroll and paperwork, monitor, mentor and support and ensure the completion of the apprentices. This is done through group training; group training is a risk and stress-free means of employing apprentices and trainees. Group training is an arrangement where Novaskill, the Group Training Organisation (GTO), employs apprentices or trainees and then carefully matches them each with a suited host employer. We assume the employer responsibilities for the quality and continuity of the apprentices’ and trainees’ employment and training throughout the entire apprenticeship or traineeship. We manage, mentor and support the apprentice/trainee and ensure we
offer every possible opportunity for success and successful completion of the training contract. As the host employer, all you need to do is provide the necessary on-the-job-training and supervision. We take care of inductions, Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations, payroll, insurance and workers' compensations claims, performance management and ongoing mentoring and coaching. If you would like further information, I would be more than happy to come and discuss your business needs. Just contact me at Novaskill Mid North Coast. Ph: (02) 6500 1104 Mob: 0408 478 085 Email: AnaisB@novaskill.com.au
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Kathryn There are always challenges in creating a space that feels like home! The mornings are growing a little chillier and the house feels so much colder … clutter crowds our living spaces, and our rooms begin to look a little outdated.
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ere’s where an expert can help! Kathryn Trentini of Trentini Design has plenty of tips to make your home feel warm and welcoming, all year round! Hi Kathryn. What's your association with the Greater Port Macquarie area? I’ve lived on cattle farms on the Mid North Coast since 2001 and relocated to Port Macquarie about 18 months ago. I’m really loving the relaxed vibe and community spirit that is special to Port Macquarie. Walking my dog on the beach every day, yoga practice - and all within this stunning area I get to call home! When/how did your interest in interior design and styling begin? I’ve been creating since I was kid and have always loved the sense of achievement of bringing to life my vision. It wasn’t until I renovated a few of my own properties that I finally found the right creative outlet. I decided that if I was going to be an interior designer, I would need a really good grounding in the fundamentals. So, I took myself off to Sydney to study full-time and when I returned to this area, I set up my own design studio - and haven’t looked back. What services does your business offer? We offer a broad range of services to suit a range of clients, both full-service and DIY clients. We have tried hard to identify services that people actually need, particularly in the changing landscape of renovations, interior design and building. Our most popular service is the full-service interior design solution. We work with our client from initial concept development, through the construction phase and then finish by styling the home. We project manage the build on behalf of the
client, providing one point of contact; this results in great communication and reduces the stress of the build. Another popular service is our Essential Design Consultation. This service provides the client two hours to work with the designer on their project. DIY renovators find this service particularly helpful and practical to gain clarification on their design choices and to move forward with their project. What have been some of the projects you've worked on that you're most proud of? I have loved every single project I’ve worked on! I’m very invested in the final outcome and work on each project as though it’s my own home. It’s a great feeling to see the joy and happiness the final outcome brings to the owners. I really enjoyed the transformation of the Annandale House - it’s one of the more difficult properties I’ve been involved with, due to its narrowness and the complexities of the architecture. I honed my small space design skills on this project! I loved working on a Port Macquarie villa recently that we took from the ‘80s to a relaxed, modern Australian vibe. I played a key role in the design and build of a rural farmhouse extension a few years ago, where we managed to gain some beautiful architectural details not often seen in a farmhouse. I’m currently working on a project located in Canberra that will result in a complete transformation of the interior. I’m chomping at the bit to see the three-sided fireplace installed just in time for winter; stay tuned for that one! In a coastal area like Port Mac, seasons can kind of slip under the radar a little when
it comes to interior Look at every space Clean lines and a minimalist design. What are some and identify areas that are style are key in areas of the of your tips when traditionally overlooked. home like the kitchen. My it comes to making Some areas I’ve been able favourite trend is the autumn a comfortable to include storage include bar cart - again, a nod under the stairs, integrattime of year to spend to the Art Deco style and ed into the stud wall and at home? times, and one that many will under the sub-floor crawl I love a good seasonal embrace in their own homes! space. If you’re looking change up! Autumn to improve what you’ve is a great time to start got without a complete layering textures in the overhaul, you’ll find that home - swapping out the swapping shelving in a kitchen or bathroom for cool colours of summer for colours that give retro-fitted drawers will greatly improve your you that warm, hugging feel. An easy way is to overall storage. add a lightweight throw rug to the end of the What have you found to be this year’s hot bed or on the sofa. Build tonally on your room trends when it comes to styles/fabrics/ through the use of muted textures, and go for surfaces? comfort such as wool. If you want a pop of coThere’s a big trend towards curves in furnilour, look at using muted variations, rather than crisp colours. This will help you get ready for the ture, with a move towards Art Deco and away from Mid Century Modern. Bold jewel coloured cooler days ahead. solids will be seen, as well as sustainable and Small homes/spaces can often present chalnatural fabrics - both are great for so many lenges. What’s the best way to work with styles. Clean lines and a minimalist style are key these and avoid a cluttered look? in areas of the home like the kitchen. My favouSmall space design is one of my specialities! rite trend is the bar cart - again, a nod to the Whilst storage is the key to a functional home, Art Deco style and times, and one that many regardless of its size, it becomes critical when will embrace in their own homes! you’re working in a small space. Having the Where can we find out more about you/ right storage, in the right place, for how you what you do? and your family live is going to avoid a cluttered I would love to hear from you! Please reach look. It’s best to put everything away and only have out to me on any of the platforms below. I can’t wait to connect with the Port Macquarie limited decorative pieces on display. For this community. reason, customised integrated joinery or hidden trentini.com.au storage is the perfect solution to give your facebook.com/trentinidesign space that clean, uncluttered look, rather than Instagram.com/trentinidesign individual stand-alone pieces. It helps the eye Thanks Kathryn. move over the space in a more relaxed way and Interview: Jo Robinson. reduces clutter. Greater Port Macquarie focus 75
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Community
Support
E
TC is celebrating an exciting milestone of 30 years in business. What’s the history behind ETC? ETC was established in 1989 by a group of astute Mid North Coast business people who wanted to do something about the region’s high unemployment. In 2010 we opened an office in Port Macquarie, where we delivered business advisory services and a suite of training programs. Today, ETC employs 300 staff across 35 offices located between Forster/Tuncurry and the Gold Coast. What have been some of the standout moments in ETC’s history? There have been many, but a few that come to mind are: • Opening our new Skills Training Centre in Port Macquarie in 2018 • Winning the Best Small Training Provider of the Year Award at the NSW Training Awards in 2013 and 2016. • Helping more than 72,000 people find jobs; training more than 34,000 people and helping more than 39,000 people in small business. • Giving back more than $1M to worthwhile community groups as part of the ETC Community Support Fund since 2012. What’s the purpose of your new Skills Training Centre in Port? We saw an opportunity to help address skill shortages in Port Macquarie and train the future workforce in the areas of Childcare, Hospitality, Retail, Aged Care and Business. There’s nothing quite like this in Port Macquarie - the centre gives students exposure to different industries, all in the one location, making them more
multi-skilled and versatile employees. It’s all about giving local job seekers the hands-on, practical skills and confidence they need to secure work on some of the region’s highest employing industries. How does your business give back to the community? ETC is all about community. As a not-for-profit company, we reinvest our profits back into the company and into the communities in which we operate. We are very proud of our ETC Community Support Fund which has given back more than $1M to worthwhile community groups since 2012. Some of the local organisations/ projects we have funded in the Hastings include: Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre; Hastings Early Intervention Program; REAP Port Macquarie Hastings; Northside Progress Association; Port Macquarie Hastings U3A; Sailability NSW - Port Macquarie Branch; Wauchope Neighbourhood Centre and Wauchope High School Breakfast Club. As part of our 30th birthday, we are really excited to be giving away $300,000 in the latest round of the ETC Community Support Fund. For more information or to apply, visit etcltd.com.au/csf. Applications close 15 April. What services do you provide in the Hastings? We offer local
employers a recruitment service at no cost to them, because we are subsidised by the Australian Government. We also help the unemployed find work and as a Registered Training Organisation, offer a range of training courses. We have offices in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Laurieton, so please drop in and visit our local teams today, or visit etcltd.com.au or contact 1800 007 400.
ETC
30
TH
B I R T H D AY
If you are a community group with a great project idea that will make a positive difference in your local area
The ETC Community Support Fund can help you!
$ t Recipien 2015/16 e ri a u cq a Port M entre urhood C Neighbo
As part of our 30 th bir thd ay celebrati
on...
300,, 000 in com grants avmaunity ilable
1989 - 2019 Celebrating 30 years of supporting our community through employment and training services mm Emplo yment | Training | Co
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un
it y
Applications close 15th April Apply online: etcltd.com.au/csf
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ETC was established in 1989 by a group of astute Coffs Harbour business people who wanted to do something about the region’s high unemployment. 30 years on, and the company employs 300 staff across 35 offices located between Forster-Tuncurry and the Gold Coast. FOCUS had a chat with CEO Jenny Barnett ... hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? My husband, Dean and I and our three children moved to Nambucca in 1994, because we wanted to raise our family in a more relaxed, coastal environment. I have been with ETC for 15 years. I started as an Employment Consultant in Kempsey, moved to Branch Manager in Nambucca, then Regional Manager, Government Contracts Manager and was appointed CEO in 2015. ETC is celebrating an exciting milestone of 30 years in business. What’s the history behind ETC? ETC was established in 1989 by a group of astute Coffs Harbour business people who wanted to do something about the region’s high unemployment. ETC’s first Chairman, Mike Blewitt, tells us that Coffs Harbour was always missing out on government funding for training the unemployed, so he and ETC’s co-founders, including Cherie Treharne, John Bradshaw, Steve Little, Heather McKinnon and David Shorter, came together to discuss how they could generate new jobs, increase business skills and provide training with the assistance of government initiatives and funding. In those early years, ETC sponsored a range of labour market, work experience and selfemployment programs. The company also coordinated coastal management and Landcare
projects, including contributions to the Jetty Foreshores walkway, Coffs Creek Boardwalk, the Bunker Cartoon Gallery, landscaping and fencing at Marshalls Sports Stadium and improvements to the Botanic Gardens. ETC started with one employee in the Mudbrick Huts in Coffs Harbour’s Duke Street, and today the company employs 300 staff across 35 offices located between Forster/Tuncurry and the Gold Coast. Although we are a much larger company now, our head office remains in Coffs Harbour, and the Mid North Coast remains our heartland. What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? When I was working on the frontline, I gained enormous satisfaction from helping people build their skills, find a job and reach their potential. As CEO, I really love that ETC is innovative and is continually looking for ways to be bold and brave in our service delivery. We don’t get caught up in the big machinations of business, where a decision takes six - eight weeks. We often say that ETC is small enough to be agile, but large enough to make a real difference, and I find that really exciting. Business/personal goals for this financial year? We are focused on ensuring ETC is best placed for future employment services contracts; we will continue to be innovative with our training programs based on experiential learning and working closely with employer groups and our partners. In terms of personal goals, we are in the
process of relocating from Nambucca to Coffs Harbour, and my husband and I are really keen to discover more of the area. How does your business give back to the community? ETC is all about community. As a not-for-profit company, we reinvest our profits back into the company and into the communities in which we operate. We are very proud of our ETC Community Support Fund, which has given back more than $1M to worthwhile community groups since 2012. Some of the local organisations/projects we have funded include: Cancer Council, MiiMi Aboriginal Corporation, Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT), Camp Quality, Coffs Harbour Community Men's Shed, The Smith Family, Tyalla Primary School, Warrina Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Service, Lifeline and Coffs Coast and Clarence Can Do Cancer Trust. As part of our 30th birthday, we are giving away $300,000 in the latest round of the ETC
Community Support Fund, which is open from 18th March - 15th April. For more information and to apply, visit etcltd.com.au/csf How do you encourage a positive working environment? I am very passionate about making sure we have a positive culture at ETC. That was one of the trickiest things we had to navigate through when we tripled in size. Some things we do to foster our corporate culture include having strong corporate values (Respect, Integrity, Success and Empowerment) which guide all our decisions; our recruitment, induction and onboarding programs; reward and recognition program; professional development and consistent communication. Despite our growth, I believe the essence of who we are and the fact that we care about our staff and create environments where they can succeed is resonating throughout the entire organisation. Thanks Jenny.
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Pat Conaghan FEDERAL CANDIDATE FOR COWPER
Hi, I’m Pat Conaghan, your Federal Nationals Candidate for Cowper. I love our region and that’s why I’ve chosen to raise my family here. I’m determined to fight against Labor’s unfair retiree tax and work to create the jobs of the future, through projects like building the Coffs Harbour Bypass.
Pat Conaghan CANDIDATE FOR COWPER
Pat with his wife and family
Meet Pat Conaghan 1
Father of two, Pat and his wife Ilona have chosen to live and raise their family on the beautiful Mid-North Coast to make sure their kids get the
kind of upbringing only the regions can provide.
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Born and raised in Kempsey, Pat’s family still live in the town and across the Hastings.
Pat has dedicated his life to helping people in our community spending 12 years as a cop before becoming a respected local lawyer. Over many years, Pat contributed much of his time pro-bono to women’s shelters, youth groups and community legal centres.
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Alongside this, Pat has run his small business for over a decade and has a deep understanding of what it means to hire locals and what
havoc the increased taxes under a Labor government had on our local industries and jobs.
Contact Pat 78 Greater Port Macquarie focus
cowper@nswnationals.org.au
1800 290 668
www.patconaghan.com.au
84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
Authorised by P Conaghan, National Party of Australian – NSW, 84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
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Fighting for our fair share
Fighting for you
Building the Coffs Bypass
A lawyer and former police officer, Pat doesn’t back away from a challenge and will use his years of experience to make sure Cowper gets its fair share of funding and investment.
The Nationals are building the Coffs Harbour Bypass and Pat is determined to make sure the community gets the tunnels it deserves, to better connect our region.
Protecting retirees Pat is fiercely opposed to Labor’s unfair raid on retirement savings, which will cost close to a million people an average of $2200 every year. You’ve worked hard and deserve to enjoy your retirement, and Pat is determined to protect your way of life.
Building on success
Creating jobs
Pat wants to see the fantastic investment in our electorate continue including the major upgrades of the Pacific Highway and almost $25 million to upgrade the Coffs campus of Southern Cross University.
As part of a team committed to delivering 1.25 million new jobs for Australia, Pat will work to cut red tape so businesses across the Cowper electorate can flourish and build tomorrow’s employment opportunities.
Authorised by P Conaghan, National Party of Australian – NSW, 84 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
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If you’re over 50 and would like to lend your voice to issues that concern seniors in our community, and you also enjoy having a very sociable, fun time with others, our local branch of National Seniors Australia may be just what you’re looking for! Representatives from our local branch, including President Joan Lundstrom; Vice President Nicola Herbert; Activities Officer Lee Brown; Treasurer Erica de Carlo; Sandra Banks; John Banks; Judith Clegg; and Ian Richardson sat down together to tell us more about the group … ow/when did the local branch of National Seniors come to be established in Port Macquarie? The Port Macquarie Branch of National Seniors Australia (NSA) was established in 1997 and has been in its current form since 2005. It has over 100 members. What are the aims of your group? Our main aim is to provide local residents over-50 with an opportunity to meet and make friends with a wide diversity of people in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. We organise two or three events each month to bring members together. We often get ideas for things to do from FOCUS! Being part of National Seniors provides an opportunity to belong to an ever-growing community of older Australians who want a say in the political, economic and social issues that affect us. The more members we have, the stronger our voice. The CEO of National Seniors, Professor John McCallum, was invited to speak at the public hearings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The Branch provides NSA with constructive feedback and our President, Joan, keeps us up-to-date with what it is doing on our behalf. One of our members, John Urquhart, is on the NSA National Council, the body that advises on policy and advocacy matters. What are some examples of activities/ events you've assisted with over the past twelve months? Our group has made an art form of socialising; we aim to have as much fun together as possible. We start the New Year
with a picnic breakfast; support Christmas in July at Comboyne; celebrate Melbourne Cup with a fun lunch; and finish the year with a Christmas party. We’ve just held our annual “Guess Who’s Coming to Lunch”, and we visit local restaurants. Our road trip in 2018 was to the spas at Moree. We run a monthly 500 card club. Other experiences include: Jazz in the Vines, movies at Laurieton, mini-golf and ten-pin bowling, and Open Gardens at Hannam Vale. Where and when does your group currently meet? We meet every second Tuesday of the month (except January) at Port City Bowling Club at 10am. We endeavour to make our meetings light-hearted and entertaining, with interesting and informative guest speakers on topics as varied as home care packages, cyber security, prisoner rehabilitation and the Koala Hospital. We end the morning with an optional lunch. What are some of the upcoming activities you have planned? A lunch cruise on the Hastings River, our annual charity afternoon tea and auction, and a bus trip to the Scottish Festival in Wingham. Future speakers include paramedic Steve Towle, our Mayor, Ms Peta Pinson, and Stephen Burt from Heritage Jewellers. Come and join us: visitors are always welcome. Where can we find out further info? Find us through the National Seniors website https://nationalseniors.com.au/ about/branches/port-macquarie-hastings Or, contact our Secretary, Lynda Walters, on 0402 577 445. Thanks everyone. Interview: Jo Robinson. Greater Port Macquarie focus 81
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Have you dreamt of retiring to a new home with fantastic amenities right next door? Newport Village may be just what you have been waiting for.
ewport Village is a friendly and welcoming community, perfectly located right in town, only minutes to every convenience, including hospitals, specialist medical services, shopping, entertainment and the stunning natural wonders of Port Macquarie. Residents enjoy all the benefits of community living, including resort amenities, with recent upgrades to the Clubhouse and resort pool, plus the addition of a brand new bowling green.
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There are new home designs offering a range of features and inclusions. All of the homes are designed with the community residents in mind. Open plan living and dining with seamless flow to the covered decks - designed to enhance outdoor living and entertaining. Large bedrooms with en-suite, plus plenty of spaces to relax and retreat. There is plenty of storage and clever features to make downsizing a dream. Our community is designed to be enjoyed with friends and family, or to socialise with other residents. Newport Village comes with the peace of mind of living in a gated community,
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with the opportunity to lock and leave whilst you pursue your travelling dreams. We know that downsizing and tackling the many decisions that come with retirement can be confusing. We believe that the more information that is gathered, the better the long term decision is for our over 55s. Newport Village is hosting a retirement information session on the 8th of May from 10am to noon. The free morning tea event will host a range of speakers, focusing on accommodation options, land lease living, financial facts, plus longer term considerations for wellness and care. We would love to invite you to attend. Call Pam on (02) 6580 3000 to make sure you secure your spot, as numbers will be limited. Brand new homes, as well as preloved gems are on offer and selling quickly. Demand is high, so we encourage you to call Pam on (02) 6580 3000 to arrange a time to inspect our display homes, or drop in between 10am and 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. With affordable prices, NO Stamp Duty on purchase, NO Exit Fees and full retention of Capital Gains/Profits, Newport Village is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a safe and secure community lifestyle, surrounded by likeminded people who are enjoying life to the full. Visit our website for details on Newport Village www.newportvillage.com.au or other Hometown Australia communities www.hometownaustralia.com.au
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Garden Village
Exhibition
FOCUS speaks with Garden Village’s CEO, Craig Wearne, about the inception of a new Memory Care Centre at the village.
May 3rd and 4th
Garden Village will host AN ART EXHIBITION TO ASSIST WITH THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW MEMORY CARE CENTRE, that will better support those living with dementia in our community. Artist Erika Rohr tells us more about the exhibition ... i Erika; thanks so much very active in organising the event, even the for speaking with Men’s Shed, who have made the frames for the FOCUS. You're an accom- display. plished local artist here Your landscapes showcasing our natural in Port Macquarie. What surrounds are beautiful. Who or what inencouraged you to put spires you artistically and creatively? your hand up to host an art exhibition in Port Macquarie is such a beautiful place, with support of raising funds for Garden Vilall our lovely beaches and fantastic scenery. I lage’s new Memory Care Centre? love painting the beaches and waves - there It has given me great pleasure getting is so much movement and colour. I mainly like involved in such a fantastic project. Garden traditional work, but have experience with modVillage is forever trying to ern and contemporary improve the facilities for pieces as well. My family their residents, especially encourage me to continue areas for those needing painting, since we moved more care and attention. into Cascades. Often they THIS EXHIBITION GAVE ME The Memory Care Centre ask me to paint someA GREAT OPPORTUNITY project is the most needthing special, like their faTO GET TO KNOW THE ed one, so any money vourite pet or a scene. My RESIDENTS AND EXHIBIT raised will go to help defriends also have requests. MY PAINTINGS. I WILL BE mentia patients. This will EXHIBITING ABOUT THIRTY I will attempt any subject PAINTINGS, WITH A MIXTURE be an area where they’ll - even portraits - not my OF OILS, WATERCOLOUR feel safe and happy. Since strong area. AND ACRYLICS. we moved into Cascades What are your favourat Garden Village, I've ite types of materials to needed to get involved work with and why? in the community. This I mainly paint in oils exhibition gave me a great opportunity to get to - also watercolour and acrylics. I love painting know the residents and exhibit my paintings. I in oils, as you can create different textures and will be exhibiting about thirty paintings, with a techniques. mixture of oils, watercolour and acrylics. Where can our readers see more of your There will be other artists exhibiting, includwork and find out more about you? ing a local artist who paints in all mediums, and From time to time I exhibit at the different from the residents, portrait paintings in waterart exhibitions in the local area. This month I’ll colours, some pencil sketches, photographs of be exhibiting in the Easter Exhibition at the Port the local area, and “visual garden art pieces”. Macquarie Art Society in Hastings River Drive. There is also a staff member exhibiting some We’re anticipating having an annual exhibition of her creative jewellery pieces and a spinner at Cascades, where we’ll be inviting other artists and some members of the Wauchope Quilter’s in the future to exhibit as well. Group presenting as well. Everyone has been Thanks Erika.
i Craig. Garden Village has one of the highest occupancy rates of residents living in the retirement and aged care community in Port Macquarie. The creation of a new "Memory Care
Aside from the development of this new centre, what other plans are in motion for Garden Village going forward? We continue to focus on providing the highest levels of care to our residents within the Garden Village community. We enjoy consistently
Centre" established at the village would
improving and working with our residents and
certainly add another distinctive "care" as-
their families as we continue on this journey. The
pect that residents could receive onsite. Tell
feedback we receive from our residents, families
us about the significance of this for Garden
and staff is invaluable.
Village? Dementia is a really important area to discuss and understand. Dementia describes symptoms from disorders affecting the brain. It is not one specific disease with different types - Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia. Dementia affects thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks and is associated with significant memory loss. We know that at least one in 11 or approxi-
The Board and I have a strong Master Plan that provides for the ongoing updating of the aged care home, and a new apartment retirement village development in the north east corner of our village, in addition to a Wellness Centre providing restorative health and wellness services to older Australians. As the CEO at Garden Village, what do you love most about your role?
mately 2,000 people in Port Macquarie are living
I have worked in the health and aged care
with Dementia, and we are pleased that we are
environment for most of my career, with a total
contributing to the specialised care of people
of 26 years in the industry. I enjoy working
with Dementia by developing an 11 bed Memory
and leading an organisation and a group of
Care Centre. We know this will provide a substantial contribution to the community, with only 50 beds available in Port Macquarie, and look forward to the centre opening later this year. What specific Dementia care services can
dedicated people that come to work every day to provide relationship focused care. It is an interesting time to lead an aged care and retirement living organisation, and I need to make sure
people living with Dementia and their carers
the fundamental care that we provide to our
look to benefit from at the centre?
residents, with our Director of Care and clinical
Prospective residents will enjoy a home-like en-
leaders, is consistently improving and we are able
vironment with centrally located lounge, dining
to meet the challenges in the industry now and
and kitchen. The outdoor sensory environment
into the future.
space will be enhanced with sensory features to stimulate their senses and positive memories. The Garden Village Auxiliary provides wonderful support to facilitate the care and support of residents within the aged care home. The Auxiliary volunteer their time, led by Helen Guthrie, the current Auxiliary President and have organised
Garden Village is a benevolent not for profit organisation and has been part of the Port Macquarie community for 40 years - our Vision is built on these fundamentals and is the reason why Garden Village remains a premier provider and why I am passionate about leading the team
an art exhibition to help fundraise for the centre.
at Garden Village.
These funds will contribute to the outdoor senso-
Thanks Craig.
ry space, providing for furnishings and greenery.
Interviews: Sarah Dunstan. Greater Port Macquarie focus 83
YOUR MORNING WALK IS CALLING.
POZIÈRES VILLAGE Lighthouse Beach
Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie
NEW HOMES FROM
$530,000 Independent Living for Over 55s Featuring single-level 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom homes plus study, attached garage and including: • • • • • •
Clubhouse BBQ area Mini Golf Pet-friendly Bowling green Swimming Pool & Spa
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Village bus for outings Café Social outings In-home care services Attractive, well-maintained gardens
STAGE 1 of Pozieres Village with 37 new homes will be ready to occupy in mid-2019
DEPOSITS NOW BEING TAKEN – CONTACT US TODAY
OPENING SOON! RETIREMENT LIVING & AGED CARE HOME
Pozieres Village & Arthur Blackburn VC Gardens Aged Care Home Enquiries 6584 1258 or visit rsllifecare.org.au for more information and floor plans
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SUE REID
Douglas Vale's Heritage
OPEN DAY Attractions Galore at Douglas Vale’s Heritage Open Day on Saturday 6th April.
Join the Douglas Vale Volunteers on their Heritage Open Day from 9:30am until 2:30pm and see an amazing variety of attractions. The Mid North Coast Astronomy and Science Centre will be there to instruct and enthuse others in the study of our skies. There will be a display by the Wauchope Yesteryear Truck and Machinery Club, as well as the Port Macquarie and District Family History Society and the Kendall Heritage Society. Craft demonstrations of spinning and lacemaking will be proceeding, and there will be papercraft, leatherwork, pottery and handmade cards available for purchase. Two local authors, Michael Davis and Desley Pulmear, will be there to personally autograph their books. Delicious Vicker’s Fudge and beautiful flowers from The Longest Row will be for sale, as well as a variety of plants from the Port Macquarie Quota stall. Information stalls promoting Port Macquarie Toastmasters, Port Macquarie Lions, Wauchope Community Radio. Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre and Port Macquarie
Toy Library will be on show. Add to this the delicious Devonshire teas and tasty BBQs, volunteer led homestead and ground tours and an opportunity to taste and purchase our unique wines ... Not to mention all day entertainment from our volunteer performers. See our wedding display, find out about becoming a volunteer yourself and participate in our raffle, with the chance of winning some of our beautiful wines. Entry is by gold coin donation, and all funds raised on the day contribute to maintaining and restoring this beautiful property. Open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 3pm, this is the only completely volunteer run homestead and vineyard in Australia.
HASTINGS CHORISTERS PRESENTS
CHOIRS of
Hastings Choristers Choral Kaleidoscope Concert, Sunday, April 7 once again brings together choirs from all over the Mid North Coast. Robyn Ryan OAM, Musical Director, is excited to announce that Paul Jarman, multi-instrumentalist, composer and choir-master will perform in the concert with his choir Valla Voices.
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aul will also conduct one of his own songs, The Sound of Our Home, performed by Hastings Choristers. Valla Voices has a reputation for musical excellence and a wide repertoire of music styles, so it is a rare treat to have Paul Jarman and Valla Voices join the 2019 Choral Kaleidoscope concert. Showcasing the variety of different choirs, Hastings Choristers and Valla Voices will be joined by: Company of Voices from Forster Tuncurry; Blokes Notes, a men’s choir from the Hastings region; Savvy Singers, a group of older singers, who sing to stay young; Bel Canto children’s
The phrase “wellbeing” is used widely nowadays. I have heard it used when referring to mental health, the importance of diet and exercise, and even financial security.
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his suggests to me that “wellbeing” can mean so many different things to a person; however, every interpretation is still valid as a unique measure of wellbeing to an individual.
new facilities. He famously said “... it’s not about the buildings, but what goes on in the buildings”.
Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA) has been understanding the wellbeing of local residents in this way for more than 40 years. Back in the 1970s, Father Donnelly recognised the need to care for locals who were getting older, but knew it was about their wellbeing and not just about building
residents that sets CCA apart from everyone else.
Our local team understands the needs of locals and those who ultimately become locals. Our Lifestyle Program offers wellbeing in terms of Interpretations of wellbeing also change social connections, physical activity and giving with age. Health and back to the community. independence are key Our Pastoral Care Program examples of contributors supports those who may to wellbeing that be experiencing personal change with getting challenges or loss of a Health and older. Understanding loved one. Our Home Care independence are that the definition of team provides a range of key examples of wellbeing is different for medical, domestic and contributors to everyone and that it will personal services for all wellbeing that change also change over time our residents. with getting older. is key to understanding It is our programs, the needs of older services and experience in Australians. delivering wellbeing to our
Come and talk to us about what wellbeing means to you and view some of our recently refurbished villas, with all the facilities that you need and easy access to town. Call us on 5525 3600.
choir; and the female ensemble Cantabile. The aim of the concert is to share the joy of singing and demonstrate the advantages of belonging to a choir, where people can come together to sing their hearts out! Choirs celebrate diversity among members, the common factor being their love of singing and performing together. This year the youngest singer is eight years old, while the oldest is 94! The Kaleidoscope Concert takes place on Sunday, April 7 at the Uniting Church Port Macquarie, at 2pm. Tickets are adults $20, $10 for under 18s, available at the Glasshouse Box Office or at the door before the concert. Greater Port Macquarie focus 85
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SENIOR Australians and communities in country areas will receive significant upgrades to local residential aged care homes, with $40 million in grants from the Federal Government. ccording to Minister for Senior and their dedication to supporting senior Australians and Aged Care Ken Australians in the bush,” Mr Wyatt said. Wyatt, the funding will enable He said that regional, rural and remote aged extensions, refurbishments and care services face different challenges their improvements at 117 homes, capital city counterparts. under the Aged Care Regional, Rural and These include higher operating costs, Remote Infrastructure Grants scheme. difficulties attracting and retaining Successful local organisations will receive professional staff and financial challenges the funding early this year, following an open associated with sparse populations and and competitive funding geographical isolation. round which closed in The $40 million grant October 2018. funding will boost “As part of our the productivity and Government’s $5 billion sustainability of local As part of our Government’s aged care funding aged care services, which $5 billion aged care funding boost, announced in the play a critical role in boost, announced in the 2018-19 Budget, this community cohesion. 2018-19 Budget, this aged aged care infrastructure “These aged care care infrastructure funding is dedicated to homes not only provide funding is dedicated to improving the quality and vital services, they help improving the quality accessibility of aged care maintain the economic and accessibility of aged services in regional, rural and social viability of care services in regional, and remote Australia,” regional centres,” Mr rural and remote Australia ... Mr Wyatt said. Wyatt said. “It will provide “The sector will receive individual services with a further boost of $60 grants of up to $500,000 to support better million via the residential aged care capital and more extensive services and ensure senior grants through the Aged Care Approvals Australians living outside our large cities can Round (ACAR) expected to be announced by receive quality care as close as possible to April 2019. home.” “This combined investment will see a total Local projects funded include kitchen, of $100 million to support small infrastructure bathroom and bedroom renovations and upgrades and major capital investment, in extensions, new activity and barbecue areas, areas where it is most needed,” he said. clinic construction, staff accommodation In addition, $101.9 million has been upgrades and expansions, new solar power earmarked to lift the annual Viability systems, and security and fire protection Supplement by 30 per cent, paid to eligible improvements. regional aged care providers due to higher “I have been impressed by the significant costs in rural areas. interest from regional aged care providers Article Provided by The Senior. 86 Greater Port Macquarie focus
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MARGRET MEAGHER - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR ARTS AND HEALTH
Arts Health AND
Andy Warhol, Flowers (1964), Fluorescent paint and silkscreen ink on linen, © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. Exhibition: Andy Warhol – From A to B and Back Again, November 2018 – March 2019. Whitney Museum of American Art, New York
Creative Ageing: The Beat Goes On. I have never been a huge fan of pop art, but it was my three year old granddaughter, Lola who encouraged me to see the Andy Warhol exhibition at the Whitney Museum in New York.
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ola fell in love with Warhol’s flower paintings of hibiscus (1964), which covered one whole room in the museum in an immersive experience, which at once made her laugh out loud and skip around the room in a field of flowers. Me too. Feeling like this reminded me of a recently released study, Cultural engagement and incident depression in older adults. Researchers at University College London, Dr Daisy Fancourt and Urszula Tymoszuk reported that regular visits to the cinema, theatre or to museums can dramatically reduce the chances of becoming depressed as we get older. They believe this is the first such study to show that cultural activities not only help people manage and recover from depression, but can actually help to prevent it. Their study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry (2018), found people who attended films, plays or exhibitions every few months had a 32% lower risk of developing depression, with those attending once a month or more having a 48% lower risk. Dr Fancourt says that, generally speaking, people know the benefits of eating nourishing food and exercising regularly for their physical and mental health, but there is still limited awareness that cultural activities have similar benefits. “People engage with the arts for the pure enjoyment of doing so, but there are wider benefits too," she says. The study looked at data on more than 2,000 people over the age of 50, who took part in the ten year English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). This included information about how often participants in the study visited the theatre, concerts or the opera, the cinema, art galleries, exhibitions or museums. Their answers also revealed when participants reported being diagnosed with depression, and when they
experienced symptoms that the researchers then measured on a scale widely used to spot people at risk of depression. Even when the results were adjusted to take account of differences in people's age, gender, health and their levels of wealth, education and exercise, the benefits of cultural activities remained clear. Those benefits were also independent of whether or not people had contact with friends and family or took part in social activities like clubs and societies. The researchers believe the power of these cultural activities lies in the combination of social interaction, creativity, mental stimulation and the gentle physical activity they encourage. Dr Fancourt commented that they found the same relationship between cultural engagement and depression amongst those of high and low wealth and of different levels of education. The key difference was the frequency of participation. The message is clear. For cultural engagement to have longterm benefits for mental health, we need to engage in cultural activities regularly. As Dr Fancourt wryly commented: “This is similar to exercise: going for a run on the first of January won't still have benefits in October, unless we keep going for runs!" She added: "Depression is a major issue, affecting millions of people. If we are starting to feel low or isolated, then cultural engagement is something simple that we can do to proactively help with our own mental health, before it gets to the point where we need professional medical help." Inspired by this heartening news, it was time for a further test, and my daughter and I took ourselves off to see the Cher Show on Broadway. The music, singing along and dancing in the aisles certainly improved our mood. It was uplifting too, to celebrate the musical career of this highly successful artist, who is proudly 72 and touring still, completing a world tour this year - which has included Australia. “The Beat Goes On”! Greater Port Macquarie focus 87
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Greater Port Macquarie
Waterside living at its absolute best, custom built with meticulous attention to detail using only the best in materials and quality finishes; the April FOCUS Home of the Month is brought to you by Northcorp Builders.
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Hampton Style
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hrissy Jones had the pleasure of taking a walk through the magnificent waterfront residence that boasts panoramic views of the adjacent Hastings River waterway. From the onset you know something special awaits; this architectural masterpiece adds elegance to Port Macquarie canal living. The home represents a rare opportunity to purchase a brand new build on the waterfront. Contact Elders Port Macquarie for further information. Having an elegant Hampton Style exterior
The home represents a rare opportunity to purchase a brand new build on the waterfront; it is
facade, encompassing rendered brickwork and James Hardie cladding, the home is architecturally designed and master built to maximise light, style, scale and outlook. All are complemented beautifully by landscaped cottage garden flower beds and a white aluminium picket fence. A textured concrete drive leads to a double garage fitted with auto panel lift door and internal access. The drive, flanked by manicured lawns and garden beds, also leads to the tiled entry portico. Entry to the home is via a grand timber
a substantial investment entrance door into the the home. opportunity to purchase, foyer that has HeartTo the right is internal with no more canals being made ridge laminate floating access to the garage and in Australia ... flooring underfoot, workshop; to the left is a supplied and installed striking set of handcrafted by Port Macquarie CarBlackbutt timber treads pet One Floor & Home. that lead into the void They add sophistication above to the second level and a refined touch, of the residence. The stairhaving been crafted to reflect the true beauty case is framed by a frameless glass balustrade of wood. The intricate details of the timber one side and has a stainless steel handrail the grain, colouration and finishing of each plank other for safety. ensures the floors are a highlight throughout
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Hampton Style THE GROUND FLOOR POWDER ROOM, GUEST MASTER SUITE A series of feature light-filled voids, floor to ceiling glass and raised ceilings create a sense of grandeur, with a modern-day twist. A wide hallway guides you past the powder room, tucked neatly away behind a wooden sliding cavity door. Exquisite Carrera marble floor and wall tiling, from Colortile Tiles With Style, encase the room on three sides. An antique style, freestanding vanity cupboard has an in-bench hand basin and picture framed mirror above. To the right is the guest master suite. Luxurious, it is fitted out with carpet and roller blinds from Port Macquarie Carpet One Floor & Home, has a well-appointed walk-in robe with both his and hers hanging and shelving space, ceiling fan and ducted air-conditioning. The guest master has its own private patio and adjoining en-suite. Carrera marble tiling continues in the en-suite, surrounding the freestanding oval Gianna bath and frameless glass screened shower recess. Gloss white subway
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tiling is placed behind Roller blinds are simple and the antique-style vanity functional in operation, but cupboard and picture stylish and modern in design frame mirror. and fabric. With a number of the cabinetry in both KITCHEN, BUTLER’S has plenty of both under fabric collections to choose PANTRY/LAUNDRY bench and overhead from, the roller blind can Designed and installed storage. Custom built provide solutions for every by Designer Living shelving on one wall in the room in a property. Kitchens, the kitchen is pantry gives a convenient any home cook's dream! space for condiments and Equipped with plenty cookbooks. Marble tiling of overhead and under in the laundry is practical, bench cabinets, Essastone counters, mirrored along with the glass door that opens out on to splash back, island bench and SMEG appliances, the outdoor drying area. including an induction electric cooktop, gas oven OPEN PLAN DINING, LOUNGE & OUTDOOR and concealed range-hood, the kitchen is both ENTERTAINING AREA stylish and functional. Adjacent to the kitchen is the open plan The island bench doubles as a breakfast bar L-shaped dining and lounge - a huge space that and a workspace, having the dishwasher and offers 180-degree waterway views when dining built-in rubbish bin drawer integrated, plus deep, or relaxing in front of the TV. Floor to ceiling soft close drawer storage. glass sliding doors three sides, supplied by Mid Alongside the kitchen are the walkthrough Coast Windows, frame the majestic waterway butler’s pantry and laundry. An efficient design, views and open out on to the tiled outdoor
area. All combine to create an indoor/outdoor entertaining area second to none. SECOND LEVEL FAMILY BEDROOMS, PARENTS' RETREAT, MASTER BEDROOM & EN-SUITE Ascend the timber staircase to the second level, where you are greeted by more waterway views via a strategically placed picture window. Plush carpet, twist pile solution dyed nylon from Port Macquarie Carpet One Floor & Home is underfoot throughout, adding a luxurious yet durable floor covering that has been designed to withstand wear that comes from everyday use in busy households. Both family bedrooms are a generous size, are a mirror image, each having built-in robes and adjoining en-suite exquisitely fitted out with Carrera marble tiling, antique look vanity cupboard, picture frame mirror and glass screened shower recess.
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Hampton Style Sectioning the family bedrooms from the master bedroom is the media room. A private parents' retreat, it is a quiet space to kick back, relax and watch a movie in total comfort. The master bedroom and en-suite are reminiscent of a 5 Star Motel, boasting magnificent views of the Hastings River through a bank of windows, plus a set of louvre windows allowing direction of waterway breezes. A private retreat overflowing with style, the master has its own balcony - a perfect spot to enjoy the end of the day with a glass of wine, or to start the day with a morning cuppa whilst taking in the view. The two-way walk around his and her robe is a fantastic addition, providing both hanging and shelving space two sides. Walk through to
the adjoining en-suite, where you are encased by sophistication and style. Carrera marble floor to ceiling tiles, an antique-look freestanding double vanity cupboard with twin hand-basins and picture frame mirror above, a freestanding oval Gianna bath, plus a frameless glass screened corner shower recess add to the luxury. Fittings and fixtures throughout are top of the range, including the intercom and alarm system; the residence is NBN ready and has ducted reverse cycle air conditioning zoned to every individual room. Complete with a jetty and pontoon, it has been designed to make the most of its surrounds. Absolute perfection; the home is idyllic. Master built in Hamptons style in a waterfront setting, Northcorp Builders and associated trades
have excelled. FROM THE BUILDER - Steve Curry, Northcorp Building ... FOCUS is featuring the executive residence, found at 64B The Anchorage this issue, that you have recently completed for the owners. What is the standout feature of the residence in your mind? I personally like the views; also, the bedrooms are all large, with their own en-suite bathrooms. Tell us about your business… We formed Northcorp Building in Queensland ten years ago and had been living in Port Macquarie for 18 years prior to that. Our children started their families in Port Macquarie, so we decided to move back to be near them. Port Macquarie is a great part of our country, and we are glad to be back and hope to continue building many quality homes in the area.
How many people do you employ? We have three full-time men and all our quality sub-contractors. My son, Samuel, is a Director in the building company. I’m looking forward to the day when he is in charge and I can take a step back. What type of construction do you specialise in? Northcorp Building like designer homes and also specialise in renovations and extensions. We also build granny flats, which are nice, as you are in and out. We love building individual homes. If it’s unique, we would love to build it for you. How do prospective clients contact you? We have a web page www. northcorpbuilding.com.au that has all our contact details.
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FOCUS distributes 21,000 copies every month across Greater Port Macquarie - via our home delivery and direct to businesses. If you happen to miss out on one at home, or are visiting from out of town, then please visit one of our outlets by the 10th of the month to grab your free copy.
What a Unit Last month, we showed how Wauchope has pipped Port Macquarie & Thrumster in the growth stakes over the past few years. As promised, we will take a look at unit prices this month. Units prices have levelled out since December 2017 in Port Macquarie, with a median price of $385,000 for all unit types (villas, townhouses and apartments) and that figure hasn’t moved much, with the late 2018 median price unchanged. With fewer than 33 units ever sold in Thrumster, the numbers aren’t completely reliable, so a trend cannot be shown, but with predominantly new development in that area the median
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villa price is higher, at $468,000.
Port Macquarie Airport
Wauchope is not far off Port Macquarie, with a current median of $370,000 down from $399,000 in December 2017, with just 25 sales per annum.
Beechwood Post Office
Laurieton has the same median price for units as Port
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Macquarie ($385,000) but is a small market too - broader Camden Haven sales also match this value level. As a lead in to next month’s article about land, the median house sale prices in Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills have grown from $399,000 to $570,000 (43%) and $430,000 to $630,000 (47%) respectively. Land prices have contributed to that growth, and we will look deeper into that in the next instalment … Land Ahoy! (Data from CoreLogic.)
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FOCUS can also be found at selected hotels, resorts and motels in the Greater Port Macquarie region.
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Property & investment guide F O C U S
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Tell 'em they’re
dreaming We’ve all seen the adverts about getting a property price estimate from an online source; for example, your bank, real estate website or buyers agency. The way these systems produce a property price estimate is by relying on "big-data", which includes historic sale prices, asking prices for properties on the market in the area, the last sale price of the property, average price growth rates and the property features, such as land size, location and number of bedrooms. Lots of the information is obtained from agent marketing material, Council applications and valuations that have been conducted on behalf of lenders.
I
f you live in a metropolitan area where the true market value with a range as wide as there are lots of similar houses being sold $120,000 in this case! or listed for sale, then the amount of data IPN Valuers has conducted more than 17,000 available can give a reasonable estimate. valuations in our area alone and can provide far The problem for regional areas is the more comfort for buyers and sellers than any amount of data is far from "big". online estimator can - it takes far more than I recently valued a property in Eastport, data to determine property prices, and only a where I checked qualified and experienced property estimates from valuer can sift through a number of popular the numbers and make online sources, and the appropriate comparisons We have 13 offices which results where: with the current market. provide a wide variety $500,000 IPN Valuers provides a of services and consultancy $464,000 to $557,000 range of independent, for residential, commercial/ $450,000 to $590,000 client focused valuation industrial and rural properties $520,000 and real estate advice in the region, which can only be $450,000 to $500,000 for owners/vendors, serviced by well qualified valuers $510,000 purchasers, landlords, with a strong local background. The value of the tenants, estates, financial property was actually institutions, insurance assessed at $525,000, firms, government which is within the departments, real ranges above, but the width of the range is as estate agents, developers, investors, solicitors, wide as $140,000 - loads of room for error accountants and more. and a very costly one at that. We have 13 offices which provide a Here’s another example. A house in Clifton wide variety of services and consultancy for area had the following ranges: residential, commercial/industrial and rural $465,000 properties in the region, which can only be $385,000 to $505,000 serviced by well qualified valuers with a strong $440,000 local background. $411,000 to $464,000 Call us today on 6585 1177 or visit www. $430,000 valuersportmacquarie.com.au - let us help guide What chance does a buyer or seller have of you through the complexities of real estate knowing if the price estimate is within cooee of transactions with our “no stress” service.
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As HEM Property INVESTMENT turns two, they enter Guide a new era in real estate.
irstly, congratulations on reaching the two years in business milestone! Thank you. It’s been an exciting and rewarding time for us all at HEM. Starting something new is always daunting, especially as our way of doing things was a big move away from the traditional real estate agent. We had an idea to create a modern agency, that puts the focus firmly back on the client, their homes and delivering a customer experience like no other. In the short time we've been going, we have put up over 320 SOLD stickers and immersed ourselves in new community initiatives, but above all else stuck to our core values. For us, it has always been more than just getting a property sold. It's not just a transaction; it's about investing ourselves 100% from start to finish to deliver the best possible outcome and with the least amount of fuss, so our clients know they are walking away with a great result. Our new way of doing things gets results and has earnt us a great reputation, so we are grateful to everyone who helped us on the journey.
As you enter a new era, tell us about your future plans and expansion. Never ones to rest on our laurels, we believe change is a good thing, and we will continue to innovate and evolve. Our recent purchase of Hudson Real Estate, in particular, has led to an exciting expansion of our team. In sales, Sarah Wright has joined us to bolster what is now without a doubt, the most experienced sales team in Port Macquarie. We have also just opened a brand-new office, next door on William Street, that is dedicated purely to Property Management. This stunning office is like nothing else in Port Macquarie, and we are incredibly lucky to have such an energetic, dedicated and talented Property Management team that have gelled immediately since the merge and are already performing like a welloiled machine. Tell us the advantage your Property Management team can offer. Our goal is to take Property Management to the next level, and we feel the set-up we
now have offers several If you are considering a It's not just a transaction; key advantages. Our new Property Manager, it's about investing philosophy of personalised, we invite you to drop in ourselves 100% one on one service and to see the new office and from start to finish having the mindset to treat meet the team anytime. to deliver the best What's next? every client's property with possible outcome and As the market the same care as if it were conditions here in Port our own is the key. Our with the least amount of fuss. Macquarie change, we beautiful new office is not will be adapting and only the easiest to find in improving our output town, but offers a warm to meet the needs of clients. We will continue and welcoming environment for both landlords to innovate and improve our service, whilst and tenants. But above all, it is the people who sticking to our core values - good, honest, work here and the structures we have in place, practical advice, backed up by the most that make the difference. Working as a unified experienced and hard working team in Port team, they offer experience, knowledge and Macquarie. We truly believe that if you are passion, backed up by the best systems and buying, selling or leasing in Port Macquarie, technology. Our clients therefore feel at ease in there is no place like HEM. the knowledge that their asset is in safe hands.
NOW THERE’S A WHOLE LOT MORE TO LOVE ABOUT
HEM Property | Property Management Office | William St 02 6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au
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URSULA BOORMAN - DIRECT ADVISERS
Property & investment guide
FOCUS
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In your
THE FINANCIAL TO DO LIST
20’s In your
with Ursula Boorman
30’s If an investment sounds too good to be true – it probably is. Understand diversification and it will serve you well for the rest of your life.
Ursula Boorman of Direct Advisers brings Finance into Focus to help you find your way through the Money Maze. Do you have a Money to Do List? We all know that Life is busy and the months fly by. Every productivity and self help guru will remind you how important it is to have goals. The reality is that ACTION and perseverance will drive your success. This month we have some ideas that you should put on your Money To Do List and TAKE ACTION! So many things to understand about money and finance and where do you start? Read all of them and make your own list ….
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Understand Income Protection and Health Insurance
Pay your bills on time – Your credit rating will impact you later Understand the First Home Super Saver scheme. Make extra contributions to super and have the option to withdraw money towards your first home. Check the rules!
Aim to have 6 months living expenses in a bank account – or at least one! Identify your financial strengths, are you going to be proactive? Make some habits automatic, for example when you get a pay rise, add half of it to super. Ask your Advisor about claiming a tax deduction. Talk to your partner about money.
Property & investment guide
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In your
In your
50’s
40’s Be Mindful about your money. Manage your commitments. Identify the most important things to you. Life is more enjoyable (and isn’t that what it is all about?) if your budget makes room for some good times now rather than saddling yourself with a big house, a big debt and no fun. Pay attention to your super. If you have a little extra saved in May consider contributing to your super and claiming a tax deduction. Do you have a Will and Power of Attorney? Are they up to date?
In your
60’s
Are you debt free? If not, when will you be? Source the calculators online that will show you how long it will take. Look to change some of your regular habits that might be impacting on your future.
Remember that Retirement is about Choice. Your community wants you to keep working if you enjoy it – in fact you can earn $6,000 per annum in wages and it won’t reduce your age pension.
Review your insurance mix, do you need the same levels?
Understand the “Transition to Retirement” opportunities
The definition of retirement has changed. We think it is all about choice. If you have saved six months of expenses you have options!
Look to reduce your tax and save more for retirement.
Understand your super account, the investment choices and the fees. If you are starting to get nervous about your wage stopping don’t rush to reduce the risk in your super. It may need to last you 40 years and needs to keep up with inflation.
Understand the strategies you can use to get ready for drawing money from your super for retirement. Be aware that drawing regularly from a “balanced” investment option each month (that is actually 90% in growth assets) can be devastating for your portfolio in falling markets.
Are you looking after your health and wellbeing? Keep your medical expenses low by caring for your health. Regular massages may prevent being unable to work because of injuries.
Remember that Knowledge is Power, moneysmart.gov.au is an excellent place to start and they even have an App to help you track your spending.
Paul Gee Aussie Broker
More than 50%* of home buyers use the services of a mortgage broker. 6584 5500 0456 826 590 5/111 William Street Port Macquarie NSW 2444
*Source: Deloite Access Economics Value of Mortgage Broking July 2018. Aussie is a trade mark of AHL Investments Pty Ltd. Aussie is a subsidiary of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. © 2019 AHL Investments Pty Ltd ABN 27 105 265 861 Australian Credit Licence 246786. Greater Port Macquarie focus 97
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INVESTMENT Guide Smart Investments Hawkes Conveyancing Buying or selling a house is something that most people only do a handful of times in their life, and our aim is to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We handle all aspects of the sale of your property, from preparing the Contract for Sale right through to settlement, including all dealings with your bank. Lauren obtained her qualification in Conveyancing Law and Practice from Macquarie University and has over 10 years' experience, having worked in conveyancing and law firms in Sydney. Lauren moved to Port Macquarie in 2014 with her husband and two children. Ivy was raised in Port Macquarie and brings to the team a wealth of local knowledge. Ivy has been a conveyancing assistant for five years
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and is well on her way to becoming a great conveyancer. When purchasing property we will provide you with legal advice on the Contract and work with you and your bank until after you have collected the keys. There are other areas which we will discuss with you which are specific to what you are purchasing, such as: Vacant Land: Soil testing, Building Contracts, Zoning, Council and developer restrictions and/ or requirements. Commercial: GST, Zoning, Leasing, Contamination. House: Inspection reports - pest and building reports and septic inspections, Restrictions, Easements, Sewer lines. Strata: Insurance, Building rules, known as bylaws, Entitlements, Strata reports.
At Ironfish, it’s our mission to help our customers achieve long-term financial wellbeing through smart property investment. Ironfish’s Lionel D’Cruze has been in the industry for almost 20 years. “My greatest professional achievement has been seeing clients prospering and doing so well over the years, sticking with the investment strategy we put in place many moons ago,” he says. “I provide my clients with a unique and powerful investing system.” Central to our philosophy is our commitment to partnership - we’re in this together, and for the long-term. We believe it’s what we bring together that sets us apart. Our holistic and personalised service approach goes beyond property investment strategies and sales to include educational workshops, property management and mortgage broking. We support our investors in acquiring a diversified property portfolio, backed by the confidence
of the latest research. We know that property investment can deliver financial success. We’ve seen it happen for thousands of our investors over the last 10 years. "Ironfish clearly explained their product and investment strategies to us. We knew it was the right next step for us, because it clearly matched where we were in our investment plans." - Katie, Business Development Manager. "Ironfish have been brilliant. Keith and I talked about investing in property for many years, did a little reading but never felt we were quite ready to take that plunge! We went along to an information night and were then introduced to a group of down to earth, trustworthy professional staff. We have been treated with respect, always felt comfortable, had all our questions answered and explained promptly. The process has been incredibly stress free. Thanks to Ironfish, we felt confident to take that first plunge and look forward to building our portfolio." - Marisa and Keith, Nurses.
LH Property & Fireplace Maintenance LH Property & Fireplace Maintenance decided to move the Business to Wauchope 5 years ago. Owner Lee Howson and his Family are originally from Barraba nsw, but his Passion for the Wood Heater Industry started in Sydney over 20 years ago. As members of AHHA (Australian Home Heating Association) and ACSA (Australian Chimney Sweep Association), they Provide A Professional Certified Service that Is Second to None. Over the years as there Clients grew LH Property & Fireplace Maintenance has evolved and now takes in Mid North Coast Heating, Selling High Quality Wood Heaters For All your Designs Needs Online, with Australia Wide Sales. Because of there Passion For Wood Heater Safety,which is a Major Issue In the Industry. They provide both Safety and Compliance Checks for both new and old homes. plus offer Inspection Reports for all New Home Buyers,before Sale. As Certified Chimney Sweeps - they offer a well established, Professional service with over 200 annual clients in the local area. Lee has a Motto "Saftey First" which is why he Stresses Flue Fires are the Major Danger for your Family Home they can cause Structural Damage or can Easily Turn Into Full Blown House Fires. Also Uncleaned Chimneys can suddenly block overnight,while the heater is still left slightly going, causing smoke to build up throughout the home which can be life-threatening, while we sleep,just another reason to Call lee and get a Professional Chimney Sweep. Full Installation Service of Your Wood Heater. They Also Offer Wood Heater Installations of All Makes and Models,Freestanding and Inbuilt Fireplaces to manufacturers & AS/NZS 2918 standards, which also Covers your House Insurance policy needs. Being a fully licenced and certified installer, you can be assured the job will be done right the first time. Check out there Online store mncheating.com.au for more info. Or Follow them on Facebook www.facebook.com/LHProFireplaceMaintenance/
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Fantastic Furniture Warm up your space with bold colours and luxe fabrics from Fantastic Furniture.
Coco fabric range, your guests will be green with envy!
As we transition to the winter months, our normally light and airy homes can suddenly feel … cold. That’s why at Fantastic Furniture Port Macquarie, we’re loving this season’s jewel-tone trend, accentuated by bold colours and luxe fabrics. Creating a warm and inviting space that’s oh-so-on-trend, without breaking the bank, has never been easier.
Boasting natural timber-look legs, this contemporary sofa looks divine when styled with Fantastic’s Niva range. The chic Niva Side Table ($89) is the perfect sidekick! Need a larger space to rest your snacks and drinks? Try the Niva Coffee Table ($169).
Ready to throw out the neutrals and experiment with a daring hue? Look to our Aussie-made sofa range, giving you the freedom to choose from over 100 fabrics and colours. We love the Marella Two Seater Sofa in Coco Emerald (just $499). The use of jeweltones makes for a vivid living space, but when paired with the velvet look of our updated
If your living room isn’t ready for such a bold statement, don’t worry! Start with jewel-tone accessories, like the Quinn Cushion in Navy ($20), or a muted statement piece like the gorgeous Bohemia Rug in Extra Large ($269) or the Sweetie Ottoman ($129). No matter what your style or budget, Milva and the Fantastic Furniture Port Macquarie team are ready to help you incorporate the jewel-tone trend to your home. Come say hello!
Make your home shine with
jewel tones
stralia Made in Au ce of oi ch ur yo in ics! br fa 100+
a
c
b
d
e
f
a Marella 2 Seater in Standard Coco Emerald fabric $499 b Niva Side Table $89 c Quinn Cushion in Navy $20 d Niva Coffee Table $169 e Sweetie Ottoman in Orchid $129 f Bohemia Rug $269
Port Home Zone
160 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie Ph: (02) 6583 2552
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fantasticfurniture.com.au
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JULIE HO FROM PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE
Living in Paradise at Wattlebird
landcare. update Top pigeons The Crested Pigeon is one of our most endearing birds, amiable and attractive to look at. Smokey grey with a black crest and bronze wing patches, it has an orange eye surrounded by a red ring.
B
eing a ground-feeder, it’s wary, and flies up with whistling wings when startled. Crested Pigeons have adapted to us and our suburbs, changing their diet, but keeping their “romantic” habits. We can observe a courtship display from our kitchen window or the street. Mr Pigeon doesn’t mind, because he’s so absorbed in sweeping Ms Pigeon off her little pink feet. It’s a treat to watch him. When she appears, he drops whatever he’s doing and begins to display. His tail swings up and spreads, his wings open and the white tips of his feathers form a fan. It looks rather like a spray of flowers. He bobs his head and breast to the ground with a soft coo, demanding her attention. How can she resist? The two birds see only each other and don’t seem to notice the surroundings. I find myself stopping and telling them to get off the roadway. And not to do that stuff while balancing on a power line! Fortunately, they do know how to survive amid life’s dangers. Crested Pigeons are not only coping with the hazards of modern human society, they are thriving and increasing their range. Our changes to the Australian landscape gave them more opportunities, and they now occupy most parts of the continent. Originally their habitat was lightly wooded grasslands and timbered inland waterways, but not dense forests. As humans
Build Your Dream Home - Small Acreage Right Near The Coast Just a short 10-minute drive from Nambucca Heads you will find 24 Lifestyle Acreages from $230,000.00 in the tranquil Wattlebird Estate. Having close proximity to absolutely stunning pristine beaches, the estate is ideal if you like boating, fishing, water skiing and of course, there is golf, peace and quiet, good food and friendly people in its surrounds. Wattlebird Estate is truly a paradise. Secure affordable land now and experience a country lifestyle that provides endless opportunities … micro-agriculture, chooks and space for a horse for the kids. Location and Lifestyle The Nambucca Valley has Australia’s best average temperatures, a unique scenic location with a welcoming community, lovely quiet towns with all the amenities and great medical
facilities, including a newly announced hospital coming and a good choice of schools available in Nambucca Heads, Macksville and Bowraville. Wattlebird Estate is ideal for people looking for a break from suburbia and who want to enjoy being outdoors, without buying a second job. Blocks available range from large one (1) hectare lots (2.4 acres), to the largest block Lot 12 being a huge 9.37 acres … more than enough space for your dream home, a chook pen, space for the kids to play plus all have good undulating, well-drained productive soils to grow fruit trees in a beautiful piece of the country. Get Help Choosing the Right Block for Your Needs To help get the dream of owning your very own acreage contact the sales agent Paul Loughland on 0402 639 265 or 1800 699 560.
have cleared forests, these birds spread beyond the inland into new areas, even to the coast. They are seed-eaters, and seem to like the native grass seeds in my yard. But they are able to eat exotic (introduced) seeds and weeds, and that’s what has enabled them to colonise new parts. Introduced plants make up most of their diet now: things like Paterson’s Curse, thistles and burr medic, along with some green leaves and occasionally insects. They are adaptable, and can breed any time after rain, though mostly they breed in spring. Two white eggs are laid in a nest of fine sticks, which they build in a tree fork about three metres above the ground. If conditions are good, a pair can raise several broods in a season. Crested Pigeons can be seen in small groups, or in flocks. They take flight noisily with rapid wing beats, sometimes gliding too. It turns out any bird can warn all others in the flock of danger, by making a special sound as it takes off. The rest of the flock responds and takes flight immediately. The warning sound is produced by a modified primary wing feather that is only half as wide as the others. It’s another adaptation that’s helped these birds to succeed. To attract native birds to your yard, install a bird bath, with plants to perch on. Suitable native plants help too - you’ll find them at Landcare’s website www.landcareportmac.com.au Julie Ho. Greater Port Macquarie focus 101
RealChris Estate Koch with
L A I N G
+
S I M M O N S
P O R T
M A C Q U A R I E
Although the media are telling us we are in a declining property market, this doesn’t reflect the true story of what’s happening in Port Macquarie right now. We’ve all heard the reports that house prices are falling, that finance is cheap but harder to obtain, that 2019 is a buyer’s market and that vendors will have to settle for less. But Chris Koch, long-term local identity and Principal of Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie says that properties are selling for fair prices, but on the whole, vendors are not collecting the windfalls they have in the past few years. Chris is quick to point out that while the number of sales are down compared to 12 months ago, Port Macquarie is still a healthy property market, with a lot going on. There are buyers out there in the start of 2019 - plenty of them - but we are seeing definite markets within markets, with good prices being achieved in some areas and property types, and less so in others.
"To maximise their sale price in a challenging market, Chris says sellers need to get three key factors right from the outset."
To maximise their sale price in a challenging market, Chris says sellers need to get three key factors right from the outset. Firstly, presentation is vital. When buyers are spoilt for choice, you need to make sure your home stands out and attracts plenty of attention. Secondly, your asking price will be a deciding factor between getting strong numbers through an open home, or next to none. In the current conditions, this point has never been more true. And thirdly, your choice of agent is crucial. In a seller’s market, less experienced agents can easily give the appearance of success. But when the market changes, it’s no longer about just finding any buyer. This is when working with an agent who has a solid grasp of the local property cycle, and is a proven negotiator in any market, will pay huge dividends when getting the best price.
A challenging market throws up lots of questions and possibilities. Chris says talk to an experienced local agent and you might be surprised to find that despite all the property doom and gloom in the news, there’s an undercurrent of optimism in the market. Chris says when all is said and done, if you have a property in Port Macquarie, you still have something a lot of people want.
6583 7733 | lsre.com.au/portmacquarie
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