Greater Port Macquarie Focus i162

100 Hives for 100 Schools

May 2019//issue 162

Bron

WATSON Mother's Day Classic

2 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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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

Welcome to the May issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell

W

annette@focusmag.com.au

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

SALES EXECUTIVE Sarah Dunstan sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

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PHOTOGRAPHER Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

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Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 62128786005. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 20052019 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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I

e promised to go "pink" - and here we are! This year we committed to go all out pink for May in our support of the annual Mother’s Day Classic, which raises money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and also provides funds to the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute. The fundraising event is being held on May 12th at Westport Park, where locals can join the walk or run, either solo or in teams or as business, and help raise awareness and money for the cause. Shockingly, eight women die every day in Australia from breast cancer; they are mums,

sisters, daughters, grandmothers, aunts, friends, and workmates.

And men are not exempt either.

We are proud to be able to support events like this and have had lots of fun with making a big pink splash. On the cover is the event Ambassador Bron Watson, a local mum and business woman who has faced her battle with breast cancer and proudly supports the cause. Thank you, Bron for trusting us with the photo and your story! You can read all about the MDC and Bron’s story, starting on page 18. Also a big thank you to Kate Petrie for the hair and make up, and Milva Wheate of Fantastic Furniture for the sofa and

space for the shoot!

Don’t forget to register and "Make Mother’s Day mean more", and ladies, make sure you examine your breasts and conduct a self check this May. With Mother’s Day on May 12th, it's time to celebrate all the wonderful women in our lives. If you're looking for the perfect gift or idea for spoiling your loved one, then we have a few ideas - starting on page 45.

Recently FOCUS took the opportunity to have a Workplace Wellbeing Workshop for our team.

The workshop was presented by headspace and Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist

Service, who helped us understand the issues of mental health and domestic violence. Having a well connected team that supports and cares for each other has always been a priority at FOCUS. Work takes up a lot of our time, but we also have families, children, hobbies, houses, causes, sports ... and with all that juggling can come stress. Being able to identify when someone might be struggling and knowing how to help them was a powerful experience. If you would like more information on headspace (HS) or Liberty Services (LDFVSS), you can call them locally on HS: 6588 7300 or LDFVSS: 6583 2155.

FOSTER & ALLEN

LES DIVAS – AN ALL-MALE REVUE

THE JOHNNY CASH & JUNE CARTER SHOW

SATURDAY 11 MAY, 7PM

SATURDAY 18 MAY, 8PM

SATURDAY 25 MAY, 7.30PM

Legendary Irish folk music duo Foster & Allen are No.1 stars across the globe, having 30 charting albums over a 40-year career - the only act in the world to do so. Their musical style and easy listening sound remains as fresh and exciting as ever.

This spectacular all-male revue includes some of the world’s greatest divas, including Barbara Streisand, Shirley Bassey, Tina Turner, Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion.

Dion Ross and of course... CHER!

Take a step back in time to when country music told the true story of life, love and heartache – and the famous Johnny Cash & June Carter enthralled audiences around the world with their songs and love story.

LEAVING JACKSON

glasshouse.org.au

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Follow Glasshouse:

GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY Gallery closed on Mondays GALLERY CLOSURE The Gallery will be closed for Ironman 2019 and our annual maintenance program from Tuesday 23 April until Friday 17 May. The Gallery will reopen on Saturday 18 May.

MASTERCLASS WITH WENDY STOKES In this two day workshop you will interweave drawing processes and materials to embrace and investigate a range of approaches to seeing and interpreting landscape in order to find meaning.

25 & 26 MAY, 10AM - 3.30PM Wendy Stokes on plein air discovery.

Get Creative

MOTHER S DAY

Contemporary jewellery, funky handbags, eco-friendly homeware, reusable coffee cups and more...

we have everything your mu m will love an d more!

Glasshouse Members save 20% in the Glasshouse Shop *excludes sale items and books

Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

contents Issue 162 - May 2019

focusinterviews

8

Coral Blue.

Addam Lockley’s love for the ocean and all its inhabitants is unquestioned. He’s been working with a dedicated group of volunteers to clean up our local waterways for a while, but now he's also focusing his attention on our coral reefs ...

feature a special

HELLO KOALAS FESTIVAL 2019

55

Ranger Riley, painted by Pauline Roods, enjoying his gum leaf lunch at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra; photo Parks Australia.

30

Ball Park Music.

FOCUS catches up with Dean Hanson of the Brisbane based pop band, who are embarking on their biggest regional tour to date, The Good Good Mood Tour.

52

the Usual

Suspects

12. WHAT’S ON for May 24. EAT local restaurants 28. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri

Wendy Stokes.

30. OUT TO LUNCH with Susie Boswell 32. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye

Within and Between - Walking in the space of Landscape is Wendy's latest exhibition at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery ...

69. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 72. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell 72. TOURISM with Janette Hyde 81. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon

94

82. PORT CHAMBER UPDATE with Michael Mowle 112. LANDCARE with Julie Ho

A focus on FAWNA. FAWNA is celebrating 30 years of assisting our local injured wildlife. Louise Moore tells us more about the organisation ...

follow us on

www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

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

4 Greater Port Macquarie focus

photo of the month.

With: Jay Beaumont, Steven Foye and Michael Wilkie.

Location: Hands Across the Water - Thailand.

Photo by: Panasonic G5.

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

WEEK Council will be celebrating Library week from 20th - 26th May 2019 with the theme “The Library has left the building", to build up knowledge of our fantastic library service out in the broader community.

In the lead up to Library Week, Council held a competition for communities to have their own street library, which will continue to develop and encourage a love of reading. We had 10 street library kits on offer and received a huge response, with 48 applications completed.

10 Street Library Kits were awarded, and they include: Four in Port Macquarie: 24 Mill Hill, 4 The Summit, 20 Hillcrest Avenue, 4 Wayfield Way. One in North Shore - Shoreline Drive at existing site (public amenities).

One in Lake Cathie: 63 Abel Tasman Drive.

One in Bonny Hills: 996 Ocean Drive.

One in Kendall: 29 Graham Street.

Two in Wauchope: 22 Brenchley Circuit, Azalea Avenue (TBC) These winning applicants then participated in two workshops to develop their street libraries, and they will all be installed in early May and be

launched on 25th May at 10am in the Port Macquarie library. All street libraries will also be holding a street party to launch their own libraries.

Other activates during library week also include: National Simultaneous Storytime: https://alia.org.au/nss Featuring Alpacas with Maracas by Matt Cosgrove at all branch Preschoolers’ Story Times (with a maracas making craft session).

10:30 - 11:30am, Wauchope Library, Monday 20th May. 10:30 - 11:30am, Port Macquarie Library, Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd May. 10:30 - 11:30am, Laurieton Library, Wednesday 22nd May. The library van will be scooting about the LGA doing pop-up story time, featuring the all singing all dancing Elizabeth and Angie, presenting Alpacas with Maracas by Matt Cosgrove and more!

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focusinterview.

for 100 SCHOOLS Steven and Trudi Hayes operate the Little Star Bee Sanctuary on the Mid North Coast, providing shelter for and education about both European Honeybees and our own Native Stingless Bee varieties.

Preserving native bee populations

ees have created a lot of buzz in the media lately … we know they’re under threat and that they’re a vital part of our planet’s ecosystem, which is why the 100 Hives for 100 Schools project that Little Star has become involved with is such an exciting development…

Tell us a little about Little Star Bee Sanctuary.

Little Star Bee Sanctuary has grown out of our family and the journey we have walked together. Trudi gave Steven his first beehive for his birthday when she was pregnant with their first child in 2008. Since then, the dream and family have grown.

The Little Star family have lived on the Mid North Coast in a place called Missabotti since 2009. We have created a bee sanctuary for all bees - honey and native, with the aim of providing fodder all year round. Using nonmigratory processes and natural beekeeping principles, the bee sanctuary has been created to strengthen hive colonies - providing a frontline defence mechanism against diseases and predators. Our bee sanctuary is off-grid on a care-farmed (chemical free), rural property.

In 2017, we launched our education arm and provide dynamic training for those new to beekeeping, those interested in bees and to the experienced beekeeper in 6 Greater Port Macquarie focus

for us works twofold. Firstly, our practices and hive as they rise in popularity management strategies. it is important to educate We are currently in people in not just taking the early stages of the colonies from the wild Little Star Collective - a which serves a purpose in native collaborative approach pollination and ecosystems. for those “lovers of bees” in our local community, including collective We have a number of honey distribution and a native bee “hotels” for mentoring programme. solitary native bees, which include the BlueWe know that bees are integral to the future banded Bee, Teddy-bear Bee and Carpenter of our planet and plant species. We know Bee. that the beekeeping industry is facing its Why is it so important to preserve our most complex time ever. We aim to be at the native bee populations? forefront of education and research for our Preserving native bee populations for us bees and community. works twofold. Firstly, as they rise in popularity Our vision: it is important to educate people in not just To create a holistic education and research taking colonies from the wild - which serves a community for the bee industry in Australia purpose in native pollination and ecosystems.

- change, transformation, sustainability with Secondly, building up our native bee integrity. numbers both in the wild and managed Our services/products: hives offers greater security for diversity Education courses/programmes; honey, in pollination methods for our agricultural hives and hive products; mentoring and industry. collective honey distribution; private hive There is also so much we do not know management; Consultancy; research into all yet about native bees. The 100 Hives in types of bees.

100 Schools project aims to collect data How many/what types of bees do you and conduct research with the schools’ keep at the sanctuary? involvement to provide valuable information We have over 100 honeybee and native bee for stingless native bees across the Mid North hives in residence around the sanctuary.

Coast.

Raising awareness around native bee colonies can help farmers look at diversifying pollination practices, and we can begin to breed up further native bee populations to assist us into the future. Although native bees are susceptible to pest and diseases, they are also resilient to most that are facing the honeybee industry.

What are some of the threats bees currently face in today's modern world?

Bees have been a hot topic in recent media and years, because bee colonies are undergoing significant destruction from pests and diseases - in other parts of the world, colonies have declined at a rapid rate due to threats such as the Varroa mite and colony collapse disorder.

We are lucky in Australia that the Varroa mite has not yet invaded our shores, but the beekeeping industry has been on standby for some time, waiting and preparing for the mass impact on our honeybee and feral

focusinterview.

bee populations, which are major sources of pollination for our crops.

Some of the many issues we have experienced in Australia are attacks by Small hive beetle - which can kill an entire colony of native and honeybees in a short period of time, and American Foulbrood, a bacteria that is fatal to European Honeybees.

You're part of the 100 Hives in 100 Schools project. What's involved?

The project extends from Grafton in the north to Port Macquarie in the south and aims to place 100 Native Stingless Beehives in 100 education environments, from preschools, primary and high schools to vocational education colleges.

The programme will run initially for three years and includes training Bee Mentors in each of the education environments, the creation of an interactive digital bee education platform, face-to-face education sessions from Little Star Bee Sanctuary and resources that support the curriculums.

The rollout will take approximately one year, with 10 hives being placed per month (in optimal seasonal times) with the support of grant, sponsor and donation funding.

100 Hives in 100 Schools?

We have some amazing people working with us to deliver this project: • Paul West - our Bee Advocate - former host of the wildly popular River Cottage Australia, and the recent ABC Catalyst series on bees.

• Dr Tim Heard - mentor Secondly, building up our and supplier of native native bee numbers both 100 hives in 100 bees - with over 30 years’ in the wild and managed schools will: experience working, hives offers greater • Create a mind of researching and teaching security for diversity in enquiry in children and about native bees in pollination methods for our adults alike into native Australia. agricultural industry. bee behaviour and • The Starfish Foundation characteristics our auspicing organisation • Create educational and charity arm of the resources for use in project. Donations to the conjunction with the project are tax deductible.

NSW curriculum Starfish has a track record of innovative and • Aid in the conservation and reproduction of pioneering sustainability initiatives throughout native bees Australia.

• Pollinate school/local gardens • Incredible Education Environments, including • Add a conversation point for teachers, TAFE NSW, community preschools, state schools, colleagues, learners, staff and parents Catholic schools, independent schools and • Increase numbers of Native Stingless Bees nature based education precincts.

(Tetragonula Carbonaria) on the Mid North A project like this will obviously require a Coast lot of work - and funding too! In what ways • Create data from placement and observation can readers assist? of hives - this can contribute to further study on Expressions of interest went out to schools Native Stingless Bees in this region earlier this year, and we already have over half • Create and enhance a network of people the schools on board, with enquiries every day. If passionate about Native Bees on the Mid North you want a native beehive and the programme Coast of NSW in your school - get in contact with us to find Who's partnered with you to help facilitate out more.

We need $250,000 to fund this project to rollout over the next year. We are asking for donations big and small from individuals, businesses and communities who want to make a difference in educating young people about bees for the future.

Schools may wish to fundraise for their hive in part or total, which will guarantee the programme in their host environment.

You can donate directly to the campaign at: www.chuffed.org/project/100-hives-in-100schools Or for more substantial donations/funding, you can contact us directly via email: buzz@littlestar.net.au Where can we find out more info?

You can find out more about Little Star Bee Sanctuary by visiting our website: littlestar. net.au or contacting us on (02) 6564 8737.

You can also visit the project website: 100hivesin100schools.net.au We run education courses monthly through the sanctuary on bees, and we hold two native bee workshops with Dr Tim Heard each year locally. We also offer workshops on building beehives, native bee hotels, fermenting and cooking with honey, mead making, making beeswax wraps and using hive products in cosmetics and healing products.

We can adapt something for a group, school or family, depending on what you want to learn, and we offer tailored “bee experiences” including glamping and paddock to plate honey inspired meals.

Thanks Steven and Trudi.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 7

CoralBlue focusinterview.

Addam Lockley’s love for the ocean and all its inhabitants is unquestioned. AS THE PRESIDENT OF COASTAL WARRIORS, HE’S BEEN WORKING WITH A DEDICATED GROUP OF VOLUNTEERS TO CLEAN UP OUR LOCAL WATERWAYS FOR A WHILE NOW. Taking things one step further, Addam is also very concerned about coral reefs, and the impact rising water temperatures has on this fragile lifeform. And, he may just have come up with a way to help …

H

i Addam. When we last spoke with you, it was about your role with Coastal Warriors. What role do you play with this group these days?

I am still the President of Coastal Warriors; we have a really great and passionate team and an amazing community of volunteers who make it possible to protect the environment.

You've been very busy developing exciting ideas around helping to preserve our coral reefs. Firstly, why is this cause so close to your heart?

I have spent the majority of my life living by the ocean and enjoying what the coast has to offer. I have been fortunate enough to check out coral reefs around the world and up at The Great Barrier Reef, and the beauty of life underwater is something I really love. It’s a place where you block out society, and there is no noise and just amazing colours and marine animals everywhere; it is definitely a place where I feel at home and happy.

To see reefs bleaching and dying and witnessing it first hand in Fiji last year - it's very sad. If something you love is being damaged or dying, you want to do whatever you can to protect it and from all the good things the ocean has given me, I feel as though I need to give back - so everybody has the opportunity to see its beauty.

What are some of the issues our corals are dealing with in today's environment?

8 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Whether people like to believe in climate change or not, science is showing us the facts - and the issues are right in front of us. Warmer ocean temperatures from climate change are causing mass coral bleaching to The Great Barrier Reef, and recently Lorde Howe Island suffered a bleaching event.

Oceans are absorbing more and more carbon from fossil fuels, and at this rate we won’t have much left of The Great Barrier Reef in the next couple of decades.

Coral Reefs are home to approximately 25% of all marine life, so it would be a huge disaster if we lost the majority of reefs.

Introduce us to Coral Blue ... what is it, and how will it work?

I have been working on ways to cool seawater to prevent coral bleaching, which led me to starting Coral Blue. I researched ways that could potentially work and picked up the phone and started calling engineers, universities, solar companies and marine scientists. I started working with an engineering company in Sydney, and we came up with a concept.

The unit pumps sea water in to the unit, and the water goes through a cooling component and is then pumped back out at the bottom. The other solution is for the unit to pump up water from deeper currents and pump the cooler water out at the top, to create the same effect.

The unit runs on solar and has back up storage batteries, to ensure enough power is in it.

At what stage are you up to with the production of Coral Blue?

We are now in a options.

We need positive position where we are Once you have a prototype attitudes and trying to seek funding built, what's the next step? passionate people and raise money, so we What tests/research will who like to have a go, can build a prototype to you need to undertake? which we have so far. test the unit.

Once the prototype is built, What skills and matewe will look at options for a rials will you need to testing location - most likely build a prototype? in a swimming pool first, and We need positive then on to the reef. attitudes and passionate people who like to Seeking permits to test the unit on the reef have a go, which we have so far. We also need will most likely be a tricky task. We will then heat pumps, solar panels and other mechanical research water temperatures before and after equipment that is sea water resistant. testing for a few months and also check the Getting Coral Blue up and running will no visual health of the reef around the unit, to see doubt be an expensive project. How are you the outcomes. sourcing funds?

Where can we find out more info about This has been the hardest task so far. We have what you're doing? set up a GoFundMe via our Coral Blue Facebook You can check out our Facebook and page, and we are continuing to liaise with the Instagram page: Coral Blue. appropriate government departments to explore Thanks Addam.

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 7

Slice O F H AV E N

Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival is going big in 2019 - big bands big dance, and big fun. The event is set to be a dollop of indulgence and a dash of Hollywood on May 26, 10am - 4pm.

S

eventy-five years ago, the world’s biggest comedian, Bob Hope, made an emergency landing on the Camden Haven River.

Hope and fellow entertainers Tony Romano (guitarist), Jerry Colonna (comedian), Frances Langford (singer) and Patty Thomas (dancer) had been touring the Pacific entertaining US troops serving in WWII. The crew were aboard a Catalina aircraft, flying from Guam to Sydney, when mechanical problems arose.

The crew began throwing excess luggage and supplies from the plane, in an attempt to lighten the load.

The pilot was forced to make an emergency landing

when over the Mid North Coast, and the sand spit in the Camden Haven River near North Haven was where he set the Catalina down.

Locals rowed boats to the plane, brought the entertainers and crew ashore and after telegrams were sent telling of the situation, Hope and the gang put on a show in the Laurieton School of Arts Hall.

Legend has it that Hope and friends danced with locals in the hall until the wee hours. It was in Laurieton that Hope learned the Hokey Pokey. He telephoned his agent the next morning, telling him of this crazy new dance he loved.

Hope was so enamoured by the warm welcome of the people of Laurieton, that he sent Christmas

cards for more than a record Hokey Pokey In 2019, Slice of Haven 20 years. The feeling attempt. There will be is marking the 75th was mutual. In 1955, plenty to eat, see, do and anniversary of that when Hope returned drink for all ages. fateful landing with a to Australia for a So, bring your dancing Hollywood vibe ... concert, a handful of shoes and your appetite people from Laurieton on Sunday, May 26 to attended the show the Camden Haven River and presented him foreshore, Seymour Street, with a painting of the town.

Laurieton near the Laurieton United Services In 2019, Slice of Haven is marking the 75th Club. Slice of Haven is brought to you by anniversary of that fateful landing with a the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce, Hollywood vibe. This year’s theme is called, “It Holiday Coast Credit Union and generous isn’t Hollywood but …” honouring the book local sponsors. written by local historian Mitch McKay of the To find out more about the Bob Hope event in 1944. landing, drop in to the Camden Haven Stallholders are encouraged to dress in theme Historical Society on Bold Street, Laurieton. and give their menus a Hollywood twist.

Mitch McKay’s book will be available for There will be local big band belting out the purchase at Slice of Haven. hits of the era, interactive drumming, and

Greater Port Macquarie focus 10

Greater Port Macquarie focus 9

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

M A Y

12

Mother's Day Remembrance

All families missing their mothers, grandmothers and loved ones are invited to a short memorial service and candle lighting, followed by morning tea.

When 10am, Sunday 12th May. Where Innes Gardens Crematorium Chapel, Philip Charley Drive, Port Macquarie.

Enquiries 0423 663 301 (Kerry) or 6581 8777 - Innes Gardens office.

12

Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise

Come spoil mum this Mother’s Day. Brunch consisting of sweet and savoury catered by Luxe Catering.

Two hour river cruise - Port Jet Adventure Cruises.

Limited to 45 people.

Cost $55 per person.

BYO should you wish to “Cheers“ Mum! Bookings Nat: 0404 113 143.

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2 0 1 9

13

High As Mike

Mike has a brain tumour. It’s the sort of tumour that won’t kill him, but it will rob him of his sight. ​With the current stagnation of Medicinal Cannabis prescription in Australia, Mike sets off on a road trip of discovery, to find out if Medicinal Cannabis will reduce his tumour and help regain his eyesight. ​Travelling from Tamworth in the New England region of NSW, Mike’s journey takes him to the Gold Coast, Nimbin, Newcastle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, Uluru, Townsville and Sydney in search of answers.

Presented by Medical Cannabis Users Australia.

When Monday 13th May, 5pm sharp!

Where Majestic Cinemas Port Macquarie.

16

The Salvos Business Breakfast

Join us for a morning filled with inspirational stories, triumph over life's challenges, building resilience and providing hope to others, with Niko James from Super Radio Network as Emcee and Facilitator.

When Thursday 16th May, 6:45 - 8:45am.

Where The Westport Club. $50 pledge per person, with 100% going to The Salvos.

Bookings Cheryl Clarke at The Salvation Army 6583 7444 or cheryl.clarke@aue.salvationarmy.org

18

Bellingen Markets

Bellingen Community Markets focuses on showcasing local art, craft, hand made and grown products, fresh produce, a large selection of multicultural foods, drinks and live entertainment.

As one of the oldest and largest markets on the Mid North Coast, with over 260 diverse and colourful stalls, the park comes alive with music, artisans, craftspeople, growers, recyclers, traders, buskers, masseuses, services and community groups.

Express Bus to Bellingen Markets Pick up/drop off the Glasshouse - Port Macquarie.

When Saturday 18th May. Cost $55pp (bus only).

RSVP Nat 0404 113 143 - Mid North Coast Tours and Events.

26

Slice Of Haven

When Sunday 26th May, 10am - 4pm.

The Slice of Haven Food, Wine and Beer Festival is the leading gourmet lifestyle event, attracting thousands of people to the Camden Haven region.

Each year organisers of the event challenge stallholders to use locally-grown key ingredients, embrace the event’s vibe of indulgence and get creatively quirky to meet the yearly theme.

Entry is by donation, which goes towards the Camden Haven SES, Camden Haven Surf Life Saving Club and volunteer organisations who help make Slice of Haven happen.

Please: No pets.

Email enquiries@sliceofhaven.com.au Web www.sliceofhaven.com.au

focusinterview.

Just Brass DAV I D JA M E S

David James is a member of our local Salvation Army in Port Macquarie. As a long-time player of the trumpet himself, David is aware of the benefits of playing a musical instrument … the social connections formed, and the enhancement of both academic performance and overall wellbeing for children are key. ut, the cost of hiring instruments We have also received donated instruments for the and musical tuition can be programme. This programme wouldn't be possible prohibitive, which is why David without the volunteers who help make it happen. is keen to get the “Just Brass” What types of instruments will the programme up and running programme be able to offer to potential locally. Free instruments, free participants? lessons … it doesn’t get much better than that for We will offer cornets, trombones, tenor horns, our budding musicians! tubas, baritones and drums.

Hi David. Please tell us a bit about yourself How will you attract music teachers/ and your local background ... coordinators to the programme ... are you I own a marketing agency here in Port currently looking for volunteers?

Macquarie, DCA Digital. I am I’ve been reaching out to originally from L.A. people in the community I My wife, Caitlin, is from know who have experience Sydney, and we moved here in playing these instruments IT’S ALSO IMPORTANT when we got married almost and also have a passion to FOR KIDS TO HAVE AN six years ago. We have two teach.

OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN kids: Airlie, who is four, Miles We have put together a MUSIC. THERE HAVE BEEN who is two, and another team, who are excited to COUNTLESS STUDIES baby due in July. meet everyone. All members TO SHOW HOW IT HELPS I’ve been playing the of the staff have passed IMPROVE STUDIES IN trumpet since I was eight. I a working with children’s SCHOOL, BUT IT’S ALSO A have toured around the U.S., check, police check and have LOT OF FUN FOR THEM. Canada, Europe and South also completed the Safe America playing. I have been Salvo programme. a member of the Salvation What age/music skill level Army my whole life and have will the programme cater played with various bands, within the Salvos and for? out.

We cater for all ages. There is no minimum age You're keen to get a music programme off the - all you need is your front teeth, to be able to play ground in Port Macquarie for local kids, which the instrument. will involve free musical instrument hire and You're hoping to hold an info day, so locals tuition. Why are you committing your time to can find out more about the programme. this project?

What date/time/venue has been set down for I want to give back to the community. It’s also this? important for kids to have an opportunity to learn This will be held at the Salvation Army Hall, May music. There have been countless studies to show 6th, at 4pm. how it helps improve studies in school, but it’s also Where can we find out more info/contact a lot of fun for them. you?

How will the music programme be made You can go to our website: https:// possible ... where will the musical instruments justbrassportmac.com.au/ come from?

Thanks David.

The programme is funded by the Salvation Army.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 13

PLANNING ArtWalk is an edgy, intense and surprising night of discovery. Last year’s event attracted around 11,000 people, illuminating secret, unassuming and unexpected spaces with free pop up performances, artistic interventions and creative installations.

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Council is excited to be working with 18 communities in the development of individualised Community Plans.

n 2018 we began working with five • encourage community-led place communities, with the remaining 13 development. communities starting their Community Following the Think Tank workshops, the Planning journey over the next 12 next stage in this process is to establish a months.

Community-Council Action Team (C-CAT) to The next community to begin help develop the local community plans and Community Planning is Lake Cathie, followed then to work together to prioritise, scope and

by Telegraph Point and deliver the identified Rollands Plains areas. actions. For the C-Cats A postcard survey has we’re looking for been circulating, and people from diverse we are encouraging the backgrounds, interests We are encouraging the community to come and experiences able to community to come along to along to one or both demonstrate: one or both Think Tank Think Tank workshops • an ability to workshops sessions on sessions on 9th and constructively participate 9th and 23rd May at the 23rd May at the Lake in the development Lake Cathie Community Cathie Community Hall, and delivery of actions Hall, and 16th and 30th May and 16th and 30th May to benefit the wider at the Telegraph Point School of at the Telegraph Point community; Arts Hall.

School of Arts Hall.

• an ability to represent viewpoints and interests The Think Tanks are the that reflect the diversity community’s opportunity of the community; to develop a future vision for their place, • good knowledge and understanding of local discussing with fellow residents why their area issues; is special and unique. From this vision, Council • a willingness to contribute positively; and will work with community members to develop • an ability and willingness to encourage a Community Plan, with actions around the participation and feedback by the community. key priorities identified by the community.

If this sounds like you, then please nominate How do Community Plans have an impact yourself for your local Community-Council on how the community and Council work in Action at our website: pmhc.nsw.gov.au/ partnership? community-planning • help Council and community explore If you would like to keep up to date with concepts of place, character and liveability; everything Community Planning, please take a • identify a community’s strengths and assets; look at Council’s Community Planning website: • enable Council to understand the issues and pmhc.nsw.gov.au/community-planning or like priorities for each community and assess these our Facebook page https://www.facebook. priorities in relationship to Council’s annual com/pmhc2444 to stay in the know.

Operational Plan development; and 14 Greater Port Macquarie focus

A

rtWalk is returning this year public component of ArtWalk, which will include bigger and better than ever, so digital projections on to buildings, installations save the night: Thursday 18th and/or performances and live music in public July 2019, 6pm - 9pm. spaces. Works will be curated and selected The Port Macquarie CBD, based on the quality and ability to work with its streets, intersections, cafés the whole program. Register your interest by and cultural facilities will become the stage completing the online form. for contemporary works, as artists push the Artists in Businesses Program boundaries of their Similar to last year, practice. Experience artists are encouraged to the ArtWalk night and work with local businesses participate in other to host artists for the We are now calling for creative activities night in their spaces. You expressions of interest from throughout the might have items in the individual artists, groups weekend. windows, artworks on and artists' collaborations The theme for this the walls, or live music to be featured as part of year’s program is a in a café. We encourage the public component of reflection on “Elements”: live demonstrations, so ArtWalk, which will include exploring the concept you are able to talk about digital projections on to buildings, of elements across your work and you as an installations, and/or performances lands looking to earth, artist. Connect up with and live music in public spaces. wind, water and fire. an existing business/store, ArtWalk will encourage then register online to be a the community to come part of ArtWalk 2019. together in a series of Satellite Events engaging arts activities, If you are hosting an creating opportunities for people to meet, event, curating an exhibition, having an open exchange ideas and foster community spirit. studio, presenting a performance, having a gig, Artists Callout - Register Today! screening a film or having a creative gathering This year’s program offers a number of in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region during different opportunities for artists to participate: 18th - 21st July 2019, we would love to list your Expressions of Interest: Site Specific Public event as part of the program of satellite events.

Spaces Program Visit our website: www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au/ We are now calling for expressions of interest Community-Culture/Arts-and-Culture/ArtWalk to from individual artists, groups and artists' complete your registration of interest and watch collaborations to be featured as part of the for more updates.

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86 Greater Port Macquarie focus

100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 6583 8855 DL8071 www.mbportmacquarie.com.au

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Heading: Faces of the Hastings Pics: In folder with story.

Subheading: What does our community mean to you? Do you ever pass individuals on the street when you’re out and about your daily tasks … and wonder what their story is? Local photographer Ronnie Grammatica is a photographer who’s still exploring what it means to be a part of the Greater Port Macquarie area, after relocating here from his native Italy, and his audiovisual project, Faces of the Hastings, shares what he’s discovered so far …

aces

faces of the hastings dps of the Hastings

WHAT DOES OUR COMMUNITY MEAN TO YOU? DO YOU EVER PASS INDIVIDUALS IN THE STREET WHEN YOU’RE OUT AND ABOUT YOUR DAILY TASKS … AND WONDER WHAT THEIR STORY IS? ocal photographer Ronnie Grammatica is a photographer who’s still exploring what it means to be a part of the Greater Port Macquarie area, after relocating here from his native Italy, and his audiovisual project, Faces of the Hastings, shares what he’s discovered so far …

Hi Ronnie. We last chatted with you for FOCUS around two years ago. Now that you've lived locally for a while, what do you most enjoy about the Greater Port Macquarie area?

Hi Jo! Yeah, it’s been a while - and a lot has changed since then. What hasn’t changed is me enjoying life in a regional area. I live in a rural area near Beechwood, and it’s beautiful. It’s pretty special to watch the sunrise and sunset from home.

I have a deep sense of belonging now, and it’s been growing in the last couple of years. I like the sense of community in the area. Everybody is very supportive and friendly, not only in times of need.

16 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I WANTED TO CAPTURE SOME OF THESE FACES AND PUT THEM BACK ON THE STREET, IN THE FORM OF LARGE UNMISSABLE POSTERS.

Your photographic journey has certainly taken a few twists and turns! Do you still photograph sporting events these days especially mountain bike comps?

Well, it has. I don’t photograph as much sport as I used to. My focus lately has been on my artistic projects and teaching - the parts of the job that I really enjoy. I feel really lucky to be able to do these projects and share them with people through exhibitions and workshops.

Using photography as a visual language to tell stories especially local stories - has been my main focus.

Tell us a bit about your latest project - Faces of the Hastings. How/why did you come up with the concept for this public art installation?

I approached PMHC to get involved in the ArtWalk 2018 and when I caught up with Arts and Culture Officer Skye Frost, we just clicked. We were tossing ideas around about the bicentenary commemoration and as soon as we started to talk about public art and street art, we were

finishing each other sentences.

Faces of the Hastings has happened naturally, I guess. We’re both passionate about engaging with the community and in bringing art to the people; the project is a reflection of that.

In this project I wanted people to reflect on our community. There are faces that we pass every day in the street, often unnoticed. I wanted to capture some of these faces and put them back on the street, in the form of large unmissable posters. This was to prompt people to stop and reflect, to look beyond the facade. Who is this person? Who are we collectively?

Who are we as a community?

Art is so important; it’s a powerful tool that helps us understand and make sense of the world around us. This is why I am passionate about bringing art to the people.

I get completely excited about street art - it’s fun, it’s exciting, it’s engaging, it’s in your face!

How did you select the people you photographed for the project?

The aim of this project is to capture and portray a cross section of our community. So, anyone would fit in! I was looking for characters, interesting people who

focusinterview.

THIS WAS TO PROMPT PEOPLE TO STOP AND REFLECT, TO LOOK BEYOND THE FACADE. WHO IS THIS PERSON? WHO ARE WE COLLECTIVELY? WHO ARE WE AS A COMMUNITY?

would make a good picture - but not limited to that. I’m interested in their stories and also, I wanted to show the diversity in our community. I tried to get people from all walks all life.

There's already been one instalment of Faces of the Hastings ... many readers will remember the superb black and white portraits that adorned the walls of the old (now demolished!) Food for Less building in Port Mac. Where/when will the next instalments of this exhibition take place?

After the great experience in Port Macquarie, we’re bringing Faces of the Hastings to the Wauchope town centre. There are three instalments: Oxley Lane, Hastings Street, and Bransdon Street/Brownings Lane.

These will be on exhibition in May 2019.

Now, Faces of the Hastings isn't just about the visual aspect, is it? How can viewers access the audio component of this exhibition?

The Faces of the Hastings exhibition showcases the diversity of our community, providing fascinating insight into who we are, where we have come from, and what community means to us. Subjects have been interviewed about their connection with the local area, and audio snippets of their stories will be available.

The photographs will be presented with the option of an interactive audio guide tour using izi.travel app. This will allow people to discover the different installations and enjoy fascinating stories about the faces they are observing.

All you need to do is to visit the exhibition in Wauchope and scan the QR code on the info panel next to the images.

It will take you straight to the audio guide tour. You can download the izi.travel app prior, or do it on the spot. You just need a smartphone and internet connection.

If, for some reason you can’t make it to Wauchope, you can always check out the images and the interviews online.

Just search for the Faces of the Hastings, or Port Macquarie on the audio guide section of www.izi.travel from 1st May 2019.

Whom would you like to thank for their support of Faces of the Hastings?

There are many people to thank for their support and participation!

I’d like to thank all the people who stood in front of my camera, for sharing their stories. This project wouldn’t be possible without them.

Thanks to PMHC for supporting the exhibition, the amazing team that has been working with me: Arts & Culture Officer Skye Frost and the teams at the Glasshouse and at the Manning Regional Art Gallery in Taree.

ABC journalist Kia Handley, for helping me with the audio interviews, and the Hastings Co-op for letting us install the posters on their premises in Wauchope.

A special thanks to all the different community groups who have welcomed me, my camera and my microphone - there are too many to mention here, but you know who you are - and thank you.

A big thank you to my family for the ongoing support. I wouldn’t be where I am now without them.

What's something you've learned/enjoyed most about the whole process of organising, compiling and installing Faces of the Hastings?

Seeing my work taking shape and installed on the streets makes me feel proud.

I’ll admit that since moving to Australia, I have struggled with isolation at times. With this project I’ve had a chance to get out there and interact with people. I’ve stopped strangers at the pub, on the street - wherever - to take their portraits, and there have been people stopping by while I was shooting on the streets.

It’s been a great way for me to engage with and really get to know our community. Meeting new people and listening to their stories has been the part I’ve enjoyed the most about this project.

Where can we find out more info - about Faces of the Hastings, and also about any other projects you may have planned?

The whole project will be available on www.izi.travel You can find out more about Faces of the Hastings on the PMHC website’s in the arts and culture section.

I’ll have more news, including upcoming projects on my website at www.ronniegrammatica.com/journal Thanks Ronnie.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Ronnie Grammatica pictured bottom left this page.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 17

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M O T H E R’ S DAY C L A S S I C

MOTHER'S DAY CLASSIC

MDC Ambassadors Magalie Lameloise, Bron Watson and Irene Mifsud, with local event organisers Kylie Bulmer and Carmen Abi-Saab.

18 Greater Port Macquarie focus

This Mother’s Day, Sunday 12th May, MORE THAN 100,000 PEOPLE AROUND THE COUNTRY WILL WALK OR RUN IN THEIR LOCAL MOTHER’S DAY CLASSIC (MDC) to support breast cancer research.

T

he national fun run and walk is a family-focused event that raises funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s (NBCF) research programs into prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

Held nationally since 1998, the Port Macquarie MDC, now in its fifth year, attracts people from a large stretch of the greater Port Macquarie and Macleay regions and includes a 5 km run and 5 km walk.

Organised by a team of volunteers, and funded 100% through local business sponsorships and in-kind donations, the group behind the Port Macquarie MDC consists of several local women, some with their own experiences of breast cancer, who want to do their part to make a difference to those affected by the disease.

Local event Founder, Kylie Bulmer, started the MDC in Port Macquarie several years ago after coming across an advertisement in a magazine inviting people to host an event in their town.

“I’ve always been interested in fundrais-

ing for different organisations, so when I first heard about the Mother’s Day Classic, I was really intrigued to find out more. You don’t need to research for long to see the numerous, and often frightening statistics that are associated with breast cancer.

These are our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends. So, I was inspired to do what I could for these families and our local community,” says Kylie.

Since that first Mother’s Day Classic in 2014, Kylie has been joined by several others to form a Volunteer Committee that now includes event co-manager Carmen Abi-Saab, who has been involved with the MDC events in Melbourne, as well as several members of local breast cancer support group, the Port Macquarie Pink Girls - Tracy Stone and Magalie Lameloise. This year, Magalie is also one of the local MDC Ambassadors, alongside fellow Ambassadors Irene Mifsud and Bron Watson. The women have all bravely put their hands up to talk publicly and openly about their own experience being diagnosed with and undergoing treatment for breast cancer, as well as the importance of funding research to find a cure.

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The input from Magalie and Tracy has also helped to provide a local link for the group’s fundraising efforts with the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute (MNCCI) at Port Macquarie Base Hospital. Each year, the volunteer team contribute funds to the MNCCI, extending the event’s objectives beyond fundraising for breast cancer research, to benefiting cancer patients locally. In the last two years, the volunteer group has donated funds to the MNCCI for the rejuvenation of the clinic’s In the last two years, the tranquil entrance gardens, volunteer group has as well as the purchase donated funds to of more than 40 cancerthe MNCCI for the donation, setting up their related books for the rejuvenation of the clinic’s own fundraising page, or clinic’s patient library. The tranquil entrance gardens, sponsoring others who are team are currently working as well as the purchase of more participating in the with the cancer clinic to than 40 cancer-related books for 5 km run or 5 km walk. determine how this year’s the clinic’s patient library.

The money raised through funds will be used. the sale of raffle tickets, While a small amount pink merchandise and of the event’s registration Mother’s Day flowers will fee goes towards funding be shared equally between the event’s NBCF breast cancer research, organisers encourage fundraising objectives and the MNCCI. people to actively fundraise by making a

M O T H E R’ S DAY C L A S S I C

MOTHER'S DAY CLASSIC

HEM PROPERTY ARE GOING PINK FOR MAY! HEM are incredibly proud to be one of the major supporters of the Mother’s Day Classic fun run and walk for breast cancer in 2019. With 53 women diagnosed every day in Australia, this terrible disease is likely to affect all of us in some way at some point in our lives. So, we are donning our pink HEM t-shirts and putting up special pink SOLD stickers across Port Macquarie to raise both money and awareness of this important event.

If you would like to join Team HEM on the Mother’s Day walk, support the cause and also receive a FREE, custommade, HEM t-shirt, contact us on sales@hemproperty.com.au or 6583 2324 by May 5th.

02 6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 19

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focusfeature.

M O T H E R’ S DAY C L A S S I C

One in seven Australian women WILL BE DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER IN THEIR LIFETIME, with 53 women diagnosed every single day in Australia.

MOTHER'S DAY CLASSIC

20 Greater Port Macquarie focus

MDC Ambassador Bron Watson with husband Paul.

A

ccording to Cancer NSW Statistics, the incidence rate and the mortality rates for breast cancer along the Mid North Coast are higher than the national average. So, raising awareness of breast cancer in the local area, and the importance of early detection, is vitally important.

The local event is made possible through the financial support of business sponsors including The Westport Club, Phyx You Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Sovereign Hills, and HEM Property. And, organisers have been given an extra boost this year, being awarded a 2018 - 2019 Community Grant from Port MacquarieHastings Council to help grow the event.

Kylie is encouraging more people throughout the Mid North Coast to join them at this year’s event and help make Mother’s Day mean more.

Kylie says, “It’s a great way to bring our community together, to have a bit of fun; and we love that we can paint the town pink! More importantly, it helps boost awareness of and raise funds to support breast cancer research. Eight women die every day in Australia from breast cancer, so we’re on a mission to give breast cancer the boot and support the NBCF’s goal of zero deaths by 2030."

Visit www.facebook.com/port.mdc for more information about the local event or register to walk or run at www.mothersdayclassic.com.au.

This year, three brave women have stepped

forward as MDC Ambassadors to share their personal experience - Magalie Lameloise, Irene Mifsud and Bron Watson. Magalie was first diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 33, when her son was only a few months old. She wrote and illustrated a series of cartoons documenting her personal experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as her long and arduous treatment with chemotherapy and radiation.

Her booklet was published and printed with the support of Hastings Cancer Trust and is now distributed for free through Breast Cancer Network Australia and various clinics locally and nationally. In early 2018 Magalie was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time - so her journey continues. She is an avid campaigner for breast cancer awareness and self-checks, and shares her experiences on her Facebook page “magsblog.com”.

This year, Irene has generously put her hand up to join the Volunteer Committee and also become an official local Ambassador. Irene is no stranger to supporting local fundraising events, having organised the annual High Tea on the Hastings for several years to raise funds for Camp Quality. Irene has her own unique experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer, which she will be sharing at this year’s event.

This is the second year that Bron Watson has been involved as an MDC Ambassador, having undergone her own battle against the disease over the last 18 months.

She is passionate and vocal about raising funds for research into prevention, early detection and treatment.

M O T H E R’ S DAY C L A S S I C

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Some INFORMATION ABOUT BREAST CANCER NATIONALLY, AND LOCALLY … and some MDC stats.

• 1 in 7 Australian women and 1 in 675 Australian men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

• 53 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Australia.

• 8 Australian women die every day from breast cancer.

• Since the NBCF started in 1994, survival rates from breast cancer have increased from 76% to 91% - a result of increased awareness, early detection and improved treatment options.

• The NBCF has a target of zero deaths from breast cancer by 2030.

• This is the 22nd year of the Mother’s Day Classic, and the 5th year specifically in Port Macquarie.

• The Mother’s Day Classic has donated more than $35.3 million to the National Breast Cancer Foundation since 1998.

• Since 1998, more than 1.27 million walkers and runners have participated in the Mother’s Day Classic.

• Cancer NSW Statistics show that Mid North Coast/MacquarieHastings area has both an incidence rate of 1.03 and mortality rate of 1.17 from breast cancer - higher than the national average.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 21

focusinterview.

Bron

WATSON

i Bron ... Wow! Talk about a fun cover shoot!

I know you were a little anxious, but how was it in the end for you?

Thanks Louise. After a lot of worry and a few tears … the photo shoot was an achievement!

Picture this … in the middle of Fantastic Furniture in Port Macquarie, customers browsing, people watching, and me wearing not much more than a tulle skirt with hot pink tights … it was interesting, to say the least!

However, this is bigger than me. I am a voice for those who either can’t speak or find it too hard when it comes to breast cancer awareness.

Seeing one of my pink sisters in tears on the morning of the shoot, because her blood results were not what she wanted, is my reason for getting out there … pink tights and all!

Thankfully, I had our Mother’s Day Classic team with me, plus the adorable Kate from "All Dolled Up" and you, Louise, to make it the best it could be! Loads of fun, and very pink - which is my favourite colour.

So, for those who don’t know you, Bron, tell us a little about yourself.

Paul and I moved from Sydney thirteen years ago, due to employment opportunities here in Port Macquarie; leaving Sydney has been the best thing we've done.

We have five boys: Josh, Ben, Sam, Tom and 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Ollie, and our fur babies, Since 2013 I have Even though I intuitively Zoe and Milo. had the privilege of knew something My background is providing education and was wrong, it was a little unusual. I have support to thousands of such a shock. I was had the pleasure of a entrepreneurs through diagnosed on a Thursday dual career for over two online help, personal and by the following decades. My first love as mentoring and online Wednesday, I was on the a Registered Nurse and programs, so they too, operating table in Sydney.

Clinical Nurse Educator can be successful and … the second being achieve their dreams. marketing. In fact, my I am not a marketing first marketing role was at agency - I work with the Ticketek as a Marketing and Promotions business owner, with a step-by-step, time saving Co-ordinator. process, so that they can create and control We’ve been following you on social media their own marketing, learning the strategies and for a while now. Give us a run down on tactics of social media know-how … rather than what you do as a business woman. we do it for you.

In 2011 I launched my first business, "Nurse The real benefit for the business owner is Power", with nothing but a dream to run my this skill-set remains "in-house", which has the own business, and a laptop. ultimate return on investment.

By 2013 I was being asked "a lot": how Recently you have been engaged to can someone leave a solid profession, start head up a new Australian arm of the a business, and then grow to the point of e-WomenNetwork - what is that about? financial independence?

The eWomenNetwork is for entrepreneurs The "Bron Watson" brand was born, a and business owners, with over 500,000 national marketing consulting business helping women (and some great guys) connected across other business owners and entrepreneurs who the U.S. and Canada. I was fortunate to meet feel overworked, frustrated and time poor the CEO, Sandra Yancey, on a recent trip to when it comes to marketing and social media.

America.

The program helped to get better results, and The network is expanding and has recently grow their business, just like I did … without it launched in Australia; it’s perfect for people breaking the bank! wanting to connect at a local, national and

WIFE, MOTHER OF FIVE, FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR, BUSINESSWOMAN, INFLUENCER, NETWORKER, COMMUNITY CHAMPION, AND BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR. BRON WATSON SHARES HER STORY AND HER ROLE AS AMBASSADOR FOR THE MOTHER'S DAY CLASSIC.

international level, and I am honoured to be the first Managing Director in Australia.

It came about when I met a random (lovely) woman from Florida on Facebook, connecting and building a relationship. We are both in business ... I did six months of due diligence, we then chatted with the CEO on Zoom, and BOOM - here we are!

Talk us through the story of what happened when you were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017.

Nothing prepares you for hearing the words "You have cancer … and no, Bron, it’s not in the early stages".

Even though I intuitively knew something was wrong, it was such a shock. I was diagnosed on a Thursday, and by the following Wednesday I was on the operating table in Sydney.

Picture driving home from Sydney, your body forever changed, a drain from the wound and Googling how to tell your kids you have a diagnosis of cancer. Even though I have literally looked after thousands of people who had been diagnosed with cancer, I never knew the depth of the fear, anxiety and feelings of free-falling, with everything you knew to be "normal"… no longer real.

What were some of the challenges you had to overcome, and how did you do this?

Anyone who has been through a diagnosis of cancer will relate - every "journey" is a different one.

focusinterview.

The reason why I love, support and am passionate about our

From going about my business to having a mammogram and ultrasound, seeing the technician measuring away, to diagnosis, surgery, having a drain for a month, starting very strong chemo, losing my hair and being taken to what felt like the brink of life itself … is horrific.

I craved understanding and knowing what would come next. It felt like a GPS malfunctioning and taking me on a left turn extravaganza - every time I thought I was on a straight road, something would happen, another left turn, never knowing what was going to happen next.

The business was in a major growth stage, then BAM … cancer knocked the wind out of my sails.

It was about survival; unfortunately, I didn’t have a plan B in business and had to work the best I could. It’s what I now call "success despite adversity"… thankfully, I have some pretty amazing clients who rode through it with me.

Looking back, I overcame this left turn extravaganza by focusing on today, on what I could do for me just for today; the side effects of the chemo taught me that.

Where are you at in the cancer journey now?

Today, I am living each and every day the best way I can for me. I take an anti-cancer adjuvant tablet every day, which has its own suite of side effects - something I am dealing with currently.

My blood results are finally back to normal since completing the 11 rounds of chemotherapy. I had to finish up chemo early

can’t speak or share their due to considerable local Mother’s Day Classic experience and honour side-effects, is the fact that all funds those who are no longer lymphedema and the go to research … finding a with us. damage caused by the better way to treat this disease. My The "Bron & Co" team radiotherapy. treatment plan used drugs that will once again be walking I am forever grateful are thirty years old; by working this event. I am super to be in the position I together, we can find a better way. proud to have partnered am in, with choice … with Heritage Christian the chance to live a full School, who have actively life.

We teamed up with supported me and my you this month to focus on a charity that family since diagnosis. They say it takes a is very close to your heart. How did you community to raise a child; words cannot become involved as the Ambassador of express my gratitude to my school community. the Mother’s Day Classic?

We met the team and some of the I love your team photo, all shades of volunteers earlier last month, and I pink - a little like breast cancer diagnosis, all know you hold a lot of respect for these shades representing the stages. Thank you for women. Can you tell us how they inspire supporting us - fantastic! you?

The reason why I love, support and am Kylie and Carmen, our local volunteers who passionate about our local Mother’s Day run this event, are nothing short of amazing.

Classic is the fact that all funds go to research Their love and support for this event and all …finding a better way to treat this disease. the pink girls (those who are locals who have My treatment plan used drugs that are thirty had a diagnosis) is quite overwhelming and years old; by working together, we can find a something I am so appreciative of. better way.

Behind every diagnosis is a story - a person The statistics are becoming worse, with one who experiences this disease differently. Every. in seven being diagnosed; it was one in eight Single. Day. this time last year.

The respect I have for the Pink No-one wants to be the "one in seven".If Ambassadors, and to those who quietly go I can increase awareness, encourage people about their business asking for privacy, inspire to get checked, fundraise and do my little bit me with their resilience and strength. to find the breakthrough for the treatment of With the Mother’s Day Classic coming up breast cancer, I’m happy with that. on 12th May and the awareness of breast This is a way to be a voice for those who cancer being driven alongside the fund-

raising, can you give us your insights and final thoughts on the topic of cancer It’s not until things go terribly wrong, and you do what needs to be done, that you realise it is possible to have success despite adversity. When there is no plan B, and all you’ve got …is you.

My favourite quote is "You don’t know how strong you are until you have no choice".

I have lost count how many times I have heard the words, "You are so strong". The truth for me is it doesn’t feel like I am stronger than anyone else - I’m simply giving it all I have, knowing that no matter what happens in the future, I made today count.

My final thoughts … For those who may have a friend, family or loved one diagnosed, and you are not sure what to say, you can’t fix it, they can’t fix it, and it sucks; they’re doing the best they can on the day.

Simply acknowledge them, let them know you care and surround them with love. Say something without trying to fix it; they may not want the thousand recommendations of miracle cures and treatment options just yet it’s such a personal space.

The diagnosis of cancer is not a one-person thing; it affects us all. When we gather round - give love without trying to fix it, consider our words, and hang on for the ride without focusing on the outcome, because today is all we have.

Tomorrow is guaranteed to no-one.

Thanks Bron.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 23

Breakfast Tasting Plate from Middle Rock Pizza and Eatery 24 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Bruschetta.

Pan Seared Barramundi Fillet, vermicelli noodles, greens, orange ginger miso broth.

Hastings Coffee Co. at The Westport Club

Aqua at The Westport Club

Serving the best tasting coffee for the town with great taste.

Relax into your morning with a coffee at Hastings Coffee Co. As you enjoy your delicious hot coffee and a decadent homemade sweet treat, watch the boats bobbing on the river and the passing locals out for their morning stroll along the Hastings. It really is the best spot to just sit with coffee in hand and watch the world go by!

This Mother’s Day we would like to acknowledge all our mums and provide a relaxing, stress-free time for mothers and their families to revel in each other's company and to enjoy a fantastic meal. Hastings Coffee Co wants to offer you just that!

Our pastry chefs hand make our decadent dessert selection, and it is the perfect sweet treat for a Mother’s Day morning or afternoon tea! Or, why not bring Mum in for a light lunch and glass of bubbles? There is something for everyone at Hastings!

Waterside dining featuring a fresh, seasonal menu.

Aqua restaurant is one of Port Macquarie’s most popular venues and offers unsurpassed views of the beautiful Hastings River. Its innovative approach to menu creation and the delivery of fresh, local produce, provide a true local dining experience.

Aqua Restaurant and the team are very excited to be celebrating all mums this Mother’s Day. We will be offering a special two course main and dessert menu, as well as our full menu for lunch and dinner.

Aqua Restaurant Mother’s Day Specials: Main - Pan Seared Barramundi Fillet, vermicelli noodles, greens, orange ginger miso broth. Dessert - Mars Bar cheese cake, pistachio chantilly cream, garnished with a chocolate shard. $39.60M & $44.00NM. There is something for everyone at Aqua!

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

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

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH 7 DAYS FROM 7:30AM, DINNER WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY FROM 5PM - LATE.

LUNCH 7 DAYS 11:30AM - 2:30PM DINNER 7 DAYS FROM 5:00PM

Seafood Risotto with Barramundi Fillet.

Strawberry Pie with fresh strawberries and meringue.

Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant

Abundance Garden Centre + Lakeside Dining

Drift is a place we have created with you in mind …

Now Open Friday & Saturday Nights

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.

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.

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.

Try our lunch and dinner menus today, and be sure to catch our constantly changing daily specials board.

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.

HEAD CHEF JESSE MCGARRITY

HEAD CHEF ANDY WHITEHEAD

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!

CAROL GOULDING & MITCH SKRINNIKOFF

Book now for Mother's Day. 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.

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Selections from our brunch menu: Corn Fritters, Hotcakes, Belgian Waffles, Tasting Plate.

Ian

Middle Rock Pizza and Eatery 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!

Book now for Mothers Day, limited spots available.

Mention the dining guide to receive a free garlic baguette with any large pizza purchased.*

2 for 1 * coffee

From pizza to pastries, and cakes to corn fritters, Middle Rock Pizza and Eatery at Lake Cathie is serving up some honest to goodness dishes every day ... chef and owner Ian Martin gives us the inside on the business and his secret to great pizza!

*Voucher valid for card holder only. One voucher per person.

Offer valid for dine in only. Card holder must purchase one regular coffee to receive their second regular coffee for free. Cannot be used with any other offer. Valid until 31st March, 2019.

HEAD CHEF/OWNER IAN MARTIN

*Limit one per customer, offer ends 31st May 2019. Cannot be used with any other offer.

H

6585 5566

i Ian. Can you tell us about Middle Rock Pizza Pizza and open Wednesday to Sunday Eatery and what you dish up 7am till 1pm - 5pm till 8:30pm daily?

We are a locally owned and operated business in Lake Cathie, that we’ve run since 2011. Last year we moved from our small takeaway shop into our new restaurant, and we’ve been enjoying the challenges of expanding our horizons. We offer a wide variety of dishes throughout the day, complemented with a range of in house baked goods made by my wife and partner, Katie (of Baked by Katie). We also offer our pizzas and pastas from 7am, if you ever get the urge ...

What is your background as a chef?

I have been cooking for more than 20 years, have worked everywhere from little takeaway shops to five star hotels, and been lucky enough to work for some amazing chefs from all over the world. One of my biggest highlights has been serving lunch to Muhammad Ali while working at the Hotel InterContinental Sydney. I've cooked my way up and down the East Coast up as far as Cairns; we stopped back here to spend time with family before continuing around Australia, but ended up buying the pizza shop and haven’t looked back.

Talk pizza to us; what's the secret to great crust?

The age old question ... different chefs will have different methods or secrets, but it comes down to finding what works for you and the equipment you use. We have a recipe that we stick to and make daily, but I find I get the best results from having the dough slow proof in the cool room overnight; it seems to develop a nicer flavour and crisper crust. I’m a firm believer that it’s not just the crust that makes a good pizza, but a combination of good quality fresh produce and getting the balance of ingredients right. A great crust can be let down by poor quality toppings, which is part of the Shop 5/1613 ocean Drive , Lake Cathie

SHOP 5/1613 OCEAN DRIVE, LAKE CATHIE. (02) 6585 5566 OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY; 7AM 'TIL 1PM - 5PM 'TIL 8:30PM.

Meat and cheese board

TAPP at Panthers A spotlight centrepiece for any occasion is our delectable Meat & Cheese Board, which features an array of cured meats, house pickled vegetables, marinated olives, local Bago Bluff Tomato Relish and a variety of cheese. To complement this array of flavours and textures, why not sip on a cocktail, whilst relaxing on our beautiful waterfront deck.

The new TAPP menu includes some wonderful culinary treats. Whether you are looking for a vegan option with our Vegan Risotto Stuffed Mushrooms or our Veal and Chorizo Meatballs, we certainly have something for everyone’s tastes.

Come and enjoy the ambience of waterside dining, listen to live music and soak up the atmosphere at one of Port Macquarie’s best bar dining experiences.

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUAIRE (02) 6580 2300 WWW.PORTMACQUARIE.PANTHERS.COM.AU OPEN 7 DAYS. SUNDAY - FRIDAY: 12PM - LATE, SATURDAY: 10AM - LATE. BREAKFAST 8AM - 12PM SATURDAY AND SUNDAY.

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MIDDLE ROCK PIZZA AND EATERY

HEAD CHEF ADAM LOVETT

reason we cut all our veggies fresh, cut out own meats and shred our mozzarella fresh in store, to ensure the best possible quality for our customers.

What types of flavour combinations do you like to experiment with?

This is why I love what we do: to have complete creative control over what we dish up. I will put literally anything onto a pizza (seriously, anything edible) ... We have our ever changing weekly specials, and I always like to play with combinations there. We have done everything from black pudding pizza, to fresh mango and prawn on our summertime pizza. We are lucky to get some great local produce in the Hastings region, and I love using fresh local ingredients in our menu. Some of our specials have proven so popular, we have added them permanently to our menu - like the bacon cheeseburger pizza.

Your wife, Katie likes to bake up the sweet stuff; how do each play to your strengths in the business?

We have been lucky enough to work together in the past and have developed a strong work dynamic; we bounce off each other, offering different perspectives. We know each other’s weaknesses and lend a helping hand where needed. Katie helps keep me motivated and on track, and her baked goods let me focus on the kitchen. We come up with some great ideas and push each other out of our comfort zones, which usually results in amazing creations.

Coming into winter, what else can we expect to find on the menu?

I’ve been itching to test out a smoker that I haven’t unpacked yet, so I’d like to try some different smoked meats or fish on pizzas. But we will also have our warming winter specials, things like lamb shanks with mash, our slow cooked sticky pork ribs, or our tasty pot pies. Comfort foods that leave you feeling warm on the inside …

Thanks Ian.

coffee scene.

Club North Haven

Café Buzz The salads we serve at BUZZ are available all through the year. Different months means different new seasonal ingredients. This means we produce salads that are fresh and full of flavour every day we are open.

You can always tell how good the food is at Café BUZZ, because you will regularly find the BUZZ team sitting down enjoying a freshly made lunch, just like you do.

It is also very important for the BUZZ team to sample and be aware of what we are serving each day, and there is nothing they enjoy more than sharing some samples.

We understand many people have dietary restrictions. Please let us know when you order. We can cater for just about everything you may ask for. There are always gluten free

options available. Always check to ensure we serve you exactly what you want.

See you at BUZZ in Peachtree Walk on Horton Street the next time you are in the Port CBD. Relax with a friend, or sit back and read one of our many magazines available with your lunch and coffee or tea.

Check our Facebook page, Café BUZZ, Peachtree Walk, and see the many delicious foods we make fresh every day.

PEACHTREE WALK, 9/72 HORTON ST, PORT MACQUARIE (02) 6583 7979 OPEN MON - FRI, 6:45AM - 3PM

Book now for Mother's Day at Club North Haven.

Enjoy a two course meal and a glass of bubbles, while soaking up the wonderful atmosphere and time with family.

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.

Seasgulls Restaurant: Enjoy the range of cuisine, prepared by our team of qualified chefs and aspiring apprentices, headed by the award winning Warren Thom. As well as our daily specials, the regular menu caters for any taste, with a wide variety of meat dishes, pastas, Australian

seafood, salads, gluten-free dishes, burgers and other snacks, kids' menu, barista coffee, ice cream, desserts and plenty more.

The Coffee Lounge: 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.

We look forward to seeing you really soon and sharing another day in paradise with you and your family.

Bean SPOTLIGHT. with Vicki from Café Buzz

Café Buzz, Peachtree Walk Port Macquarie

Sometimes things can be a real hassle for us. Sometimes we forget to pick up the very important things we need to stay happy in life.

Café BUZZ has the full range of BUZZ Coffees available for you to pick up and take home or to work. Our website: buzzcoffee. com.au is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Orders are dispatched daily all over Australia, including in the Hastings region. On occasion people will ring in and ask us to drop coffee off to them on our way home from work.

We have decided we will offer this service to you. The best way is to call Harry on 0412 825 882 and let him know what you want. You can order freshly roasted coffee on the phone, and it will be delivered to your door. The minimum order is $25 for 500 grams or $45 for 1 kilo. You can order as much as you like!

The coffee will be delivered as beans or can be ground to how you use it - espresso, filter, plunger. All deliveries will be on FRIDAYS. Payment can be cash or with Eftpos. Call 0412 825 882 for your first delivery.

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LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

Port Macquarie Golf Club Celebrate Mother’s Day, Sunday 12th May.

GREAT EXPECTATIONS How often in life does it seem the amount of time, energy, money and effort spent towards a particular outcome, the more likelihood there is of some level of spectacular disappointment/ failure inherent in the result of the final product?

P

erhaps overfull of Easter terminology, it can be said that this tendency to place all our "eggs in one basket" raises hopes for this one particular facet of our lives to an unnaturally high level, and then conversely allows for higher than normal expectations and benchmarks for failure.

On the other hand, isn’t it reasonably true that the best times and most exceptional memories in life often occur when we absolutely do not expect them, and are somehow the product of a whole lot of random elements coming together and just working out? Or perhaps if we look a bit deeper, we might find that because we weren’t particularly attached to the scenario at hand and didn’t feel the need to sweat the small stuff, furthermore not remotely expecting the greatest night of our life - that somehow the path to happiness happened to have way less obstacles than usual …

Who can tell? And not wanting to get too deep and meaningful here, I’ll get to the point.

Which is when it comes to, for example, a night out at a restaurant - especially for a special occasion - there can be this level of presssure for all involved to perform. And then some. Here lies a perfect breeding ground for mismanaged expectations. And, there are so many opportunities for failure here - if one little thing goes wrong, the whole house of cards comes crashing down ... the night is a disaster, the memory of the occasion forever tarnished.

The usual human instinct to forgive, to move on, to see the glass half full in the situation has been temporarily disabled - because of all those things - the bill at the end (ouch), the anticipation, the milestone event being celebrated.

That’s not to say we, on the other side, aren’t aware of our responsibility to deliver the very best we can. And we really, really try to do that. But 28 Greater Port Macquarie focus

life isn’t so much scripted and stylised like that.

It’s random and haphazard, to say the least. So when you find yourself on a romantic night out seated next to a loud and cackling party, or it's raining, or you might have had to wait a minute while we organised your table on a busy night, or even you just didn’t enjoy your main course like you expected to …

Yes, and there are a few things there that we can take ownership of and should be doing our very best to right for you (e.g. simply not liking what’s on your plate for whatever reason!)

There’s all manner of mistakes we can make, inconsistencies, flies in soup and over-rushed or too slow modes of table service …

But that’s not what we are talking about here it's perhaps realising that all of life’s imperfections can even follow you right here on this supposedly perfect night. And sometime that is our fault, but sometimes it isn’t …

Take the harried disorganised other half who realises with horror that they haven’t booked the anniversary diner their loved one has been expecting. Suddenly it’s the day before and shock horror - it is a Saturday night of a long weekend. The establishment does their best to squeeze the said party in, but sadly a request for a "table with a view for a special occasion" cannot be honoured at this late stage and spectacularly busy night.

The diner is livid and blames us for ruining their special night … Hmm. There’s more to this than meets the eye, and a good dollop of - even without prior planning - still harbouring those expectations of perfection!

Not wanting to harp on here, it is possible to have your cake and eat it too - for that night out to be as mind-blowingly fabulous as you expected it to be, but realistic expectations are beneficial to all involved … and that goes for life in general, not just restaurant life!

Spend some quality time with your mum this Mother’s Day, with a delicious two course menu at Port Macquarie Golf Club. Our team of chefs at Aspire have put together a lunch and dinner special for just $32 per person, including mains and desserts. Bookings are essential. Full menu also available on the day.

Menu is the choice of either: Main: Atlantic Salmon with chorizo, cherry tomatoes, potato salsa and greens topped with dill butter (gluten-free).

Confit duck with creamy colcannon, broccoli and jus (gluten-free).

Dessert: Creme brûlée with biscotti, cream and chocolate dipped strawberries.

Chocolate mud cake with cream and strawberries.

Golf Memberships The golf club has a great range of memberships available to suit social golfers and those looking for competition play. To find out more, check out the website or pop into reception for more details.

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FOCUS CATCHES UP WITH DEAN HANSON OF THE BRISBANE BASED POP BAND, WHO ARE EMBARKING ON THEIR BIGGEST REGIONAL TOUR TO DATE, THE GOOD GOOD MOOD TOUR. i Dean. Congratulations on achieving the group’s biggest year yet, being voted as triple j’s listeners' Number 1# Album of 2018 for fifth album Good Mood and reaching a milestone 400 gigs across a solid 10 year career. How are you feeling about your success?

Really good. Having your music recognised in listener polls is always great, and especially being recognised for having a good album and not just an individual song is awesome. We’re stoked with where things are at. From the start we always said it was important to us to have a long career and to keep working hard on releasing music.

The way people have responded for a decade now makes us really proud. We’re very excited about what’s ahead and feel like we’ve got a great platform now for the future.

You also opened 2019 on a career high, with anthem The Perfect Life Does Not Exist entering triple j’s Hottest 100 countdown at #39. This takes Ball Park Music’s all time tally to nine song entries.

This is such a great track! Tell us about some of the other songs on the album that resonate with you.

Thanks so much! I actually did a bit more writing on this album, and The Perfect Life Does Not Exist is the first time I’ve ever written a major part of a song that we’ve released I love the album as a whole as a single, so of course I was super stoked about the response the track though; we’ve always received. I also co-wrote the songs If been an eclectic band It Kills You and I Am So In Love With across albums. I love You with Sam Cromack (fellow band our diversity, and I think member) so I’m personally proud of we will try to embrace that even at knowing information and those songs. I love the album as a statistics about our career. He more on what we do next. whole though; we’ve always been literally has spreadsheet recordings an eclectic band across albums. I of every show we’ve ever played. love our diversity, and I think we will Sam Cromack is the best at try to embrace that even more on bringing us all together whenever what we do next. we might be fed up or frustrated with something. He As a band, you’ve worked together for a decade always brings things back into perspective, and he’s also now and must have different strengths as an incredible songwriter and compassionate human. And I individuals. What’s something quirky we might not guess, I’m probably the most punctual! know about each of you?

As a group you have made a point of wanting to be We definitely all bring a different strength to the group. accessible for audiences in regional areas that don’t Daniel Hanson is great at offering both negative and necessarily get to experience live music as much positive points of view when we’re making decisions. as metro locations. Why is it important for you to Jenifer Boyce is the most organised and extremely good at include another regional tour this year? meeting fans and new people. Paul Furness is incredible We owe so much of our career to the people of

30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Australia. Every place we’ve ever played in this country has welcomed us with such warmth and enthusiasm, that it’s almost addictive. After a decade of performing, we can’t help but think that there might be a person in a town like Port Macquarie that has been listening to us since they were 10 years old but have never had a chance to see us play, and that’s what makes us most excited to get to all corners of the country where possible.

Going forward, what’s on the horizon for the band?

We’re already deep into writing mode for the next album and have a bunch of demos that we’ve recorded, so I think sometime soon we’ll start really digging into the next release. We’ve got some plans to hit the studio shortly. Maybe there will be a new song to play on our next tour!

Thanks Dean. Interview: Sarah Dunstan.

Launching

THE TAPP NEW MENU

7 DAYS | FROM 12PM

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS

panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au

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Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

LESLIE WILLIAMS

At last month’s declaration of the poll in the NSW election Leslie Williams was returned as MP for Port Macquarie for a third term.

Susie wonders what’s on the agenda for our community over the coming four years, to 2023.

F

or those who love trivia, our local MP has a quirky commonality with Premier Gladys “the Gladiator” Berejiklian: she’s Leslie Gladys Williams. More notably, Williams achieved the third highest vote of confidence of all 93 members of the Legislative Assembly in an overwhelming victory in the recent State election: more than 70% two-party preferred versus Labour, her total first-preference vote just behind that of Adam Marshall (Nationals, first) and Ray Williams (no relation, Liberal, second).

I’m lunching with Williams who, accepting my tip that The Mullet’s scampi linguine is scrumptious, endorses it. I’m amazed she’s able to manage this hiatus in her day; it supports my observation that the woman’s a demon at time management. The NSW Parliament lists 54 localities she must listen to and advocate for (including Lord Howe Island, part of her electorate, with its own unique concerns) across 1500sq.km. It’s in line with the task of her Nationals counterparts and several other country MPs; nevertheless, it’s a tyranny of distance and time not faced by city representatives. Unlike them too, when Parliament sits she must pack a bag and depart home for four nights, leaving behind husband Don who works here in disability welfare.

There’s greater demand on her in Macquarie Street now, due to be named Deputy Speaker when the lower house sits on May 7. The prestigious position gives her an authority, profile and more frequent “presence” among the Cabinet and Ministry than run of the mill backbenchers, among 135 MPs vying and

agitating for their own particular interests.

Williams, though, sees the post as fitting her philosophy and practice of building respect and maintaining relationships right across the parliament.

What’s ahead for Port and environs? Our roads are a big bugbear. The responsibility isn’t all the State’s; most are under council watch.

Yet those in State care produce big challenges.

Williams’ tireless efforts to duplicate Ocean Drive (a council responsibility) are about to be realised with $60m State funding she obtained.

She’s gratified: “It’s pretty well shovel-ready.” As well, she’s confirmed the sealing of Maria River Road between North Shore and Crescent Head.

But what now of Port’s westies and the dire situation daily facing weary residents travelling the Wrights Road-Lake Road roundabouts? In consultations last month on the council’s plans for the coming fiscal year, Mayor Peta Pinson said congestion on that key route ”stood out” among issues raised.

The road, the Oxley Highway, comes under the State’s care. Williams: “What’s important is we now have a Minister for Regional Roads and Transport.” Previously the two ministries, of Roads and of Transport, covered both the country and Sydney, with its massive road/rail demands. “For the first time we’ve separated that city infrastructure work from regional projects. So Nationals Minister Paul Toole will deal with all regional road matters. Another critical factor is we’ve legislated so that $1 billion of the funds from [the federal Coalition government’s purchase of] the Snowy-Hydro will go to regional roads: $500m to support local roads - councils’ - infrastructure, and

$500m to repair timber bridges. With that [first] $500m we’ll take back from councils to State responsibility 15,000km of local roads network.”

The Oxley Highway corridor carries fastgrowing traffic from new homes, shopping, health and education precincts, and Wauchope commuters. “I’ve already been in discussions with RMS on how to manage it. Yesterday I met further with the Mayor and council GM about it. I’m after two things: what’s the longterm solution, what’s going to work? Is it an overpass? Is it signalisation of the roundabouts?

Do we need another lane? When you throw Bunnings into it, and CSU’s $64m expansion, it’s a different ball game too. But secondly I’ve told RMS we need a short-term solution, something right now to alleviate those congestion issues at peak times.” Williams has raised with the council a contributing problem she sees of a single lane immediately bottlenecking traffic turning east into Lake Road off the roundabout there.

On any given day, starting mostly by 8, her diary’s full. She’ll meet - traffic, again - the RMS Regional Manager, and constituents concerned about the Orbital Road; attend far-flung functions for, say, Kendall CWA, and U3A; individuals among the 85,000-odd population she serves consult her re small business affairs, government grants, the environment. She’ll have a teleconference with that important colleague, new Regional Roads Minister Toole.

In the evening, it’s a balmy autumn night outside a local venue, the crowd a Who’s Who of business and industry, Who’s Who of federal politicians, Who’s That of regular citizens,

workers, parents of young families. Williams trades banter about their respective charity-run efforts with visiting federal Nationals Deputy Leader Bridget McKenzie but for both women the occasion, albeit pleasant, is work, here supporting the Nationals’ man in this month’s federal poll. McKenzie speaks impressively as does solicitor and ex-cop Pat Conaghan, aiming to become Williams’ counterpart, in Cowper, replacing retiring Nat Luke Hartsuyker.

The occasion fits with Williams’ constant drive for harmony, that “building relationships” philosophy she considers essential to achieving positive results. “A lot of multimillion-dollar projects today have the three levels of government making inputs,” she explains. “A perfect example’s our airport terminal upgrade.

Most money’s coming from the State but also from the federal government and local government. You need to work together, to be talking together, in all those partnerships to deliver the best outcome for the community.”

Burgeoning Port Macquarie has many concerns but I’m out of space to relay more of Williams’ To Do list. Her record includes securing $135m overall in hospital improvements, and CSU, Lake Cathie school and Hastings Secondary College upgrades and a PCYC sports and performance facility. So she’s shown the energy and persistence to get the job done.

That’s probably why she skipped dessert and coffee with me and hit the road running.

Out To Lunch is hosted by Lou Perri at The Stunned Mullet on Town Beach.

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W I T H K AT E W O O D - F O Y E

Photo by Meraki Photography

BCU Launch Event Photo by Meraki Photography

Zebu Girls Night Out

S

Photo by Sharni Tait Photography

Photo by Sharni Tait Photography

The wedding of Kylie and Kiel Bigeni

Newlyweds Kylie and Kiel Bigeni

Photo by Little Glimpses Photography

Photo by Meraki Photography

Zebu Girls Night Out

Stars of The Hastings Dance for Cancer

As the promise of the big chill looms and we are all scrambling to find our gym gear, and clumsily scrounge through brightly coloured chocolate wrappers and Easter egg remnants - think of those insanely motivated and elite athletes riding, running and swimming in readiness for the annual Festival of Lycra - Ironman Port Macquarie.

ome of us are still recovering from a severe over indulgence of chocolate and trying to wean ourselves off the foil wrapped, sugar laced prettiness that is illegally hard to say no to … OK, just one … maybe two more! But, our lyrca clad friends have been in culinary lock down and serious training! My own international man of lycra, hubby Steve, has just returned from a 500 km charity bike ride across Thailand in 43 degree heat with fellow Port Mac businessmen Jay Beaumont and Michael Wilkie, who rode with 75 others to raise nearly $400K for orphaned little ones - super good to have you all home - potentially slightly chafed, a tad sunburnt and totally elated and exhausted, no doubt! Congrats to you all!

Another gargantuan athletic and charitable effort came from the 10 dancers, who threw it all down for an epic dance off at the recent Stars of the Hastings Dance for Cancer, hosted by Lauren Fraser with ever dashing Emcee Michael Crossland and Green Room host Stacey Morgan looking smoking hot in a black sequined gown.

The 10 dancers not only danced themselves crazy for almost three months, but collectively raised almost $100K for cancer services and research. A huge shout out to all of the performers, including Alfred Portenschlager of TAFE NSW, who styled it up and tapped and moonwalked his way to fame; Natalie Junge of Lighthouse Plaza Medical,

who shimmied and sparkled across the floor; AJ Davis of the Party Professionals, who was foxy as Roxy in Chicago and added a little song to her sassy performance; Ian Ross, Principal of Hastings Secondary College, rocked the stage in his hot pink suit; and twinkle toes, Kiel Bigeni of Men At Work, who danced around the world with a mega medley of international dance; Shelley Lang of Essential Energy, who looked stunning as she shimmied and sparkled in aqua blue; and Richie Baker of Tacking Point Tavern shook his tail feather to raise some serous coin. Congrats to Judges' Choice winner and huge crowd pleaser, Belinda Johnson of SMART Coaching and her dance teacher, Elouise Baker of La Vive Studios, who brought the house down with their hip hop fusion of fun and energy. A massive congrats to People’s Choice Winner, Vanessa Lawrence of The Style Vibe, who teamed up with teacher Kate Maggs of All Star Studios and channelled Katy Perry glamour as an Egyptian priestess with some seriously impressive jazz infused hip hop moves, props and stunning costumes. Last, but certainly not least, was Lach Falvey of Falvey Kay Lawyers, who took out the gong for highest fundraiser, with over $14K raised and took to the stage with moves, muscles and style with PMPA's gorgeous Janelle Catana. Congrats to all involved - always one of my favourite events of the year!

Special shout out to the Rydges team, the tech crew and a huge thanks to the gorgeous judges dancing royalty Helen Richey accompanied by the

fabulous Vickii Byram and Skye Petho!

Kiel Bigeni had a huge few weeks, not only dancing, swimming and training for his big performance for the Stars of the Hastings, but managed to slip in a wedding to the girl of his dreams, Kylie, the weekend before his big performance. This gorgeous, athletic and fabulous pair said, “I do” on Saturday 30th March on Lighthouse Beach, surrounded by 135 friends and family, followed by a reception at the Tacking Point Surf Club, catered for by the amazing Kate Caters and styled by Crab Apple Hire and August and Lucy. Kylie was absolutely stunning in her Bec & Bridge gown and was attended by her beautiful little daughters Imogen and Brooke and her sister the Matron of Honour, Pam Ford. Kyle was attended by Best Man Scott Lawrence and the celebration was emceed by Mitch Van Der Veer of Honour Church. Congrats to an awesome couple, who deserve only happiness and are expecting a little girl later this year to add to the Bigeni clan!

Congrats to the team at BCU, who welcomed Suzie Berry as their dedicated mobile lender to the Port Macquarie team. BCU directors, executives and local business people celebrated with a cocktail event for 80 guests at Rydges on the 11th April, with live entertainment, canapés and a grazing table. CEO Alan Butler and Chairman Steve Targett attended and both addressed the guests, acknowledging BCU's

role in Port Macquarie and exciting plans for the future. Guests enjoyed great company, fine food and views and a chance to mingle with the BCU team. Welcome, Suzie!

Congrats also to the beautiful interior and floral design artist and friend Meredy Bates-Lacey and hubby Steve Lacey, who welcomed little Samuel Robert Lacey into the family. Samuel arrived safely on the 18th April and is a big brother to beautiful little Shannah Rose.

A glam shout out to all the girls who attended the Girls' Night Out at the newly refurbished Zebu in March, enjoying cocktails and tapas in the Bird Cage and bar - special thanks to Lucy Donohoe, St Peters and St Agnes mums and all the other fabulous local businesswomen who came and donated amazing prizes to raise funds for the Lancaster family.

The beginning of the big chill also means we are deep in Game of Thrones territory - my travelling hubby and I made a pact prior to his departure that we would wait to watch the series together on his return. To have that kind of content at my fingertips and refuse to watch it whilst he was away was a supreme feat of love and devotion, which was completely shattered on his return, as he had blatantly watched A Star is Born AND Bohemian Rhapsody on the plane without me - a total breach of marital and cinematic trust! Jon Snow, I’m coming for you! 'til next month, Kate.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 34

Sunday May 12th is Mother’s Day! Daniel Thompson’s Johnny Cash Live Back to San Quentin - 50 Years On In 1969, off the back of the huge success of 1968’s At Folsom Prison album, Johnny Cash recorded the second of his legendary prison albums at California’s notorious maximum security prison, San Quentin.

At San Quentin continued his meteoric rise to his place as a legendary figure and icon of 20th Century popular music.

During the February 24 recording session, in typical Johnny Cash fashion, he got the already enthusiastic inmates on side with his song San Quentin which opens with the lyrics “San Quentin, you’ve been living hell to me”, and he immediately replayed the song at the request of his cheering audience, with both versions included on the original release of the At San Quentin album.

Fifty years on, Daniel Thompson’s Johnny Cash Live hits the road, celebrating this legendary album and the career of the Man in Black. A brand new show featuring more than 35 hits, Back to San Quentin - 50 Years On includes the great moments of the San Quentin album, plus hits and favourites spanning Cash’s entire 50 year recording career.

After six national tours and having performed more than 175 shows, Johnny Cash Live has become lauded as one of Australia’s premier tribute acts. With powerhouse backing band The Tennessee Express and led by Australia’s own Man in Black, Daniel Thompson, Johnny Cash Live presents an unforgettable night.

With more than 60 thousand tickets sold Australia wide, don’t miss your chance to see what has audiences on their feet and coming back each year for more.

with

Present

35+ Greatest hits over 2 Hours Sat 15 June - Glasshouse Port Macquarie

GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU | 02 6581 8888 WWW.CASHLIVE.Com.au 36 Greater Port Macquarie focus

This year for Mother’s Day we have some really beautiful local flowers, mostly grown on our lovely Natalie’s property at Hillville, near Taree.

We always have lots of lovely bunches of flowers available, and we can do up a lovely gift tray of beaut fresh fruit and veges too.

Come on in and have a look. Mothers are so special, aren’t they?

They are always there to support us in good times and the not so good times too.

My mother kept a garden, a garden of the heart.

She planted all the good things that gave my life a start.

She turned me to the sunshine and encouraged me to dream.

Fostering and nurturing the seeds of self esteem.

Her constant good example always taught me right from wrong, markers for my pathway that will last a lifetime long.

So how about an extra special thought for Mum on this special day!

Sweet IMPERIAL mandarins and NAVEL oranges are now available - all “Aussie” grown from South Queensland. They will be from a local source by the end of May. The arrival of the navel oranges and mandarins are always a nice treat to look forward to, as there is usually a gap from when the stone fruit finish and the citrus begins. The Pink Lady apples are back! Just as nice as ever!

Good local beans and fancy lettuce are still available. Local zucchini and Lebanese cucumber are now in plentiful supply and are of very good quality. Good quality local avocados from Coffs Harbour with a price to match will start to appear this month too.

We will also have a good supply of local shallots, baby bok choy and choy sum. Just great for those stir fries!

Our shop offers you the warmest welcome! Come in today and say hello! Ken.

The Players Theatre Inc. presents The Addams Family That loveable family of creepy kooks is alive and well and living in their super-spooky mansion in Central Park. The Addams family, led by the elegantly gaunt and seemingly undead Morticia and her ever devoted husband, Gomez is in turmoil.

Their daughter Wednesday, now a teenager, finds herself falling in love - a sensation that is unsettling for her immediate family of endearing misfits and her haunted ancestors, returned from the grave to musically guide the family through the mayhem.

When the teen invites her new boyfriend, Lucas Beineke over with his "normal" family to get better acquainted with the Addams household, comic chaos ensues, and the Addams family must face the one horrible thing they’ve managed to avoid for generations: change.

The Players Theatre Inc production of The Addams Family will run from Friday 17th May to Saturday 2nd June. Evening performances Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm, and Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at 2pm.

Theatre bookings online at www.playerstheatre.org.au or via The Glasshouse, Port Macquarie on 6581 8888 or via the theatre box office open one hour prior to each show at the corner of Lord and Gordon Streets, Port Macquarie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 37

focusinterview.

P H O T O

B R E T T

B O A R D M A N

The Gospel

PAUL

A C C O R D I N G

T O

Popular Australian actor Jonathan Biggins is currently touring Australia with his new 90-minute production, "The Gospel According to Paul". Jonathan expertly captures the voice, mannerisms and persona of Paul Keating in this one-man show, but he also completed many, many hours of research and wrote the script - ultimately leading to an on-stage performance that is both funny and insightful …

i Jonathan. I’ve caught up with while you’re in Wyong today … How’s The Gospel According to Paul tour going so far?

It’s been going extremely well! We added two extra shows in Canberra, and they sold out, we sold out the Civic Theatre in Newcastle. We’ve been to Dubbo and Tamworth and Cessnock in the past week and tonight we’re at Wyong, and it’s sold out!

I think people are just responding to Mr Keating! In the course of the political leadership we’ve seen in the past 15 years - love him or hate him - I think people are saying, “Well, why can’t we have politicians like that anymore?” I think the show’s proven very popular for that reason.

You’ve been portraying Paul Keating for quite some time now - many people would be familiar with your performances from Sydney Theatre Company’s The Wharf Revue. Why did you choose Paul, in particular, as a character to perform?

The good thing about him from a theatrical point of view is that he, himself, is very theatrical. He had a great parliamentary persona and character; he was very funny, very acerbic, and he could say things and get away with them - because he had a certain panache.

That’s always attractive as a character to play!

And then, the more I looked into it, the more I realised he was quite unusual. He left school at the age of 14, he’d never been to university … I got a book of the speeches he gave after he left parliament, and they ranged from lectures on new political strategies for 38 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I think they have a great affection for each other, but

the next 30 years, to reforms, ten budgets in like close siblings, they reconstructing the five years, the strategic both love and hate each Berlin Potsdamer Platz decentralisation of the other. I think that’s the from an urban panning Reserve Bank? This was a paradox of that relationship, perspective, a lecture on time when governments decorative silver at the still fixed interest rates which was so fruitful …

Powerhouse Museum, to and exchange rates, the an off the cuff obituary dollar hadn’t floated … for an antique dealer in Now, people may ask if Sydney. He just had an that’s been such a great extraordinary range of knowledge and interests idea in the long run. Was it such a great idea for an Irish Catholic boy from Bankstown, born to privatise the Commonwealth Bank, in the in the Second World War. It’s a fascinating light of the Royal Commission? ride!

But certainly, all the changes made to the What he and Hawke did to completely economy - that was the hard part to condense transform the economy and push through into 90 minutes and still keep it entertaining. legislation and an agenda that really hasn’t And then, going back to the early days been replicated since was quite extraordinary! as well … the Whitlam Government, the The relationship between Keating and dismissal of Malcolm Fraser …

Hawke was certainly an interesting one.

I think the audience kind of falls into two How much do you explore this in the camps - there are those who lived through it production? all, and go, “Ahhh - yeah! I remember that!”

We do a bit. I think both Hawke and Keating And then there are the younger people who’ve - although they’d probably never admit it learned about Paul Keating through YouTube were much better because they were together. and history books, and they’ve still got an I think they have a great affection for each appreciation and knowledge of him - and they other, but like close siblings, they both love miss him, even though they never knew him! and hate each other. I think that’s the paradox You spend 90 minutes on stage - on your of that relationship, which was so fruitful … own - with each performance. That’s no There must have been a huge amount easy task! Do you feel you have much in of research on your part to write this common with Paul, now you've spent so production. How did you go about it? much time playing his character?

It took a couple of years to write - not fullWell … my children do say I’m turning more time, but on and off. There are a lot of books into him! A grumpy old man - and I start and information available, but the difficult talking like him sometimes! It is hard to get thing was to condense all the detail … how it out of your system and think of something do you condense all those years of economic else.

It can get a bit lonely up there on stage.

Sometimes you think, “Can someone else just start talking - please?” Give me a break, and the audience a break, because they must get sick of hearing my voice!

A one man show can definitely be lonely, but it also has its rewards. You can’t really blame anyone else if it goes wrong … but you can take all the credit if it goes right! (Laughs.)

What legacy would you say Paul Keating has left Australia?

I think … a lot of what he wanted to put in place has been eroded by subsequent governments. As a lasting legacy, there are certainly pragmatic elements - like compulsory superannuation. He’s a great champion of the arts …

I think the legacy is that Keating and Hawke have turned Australia into an international society … an internationally competitive country that’s made people more forwardthinking, less apathetic, and made us realise that we couldn’t live off the sheep’s back or the miner’s quarry forever. That’s a kind of enthusiasm we really need to recapture …

Thanks Jonathan.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

See The Gospel According to Paul on May 10 at 7:30pm.

Tickets adults $55, conc. $49, under 18 $29.

Also check out the Glasshouse Comedy Plus Package, where you can see three great shows for $126.90. Visit glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office: 6581 8888 for details.

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE PRESENTS SOFT TREAD’S

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO PAUL

Friday 10 May, 7.30pm GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE PRESENTS AN EXPRESSIONS DANCE COMPANY AND QUEENSLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE PRODUCTION

WRITTEN AND PERFORMED BY JONATHAN BIGGINS

CHOREOGRAPHED BY NATALIE WEIR

A funny, insightful and occasionally poignant portrait of Paul Keating.

Friday 7 June, 7.30pm “… a lively tasting plate offering the audience plenty to savour.”

COURIER MAIL

OW

POST SH

Q&A

WITH AN JONATH S BIGGIN

EDY

COM

You’ve never been to a dinner party like this before!

The man that – as he tells it – single-handedly shaped contemporary Australia.

Tickets from $45 (under 18 $29) *Transaction fees may apply

GLASSHOUSE SEASON 2019

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Tickets from $42 (under 18 $29.90) *Transaction fees may apply

GLASSHOUSE SEASON 2019

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Expressions Dance Company is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body, and by arTour, an initiative of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 39

+ EXPO TEDxSydneyLive lets off some “STEAM” at the Glasshouse

LIVESTREAM SPEAKERS Albert Wiggan

David Wenham

Behrouz Boochani

Sharonne Zaks

Craig Costello

Bridget Loudon

Maxine Beneba Clarke

Eddie Jaku

On Friday 24 May, the Glasshouse will be LIVE

Peter Stutchbury

Monkol Lek

STREAMING TEDxSydney direct to Port Macquarie

Ros Harvey

Tara Djokic

Sara Morawetz

Tom Nash

audiences in the Glasshouse Theatre.

Hedayat Osyan

Yve Blake Kim Graham-Nye

TEDxSydney is the leading platform for the propagation of Australian ideas, creativity and innovation and as part of the day’s events, the Glasshouse will be presenting an interactive expo delivered by local education providers, community groups and businesses with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).

SCHEDULE

Come along for a full day of talks, presentations and interactive exhibits and be inspired by the amazing work being done by our local schools and businesses!

08:45 - 10:30

Session 1

1 hr 45

10:30 - 11:30

EXPO /Morning Break

1 hr

11:30 - 13:00

Session 2

1 hr 30

13:00 - 14:45

EXPO /Lunch

1hr 45

14:45 - 16:15

Session 3

1 hr 30

16:15 - 17:00

EXPO /Afternoon Break

45 min

17:00 - 18:15

Session 4

1 hr 15

Friday 24 May from 8.45am $19.50 Adult, $15.50 Member, $17.50 Concession,

BOOK NOW!

I

02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie 40 Greater Port Macquarie focus

$17.50 Group 6+, $58 Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) Eddie Woo was named Australia’s Local Hero and was a Top 10 Finalist in the Global Teacher Prize. His Youtube channel, Wootube, has more than 200,000 subscribers and over 13 million views.TedxSydneyLive 2018 speaker.

A facility of Port MacquarieHastings Council

Norfolk

FOOD festival I S L A N D

Norfolk Island has in recent years grown into a popular foodie destination, offering locally grown, fresh, organic produce which is picked and cooked on the same day. This is the real paddock to plate experience that you are sure to enjoy.

Taste Norfolk Island • • • • • •

Direct flights with Air New Zealand Personal meet & greet on arrival 7 nights accommodation at Poinciana Cottages 7 days car hire including insurance Discover Our World Tour Coffee & sandwich at Norfolk Airport Kiosk

PLUS, the Taste Norfolk Island Food Festival Package • Cocktails on the Green • Taste Norfolk’s Bounty Festival Night • Thanksgiving Day Lunch • Celebration Dinner • Taste Norfolk Island Gift Pack • 2 x Complimentary Festival Options (Go to our website for more details) ex Brisbane from

$2099 / ex Sydney from $2139

Specialising exclusively in Lord Howe Island & Norfolk Island 102 Horton St, Port Macquarie 6583 1955 - 7 days (call centre) Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm & Saturday, 9am - 12pm oxleytravel.com.au @oxleytravel Prices are per person twin share. Subject to availability. Valid for travel as per above dates.

Festival dates 25 – 28 November 2019. Festival inclusions subject to change.

Information & prices correct at time of printing. New bookings only.

T

here are over 20 eating-out places down from our Pitcairn and Whaler ancestors. for you on Norfolk Island. These Norfolk is one of the few places outside of the boutique cafés and restaurants U.S.A. who still celebrate this day. Guests are offer a variety of delicious dishes welcome to attend the morning church services, made from the freshest ingredients then enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch of local during the food festival. Add to traditional dishes. that mix fresh fish, local beef and pork and small Thursday 28th - Celebration Dinner - 6pm for boutique products such as coffee, honey and 6:30pm. The Bounty Lodge Homestead in Ferny cheese.

Lane.

TASTE Norfolk Island is an annual celebration Taste your away around Norfolk Island at the of food, culture and lifestyle. It is set against the Celebration Dinner. A relaxed degustation menu stunning backdrop of our beautiful island home and will showcase fresh produce from all corners of our is a culinary experience not bountiful island. Mingle with other to be missed. guests amongst the landscaped During the Norfolk Island gardens, before taking your seat for Food Festival you will also the final courses of the evening. experience the celebrations Taste Norfolk Island Gift Bag During the Norfolk of Thanksgiving Day. All festival package holders will Island Food Norfolk Island is one receive an exclusive gift bag on Festival you will of the few places outside arrival, with a selection of locally also experience of the U.S.A. to celebrate produced gifts and souvenirs. the celebrations of Thanksgiving.

Included will be all your festival Thanksgiving Day. Join us for what promises vouchers and festival itinerary, to be a bountiful week of together with exclusive vouchers delicious food and fun at the 2019 Norfolk Island and offers for food festival visitors.

Food Festival.

FESTIVAL ADD-ON OPTIONS: MASTERCLASS with celebrity Chef Dominique PROGRAM OF EVENTS: Rizzo – Monday 25 Nov 11.30am at the Local, Monday 25th - Cocktails on the Green 5pm Taylor’s Road. Limited spaces.

7pm. The Historical Golf Club at Kingston.

Dominique Rizzo is one of Queensland’s leading Enjoy a selection of delicious hot and cold female chefs who creates purely delicious, healthy canapés, highlighting the local food with a variety and real food recipes that inspire people to make a of beer and wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic change for the better while still loving their food. beverages as you mix and mingle with other festival Join Dominique for a Masterclass you won’t goers. forget.

Tuesday 26th - Taste Norfolk’s Bounty Festival MASTERCLASS with celebrity Chef Matt Night - 5:30pm 'til late. The Old Gaol in World Golinski – Tuesday 26 Nov 11.30am at the Heritage Kingston.

Paradise Hotel & Resort. Limited spaces.

You will have a bountiful "Taste” sensation from Matt Golinski is a highly regarded, professional the many food stalls offering mouth-watering chef with a passion for creating cuisine using fresh, creations. This is street food, island style, with a bar seasonal and local ingredients.Matt has worked service and and live entertainment. as executive chef at some of Queensland’s leading Wednesday 27th - Thanksgiving Day Lunch restaurants and founded his own catering company.

12:30pm. The Local in Taylor’s Road.

Join Matt for a Masterclass you won’t forget.

Thanksgiving Day is a celebrated tradition passed Greater Port Macquarie focus 41

focusinterview.

BEJAN

42 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST TEACHER, BUT IT CAN ALSO HELP YOU BECOME A TERRIFIC STORY TELLER - AND THAT’S WHERE JOSHUA BEJAN’S PHOTOGR APHY IS IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN.

Heading: Joshua Bejan - Behind the Lens Pics: In story folder with story.

Subheading:

J

osh has held an array of different jobs over the years, and he’s also travelled extensively; one of his passions is capturing journalistic, documentary style photography - but he also has a keen eye for portraiture …

Hi Joshua. What part of the Hastings area do you call home ... and how did you come to live there?

I’m actually living out in Yarras, which is about an hour west of Port Macquarie. It’s a beautiful spot situated up on the mountains over looking the valley. I was born and raised in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, but after a lot of moving around, it was time to move out of the city and embrace a healthy country/beach lifestyle.

Like many of us, your career path has taken a few twists and turns! What are some of the more interesting jobs/roles you've held?

Great question! I’ve been everything from pizza delivery boy to personal trainer, with a little bit of Santa photographer added in there.

Probably the most diverse role I’ve had is being a full-time missionary travelling around Australia, going door to door helping different communities. I remember this one area in Western Australia specifically; it was the first house of the day. I knocked on the door, to have it opened by a little Aboriginal boy, which was soon followed by the loud noise of a lawnmower coming from inside the house! One by one, more kids started to appear at the door to see who was there; I was then asked if I could come inside and help them.

To my surprise, I entered the house and found about 15 kids, all standing around the walls with this lawn mower going full blast inside the house.

The throttle was stuck, but with some persever-

ance, I managed to turn it off. To this day, I still don’t know why that lawnmower was inside the house!

When/how did an interest in photography enter the picture for you?

I was first introduced to photography through my Dad, at the age of 13. He taught me how to use and control a camera. Photography truly became my own through skateboarding, as a means to document life at that young age and stuck by me as I progressed through life and my career choices.

To this day, skateboarding still heavily influences my photography and the way I document and am able to capture the significance of a moment in a distinctive way.

What are some photographic projects you've worked on that you've really enjoyed?

Photographing and documenting some of the mission trips I went on for Eastward Missions was an amazing experience; going to places, meeting people and seeing things that a lot of people don’t normally get the chance to see is truly a blessing.

What particular types of photography interest you the most?

Any form of journalistic, documentary style photography will always catch my eye. I believe it is the unvarnished intrinsic nature of photography. Being able to take this medium that we all are so familiar with, and to not only capture something in a way that is aesthetically pleasing, but also being able to interweave a story is true art.

Where are some places you've travelled to that have inspired you and your work?

India is chaotic yet peaceful; the people are

I’ve been to most of Europe, bits of Asia, America, New Zealand plus more, and the one thing I see is this balance between juxtaposing ideals.

The beauty and unforgiving harshness of the Australian landscape has recently inspired me to unite these ideals in my work and explore further where this balance lies.

vibrant, and the culture is very warm and welcoming.

Romania is broken yet functioning; the people are not so warm, but the patriotism and love for their country is unparalleled.

I’ve been to most of Europe, bits of Asia, America, New Zealand plus more, and the one thing I see is this balance between juxtaposing ideals.

The beauty and unforgiving harshness of the Australian landscape has recently inspired me to unite these ideals in my work and explore further where this balance lies.

What are some of your favourite pieces of camera kit (and why do you like them)?

I use a few different cameras for my work; mainly my workhorse is my Nikon D700 if I’m shooting an event or family portraiture. This camera, paired with my 105 mm f1.4 lens is almost impossible to beat in picture quality, and the bokeh achieved is just outstanding.

I’ll load a point and shoot camera with some HP5 if I want documentary style images that are emotive. I also have a Hasselblad 501 cm that I use to get truly superb images with an extraordi-

nary colour range and image depth; I mainly use this for portraiture and landscapes, since it is a slower method of photographing.

It’s really hard to beat the grain you get from film.

What upcoming photographic projects are on your agenda?

At the moment I am just looking into establishing a photographic business in Port Macquarie, focusing on events, weddings, and kids!

What are your dreams/goals?

Being able to live purely off photography would be pretty cool. Other than that, I just want to help people as much as I can - there are so many people in bad situations, and a lot of them are our neighbours and we don’t even know.

Where can we view more of your work/contact you?

I’ve currently got a print hanging at the Sunset Framing Gallery everyone should go check out.

You can also view more of my work at joshuabejanphotography.com and you can contact me via phone: 0437 074 494 or email: joshuabejan@gmail.com Thanks Josh.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Josh pictured bottom right this page.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 43

WOMEN'S

fit

golf program Hi James. Thanks so much for speaking with FOCUS. Swing Fit is certainly taking off around the country. Please tell us a little about the women’s golf program on offer here at Port Macquarie Golf Club.

S

wing Fit is a fantastic way to introduce ladies to the game of golf. It is fun, social, provides light exercise, along with some expert tuition that teaches ladies how to play the game of golf or improve their skills and techniques.

Swing Fit is the fun, healthy and social way for women to learn and develop their golf skills. Who can benefit from taking part in this program, and what can ladies expect to gain from swing fit?

Any female wishing to develop their skills in the game of golf or to even try their hand at the game for the first time would benefit from taking part in the program. It is a great way to get introduced to the game, and they can expect to meet other ladies and make new friends and to feel welcome and at home at the Port Macquarie Golf Club.

What about novices to golf? Can anyone participate at any level, and do you need to have a certain level of fitness to participate?

Absolutely anyone who can walk could participate in the classes. The exercises are only light and promote movements that are required in the golf swing. You don’t need to be the strongest, fittest version of yourself to join in.

Golf isn’t hard on the body when you are taught correctly.

For women wanting more information or to sign up for the program, how can they get in touch with you?

To find out any more information, you can contact the Port Macquarie Pro Shop directly on

44 Greater Port Macquarie focus

(02) 6582 0784, or you can come and visit us at the Port Macquarie Golf Club. We are open seven days a week from sun up to sun down, rain, hail or shine. You can check us out on Facebook (Port Macquarie Pro Shop) and ask any questions there as well. Alternatively, if you would like to suss it out some more, you can go to the Swing Fit website at www.golf.org.au/ swingfit As the Club Professional here at Port Macquarie Golf Club, what do you love about the sport of golf?

Golf is the best sport in the world, and I’ll happily argue that with anyone. You can play from the time you can walk (I have played golf myself since I was around three years old) to well into your 90s if you can still get around the course. Apart from the longevity of being able to play the game, it is very social. You will meet people from all walks of life and make some great contacts by starting to play the game. The challenge it presents keeps players coming back to improve themselves or their handicap. You can play by yourself or with others. You can play golf in almost any town, state or even country you might be visiting. The list goes on and on.

I have played for a long time in many parts of regional NSW, and you have to go a long way to find a better regional course and facility than the one we have right here at Port Macquarie Golf Club. I encourage anyone interested in the game to join in some clinics or to come and see us at Port Macquarie Pro Shop. We will be happy to help you out.

Thanks James.

WIN

*

The Ultimate Rydges Staycation for Mum

Simply like and follow the Settlement City Facebook page for your chance to win one of two perfect pamper experiences for Mum. Major prize Rydges Port Macquarie Staycation Package A nights accommodation at Rydges Port Macquarie in a Deluxe Water View Room Full buffet breakfast for two Champagne on Arrival Complimentary Parking Runner up prize High Tea with a Twist for 4 guests at Zebu A scrumptious high tea for you and five friends to include a delicious range of sweet and savoury treats with champagne on arrival *Competition runs from 9am Monday 23 April and closes 8pm Friday 10 May 2019. See settlementcity.com for full terms and conditions.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 45

I

My name is Phoebe Elaine Hagenbach, and I have lived in Port Macquarie for three years.

COMPETITION

entered the Mother’s Day colouring in competition, because I really like colouring in and wanted to win the flowers for Mummy for Mother’s Day. What makes your mum special? My mum is special, because she looks after me and my brother and my sister, and also she does Physie with me - and it’s fun.

Can you tell us why you chose to colour in the picture with textas and pencils? I like doing all my colouring in with textas and matching pencils, because it looks neater when I do the outline and I use the

outline as a barrier, so I can’t go past the picture.

Carissa, Phoebe has won you a bunch of flowers every month for a year. How does that make you feel? It’s super exciting! I must admit fresh flowers aren't something I have in my household, so it will be really nice to be able to have a beautiful arrangement displayed each month. It will be a lovely treat for me and my family.

What are you looking forward to the most about Mother's Day? Spending time with my three kids and my mum and grandmothers. I’m really lucky that they are all here, so we can have a wonderful family day.

Congratulations, Carissa and Phoebe.

Wishing all the mums, mothers and mother figures in our community a very happy Mother's Day for May 12th!

46 Greater Port Macquarie focus

the best mother’s day gift ever!

Golf Ladies First.

Golf Ladies First.

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

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The Seed Creative Workshops: Tell us your story!

What are The Seed Creative Workshops?

It’s a space where individuals of all ages can come and be a part of our creative community and learn fine art and craft skills, including drawing, painting, macrame and textiles, jewellery sculpting and many more! Aimee and Sarah are co-owners of The Seed and have a vision of building a community based creative home for all ages to find their own colourful journey. And, that’s exactly what you’ll find at The Seed.

What classes do you offer?

We have something for everyone! A mum and bub class, toddler art classes, an after-school art program for primary students and teens, four-week and one-off creative workshops for adults and a school holiday program offered each term. To book any class, please visit

theseedcreativeworkshops.com *All term classes are eligible for the Kids Creative Voucher, to save $100 off your program fees.

“No matter how skilled or unskilled you consider yourself, approach your art with a beginner’s mind: focus on the process of creating, rather than the outcome on the page.”

Taking art classes promotes your mental health and quality of life. Painting strengthens memory, drawing builds problem solving and motor skills, and crafting offers stress relief and promotes an optimistic attitude, all of which are available to enjoy with your loved ones here at The Seed.

We’re offering a special Mother’s Day Painting Workshop, good for all ages, on May 12th, 2 - 4pm, so bring your mum, drinks and nibbles, and have a creative day out!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 49

coaching

B E L I N D A

H

J O H N S O N

i Belinda! Thank you for speaking with FOCUS. Huge congratulations are in order for you!

You've just been crowned the winner of 2019 Stars of the Hastings Dance for Cancer event here in Port Macquarie. Tell us what this incredible achievement means to you.

The whole community, friends and family came together to support me. Small local businesses donated to my successful fundraiser venture, allowing me to raise over $10,000.

To participate with all of the other stars on the night was so special. But then to pull off the win in front of my loved ones who have supported me was just the most amazing and surreal experience ever, and one I will never forget.

Wow! Thank you so much. What an unbelievable ride it has been over the last eight weeks; there has been so much joy in my life over this whole experience.

You have also recently launched your Pilates services to the community. What can interested people expect to gain from utilising SMART Coaching?

Like so many out there, we have all been touched by cancer in one way or another, and I lost someone close to me - my father, when he was only 50. So when La Vive Dance Studios had their star pull out one month into the fundraiser, although quite nervous and scared I put my hand up to help such a great cause and get me way out of my comfort zone. As the actual event drew to a close, I realised this whole experience was so much more than I anticipated.

Yes, that’s correct; this is very exciting.

Improving clients’ posture, balance and body awareness is so rewarding. Through small tailored group sessions or private sessions I am able to work with each client personally.

50 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Photography: Little Glimpses Photography

The new equipment and reformer Pilates sessions are an all-encompassing body workout tailored each week on specific muscle groups; often forgotten are the deep stabilising muscles in the body. The results for my clients have been amazing.

What is your vision for the brand going forward?

SMART Coaching has traditionally attracted clients who have wanted to improve and train in the disciplines of swim, bike, run, multisport and triathlon. The brand has grown into an all-encompassing preventative and rehabilitation fitness focus.

passionate about health and lifestyle through movement. The practice of Pilates is something we can all incorporate into our daily routines at some level. How can Pilates and SMART Coaching assist people to live healthier lives?

Making our clients aware of their bodies, how they work, how they age and change and how they can restore their fitness through preventive measures such as Pilates is the focus with the brand moving forward.

My whole life has been dedicated to sport, coaching and assisting clients’ bodies from a rehabilitation perspective through remedial massage. I am able to draw upon my expertise in all of these areas to offer my clients a Pilates program that can assist, restore and strengthen bodies.

Throughout your life, you've always been

Thanks Belinda.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 51

focusinterview.

WENDY STOKES Within and Between - Walking in the space of Landscape AN ARTIST’S RESIDENCY AT THE CITE INTERNATIONALE DES ARTS IN PARIS IN 2014 HAS FORMED THE BASIS FOR LOCAL ARTIST WENDY STOKES’ LATEST EXHIBITION, WITHIN AND BETWEEN WALKING IN THE SPACE OF LANDSCAPE.

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endy draws parallels a residency in Paris in 2014. How did this between the Mid come about?

North Coast and While my work revolves around my familiar Paris as inspiration coastal location on the Mid North Coast, it and explores how is underpinned by ideas, which delve deeply the art of drawing into practice. I was interested in extending this can best capture this through research and in doing so, took perhaps experience for her an unfashionable direction and stepped back latest exhibition. She’s also offering a drawing in history - to take a close look at the late masterclass for anyone keen to put pen (or installation of Claude Monet. This was through pencil) to paper … the eyes of an Australian artist, whose work is Hi Wendy. It's been a preoccupied with place while since we caught and atmospheric space. up. What's new in your For me, this meant world and keeping you experiencing The I made 13 private visits to draw busy these days?

Nymphéas suite in the in the garden. To me, the When we last spoke, Orangerie, Paris, studying garden was all about I think I may have Monet’s rare sketchbooks a play with space and commenced my creative and the sites which he inhabited a deep 'sense Monet journey. My inhabited and directed of place', resonating with work as a long term much of this work. This connections to my childhood. project has been realised. association and interest led Different aspects of it to visiting Paris in 2010, have been shown in being awarded the highly major solo exhibitions, competitive and coveted across the regional galleries network in NSW: Research Residency at the Cite Internationale Coffs Harbour, Tamworth, Grafton and Maitland. des Arts in Paris in 2014 from UNSW School Art Now it is a pleasure to have an opportunity to & Design and receiving a Masters in Fine Art by highlight a glimpse of the new direction I am Research 2016. taking at the Glasshouse - and what informed it.

How long did you spend in Paris - and what You were fortunate enough to be awarded are some of your favourite memories from

focusinterview.

RESIDENCY COMPLEX

WENDY STOKES The residency complex accommodates over 280

artists at a time, each with their own studio and living amenities. The location is unbeatable, set

the visit?

The residency was three months, allowing time for complete immersion into the project.

The residency complex accommodates over 280 artists at a time, each with their own studio and living amenities. The location is unbeatable, set on the River Seine opposite Île St Louis and Notre Dame, and each resident is given free entry to the museums and galleries.

You are your own person to see whatever interests you, work in your studio, visit other artists and their studios and generally slot into a wonderful routine of living amongst the culture and history, while living and sharing dialogue with contemporary artists from over 50 countries.

Being able to make unlimited visits to study works and pick your times free of tourists, have access granted to study Monet’s rare sketchbooks, and work in the Giverny garden outside of hours was special. For any Australian artist, that is a treasured experience - and being awarded the opportunity was fantastic in itself.

Claude Monet's Garden at Giverny was one of the sites you explored. What impressions did you take away from this site?

The Giverny Garden has always fascinated artists, particularly those who paint and have taken the aesthetic route into Abstraction. This was very much the case with artists from the U.S. in the late ‘50s and ‘60s, and contemporary

artists still undertake isolated; it becomes innovative contemporary about understanding the projects in the garden. complexities and parallels on the River Seine opposite Île St Monet had designed of a sense of place and Louis and Notre Dame, and each the garden specifically to how they interact through resident is given free entry to the fulfill his vision to have journey and time. museums and galleries. infinite subject matter at What medium/media hand and also be a place have you used to of contemplation. He was capture this new body preoccupied with colour, of work? scale, and the play of light. It is from this garden I deliberately designed my Paris research that Monet’s infamous Nymphéas suite was around drawing, as it is an initial primal act [slogged] out, and the rest is history. of connection and means of expression. It is I made 13 private visits to draw in the garden. the response to the first encounter and as one To me, the garden was all about a play with continues to draw, one becomes more familiar space and inhabited a deep “sense of place”, with “place” as your body moves through it. resonating with connections to my childhood.

Finding “place” through the drawn mark Your upcoming exhibition at the Glasshouse begins to come part of you, and you absorb the Regional Gallery draws on your experiences natural rhythms of a site. Painting becomes a in Paris. What are some of the themes/ideas reconfiguration and re-enactment of these marks, you aim to explore? more like notations of experience.

While Paris provided fertile ground for many The aim behind the work is locating parallels potential projects, this exhibition focuses on between places, creating a sense of quiet, the connection between drawing and painting, reflecting a shifting space, inviting the viewer what and how it is informed, how one’s own to participate in inhabiting their own sense of experience of sense of place filters into other place. I have used a variety of drawing media and locations through journey. These experiences view the major piece in the show as a painterly are heightened through my daily experiences of drawing. walking and engaging within the landscape.

To coincide with your exhibition, you'll also Through an historical retracing and walking the be offering a two-day masterclass. What will landscape sites, I have been able to find parallels you be sharing with participants? in my own locations and ways of working which My experiences and interpretation of connects to integrity of experience. landscape. My aim is that each participant will The Glasshouse show sets itself apart learn ways to develop their own approach, from the previous, in that it is blending the primarily through the act of drawing. I hope to experiences, rather than keeping each location encourage them to embrace and investigate a

range of approaches to seeing and interpreting “landscape”, in order to find their own meaning, rather than imitating mine.

This will definitely be a hands-on approach, spending one day in the landscape and the other in the Artlab, following the philosophy I took during my residency.

What artistic skill level would the masterclass be suited to?

To anyone who is open to explore variation in their work, be open ended in expectation, look more closely at how they consider landscape and their participation in it when making work, rather than spending time on a fixed representation.

I have found in my teaching newcomers are an open book, without pre-conceived ideas or habits and have much to offer. It will be two days of sharing and enjoying what we do.

Where can we see more of your work/find out more about your art? wendystokes.com.au Thanks Wendy.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Studio photos courtesy of Jeremy Rogers.

See Within and Between - Walking in the Space of Landscape at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from May 18 - July 21.

Exhibition opens on May 24 at 6pm.

Wendy Stokes’ Masterclass - 25th - 26th May, commencing 10am. Cost: $180. Bookings essential.

Visit glasshouse.org.au for further details.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 53

focusinterview.

An Afternoon at

P RO M S

H

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.

i Ian. What's been your most memorable performance?

I had the honour of being commissioned to write and perform a piece for the Opening Ceremony of the Sydney Olympics in 2000. That was one of the most exciting nights of my life. I remember being in the dressing-room under the stadium before the show started. Every minute or so there was a thunderous rumbling from above. It took me a while to realise that this tremendous noise and shaking was the crowd’s giant Mexican wave passing overhead as they were waiting for the show to start.

During my piece, the Tin Symphony, there were a thousand performers on the stadium floor - acrobats, tap dancers, giant Ned Kellys etc. Playing in front of such a huge and electrified audience, there was no place for nerves. Performance instinct took over. What hadn’t dawned on me until later was that it had been watched around the world by an estimated 2.85 billion viewers. I’m really glad that figure didn’t hit me until afterwards.

What do you enjoy about playing the violin?

I love seeing the joy that playing beautiful music gives people. I can feel it from the stage.

There’s an element of artistic licence in our performances, and especially with Gypsy music - there’s plenty of scope for interpretation. I

54 Greater Port Macquarie focus

really enjoy that freedom, and it makes every has the preparation been? performance unique and a little bit different The producers and I have a fabulous team from the time before. It’s invigorating for a of performers, who all work hard to bring performer and the audience can sense that this production to Australian audiences. The spontaneity as well. That’s what live concerts rehearsals have been smooth, and there is are all about, I think. a real buzz amongst the cast before each How much of the year do you typically performance. We just can’t wait to get on spend travelling? stage!!

I am on tour over half Many would describe the year. I’ve come to the your life as a musician realiastion that not all as being a pretty my audiences are going charmed one, able Playing in front of such a to come and see me to travel the world huge and electrified audience, play at home, so I must from a young age and there was no place for nerves. be prepared to travel to performing in front of Performance instinct took them. I am also a pilot, live audiences. What over. What hadn’t dawned which makes it a little are some of your on me until later was easier when performing favourite memories that it had been watched around Australia. from those very early around the world by an What do you love days? estimated 2.85 billion viewers. most about touring?

My first overseas trip I guess I’m a bit of a was to Hawaii, mainland Gypsy - I just love being U.S. and Canada on the road, meeting new audiences and when I was seven. I was part of a group of seeing the world. Last year I gave concerts in violin students to represent Australia at an over 30 countries. international violin convention. I performed in I also enjoy bringing home some of the Japan when I was 10 for NHK Television, and music I hear on my travels and presenting it in high school I went to Europe with a youth to Australian audiences. I have recently added orchestra and again with my school band. I’ll Irish fiddle and Gypsy music to my concert never forget the gorgeous sound of playing repertoire, and they both go down a treat. solo violin in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London and Your show has a cast of over 44 performing with the Vienna Boys Choir. performers, which sounds exciting. How You were awarded a scholarship to study

at the N.S.W. Conservatorium of Music when you were eight. How do you feel these studies helped to shape the artist you are today?

I was fortunate to have been taught by the very best violin teachers in Australia. I was also a member of the Sydney Youth Orchestra under the conductor Stuart Challender. My passion for European and Russian orchestral music was ignited then, and I remember enjoying playing Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky and Mahler.

You have released 13 CDs, have received multiple MO, ACE and Aria Awards amongst many other achievements.

What’s next on the agenda for you after you wrap up your current concert series?

I just want to continue taking music that’s been loved for centuries to audiences all over Australia and showcasing some of this country’s finest singers, dancers and musicians.

The whole cast looks forward to these concerts and giving people a show to remember.

Where would we find you in your spare time?

Sailing with my kids on Sydney Harbour.

Thanks Ian.

See An Afternoon at the Proms at the Glasshouse June 1st, 2pm.

Visit glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office 6581 8888 for more info.

focusfeature

6TH - 9TH JUNE 2019

HelloKoalas

Festival

Here's your chance to meet all of the Hello Koala sculptures in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area ... as well as enjoying plenty of koala-themed activities and events!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 55

6TH - 9TH JUNE 2019

HelloKoalas

Buzzy Bee by Coffs Harbour artist Lisa Burrell; photo Lindsay Moller.

Festival

Guula, painted by Wauchope TAFE artists, Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra photo Parks Australia

It’s that time of year again, WHEN ALL THE HELLO KOALAS SCULPTURES GATHER IN THE PORT MACQUARIE-HASTINGS for their big celebration of the year!

T

his year, there will be the inaugural Hello Koalas Treasure Hunt on Friday 7th, Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June, with more than twenty selected Hello Koalas sculptures scatted around the region, sometimes in new or different locations.

For example, Guula is taking up residence at Wauchope Train Station in June, through an

6

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innovative partnership with NSW Trains, Forestry NSW and Hello Koalas. And, Alira has moved to Settlement City Shopping Centre.

The Mayor of the Koala Republic, one of the sculptures on the Treasure Hunt, will be doing an extra special job of travelling around each day, visiting all sorts of places and meeting and greeting locals and visitors.

The trick is to capture selfies of all the Hello Koalas sculptures on the Treasure Hunt,

including the Mayor of the Koala Republic, and upload to Instagram or Facebook, with a few words about why it is important “to care for our koalas”. There are some great prizes to be won.

We will be announcing the daily movements of The Mayor of the Koala Republic as she moves towards her next location on Facebook and local radio, so people following the Treasure Hunt can stay tuned for clues and more details.

The Hello Koalas Treasure Hunt will also

2019

introduce two brand new sculptures to the Trail.

The first of these is Buzzy, The Native Bee Koala, who was such a hit at the Australian National Botanic Gardens exhibition of Hello Koalas sculptures in Canberra in March 2019. Buzzy has stayed on in Canberra to celebrate World Bee Day on 23rd May at the Swedish Embassy, courtesy of an invitation from the Swedish Ambassador, then she heads home to Port Macquarie.

F E S T I VA L

SUPPORTERS

Explore State Forests of the Mid North Coast with Hello Koalas

McDonald’s Port Macquarie & McDonald’s Port Macquarie Highway Restaurants are proud sponsors of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail & their koalas Mack the Lifesaver & Oceania

Join Crusader along the 1.3km elevated boardwalk through sub-tropical rainforest and learn about the rainforest animals he serves and protects!

forest

mack the lifesaver & oceania

Crusader Koala

Find me at Port Macquarie Museum, Clarence Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Artist Pauline Roods Sponsor info www.forestrycorporation.com.au

Find me Mack at Bay Street (cnr Park Street), Port Macquarie, NSW Artist Pauline Roods Find me Oceania at McDonalds, Cnr Oxley & Pacific Hwys, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444 Artist Anthony Flanders Sponsor info www.mcdonalds.com.au

Find me at Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, 159 Pacific Dr, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Artist Dale Leach Sponsor info www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

56 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusfeature

The second new sculpture is still a closely guarded secret, with the working title “Dr Koala”, who will be unveiled at the University of NSW Rural Clinical School. This coincides with the second “Caring for our Koalas and our Environment” symposium, which opens the Hello Koalas Festival on Thursday 6th June.

The symposium will be held at the Science and Health Education Centre auditorium at UNSW Medicine, 26 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie.

The day’s event, from 9am to 5pm, is attracting experts in the field of koala conservation, field workers, Landcare members and the general community interesting in preserving koalas in the wild.

Speakers include Mike Roache, NSW Saving our Species Program and NSW Koala Strategy (Newcastle), Cheyne Flanagan, Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and Rebecca Montague-Drake, Koala Ecologist, Hastings-Macleay Koala Recovery Program.

There are lots of other things to do during the Hello Koalas Festival too.

The Foreshore Markets on Westport Park on Saturday 8th June will be ablaze with a display of Hello Koalas sculptures, lots of Hello Koalas memorabilia, plus koala face painting and the opportunity to “paint your own koala” from 8am to 1pm, led by local artists Pauline Roods and Kim Staples.

Plus this year, the second Cars for Koalas, Show and Shine will be held alongside the Foreshore Markets, with support from Shannons, the insurance company for motoring enthusiasts, and the Port Macquarie Antique and Classic Car Club.

Looking forward to welcoming BMW Car Club members and others from out of town too.

The big issue behind this event is reminding

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JUNE

Ranger Riley, painted by Pauline Roods, enjoying his gum leaf lunch at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra photo Parks Australia

people that cars, busy roads and koalas don’t mix well. There will also be an opportunity for people to make a donation to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital to support their valuable work for our local koala community.

Evening entertainment during the Hello Koalas Festival includes Hello Koalas Rock and Night Dance Night with band Jake Rattle and Roll ($25 per person), on Friday 7th June. Plus, the Hello Koalas British Invasion Dance Party with band The Day Trippers ($10 per person) on Saturday 8th June.

Both music and dance nights are at Panthers Port Macquarie. Doors open at Also on Sunday 9th June, from 7pm for a 7:30pm start.

9:30am to 3pm, everyone is Tickets are available by invited to the Hello Koalas phoning the club on Festival Family Day at Douglas (02) 6580 2300 or online Vale Historic Homestead and www.portmacquarie.

Homestead and Vineyard, panthers.com.au Vineyard, 235 Oxley Highway, 235 Oxley Highway, Port The Hello Koalas Festival Port Macquarie.

Macquarie. finale is “The PeacemakLots of activities and fun ers concert”, featuring games, great music program, the inspiring work of Karl yummy food, arts and craft stalls, koala face Jenkins, organised by the Hastings Choristers on painting, wine and beer tastings and of course, Sunday 9th June at the Glasshouse Arts Centre, come and say “hi” to more Hello Koalas commencing at 7pm. sculptures.

Perhaps the Mayor of the Koala Set to the words of champions of peace such Republic might visit while you are there too! as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr and Special thanks to so many supporters of the Nelson Mandala, this powerful choral work brings 2019 Hello Koalas Festival, including to the stage a 120 voice choir and Destination NSW, NSW Saving our Species orchestra. Tickets at the Glasshouse Box Office Program, Hastings-Macleay Koala Recovery www.glasshouse.org.au or phone Program, Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, (02) 6581 8888.

Forestry NSW, NSW National Parks and Sea Acres Also on Sunday 9th June, from 9:30am to Rainforest Centre, NSW Trains, Slim Dusty Centre 3pm, everyone is invited to the Hello Koalas (Kempsey), Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Festival Family Day at Douglas Vale Historic

2019

Association, Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard, Southern Cross Austereo, FOCUS, Port News, ABC Mid North Coast, McDonald's (Settlement City and Gateway), KFC (Gateway), Panthers Port Macquarie, Settlement City Shopping Centre, Charles Sturt University, UNSW Rural Clinical School, the Glasshouse, Ricardoes Tomatoes and Strawberries, Port Macquarie Rock n Roll Club, Mantra The Observatory, Lions Club and the amazing Koala Smart Schools Project.

DIARY DETAILS

3rd Hello Koalas Festival, 6th - 9th June. www.hellokoalas.com Enquiries - Phone 0416 641 482 or Email info@hellokoalas.com

F E S T I VA L

SUPPORTERS

Explore our Cultural Landscape with Hello Koalas

Discover State Forests of the Coffs Coast with Hello Koalas

The Slim Dusty Centre and Kempsey Shire Council are proud to welcome Nulla home to the Macleay Valley and the Dunghutti Lands

guula

Woody The Forestry Koala

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Find me at Wauchope Railway Station Randall St, Wauchope NSW 2446 Artists Wauchope TAFE Visual Art Students Sponsor info www.transportnsw.info www.forestrycorporation.com.au

Find me at Sealy Lookout, Orara East State Forest, Coffs Harbour Artist Pauline Roods Sponsor info www.forestrycorporation.com.au

Find me at 490 Macleay Valley Way, South Kempsey NSW 2440 Artist Elwyn Toby Sponsor info www.slimdustycentre.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 57

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Margret Meagher, Kim Staples, Mayor Peta Pinson, Local Member Leslie Williams, Rob Bruce, Donna Monroe and Janice McGilchrist

KOALA LEO SAYS

Be

Smart

BUT WHO IS LEO?

In 2018, as a highlight of the 2nd Hello Koalas Festival, director Margret Meagher came up with the idea of a symposium called "Caring for our Koalas and our Environment”. The aim was to find other ways to use Hello Koalas sculptures to generate heightened and popular conversations about environmental issues and koala conservation.

Delegates came from Brisbane, Central Queensland, Canberra, Sydney, regional NSW and many members of the local community.

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his event led to the filming of a number of interviews with koala experts including Nick Boyle and Justine O’Brien from Taronga Zoo, Dr Ros Irwin from Friends of the Koala in Lismore, Associate Professor Damien Higgins from Sydney University’s Koala Health Hub, Kathy Lyons from Forestry NSW and Cheyne Flanagan from the Koala Hospital.

Interviews can be accessed through the Hello Koalas website www.hellokoalas.com/ festival-2018/festival-wrap-2018/ Also as a direct result of last year’s symposium, the idea for a major schools project called “Koala Smart” sprang into life through Lions Club Tacking Point and is now underway in both Port Macquarie and

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Kempsey, engaging staff and students in 25 primary and secondary schools.

The Hastings-Macleay Koala Recovery Partnership, led by koala ecologist Rebecca Montague-Drake, is the principal partner of the Koala Smart project, comprising Port Macquarie-Hastings and Kempsey Councils, the NSW Government’s Saving our Species Program and Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital.

Lions Club and Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail are also key partners in driving the project, designed to be a model program which can be replicated in other parts of NSW and Australia.

"Koala Smart” is a koala friendly schools project whereby students are invited to take a creative approach to answering the question ‘how we can help local koala populations?’.

Students will devise koala conservation

messaging through creative writing, drama, music, dance, film and visual art designs and they will paint their own 50cm high Hello Koalas sculpture for a general community exhibition.

Each small Hello Koalas sculpture, sponsored

by Lions Club, will then take pride of place in the school library and be an ongoing reminder to staff and students and their families about the reasons why we need to care for our koalas in our community. At the conclusion of this year’s Koala Smart project, an exhibition of the small koala sculptures will be displayed at Settlement City Shopping Centre, Slim Dusty Centre and several other locations.

As a mascot for the project, Hello Koalas commissioned local artist Kim Staples to create a character called “Leo” - appropriate as Lions

2019

Club Tacking Point’s youngest volunteer!

The Lions Club Koala Smart team is a dynamic trio. Janice McGilchrist is well known for her volunteer work locally and has had a diverse career in the media, arts and local government. Rob Bruce brings extensive experience in the marketing, advertising and engineering worlds, while enjoying life as a retiree. Donna Munro has a strong education background, and recognises the potential to increase community buy-in to Koala conservation while giving young people a voice through problem solving and creative expression Leo made his first public appearance at the Koala Hospital Open Day on Easter Saturday and was heard to say to all his fans “Be Koala Smart!”.

F E S T I VA L

SUPPORTERS

Leo Needs You! EDUCATE • INSPIRE • DRIVE CHANGE Help keep koalas safe from extinction in our own backyard The Tacking Point Lions Club... We Serve

A local artist lovingly painted a local icon for the local community and it’s many visitors to enjoy…

How could we say no?

KFC Port Macquarie Service Centre proudly supports Hello Koala’s. Mr T greet our customers, is eye catching and helps raise awareness of Koalas in our region.

leo

alira

mr t

Contact the Lions Club to find out how you can make a difference in your community.

Visit koalasmart.org.au or portmacquarietackingpoint.nsw.lions.org.au

Find me at Settlement City Shopping Centre, Bay Street & Cnr Park, Port Macquarie Artist Isabell Moran Sponsor info www.settlementcity.com

Find me at KFC, Cnr Oxley & Pacific Hwys Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444 Artist David Pride Sponsor info Scutts Restaurant Group

58 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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HEAR WHAT SOME HAVE TO SAY...

Beechwood Public students with Leo, the Koala Smart Ambassador

Leading the Koala Smart Schools Project 2019 Congratulations to 25 schools from Port Macquarie-Hastings and Kempsey which have joined the Koala Smart Schools Project.

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eechwood Public, Hannam Vale Public, Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus, Hastings Secondary College Port Campus, Herons Creek Public, Hungtingdon Public, Kempsey Adventist Primary, Kempsey Adventist Secondary, Kempsey East Public, Kempsey

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South Public, Kendall Public, Lake Cathie Public, Melville High, The Nature School, North Haven Public, Port Macquarie Adventist, Port Macquarie Public, Rollands Plains Upper Public, South West Rocks Public, St Columba Anglican College Secondary, St Columba Anglican College Primary, St Joseph’s Regional College, Tacking Point Public, Telegraph Point Public, Wauchope Public.

"I haven’t seen a project welcomed so well and so enthusiastically by the staff.

We have koalas living around the school and within the school grounds. The kids have always had a connection with koalas.

So the school community was keen to come on board.

One of our teachers, Cherry Nelson, has one of the enrichment classes which does a lot of Project Based Learning and she is considering using a variety of media including videography. The whole class will then contribute in putting the final product together. The painting of the koala sculpture will be coordinated by another teacher, Catherine Robinson.

This program is about making a difference, so even if only a few classes are involved, the awareness will be transferred throughout the whole school and even the surrounding community."

Phil Harris, Principal, Tacking Point Public School "Some of the students had already seen the painted koala sculptures around Port Macquarie and were excited to be involved in a community project that they had heard about.

By this class engaging in the project, we hope that other students in the school may be inspired to ask questions and be educated by their fellow students on the threats facing koalas in this area.

The students have taken a creative approach to answering the question ‘how we can help local koala populations?’.

2019

Experience a truly unique Australian community

For example, the boys interested in computer games have already started making animations, some of the girls are drawing and painting koala habitats, others have created posters or power point presentations."

Hannah Pike, Teacher, Melville High School "What a great opportunity to engage students across a number of Key Learning Areas."

Claire Goldie, St Joseph’s Regional College "Thank you so much for your inclusion of this wonderful project. We are all excited and looking forward to the experience."

Nikki Cochrane, Principal, Herons Creek Public "Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus is surrounded on three sides by Koala habitat. The students appreciate they are in a unique situation where they can cohabitate with koalas in their school environment.

One of my Creative and Performing Art teachers will be leading a group of students in the development of the project.

This is a great opportunity to get the college community on board with the vital work that this project presents. The survival of the koala population will depend very much on the successful education of how to protect and maintain habitat and by doing so, ensuring that the koala remains a part of Australian culture."

Ian Ross, Principal, Westport Campus, Hastings Secondary College

F E S T I VA L

SUPPORTERS

Proud supporter of the Hello Koalas Festival and it’s inaugural Treasure Hunt

Protecting our koalas for the future

eugene eucalyptus

sandy paws

bago blossom

Find me at Charles Sturt University, Port Macquarie Campus, 7 Major Innes Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Artist Kim and Wayne Staples Sponsor info www.csu.edu.au/about/locations/port-macquarie

Find me at Panthers Club, 1 Bay Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Artist Kim Staples Sponsor info www.panthers.com.au

Find me at Koala Hospital, Cnr Roto Place and Lord St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Artist Kellie Mobbs Sponsor info www.koalahospital.org.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 59

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A Year in the Life of a Koala

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A

R A D I O - C O L L A R I N G

he Hastings-Macleay Koala Recovery Partnership, using funding from the NSW Government Saving Our Species Grant Fund, is currently undertaking a radiotracking study of koalas called “A Year in the Life of a Koala: Spatial and Temporal Partitioning of Koala Habitat”. The study seeks to better understand the key drivers of koala habitat, how koalas move across their home range over time and how this relates to legal definitions of koala habitat.

The study works in close partnership with the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and therefore also gives an

S T U D Y

understanding of koala health in areas more remote from human development. The project is in its final stages and ten koalas have been involved in the study yielding lots of data.

The project leaders worked closely with the telemetry firm, SirTrack, to customise the collar to ensure best-fit for the koala and these collars are now being used by other scientists.

Data to date has revealed that even on the fertile soils of the coastal floodplain, some koalas have surprisingly large home ranges. Males koalas can roam over 100 ha.

The data will be compiled in 2019 and then published.

Koala Trees being delivered to the Koala Hospital Graham Hargreaves (Koala Hospital), Rob White (Grafton Nursery), Steve Withnall (Koala Hospital), Chris Slade (Forestry Corporation NSW)

Growing

OUR

Koala Habitat F R E E LY

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S

Edward, the koala, wearing his light-weight, specially-designed collar photo Rebecca Montague-Drake

ince I founded the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail 5 years ago, I have become increasingly aware of many aspects relating to koala

conservation.

But it is only recently, that my partner and I started planting more koala trees on our property in Ellenborough, thanks to an innovative partnership between the Koala Hospital and Forestry NSW. Last year, we planted our first trees from Forestry’s Grafton nursery that were given away through the Koala Hospital.

In March, Forestry commenced a new staged delivery of over 25,000 eucalyptus seedlings to the Koala Hospital for people to take away and we have commenced

2019

planting more trees.

It is currently planting season because in autumn, the soil moisture is increasing and the days are not so hot.

My partner is a whizz when it comes to gardening and native plants. However, I have limited knowledge so it was helpful to pick up two leaflets that Forestry published to guide people like myself who want to grow koala trees and increase koala habitat.

As a result, to make this information more broadly available, Hello Koalas has just published the leaflets entitled “Planting and Enhancing Koala Habitat” and “Tips for Planting Forestry Seedlings” on our website (www.hellokoalas.com).

Happy Planting from Margret Meagher and Hello Koalas!

F E S T I VA L

Focus is proud to sponsor community events, causes and our Koala’s.

SUPPORTERS

"Today, my son, Flinders, rushed home from school and immediately commenced working on a Koala Smart idea. He, and the other children in his school, were so engaged in the concept. They truly love the Hello Koalas sculptures, and they are such a great tool to get them to embrace Koala conservation and therefore be eager to learn about what they can do to help. Hopefully discussions with their families over this project will be the catalyst for families to embrace positive change for good koala conservation outcomes." Rebecca, Proud Mum.

carramar Find me on the Hello Koalas Festival Treasure Hunt Artist Elise Howard Sponsor info www.focusmag.com.au

60 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Carramar, painted by Elise Howard, loved her visit to the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra in March to promote koala conservation and the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail in Port Macquarie photo Alexandra Orme Photography

Rebecca Montague-Drake (PhD), Koala Ecologist The Hastings-Macleay Koala Recovery Partnership Funded by the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation of Councils, the NSW Government and Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

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Rebecca Montague-Drake KOALA ECOLOGIST

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ell us about your educational & career background in Ecology?

I grew up on the slopes of Middle Brother Mountain, at Kendall where my parents had a rural property (also the business Norfolk Punch which is remembered by many!). We spent our childhood camping, running and horse-riding through the bush. I always knew from a very young age that I wanted to study Ecology and work with Australia’s beautiful fauna.

I left home to study Environmental Science and then eventually went on to do Honours and a PhD. My PhD was an amazing experienceliving and working in the desert of remote Sturt National Park studying the magnificent birds, mammals and reptiles of the arid zone. It’s amazing how much life thrives out there when at tims everything looks so dry and lifeless!

I’ve spent the last 25 years working with universities and government departmentsprimarily undertaking wildlife research. This has taken me across Australia from the Box Gum Woodlands of southern Australia through to the Tropical Savannas of Kakadu National Parkwhere I was even fortunate enough to help discover a new species of glider, locally known as the Lambalk, while working for Charles Darwin University I feel very blessed with the opportunities and experience my career has given me.

How long have you lived and worked as an ecologist in the Port Macquarie region?

I came back to the Port Macquarie area in 2014 and have been working in Ecology since then. I was fortunate that just at the time I moved to the area, the then Port MacquarieHastings Council Ecologist, Bill Peel, decided to retire and even more fortunate that I got the job!

It was a fantastic opportunity to work hard to protect the environment of our beautiful area, to

learn so much and to meet so many great people that donate their time to the area’s flora and fauna. We are so blessed by the rich biodiversity that our local environment has, and indeed, it is what draws people to the area, but it is a challenge to protect the region’s natural assets when we are growing so fast.

You have had an interest in the local koala habitats and population for some time, tell us briefly what work you have previously done in this area.

Surprisingly, one of my very first paid jobs in Ecology, while I was a young 20 year old home on university holidays, was looking for koala scat!

At the time, I probably thought that this was not the glamorous Ecology role that I had dreamed of scratching about in leaves for poop! Who knew I would voluntarily come back to scat-searching all these years later! In fact, Koalas were a major driver of me wanting to study Ecology in the first place. When my family first moved to Kendall, we used to be lulled to sleep every night by koala’s bellowing. As the years went by, we heard fewer and fewer, until one day, we couldn’t even remember when we had last heard on. That gets you thinking…

It was inevitable in my role as the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Ecologist that I would have a lot to do with koalas. They are culturally, economically and socially important to our region. The Saving Our Species grant funding scheme was introduced by the NSW Government while I was at Council. This enabled us to start some good projects to better help koalas… and things have led from there.

You are part of the newly formed Hastings Macleay Koala Recovery Partnership tell us what the organisation does and its objectives.

The Hastings-Macleay Koala Recovery Partnership is a joint venture between the NSW Government (under their Saving Our Species, Iconic Koala Project), the Koala Hospital and the

newly-formed Mid North Coast Joint Organisation (Kempsey Shire Council, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Bellingen Council). It seeks to reverse the threats that impact koalas in our region using a variety of science, on-ground and community engagement endeavours. We are really excited to be able to work together with our partners to do some really novel and meaningful activities.

We are really keen to partner with community, corporate and government stakeholders.

What are the current projects that the group is working on?

Year 1 of the project has a few central projects.

The Koala Smart Program, a joint project with the Koala Recovery Partnership, Lions Club Tacking Point and the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, seeks to engage school students and their families in koala conservation through improving understanding of threats and identifying actions that can be undertaken to reduce those threats.

We are really excited by this project. Who knows what novel ideas those creative young minds may come up with and we are sure they are going to enjoy it!

Year 1 will also see the continuation of the Hastings-Macleay Fire and Biodiversity Consortium. The Consortium includes land management and fire agencies, such as the Rural Fire Service, NPWS and Forestry Corporation NSW. This project helps local brigades identify koala habitat in their region and provides metrics about fire history in these patches. It is designed to raise awareness and stimulate discussion about fire management in the context of koala habitat.

Other key endeavours include working with

rural landholders, hopefully through a grant scheme, to improve the protection of koala habitat, and also undertaking science to improve our understanding of how many koalas we have left in the key study area. We are here to support the community and the NSW Government with their koala conservation efforts, such as through implementation of the NSW Koala Recovery Strategy.

What are the key concerns for our local koalas now.

The number one threat to koalas is loss and fragmentation of habitat. Koalas ideally need large areas remote from any development. Only in such environments can they be adequately protected from key threats such as dog attacks, road strike, and disease, which while a background factor in koala populations, tends to be exacerbated when koalas are under stress and have inadequate nutrition. Unfortunately, any losses of koala habitat cannot be offset in the short-term through planting, as such plantings take on average 20 years to be of proper use to koalas. Intense willdfires are also a major threatand unfortunately hotter, drier summers only make this worse.

How can we find out more about what work you are doing?

We will soon have a webpage up and running with all of our contact details. Find us by googling Koala Recovery Partnership. In the interim, please feel free to call Port Macquarie Hastings Council on 6581 6111 and they will connect you. We look forward to working with people!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 61

6 June 2017 2019 1 -- 119 June

www.hellokoalas.com/festival

cArIng fOr OuR kOaLas aNd OuR eNvIroNmEnt sYmPosIuM

hEllO kOaLas fEsTivAL tReAsuRe hUnt

When 9am - 5pm Where UNSW Rural Clinical School, Medicine

Find The Mayor of the Koala Republic and 20+ Hello Koalas Sculptures

hello koalas

Science and Health Education Centre Auditorium (SHREC), 26 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie

6 sCulPtUre tRaiL tH

jUne pOrT mAcQuaRiE-hAsTinGs, nsW

55+ sCuLptUrEs 55+ sUrPriSinG lOcAtiOns 55+ uNiQue aRtIstS’ dEsIgnS 55+ cOmMunItY cHaMpiOnS aND sUpPorTerS

8

When Saturday 8 June 8am - 2.30pm

When Saturday 8 June 8am - 1pm

Where Westport Park

8

Where Westport Park

jUne

Stoney, the koala, meets Stoney, the Hello Koalas sculpture, at Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie.

Artist Bruce Whittaker. Photo Lindsay Moller.

7

tHE M e m ofAvoUrIte rtRiPpeRS AdAy bkOalAsi l dEsiGnS ia sH o P f O r y o

8 sEE hEllO kOaLas tH

jAkE rAtTle N rOlL

tH

jUne

UR

When Saturday wWw.hEllOkOalAs.cOm/sHop 8 June 7.30pm

50's & 60's Rock and Roll Dance Band

Hello Koalas Sculpture Poster

When Friday 7 June 7.30pm

Where Panthers

jUne

sCuLptUrE tRaIl LoCatIonS

Where Across Port Macquarie-Hastings

cArS fOR kOaLas sHoW aND sHinE

hEllO kOaLas aT thE fOrEshOrE mArKetS

tH

When Friday 7, Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June

7Th, 8Th, 9tH jUnE

On ThIs Map

tH

jUne

9 tH

jUne

hAstIngS cHorIsTerS pResEntS tHE pEaCemAkErs

When Sunday 9 June 7pm

Where Panthers

Where Glasshouse

Please check www.hellokoalas.com for more Hello Koalas Festival events and updates Shop online for Hello Koalas Memorabilia Download the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail Guide at www.hellokoalas.com

email info@hellokoalas.com email info@hellokoalas.com phone 641 482 phone 04160416 641 482 Project Owner and Manager Supporting Partner Like us on Facebook web www.hellokoalas.com Follow us on Instagram

Like us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TripAdvisor

Supporting Partner Koala Hospital

Follow us on Twitter

Silver Winner, NSW Tourism Awards 2018

Gold Winner, NSW Tourism Awards 2017

2017 Finalist Australian Tourism Awards Cultural Tourism

Finalist, NSW Tourism Awards 2016

Bronze Winner, NSW Tourism Awards 2015

Winner, Tourism & Attractions, Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards 2016

2018 Port Macquarie Business Awards Excellence in Innovation

Silver Winner, Events, North Coast Tourism Awards 2016

Gold Winner, New Tourism Business, North Coast Tourism Awards 2015

2018 NSW Regional Finalist Business Awards Excellence in Innovation

focusinterview.

film Breakwall by the

There are definitely some future film directors, actors, set designers, prop experts and script writers amongst our students from the Hastings Valley Community of Schools!

K

aren Noble, Visual Arts and Photography and Digital Media teacher at Hastings Secondary College in Port Macquarie is proud to have worked with students, teachers and parents from eight local schools/campuses to produce a festival of short films, Film by the Breakwall, which will screen at the Majestic Cinemas in May. But … tickets to this event are selling FAST! Don’t miss your chance to experience our local kids’ creativity!

Hi Karen. Please introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us a little about your role at Hastings Secondary College ...

Hi! My name is Karen Noble, and I am the coordinator of the Film By The Breakwall short film festival.

I have been a Visual Arts and Photography and Digital Media teacher at Hastings Secondary College Port Macquarie Campus for the past nine years and more recently, the relieving head of the Creative and Performing Arts Department.

How was the concept for a Hastings Valley Community of Schools Film Festival conceived/developed?

I have been lucky enough to visit all Hastings Valley Community of Schools and work with students in Years 4 - 6 as a part of our transition to secondary school program.

I am always inspired by the enthusiasm of both teachers and students when I deliver workshops in Creative and Performing Arts, so I started to look for opportunities that would engage students of all levels and abilities, as well as provide teachers with professional learning.

This coincided with an email from The Arts Unit offering assistance in establishing film communities. Film By is an initiative that

I am always inspired by the was established by two one given a design enthusiasm of both teachers and teachers in Sydney and brief? students when I deliver workshops provides students with an All HVCS teachers in Creative and Performing Arts, opportunity to develop were invited to so I started to look for their film making skills participate, and opportunities that would through programmed interested teachers were engage students of all levels learning. Film commuprovided with the and abilities, as well as provide nities have now been learning required to teachers with professional learning. developed throughout produce a short film NSW, including regional using iPads. Teachers and remote areas, and then went back to their teachers are provided classrooms and with the professional development to create embedded filmmaking into learning programs. rich visual literacy learning outcomes in There was no design brief or theme for this programs for students in all stages of learning. year’s event, because we wanted to give When I suggested this to our network of creative control to teachers and students, teachers, it was met with nothing but so they could explore the technology and enthusiasm - and here we are, about to walk storyboarding for film development and not the red carpet! be confined to having to incorporate certain We would not have got to this point withthings. out the fantastic support from our community Films are submitted to our committee, to partner, Majestic Cinemas and their manager, ensure they stick to 3:30 minutes and have Courtney Gaunt. a G rating, before they are converted to files Which schools (and roughly how many that can be viewed on the cinema screen. students) are involved in Film by the Our teachers and students have included Breakwall? storylines that incorporate green screen Hastings Valley Community of Schools technology, stop-motion animation, and (HVCS) comprises Lake Cathie Public School, special effects!

Westport Public School, Hastings Public What are some of the topics the short School, Port Macquarie Public School, Tacking films submitted addressed?

Point Public School, Telegraph Point Public Twenty-five short films have been produced School and Hastings Secondary College and even though we had no theme, some Westport and Port Macquarie Campuses. seem to incorporate two things students find Students from Kindergarten to Year 11 most important: food and friends! have submitted films this year, and we have Teachers feature in some films, but mostly, 25 short films in total. Just over 280 students students have taken on all acting roles. Advenwere involved in acting, directing, storyboardture features heavily, but there is also a little bit ing and editing from across all schools, which of mischief thrown in! is an amazing contribution for our first year of When/where will Film By The Breakwall this inspiring event! be shown?

How will the film festival work? Will each Film By The Breakwall will screen on school contribute a film, and was everyWednesday 8th May, with a second screening

on Thursday 9th May at Majestic Cinemas.

Both nights sold out in the first two days of ticket sales, so we are holding an encore screening on Wednesday 15th May. All nights kick off at 5:45pm on the red carpet, with students and teachers encouraged to come along in their best Hollywood Glam costumes. The movies will start at 6pm.

Whom would you like to thank for assisting with the film festival?

This event could not have happened without the fantastic students we have in our HVCS! Not only are they talented future film stars, but they are continually enthusiastic about opportunities in the Creative and Performing Arts.

And behind every wonderful student is an equally wonderful support network of teachers and parents. The commitment and dedication from them have contributed to its success.

Our community partner, Majestic Cinemas, has been supportive throughout our planning stages, and we are fortunate to have them on board.

I would also like to thank Glen Carter and Karen Beutler, Film By CEO and Professional Learning Officer, for providing us with the opportunity to establish our own film community.

How much will tickets to the event be, and where can they be purchased?

Tickets are $6 and can be purchased online: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/film-bythe-breakwall-tickets-57457511965 Where can we find out further info?

Further information is available by emailing our Hastings Secondary College Community Liaison Officer, Leanne Jeffery, or myself.

Leanne.jeffery@det.nsw.edu.au or karen.noble5@det.nsw.edu.au See you on the red carpet!

Thanks Karen.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 63

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

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

W I T H S H A N N O N L A W R E N C E H E A LT H F U L W I S D O M

Bad Breath

challenge no. 1

a topic no one wants to touch

is complete FOR THIS YEAR

Bad breath, known as Halitosis, affects 50% to 60% of the population, causes significant psychological distress and is the third most common reason people seek dental treatment after tooth decay and gum disease.

I

t is generally agreed that the source of bad breath is a group of sulfurcontaining compounds which are produced in the mouth or nasal areas. These compounds are created by the breakdown of bacteria and are known as Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSC).

There are many causes of bad breath, but the major causes are poor oral hygiene, gum disease, diet, Tobacco use, dehydration, prescription drugs, disease and crash diets.

The first step in treating bad breath is detection. If you suspect you suffer, you are not alone; a simple test for halitosis can be asking a close friend or smelling your dental floss after flossing.

Fighting Halitosis; to get back on track with your oral health, ask yourself these questions.

Are you brushing, flossing and seeing your dental professionals for your regular check ups and routine cleans? Are you cleaning your tongue with your toothbrush? Tongue cleaning is an essential factor in beating bad breath.

At your dental check up, your dentist will check for diseased gum tissues and tooth decay. Gum diseases such as gingivitis or the more advanced periodontitis need to be detected immediately. With periodontitis, the gum loses its attachment to the tooth, and a pocket develops. Within this pocket, bacteria accumulates that can produce VSCs … and cause bad breath.

64 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Other steps in fighting halitosis can be life style choices, such as changing your diet, quitting smoking and drinking more water.

Disturbances of the digestive system may also cause bad breath, but the stomach is not generally the main source. Eating foods such as onions and garlic will result in bad breath.

Dry mouth can also cause halitosis; saliva is a strong antibacterial substance and without it, bacteria can grow. A dry mouth can be caused by certain diseases or as a side effect of medicines taken to treat conditions such as high blood pressure.

Simple steps like using mouthwashes or chewing sugar free gum can reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth, increase saliva flow and help reduce halitosis, but they are only partially effective and if used as the only method of combating bad breath, the improvement will only be temporary.

If you suffer from bad breath and want to make a change, take advantage of our $99 Clean with our Hygienist/Oral Health Therapist to begin to address the problem and make a change for good.

Remember, Dental Health is a Team Effort, and We Like Being Part of your Team. For a full list of services and to make an appointment, visit our website: sundialddental.com.au or ring our Port Macquarie, Wauchope or Laurieton Locations on 6583 3533.

W

as it easy?

No! However, I did not miss one gym session in eight weeks!

That’s right, you read correctly - I trained every week day for eight weeks - 40 sessions!

Was it hard?

Yes! It was not as hard as I had told myself it would be (which is why I had avoided doing it up until now).

Did I get results?

Absolutely! I lost weight, and I built muscle. I was most pleased about the amount of visceral fat I lost. Visceral fat is the fat around our abdominal organs and is the worst type of fat for our health. Losing fat means my clothes fit better. I feel better in myself. I am sleeping better, and my mind is functioning more clearly.

Am I happy?

Definitely! And it has motivated me to continue this path of wellness.

That’s the short version. Here is how I actually did it: The first thing I did was make myself accountable. I told you, my readers. I told my family, I told my friends and workmates, and I completed it with my partner. By making myself accountable, I couldn’t take shortcuts. At morning tea time at work no-one brought me cake, as I wasn’t going to eat it! In the end I didn’t want to skip a session or grab that unhealthy snack, or to my surprise - I didn’t want that glass of wine!

I changed my habits.

I went to bed earlier than I ever have as an adult. I also got up earlier than I feel is natural, but I feel better for it. Our shopping was

I did it!

healthier, because of our food planning and preparation.

I kept active.

The first week was tough. None of the sessions were easy, but I pushed myself without overdoing it. Regular training made me feel like being more active in general, and it helped me to encourage myself to do more with the kids.

We spent more time together walking, bike riding and swimming at the beach.

What I would like to get across to everyone is that you don’t have to do this training, as it isn’t for everyone. I would like you all to just do a bit more than you are. Countless studies have been done regarding activity and longevity. The more healthily active we keep our bodies and our minds, the more we increase our chances of a longer, healthier and happier life. Move it or lose it. Do something different to your normal routine every day, and you’ll notice an improvement. It takes time, but you will notice it - and so will others around you.

As for me, I know the next eight week challenge starts in four weeks. I’m going to continue my training in the meantime, but reduce the number of sessions. I’m going to enjoy a chocolate or a glass of wine, by allowing myself a day off or a cheat day. I am realistic. I know what I like, and I know that enjoying my life means having some of these less than healthy treats, but they are the exception now rather than the rule.

Hopefully I can motivate you! I'm looking forward to the next challenge and sharing the results with you again.

Thanks for reading, and please share your success stories with me!

Dr. Bobby Kumar Do you answer yes to any of these questions?

• Do you suffer pain, discomfort or lifestyle limitations due to large breasts?

• Have you lost weight and are unhappy with the remaining shape and position of your breasts?

• Are you unhappy with the shape, size and position of your breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Breasts are no different to the rest of our bodies; they change over time with age and physical changes our bodies may experience.

For example, breast skin and tissues lose elasticity over time and fluctuate in size with hormonal cycles, especially during pregnancy and breast feeding. Weight loss can also significantly affect the size and shape of breasts. Some women have always had large breasts, but this can become more problematic and less tolerable over time.

Breast Reduction surgery reduces the size and volume of breasts.

It’s commonly combined with Breast Lift to address droopiness, shape and breast position. Dr. Bobby Kumar, Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, tailors Breast Surgery to the needs and unique characteristics of the individual. He performs all surgery in fully accredited private hospitals with a Specialist Anaesthetist.

For more information or a consultation with Dr. Bobby Kumar, call Wendy on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009, or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au

In today’s busy world filled with physical and emotional stresses it’s ironic that so many people are turning to one of mankind’s oldest substantiated solutions. Professional massage therapy delivers results and He Ling Ying (Ling) the hugely popular and highly-skilled principal of Massage at Port Macquarie, provides the very finest Remedial Massage treatments available anywhere.

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

Fully accredited by Australian Association of Massage Therapists / Massage & Myotherapy Australia, Ling practices from her air-conditioned home clinic in the Lighthouse Beach area, where parking is just metres from the door. Approved treatments are recognised by all major health funds, with HICAPS providing instant rebates where applicable.

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

focus_contributor

DON MACKENZIE

community S E R V I C E

NDIS participants have access to more options to get the most out of their NDIS package. However, making the right choice for the management of the plan for a participant is important.

P

articipants are able to choose other supports for services outlined in your from four options to manage plan, even if they are not registered with the their funds. These are: Agency- NDIS. Centacare Plan Managers help you Managed, Self-Managed, Plan- navigate the maze of service providers and Managed or a combination get the best value for money out of your of any of these. The Plan-Managed option is plan. one that offers great Plan Managers also flexibility. provide extra assistance: Plan-Managed for example, pay your is when another providers for the supports person manages a you purchase; help you CENTACARE plan on behalf of the keep track of your funds; IS A TRUSTED participant. This could and take care of financial NDIS-REGISTERED be a service provider reporting for you. Your PROVIDER AND that offers a plan Plan Manager will also EXPERTS IN PLAN management service help build your skills of or an independent financial literacy and MANAGEMENT. third party; however, understanding of how a Plan Manager must your funding can be used. be a NDIS-registered With a Plan Manager, you service provider. can relax and enjoy life Centacare provides Plan Management as part more, as we will manage the paperwork, of our NDIS services. process claims through the NDIS Portal and Your Centacare Plan Manager supports you keep you updated. While there are different to have flexibility and control of your NDIS choices available, it does not have to be a Plan. Our Plan Managers are person-centred difficult decision. Call us on (02) 6581 6800 and align services directly to the goals in your to take the worry and stress out of managing plan. You can use any provider, therapist or your Plan.

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

66 Greater Port Macquarie focus

@CentacareMNC

@CentacareMNC

You don’t have to live with pain.

BOOK YOUR 30 MINUTE OBLIGATION FREE DISCUSSION TODAY. GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF PAIN FREE LIVING.

THIS IS JULES’ STORY...

IF YOU’RE NOT RESPONDING TO CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT...

THERE IS A BETTER WAY!

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.

A new solution for pain and balance in inflammation...

“About 3-4 months ago I heard about Somatherapy Clinic and decided to try this new therapeutic approach. Three months into the weekly treatments I have had gradual major improvements in the use of my arm and shoulder. At present my tendinitis and other postinjury pathologies are gone. I have full mobility in my shoulder and arm and can sleep again at night with no pain.”

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

A unique course of treatment that targets the real cause & source of pain. A therapy that supports the body to self-repair damaged tissue.

A course of FSM Therapy has proven to end chronic pain for these common conditions and so much more: • Nerve Pain, Sciatica • Whiplash • Fibromyalgia • Shingles

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

Prescription pain-killers only treat the

symptoms, while ignoring the underlying problem and introducing a litany of side effects. Long-term use of these drugs can introduce a host 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.

This is a fantastic outcome for Jules. It’s so rewarding to relieve patients from the misery of pain.

MANY MORE PATIENTS’ FEEDBACKS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 67

Are you frustrated by having to go to multiple health clinics to address one issue? Tired of having to explain your problem over and over to each different therapist to seek a solution? Sick of fighting for a parking spot? The good news for you is that these headaches will soon be solved with the upcoming opening of an exciting new health hub in Lake Innes. We caught up with leading local physiotherapist, Guy Terkelsen, the driving force behind the new initiative, to find out what it means for the health of you, your family and the wider Hastings community.

Firstly, are you relocating your current practice that has been operating for over 30 years?

NO! Our practice at the Hermitage Medical Centre with physiotherapists Paul Seward, Nick Ratcliffe, Georgia Abbey and myself will continue business as usual.

So you’re opening a second practice to compliment your current, well trusted practice?

Correct, we are opening a SECOND PRACTICE in Lake Innes.

• Hastings Physio and Health – The NEW Bunnings Oxley Corner Complex, 18 John Oxley Drive • Hastings Sports Injury & Physiotherapy Centre – Hermitage Medical Centre, 72 Lake Road What made you start Hastings Physio and Health?

Last year we did a six month survey of our patients’ healthcare needs. From the results, additional services that were required to better service you and your family were identified. Due to

68 Greater Port Macquarie focus

the physical limitations and capacity of our current practice, we could not offer the additional services there, so for your health and wellbeing, we realised the best option was to open the second clinic.

What services will be offered to the community?

The services that you requested are the services that we are offering at the new Hastings Physio and Health. These include: • Additional physiotherapy services • Women’s Health • Exercise Physiology • Occupational Therapy • Massage Therapy • Lymphoedema Management • Core Exercise Groups Sessions and Pilates • Tai Chi and Falls Prevention Classes • We are also NDIS registered What can we expect from your new clinic?

You can expect the best in healthcare when visiting Hastings Physio and Health. The purpose designed and built 200 square metre practice has: • 8 treatment rooms • 3 private treatment rooms • Large rehabilitation gym • Pilates and Tai Chi room Additionally, each section of the practice has its own climate

control so that the temperature and lighting makes for your perfect experience.

Who is in the team?

Our team consists of physiotherapists, exercise physiologist, occupational therapist, lymphoedema practitioner, massage therapist and our practice manager. Pilates, Tai Chi and group exercise classes will be run by our therapists who are clinically trained so that you are in excellent hands. All of our team have been handpicked to ensure you are only getting the best clinical outcomes and customer experience. We pride ourselves on treating you like family.

Do we need a referral to seek treatment or join the classes?

NO! All of our therapists are primary health practitioners; therefore you do not need a referral to see us. Just call or book an appointment online.

When do you open?

The building is in the final stages of construction and is expected to open in June/July.

But what if we need treatment now?

If you require treatment NOW, please call our current practice on 6583 2111 and our friendly staff will book you in.

Where can we find out more information?

For more info please head to www.physioandhealth.com.au or email info@physioandhealth.com.au

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

May 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Time to fulfil longterm dream. Write a list of everything needed, and take action by gathering some things listed. Keeping clear sight of your passion will ensure ongoing success. However, should you lose sight of your passion, it may be difficult to succeed. Rose Quartz initiates self reward.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

You're a wise soul, so pay attention to how often you speak wise words. These words may also be for your ears. Our Guides bring us our lessons and answers any way they can, even if it's speaking through us.

Turquoise is great for communication.

You are a natural born leader, so speak your truth and stand your ground when you are right. Your ability to recognise new opportunities will be used more in the workplace, and new friends and aquatints can be anticipated.

Ruby shatters fears and connects us to passion for living.

Justice can be anticipated for unresolved situations. Choose when to be heard but more importantly, when to be silent. Face your fears and become their answer. You are very capable of exceptional personal power.

Turquoise is great for boosting our personal power.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Listen to your wise words that catch your attention; it will be your best advice. It is a good time to explore new possibilities or opportunities. Remain connected to your love of what you’re doing, to ensure success.

Clear Quartz is a natural amplifier; carry some.

Your long-term plans and goals are coming to fruition. Be aware of personal obstacles, and don’t allow them to sabotage your journey. Become the answers to your fears, as they may be holding you back.

Citrine will empower your positive thoughts.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Contentment will be your major focus to avoid the effects of other people’s conflict. Play with your creative self and enjoy the tranquility. Some mind focus such as meditation or study will also show big changes.

Turquoise helps our personal power and self-esteem.

Life may feel as if a mirror is being held in front of you at present. This is because you are being given opportunities release old hurt damages. Use your compassion to forgive and to move ahead.

Amethyst connects us to our wise higher energies.

It is vitally important that you know you deserve great things. Your personal judgement has been too critical of late and has affected your self-esteem. You have a beautiful wisdom, so have some good hearted chats with yourself and empower yourself.

Turquoise is great for self worth and esteem boosting.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Big endings and new bright beginnings are to be expected.

Destiny is aligning you with with new paths to discover gifts and talents not yet recognised. Enjoy new experiences fearlessly in the workplace. Selenite shatters negative energy and charges the aura with bright, positive energy.

Time to let go of undigested emotions to align you with living a peaceful contented reality. Intolerance to outside negative forces is likely to intensify, so avoid negative people and situations for a few weeks.

Rose Quartz helps connect us to our self-love.

Stay focused on the task at hand. Your thoughts are jumping ahead of yourself and this is slowing you down, which is possibly adding to your frustrations. Let go of any unresolved emotions from your recent past; these are blocking your sight.

Blue Lace Agate is a powerful mind clearing crystal.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 69

Greater Port Macquarie focus 70

Colonial Cobbler "These boots are made for walking!"

Take on the new season autumn weather and get ready for winter with the versatile and stylish ranges of new boots and handbags in an array of colours and styles. The highly renowned brands from Spanish, French, Portuguese and European origin have released soft vibrant leathers in a mix of colours, trends, unique fabrics and skillful craftsmanship in fashionable styles.

AGE I NG A vibrant youthful appearance and ageing gracefully is a common desire for many women. The appearance of ageing is sped up by many factors, including genetics, stress, sleep deprivation, diet, lifestyle factors, and sun damage, to name a few.

A busy woman's life often sacrifices many things to look after herself, to enable her to have a career, and nurture her children and family.

The signs of this ageing may manifest in many ways: • wrinkles/fine lines • sagging skin or drooping of features • skin redness or pigmentation spots

Treatments include: • anti-ageing creams and prescriptions • laser • skin tightening • anti-wrinkle injections • microneedling • dermal fillers • fat freezing

AT PORT SKIN CLINIC, WE UNDERSTAND AGEING AND HAVE MANY TREATMENT MODALITIES TO TARGET ALL THE SIGNS, WITHOUT YOU NEEDING TO HAVE SURGERY. ALL THIS IS AIMED AT GIVING YOU A NATURAL, BUT YOUTHFUL LOOK.

At Port Skin Clinic, we understand ageing and have many treatment modalities to target all the signs, without you needing to have surgery. All this is aimed at giving you a natural, but youthful look.

As the weather cools, keeping our feet warm and protected is paramount. With so many options available in the shoe department these days, casual, yet stylish boots are that perfect accessory to complement an outfit and transition into those cooler months of autumn through to winter.

Cool weather dressing can also be uninspiring at

times, no matter how many different coats you own. With morning temperatures dropping and sunsets starting at 4pm, the quickest and most stylish way to take you from drab to fab is some new season boots and matching handbags.

There are so many different styles available, from ankle boots, through to mid-calf that will quickly update any outfit and take you from day to night or the work run to dinner in style. Not to mention, boots keep your feet so warm and snug; who doesn’t love winter boots?

The possibilities are endless. Experience the comfort and style of new season boots and handbags now in-store at Colonial Cobbler.

At Port Skin Clinic, Dr Jonnie Hoy provides free, no-obligation consults. Here your skin is assessed, and individualised treatment programs are tailored for your skin and desires.

With so many treatments available to you, and being under the care of an expert, you can be assured that you are getting the best care you deserve.

To make an appointment to find out what treatments will help you get your desired appearance, then call Port Skin Clinic.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 71

focus_contributor

focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

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

F

Macao: the perfect East-West culture cocktail

or travellers with the yen, or the yuan, to explore China yet hesitant at the challenge, Macao - a special region of the Republic on the south-east of the mainland - offers an ideal, stimulating mix of the fascinations of Sino-culture with the history and architecture of longstanding European tradition.

Macao’s ancient interconnection of Eastern and Western civilisations persists to this day and is on magnificent display in all its dynamic, dual-faceted, contrasting and complementary aspects in an area of just 30sq.km. It’s colonial atmosphere mixed with Chinese context; if you like, a modern construction of the ancient Silk Road that linked not only trade and economic prosperity but merged many political and religious philosophies and exchanged developments in technologies and science.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Macao’s handing back to China by Portugal, an occasion nevertheless highlighting the continued autonomy of its status. It retains its own form of government, legal system, currency, and other regulatory framework such as its visa rules (Australians don’t need one for short trips).

Travel with Cathay Pacific, the internationally-awarded airline and local carrier co-founded post-war by an Australian, or Virgin Australia or Qantas. (It’s just over 20 years, too, since the world forfeited one of the most exhilarating, heart-stopping and magnificent arrival experiences, even for pilots: flying low over Kowloon, skimming the rooftops and clotheslines of houses in a narrow corridor between the hillsides and soaring commercial towers, into Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Airport. That facility was replaced by the new regional and international hub and gateway to south-east China, Chek Lap Kok, a $20bn project built on reclaimed land some distance away.)

Now, the gasp of delight of old might well be substituted by a modern wonder: a remarkable road trip westwards towards the mainland, across the world’s longest over-sea bridge (pictured), a 21st century engineering marvel.

Newly completed late last year after nine years and at yet another $20billion cost, the total 55km-long span - the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge - comprises a 30km main deck, 12km link road from/to Hong Kong and 13km Zhuhai link road. It connects the three major cities with continual departures, at fares the equivalent of $11-$14. Zhuhai, in Guangdong Province, is one of China's premier tourist destinations, known as the “Chinese Riviera” and named the republic’s most liveable city.

Macao’s proximity to China proper and its Portas do Cerco border with Zhuhai surprises tourists by its closer resemblance to Europe than Asia, outstanding World Heritage-listed Portuguese colonial architecture, fine beaches and excellent cuisine - Portuguese, Chinese and fusion Macanese - and hotels. The first, and last, European colony in East Asia, Macao was colonised by Portugal in the 1550s and lasted until its 1999 return to China’s sovereignty. It offers a more visible colonial history than Hong Kong; its buildings and cobblestoned streets resemble similar sites in Mediterranean Europe. There are the magnificent buildings - churches, temples, fortresses, museums; wonderful cuisine; topline entertainment and nightlife; excellent outdoors, golf and other sports experiences; walking and hop on-off tours, and this anniversary year filled with an unbroken string of world-class and varied festivals through to December, including plenty for young people and families. Begin exploring at www.visitmacao.com.au and ask your travel agent to provide further information for your trip.

WINNER GRINNER The winner of last month’s competition for the prize of a Crumpler ergonomic weatherproof backpack with tablet pocket and padded left or right shoulder strap is Valerie Johnstone of King Creek. The backpack, RRP $169, is made from a blend of reclaimed recycled polyester materials from Crumpler’s Conversion travel accessories collection including laptop messenger bags, cross-body and waist-bag styles available at Crumpler stores nationally or online with free domestic shipping at www.crumpler.com

72 Greater Port Macquarie focus

IRONMAN is one of the highlights on the calendar of events for our region.

T

he Bright Night Run on 3rd May is a fantastic way to start your IRONMAN Australia weekend, with fun for everyone. Don't miss out on the entertainment at Town Green, including family friendly fun and games, our dancing clowns and a special guest singer.

The music will be pumping, the lights will be pulsing, and the atmosphere is sure to be electric. All the fun starts from 4pm.

Ironkids Port Macquarie will be happening on 4th May from 8am. Calling all kids aged five - 13! Feel that finish line feeling as you run down the IRONMAN Australia Finish Line.

This year’s course will involve a run only component. Each finisher will receive an awesome medal and shirt to proudly sport around town.

Ironman Australia is set for a bonanza year, with record breaking registrations for the full distance race and IRONMAN 70.3 Port Macquarie on 5th May. The nation’s longest running IRONMAN event has more than 3,000 athletes registered this year; we welcome all IRONMAN participants, their families and friends to our beautiful region.

Thanks to the many volunteers who commit their time, to ensure that competitors really feel welcome. Local volunteers are still needed, so why not consider registering on www.ironman. com or portmacquarie@ironman.volunteers. com - volunteering for this event is great fun.

If you are feeling energetic, the Port Macquarie Mother's Day Classic is happening on 12th May from 7am. This annual 5 km run and 5 km walk raises vital funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation's research projects into prevention, early diagnosis and cure.

Email cabisaab@hotmail.com for more information.

Visited the U3A Open Day last week. What a fantastic facility - so many diverse activities and courses to choose from, whether it is Australian history, computer support, learning languages, photography, or gentle exercise,

they have it all.

Sunset Gallery and Framing, one of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association members, has moved to new premises in Central Road, Port Macquarie.

Please book now for the launch of the Salvation Army 2018 Red Shield Appeal for the Port Macquarie-Hastings area on Thursday 16th May at a business breakfast to be held at The Westport Club.

Contact Cheryl.Clarke@aue.salvationarmy.org Don’t miss the Slice of Haven - Sunday 26th May. The most delightfully quirky food/wine/ beer/music festival on the coast - loads of stalls, tasty local treats, fun for kids, and great entertainment.

Some enthusiastic people have formed a group headed up by Danielle Maltman as President - Revive Lake Cathie. It is so sad to see how this iconic area of our region is deteriorating. The Tourism Association is right behind all your efforts.

A big thank you to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and the Federal Government via Luke Hartsuyker’s office, with a grant approved to install a viewing device at Gaol Point. Thank you also to the Tacking Point Lions Club for all their assistance with the installation. The binoculars will be a great asset for our locals and tourists.

Congratulations to Jay Beaumont for his wonderful effort in Thailand. Many people will benefit from your fantastic commitment.

Two events are happening in May and June, so please save the dates - Big Band Blast, 31st May - 2nd June; and Hello Koalas Festival, 7th - 9th June.

The latest member of Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association is Le George Motel in Hollingsworth Street, Port Macquarie.

Newly renovated and owned by Paul and Sheila Burns, it is so close to the CBD of Port Macquarie.

Happy Mother’s Day for 12th May to all the mums.

Lots happening in May; check out more activities at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 73

Boat 2020

Cruisin'Country Celebrating a Decade at Sea

Celebrating 10 Years of Rocking the High Seas Celebrating 10 incredible years, Rock the Boat returns for its biggest rock music festival at sea in 2020, showcasing the best of international and Australian rock artists spanning a colourful decade of past cruises, presented by Choose Your Cruise.

Due to popular demand, and for the very first time, American rock legend Suzi Quatro will be headlining for a second consecutive year!

The Wild One will be performing alongside 28 fellow rock artists who have helped pave the way, making Rock the Boat what it is today. Joining Suzi on board is Noiseworks and INXS front man Jon Stevens, arguably one of Australia’s most enigmatic performers, Adam Thompson of Chocolate Starfish presenting Bohemian Rhapsody live in concert, along with Russell Morris, Ross Wilson and The Radiators - all of whom have been Rock the Boat fan

favourites throughout the years.

As we will be celebrating ten years of Rock the Boat, Royal Caribbean’s beautiful cruise liner Radiance of the Seas has been our home for the better part of the last five years, so we wanted to celebrate on board a ship our passengers know and love. Brisbane is the Radiance’s new home for the 2020 cruise season, so we look forward to sailing out of the brand-new passenger port for this special cruise. The Radiance of the Seas will be traveling to the South Pacific from November 24th - December 1st, 2020. New Caledonian ports of call for the seven-night journey include Isle of Pines and Noumea.

We invite you on board to experience a week of music at sea you won’t have the chance to enjoy anywhere else.

Celebrating 10 incredible years, Cruisin’ Country returns for its biggest country music festival at sea in 2020, showcasing the best of Australian Country Music - Choose Your Cruise Presents, Cruisin’ Country 2020: A Family Affair.

Cruisin’ Country 2020 is set to raise the roof, with the biggest line up in its ten-year history.

Featuring headliner Lee Kernaghan performing with Tania Kernaghan, alongside multi gold award winning patriarch of the Kernaghan Family dynasty, Ray Kernaghan - over 50 artists will join 2,200 country music enthusiasts for a non-stop music and cruise experience of a lifetime.

Cruisin’ Country 2020 will commemorate what makes Australian country music special and celebrated with their very own family members performing on stage together for the first time on the eight-night itinerary, departing Sydney from October 5th - 13th 2020.

Enjoy the sumptuous luxury on board Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas. Panoramic vistas and acres of glass ensure you’ll never miss a

moment of the scenery throughout your days on board. Whether you want to bask in the sun of the enclosed solarium pool or want to keep active on the rock-climbing wall, your backdrop will be breathtaking.

With world class dining, 16 bars, clubs and lounges and live music around every corner, each passenger will be talking about their experience on board for years to come.

This eight-night adventure offers incredible upclose and intimate live music performances with some of Australia’s best country music talent sharing the stage with their family members.

We invite you to bring your very own family members to come on board Cruisin’ Country 2020 and share in this magical music journey that is truly a unique experience not to be missed for any country music lover.

Contact Port Macquarie Travel and Camden Haven Travel for the full itinerary and information on these great cruises.

8 NIGHT CRUISE DEPARTING SYDNEY ON BOARD SERENADE OF THE SEAS VISITING NOUMEA, ISLE OF PINES & LIFOU

LEE KERNAGHAN

WITH TANIA KERNAGHAN & RAY KERNAGHAN

TROY CASSAR-DALEY

GINA JEFFERIES

ADAM HARVEY

WITH LAUREL EDWARDS,

WITH ROD MCCORMACK

WITH LEYLAH HARVEY

& JACKY MCCORMACK

& CONWAY HARVEY

CLAY & JEM CASSAR-DALEY

PLUS MANY MORE! OVER 58 ARTISTS ON BOARD

Cruise includes all main meals+, entertainment and gratuities.

INTERIOR FROM

$2,899PP*

Shop 4, 114 William St, Port Macquarie 02 6583 1422 • info@pmtravel.com.au

Shop 4, 75 Bold St, Laurieton 02 6559 9048 • chtravel@bigpond.net.au

OCEANVIEW FROM

$3,679PP*

BALCONY FROM

$4,349PP*

*Prices are per person, cruise only, in AUD, based on lowest available twin share accommodation in the specified categories, inclusive of all savings/discounts, port and government charges and onboard gratuities (excluding onboard purchases), correct as at 1 May 2019. +Excludes specialty restaurants. Offer is capacity controlled, subject to change and availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. 25% deposit is required within 7 days of booking. Some staterooms may have an obstructed view. Single supplements may apply for solo travellers. Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary.

Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. To be read in conjunction with the full terms and conditions of the Cruisin’ Country 2020 brochure. Cruisin’ Country is a brand name of Choose Your Cruise Ltd and is operated for Cruisin’ Country Pty Ltd by Discovery Travel Centre Pty Ltd trading as Cruiseco.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 74

Greater Port Macquarie focus 75

YEARS of ST JOSEPH’S REGIONAL COLLEGE 1969

ST JOSEPH’S HASTINGS REGIONAL SCHOOL

AUSTRALIAN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Original location at Bay Street, Port Macquarie (87 Students)

1979

2006

2009 - PRESENT NEWMAN SENIOR TECHNICAL COLLEGE

ST JOSEPH'S VOCATIONAL COLLEGE

T H E

O

P AT H W AY

O F

L O C A L

C AT H O L I C

E D U C AT I O N

The foundation staff were six Sisters of St Joseph and just one part-time lay ver the past 50 years St Joseph’s Regional College has teacher. Over the years, the Sisters were gradually replaced by lay staff. The School, grown from humble beginnings as a small junior high Parish and community owe the Sisters a great debt of gratitude. It was they who school to a state-of-the-art secondary college catering for did “the hard yards” and laid the foundations for the great Catholic schools that we 1100 students from Years 7 to 12. have today.

It was also foundational in providing the St Joseph’s Regional High School, as it eventually became educational base for other St Agnes’ Parish schools such as known, played a particularly important role in the development Newman Senior Technical College and MacKillop College to of Catholic secondary education in Port Macquarie. It was the grow and thrive.

WE INVITE foundation campus and birthplace for other colleges.

1969 was an era when exciting things were happening across EVERYONE TO The first was St Joseph’s Vocational College developed in 1979 the world. The year is etched in history as the year man first BE PART OF OUR 50 YEARS

by Principal, Sister Marie Boland and her deputy, Tom Quinn. set foot on the moon, but closer to home it was the beginning CELEBRATION This innovative senior college evolved into what we know today of an important era in Catholic education in Port Macquarie.

ON FRIDAY as Newman Senior Technical College.

Parish Priest Father Leo Donnelly and local parishioner 10 MAY AT The second was MacKillop College, originally as a senior and surveyor Brian Tierney saw the potential in a piece of THE SCHOOL campus in Lochinvar Place. The first cohort of MacKillop low-lying swamp land (now Warlters Street) a little west of the ON COLLEGE College students completed their first year at St Joseph’s Regional Port Macquarie township and through that vision, St Joseph’s DRIVE. High School while the College was being built in 1988.

Hastings Regional School became a reality. At the time many The third school developed from St Joseph’s was St Paul’s in the community questioned the viability of secondary High School in Ocean Drive, now the junior campus of MacKillop College. This school being situated so far away from the town centre.

Built on raised land, thanks to tonnes of sand from the nearby Hastings River, commenced in 1995 with a new Year 7 cohort and 115 Year 8 students who moved the College opened its doors in January 1969 and welcomed 96 students from over from St Joseph’s. This started MacKillop College on a growth trajectory that Years 7 to 10. has continued to this day.

12 76 Greater Port Macquarie focus

THE NEW ST JOSEPH’S REGIONAL COLLEGE IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE BEST, MOST MODERN FACILITIES IN THE STATE...

1994 ST PAUL'S HIGH SCHOOL

2015 - PRESENT

MACKILLOP COLLEGE

2009

2019

ST JOSEPH'S REGIONAL COLLEGE

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ST JOSEPH'S REGIONAL COLLEGE

Sovereign Hills (Currently 1100 Students)

1988 MACKILLOP SENIOR COLLEGE

Father Leo Donnelly inspecting the new St Joseph's Regional College

It became obvious by the mid-1980s that the Warlters Street site was not large enough to accommodate a large Year 7 to 12 secondary college. A decision was made to expand the site using transportable buildings. These were used as classrooms as well as a library, wood technics, technical drawing, food technology and music.

In 2005, the Warlters Street site was sold so plans could be made to execute a longterm vision to re-locate the school to a new, larger site at Sovereign Hills. During 2007 and 2008 a brand new state-of-the-art secondary college was built. Students were re-located from the Warlters Street site in February 2009. Subsequently Years 11 and 12 were added in the years following.

The new St Joseph’s Regional College is considered one of the best, most modern facilities in the State and now caters for 1100 students from Year 7-12. The goal of the College is to provide local students with a first class learning environment. The College attracts students from Port Macquarie and the wider area of the Hastings region. In addition to its Catholic feeder primary schools in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Laurieton, students from as many as ten primary schools in the area express a desire every year to attend St Joseph’s Regional College.

The current Principal of the College, Jim Dempsey, is proud of the culture of continuous improvement among staff.

“I could not be more proud of my dedicated staff. They are focused on promoting excellence in teaching and learning, in spiritual formation, in the creative and performing arts, in sport and in the pastoral care and overall wellbeing of our

students. Without this long held tradition of professionalism, collaboration, and personal investment of its highly aspirational staff, the College would not be the great educational community it is today.”

“We are forever thankful to all who have made contributions over the past 50 years to enable St Joseph’s Regional College to become the leading educational institution for which it is renowned. We invite everyone to be part of our 50 years celebration on Friday 10 May at the school on College Drive.”

“This is an exciting time in education for our College, and our community, and together we look forward to what is to come,” Mr Dempsey said.

Bookings for St Joseph’s Regional College 50th year celebrations can be made by calling the school on (02) 5525 4100.

ST JOSEPH’S REGIONAL COLLEGE A College Drive, Port Macquarie T (02) 5525 4100 E sjrhport@lism.catholic.edu.au

www.sapss.nsw.edu.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 13 77

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Dr David

Gillespie MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

Building a Stronger Region

New $30 million Bundaleer aged care facility in Wauchope The planning phase is nearing completion on the $30 million Bundaleer aged care facility which has been supported with Federal funding. The project is expected to create around 40 long-term jobs for Wauchope and over 100 jobs throughout the construction phase.

Contact David

Laurieton Lakeside Residence Congratulations to Laurieton Lakeside Residence which has secured Federal funding towards 32 new aged care places worth $2.1 million.

david.gillespie.mp@aph.gov.au

Authorised

by DrPort David Gillespiefocus MP, 43 High Street, Wauchope NSW 2446 78 Greater Macquarie

Expansion of Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills Health Care I was absolutely delighted to be able to announce a new Licence for a pharmacy at Bonny Hills to be located at the Bonny Hills Shopping Centre with a new medical centre, dental centre and cafĂŠ. Federal funding is also supporting and expansion of the Lake Cathie Medical Centre.

davidgillespie.com.au

@DavidGillespieMP

Kew Main Street Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has secured Federal funding of $800,000 towards a $1.6 million upgrade and beautification plan for the Main Street of Kew.

Cnr High & Hastings Streets, Wauchope NSW 2446

02 6586 4462

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He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

Delivering record Federal funding to our region Our region is a significant winner in this year’s Federal Budget with a record investment in infrastructure, health, education, seniors and carers, along with a suite of measures designed to put more money back in the pockets of households and small businesses.

Our region is seeing the benefits of a strong economy

through the Federal funding announced for projects like the main street upgrades in Kew and Wauchope, the expansion of aged care and health care facilities in the Camden Haven and at Wauchope, the Bago Road upgrade, record infrastructure funding for roads and bridges in the Hastings and a multi-million dollar communications infrastructure rollout along with

many small local community projects.

There are specific funding allocations for a range of projects like these, and there is more money being invested in a number of other important programs which I will be encouraging local organisations to access as we accelerate our national infrastructure program from $75 billion to over $100 billion.

Laurieton Men’s Shed

Rhythm Revie Group

Kendall Tennis Club

North Haven Ladies Bowlers

Wauchope Main Street

Camden Haven High School

Successful initiative delivers 42 local apprenticeships Congratulations and well done to the 42 small businesses who took on local apprentices as part of our government’s $60 million Australian Apprenticeships Wage Subsidy initiative which Subsidies to employers are valued at 75 per cent of the apprentice’s award wage in the first year, 50 per cent in the second year and 25 per cent in the third year.

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, 43 High Street, Wauchope NSW 2446

Greater Port Macquarie focus 79

F O C U S

FEATURE

BUSINESS 80 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focus_contributor. _contributor.

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS MINDS

HADYN

ORITI

D O N O V A N

O A T E S

adyn, you're a Partner of one of Port Macquarie’s longest serving businesses: Donovan Oates Hannaford. Can you tell us a little bit about this law firm and how you think it's stood the test of almost 70 years in business?

This a firm that has always seen itself as a part of the community. That is part and parcel of the culture.

Right from the outset, not only did the Founder and other members of the firm provide their legal services, but they also gave their time freely to the community service organisations of the district.

Whether it was the business associations, Legacy, the surf clubs, Rotary or the Golf Club, our history is full of examples of the Partners and employees getting involved. From a business perspective, this approach means that we have some exposure to and credibility with our clients and the broader community when they consider who they choose as their legal adviser. A good culture will stand the test of time.

In your opinion, what does Donovan Oates Hannaford do better than anybody else?

It is hard to answer a question like that, without sounding “a bit up yourself”, to use the vernacular. So, I’ll include the response that we received to a recent client survey, where responses included those of some of our clients who have been with the firm for over 40 years.

The responses suggest that what we do well is listen, understand and communicate. We are in the advice-giving business. Clients look to us for outcomes - solutions to whatever issue they are

H A N N A F O R D

dealing with. People can tell when you aren’t interested in them. They can tell when you don’t care. The survey showed our clients trust us. We deal with their needs efficiently; we answer their phone calls and are responsive to them.

Your firm specialises in a diverse range of legal services, including commercial law.

Can you talk about some of the ways that you can help business owners future proof their businesses, by setting up sound legal foundations?

When setting up a business, it is exciting and challenging. However, everyone also needs to think about the structure they are using. Here’s where good financial and legal advice works well.

Your Accountant working with your Lawyer can ensure the right company or trust structures are put in place to protect your family and achieve your objectives. We work with all the major accounting firms in the region. We understand them, and they trust us. That teamwork across both disciplines assures clients that they are getting the best solution.

One thing I always tell clients about starting up something new is that they should also be considering what the exit will look like, especially if going into business with other people.

Shareholder agreements and the arrangements for selling out need to be addressed up-front.

What's the most rewarding part about your role as Partner and Lawyer?

Helping people is a truly satisfying thing to do.

It is a great thing to have a client say, “Thanks, you’ve really taken a weight off me.” That happens in business transactions and in other aspects of our practice as well.

We provide pro bono services for some cancer nine years and became President of this suffers through the Cancer Council. Helping organisation for five years. You are still an people when they are in the fight of their lives active member of our business community reminds me of what is important. But even then, and sit on many committees that help shape when these brave people are dealing with what the future of our region. In your experience, they must deal with, they are still so appreciative derived from both your career as well as of the work we do to help get their affairs in your extra-curricular activities, what do you order. There they are, in the midst of a cancer think makes a great leader? battle, and they still stop to think of others. It’s A great leader listens to and understands their quite humbling really. team. They don’t have to be the person that What’s one thing no-one tells you about knows everything, but they do need to know being a business their team. They also need owner? to know where the business How hard it is. We is going. How to get there is are a small business and a lot easier when you know have great staff who put that. “We’re lost, but we’re HELPING PEOPLE in the effort to meet our making good progress,” WHEN THEY ARE IN clients' needs and as Yogi Berra said, doesn’t THE FIGHT OF THEIR expectations. We always really cut it in business.

LIVES REMINDS need to focus on our And throughout all the ME OF WHAT IS clients, deliver quality challenges that are inevitably advice and work in thrown up, a good leader IMPORTANT. a timely fashion and remains positive, committed believe that if we do and that, it will ensure encouraging. They don’t success and revenue. unfairly criticise or abandon But you can’t stop for a minute. The expenses their team when they need them most. don’t stop. Business is a marathon, made up If you could invite three business people to of 100 metre sprints. Small business drives this lunch, who would they be and why would country, but there are some who think it is simply you invite them? there to tax. I don’t think some politicians really Richard Branson, to entertain me and explain have a clue about how what they do affects small how you can go from selling records to planes business. and banking. Donald Trump, to explain the art Rewarding those who have a go would be a good of the deal again. And that grocer’s daughter, start.

Margaret Thatcher, to remind me about Hadyn, you were on the Board of the Port perseverance in the face of the daily challenges.

Macquarie Chamber of Commerce for Thanks for your time, Hadyn.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 81

focus_contributor

BETTER BUSINESS

MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

household discretionary spending, which in turn should boost retail spending growth and flow through to our local retailers.

Support for small business has attracted some promises and good initiatives from the major parties. The Coalition has recently announced an Equity Fund of $100m as a source of capital to finance start-ups and expansion by eligible small businesses. The Labor Party has promised to implement protection for small business from unfair contracts, whilst also legislating against anti-competitive practices.

Minding your

bi-partisan support from the Labor Party. This is a very good move by both major parties, as it will help small and medium business defray some of the rising operational costs and enable more capital to flow into expansion, which in turn will create more employment opportunities.

The Bad A policy position by the Labor Party to abolish tax deductible expenses (so called negative gearing) for existing rental premises purchased post January 2020 and halving the capital gains tax concessions will have a detrimental impact on the property industry, according to many experts. An independent report by the Centre for International Economics (CIE) which was commissioned by the Housing Industry Association (HIA) states: “Increasing the tax on residential homes will force up rental prices, worsen housing affordability and reduce economic activity”.

Personal Tax cuts have been promised by both major parties. The Labor Party tax cuts favour lower incomes, whilst Coalition tax cuts target middle income earners. In both cases, any tax cuts are welcomed, as this should improve

This policy is likely to be of particular concern in Port Macquarie, where the housing and construction industry employs over 3,000 people and contributes $1.5 billion (one third) to the total Gross Regional Product of $4.5 billion.

The Federal Election campaign is now well underway, and businesses are no doubt critically assessing how the various policies offered by all political parties will affect them.

T

he Chamber of Commerce is retaining an apolitical stance but offers the following commentary, on the basis of The Good, The Bad and The Ugly on significant policies and how it might impact our members.

The Good Tax cuts for small and medium businesses over the next few years as proposed by the Coalition Government has already been legislated, with

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FEATURE

The Ugly Energy Policy has been handled poorly in Australia over the past decade, due in large part to the emotive issues around carbon emissions reductions. The lack of policy certainty and new investment in power generation has resulted in rising power prices. This is an unnecessary situation for Australia with its plentiful resources and potential mix of traditional power generation, clean coal, gas and renewables such as hydro-electric, solar and wind farms.

The Coalition Government policy is to meet Australia's global emissions reduction target of 26% - 28% by 2030. Meanwhile, the Labor Party has put forward a more ambitious emissions reduction target of 45% by 2030. In both cases, despite modelling put forward, the future cost to the economy and in particular small business is unclear, due to the vagaries of such a complex issue.

There is no clearly defined energy policy that maintains a cheap and reliable power supply whilst transitioning over the long term to low emissions electricity generation. In this policy vacuum, the investment needed for new power generation infrastructure will not be forthcoming, and consumers will continue to be subjected to supply and pricing uncertainty.

The Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for business, provides the above policy commentary as a service to its member only and does not endorse any political party over another.

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David Gillespie &

Pat Conaghan Your Nationals team working for the Hastings Authorised by Dr D Gillespie MP, Shop 2 and 3, 42 Hgh Street, Wauchope NSW 2446

82 Greater Port Macquarie focus

BETTER BUSINESS

single touch

payroll

IS SIMPLE

WITH SEACHANGE

Do you employ people? Yes? Then you need to be ready for Single Touch Payroll!

B

y now you may have heard the buzz around Single Touch Payroll. It’s a pretty big deal for any business with employees.

Changes are coming soon, so it’s time to find out what it is, how it will affect you, and what you need to do …

What is Single Touch Payroll?

Single Touch Payroll (STP) is a new way to do your payroll reporting. It comes into effect from 1st July this year.

STP requires employers to report salaries and wages, PAYG withholding and superannuation to the ATO each time they pay their employees.

Instead of reporting once at the end of a financial year, employers will now be required to send information to the ATO with every pay run.

Lodging every pay event to the ATO means they’ll have up-to-date information, which makes data matching a lot easier. Put simply,

the ATO will be able to crack down on business owners who aren’t doing the right thing.

Does it affect me?

STP will impact every business with employees.

If your business has less than 20 employees, you need to set up STP now, so you are ready for the changes before 1st July 2019. If you have more than 20 employees, STP reporting has already started. If you are a micro employer with one to four employees, some concessions are available for a limited time.

Contact us for more information.

What do I need to do?

Electronic payroll software is essential for STP reporting. If you have a STP-ready software provider, they can tell you more about the next steps.

If you don’t, we can help you set up the right solution for your business and get you up and running before the changes come into effect.

Why use Xero Payroll for STP? Xero lets you file your pay runs with the ATO in a matter of clicks. It also brings a whole host of other benefits to your business, by making paying your employees quick and easy.

Here are just some of the features of Xero’s payroll software: • Self-service for your employees • Built-in timesheets • Leave management

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FEATURE

• Expense reimbursements • Streamlined superannuation • Flexible pay calendars • Multiple pay rates If you have between one and four employees, Xero has released a Payroll-only subscription, so you can keep things simple and cost-effective, while ensuring ATO compliance.

How can SeaChange make the switch simple?

We understand how difficult it can be to employ and manage staff, as well as manage payroll. You don’t need the added stress of not being STP compliant. As a registered Tax Agent, we’re in the best position to help you with this.

If you’re still handling payroll manually, we can get you set up with Xero and then provide easy to understand training and support.

If you’re using another desktop or cloudbased accounting software program that pales in comparison with Xero’s user-friendly platform, we can convert your business over, so you don’t skip a beat.

We’re excited to announce we have just been awarded Xero Gold Champion Partner status. This reflects our significant experience and expertise helping clients use Xero to make accounting simple and stress-free.

Give us a call today on 1300 425 943 and mention this article to access special discounted rates for your STP solution.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 83

VISIT WWW.PORTCHAMBER.COM.AU FOR DETAILS

BETTER BUSINESS

F O C U S

FOCUS

bette r

FEATURE

FEATURE

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

For 36 years we’ve been servicing the needs of apprentices, trainees, employers and training participants. We have helped thousands of people gain a qualification, start a career, or develop new skills. We’re in the business of developing skills through:

• Working with individuals and community

• Pre-vocational training

If you would like further information on

• Apprenticeships and traineeships

Novaskill’s products and services or to discuss

• Skills training for people seeking to build their credentials in their current role, re-enter the workforce or change careers

your business training needs, please contact

groups to improve local assets, such as refurbishing Scout halls, sporting facilities and other community assets.

Novaskill specialises in Traineeships, focusing on working with local business to train and develop new and existing staff, particularly in: • Community services • Business services • Hospitality • Transport and logistics • Construction and carpentry

us on 6500 1100 or email portmaquarie@ novaskill.com.au

ESCAPE

Can your team work together to save themselves - or even the world?

Escape room games are great for anyone who likes a mental challenge - families, groups of friends, birthday parties, date night … but Façade Escape Rooms is a great place for corporate events too!

Escape room team building is a growing trend, because the games inspire creative thinking, problem solving, and working together toward a common goal. Escape rooms provide a fun group experience away from the usual workplace activity, and help team members recognise complementary skills in each other.

Escape rooms can also allow managers to observe their team members in a controlled challenge scenario. The skills needed to succeed in an escape room reflect those needed to succeed in a workplace - working under time pressure, navigating uncertainty, lateral thinking,

ROOMS

communicating and collaborating as a team - and it’s a fun way to exercise and develop those skills.

Because escape rooms are a mental challenge, not a physical one, this makes the team building experience appealing and accessible to a wider range of your team members.

How can you use an escape room experience to benefit your business?

• Escape rooms are a super fun way to get your team out of the office, so they can be used for a holiday party or to reward your team!

• Or, they can used for a more directed team-building event. Escape room games challenge the mind in different ways so they’re a great way to overcome mental barriers when a team is stuck, or “shake out the cobwebs” after a break.

• An escape room game can also be a way to finish off a day of special meetings and presentations on a fun note.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 85

86 Greater Port Macquarie focus

BETTER BUSINESS

FOCUS

FEATURE

networking

F O C U S

FEATURE

BUSINESS

T

WHEN IT COMES TO PROFESSIONAL NETWORKING, IT’S FAIR TO SAY THAT MOST OF US ARE DIVIDED INTO TWO SCHOOLS; those who love it, and those who loathe it. For those who fear or dread networking events, the mere thought of making small talk with strangers can be very daunting.

he truth is, if you’re keeping your goal top of mind, if you have a passing up networking very specific purpose in mind, why not also opportunities, you’re research who could possibly be attending the probably also missing event and make it your mission to connect out on valuable business with the specific people you’d like to opportunities too. This year meet? If you’re feeling apprehensive about the Hastings Business Women’s Network is "stalking" a certain person at the event, celebrating 20 years of connecting likemake it your mission to simply meet one minded women in our community through person and build connections from there. the power of networking in a relaxed and FOCUS ON "JUST ONE PERSON" fun environment.

Sometimes Here are our tips on networking can be as how you can break simple as starting with through the fear and just one person. Head get the most out of to the bar on arrival, You might be seeking networking events. and you’re likely to get connections for career BEGIN WITH YOUR chatting with someone opportunities, looking for GOAL IN MIND else who is flying solo, potential clients, or perhaps Before heading while you both wait in you just want to network to the event, take the line. Once you get a with other people from your some time to reflect conversation going, your industry or school of thought. on what you’d like networking success is to achieve from likely to snowball from attending. You there. might be seeking PREPARE YOUR connections for career opportunities, looking "ELEVATOR PITCH" for potential clients, or perhaps you just This is particularly relevant if you have want to network with other people from your own business, especially if you are your industry or school of thought. Whatever just starting out. If you aren’t able to your reasons for attending, keep them front give a really quick overview of what it is of mind leading in to the event. that you do and why, you will likely come DO YOUR RESEARCH across as amateurish or at the very least, Following on from the above point on as if you are lacking confidence in your

own business. What potential client would sign up for a service that you can’t even promote confidently? Practice your elevator pitch before you go. You should be able to explain what it is that you do within 20 - 30 seconds. Your pitch can include things like your background (who you are), a brief summary of what it is that you do, and finish off with something that makes you unique or a key focus or project you’re currently working on.

FOLLOW UP Immediately after the event, follow up with the people you met. You could send them a really brief email thanking them for the chat and signing off with your contact details should they need to contact you. If you want a more subtle approach, you could also connect with the person on LinkedIn.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 87

focusinterview.

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he Art of Strategic Marketing War - Pearls of Wardom, by SMO master marketer and industry update occasional contributor Pete Jeans presents strategic insight and operational pearls of wisdom to accelerate the expertise of current and emerging managers to better meet today’s fast-changing challenges.

The Art of Strategic Marketing War -Pearls of Wardom will also appeal to Human Resources leaders driving career development and professional education as a strategy to retain talent in their organisations, and CEOs and General Managers looking for marketing education resources, workshops and mentoring guidance to reduce staff churn.

The Art of Strategic Marketing War - Pearls of Wardom is now available on Amazon as an eBook at https://amzn. to/2W7yRwn for AUD $4.99.

“There are many issues that face current and emerging leaders, and my eBook explains the pragmatic techniques and insights around strategic marketing in bitesized chapters, to give managers what they need to succeed in business,” Pete Jeans said.

Pete Jeans said the eBook is a conceptual extension of Sun Tzu’s seminal book on strategy, The Art of War. “Like The Art of War, this eBook is small, entirely readable in one sitting, insightful, and uses simple language that will connect with current and emerging leaders in small, medium and large corporates, in the cut and thrust for profitable or strategic growth.”

For further information: Pete Jeans on Australia 0432 113 930 or email petejeans@smosydney.com.au

88 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Jo W

Meet Jo Rowan from Launch Group, a dynamic powerhouse of a woman who seems to have a never-ending zest for life and all things coaching.

ho are you, Jo, and how do you fit into our local area?

Well, that depends on what time of the day it is - a mother, business owner, entrepreneur, coach, wife, creative, teacher - the list goes on ... and I love all of it!

I have been in the Port Macquarie area for over 12 years now and still love it as much today, as the day I moved here.

My husband and I have raised our three kids here, settled in Bonny Hills, built a series of successful businesses, houses, and just love connecting with all the people and businesses of our amazing, creative growing area.

What is your business?

Launch Group is all about people and their “Brains, Body & Business”.

We work with people coaching, mentoring, rebuilding, creating, developing and discovering who they are, what they want and how to create it!

The coolest thing by far, is the diverse range of businesses and individuals we get to work with.

Imagine a place where communication was clear, work flowed freely, you enjoyed being who you were, achieving all the things you really wanted to do, in every area of your life.

That is what Launch Group is all about,

assisting people and businesses to find their Who do you help and why? “sweet spot” and just thrive!

I do this so that people can live their best How did Launch Group come to be? lives. Whoever you are, we all have an idea Well, it's been about 20 odd years in the of what achievement is and means. It varies making! I’m totally from person to peraddicted to personal son and is completely growth and developdictated by where we ment (to the awesome find ourselves at the benefit of my clients!)

IMAGINE A PLACE WHERE time. My gift is making I think that comes COMMUNICATION WAS sure that whoever I am CLEAR, WORK FLOWED from the years of working with is at the FREELY, YOU ENJOYED dance training, coachhead of those decisions, BEING WHO YOU WERE, ing and performing. not at the mercy.

ACHIEVING ALL THE There is a certain type We all find ourselves THINGS YOU REALLY of discipline required in need of help or WANTED TO DO, IN EVERY to consistently perform mentoring at one time AREA OF YOUR LIFE. at the top of your or another; sometimes it game. can be one small thing Dancers are that shifts someone to high-level athletes, the most amazing breakthrough, and that is who are meticulous about detail, identifying the gold right there - people living the best patterns, and systems, areas of improvement version of whatever it is they want, on their and super focused on personal growth and terms. Freedom. advancement. Layer study and qualifications How do we get in touch with you ? in Personal Training, Pilates rehab, NLP (Nero I love to have a chat, so feel free to call Linguistics Programming) business and mindme, or send me an email, whatever works set coaching etc. and you have a disciplined, the best for you. problem solving machine that loves to teach, Jo Rowan identify and correct issue and help others to 0415 246 508 develop themselves and their projects to a launch@mylaunchgroup.com.au high level. mylaunchgroup.com.au Enter Launch Group; it brings my diverse skill set together - all the best elements pack- Find us on Thanks Jo. aged and ready for action!

89 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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VOTE 1 ON MAY 18

Rob

Oakeshott FEDERAL INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE FOR COWPER

W H Y VO T E F OR M E I am the only candidate in this electorate with a track record of being a Member of Parliament and getting results both as a State and Federal Member of Parliament.

When Port Macquarie was part of my Lyne electorate (electoral boundaries have since been redrawn) I secured critical funding for the Port Macquarie Base Hospital upgrade, Charles Sturt University expansion, four Pacific Highway by-passes, three local airport

upgrades, and grants for many community projects.

I am a long-term resident of the Mid North Coast. I have lived in Port Macquarie for 26 years. I believe in the potential of this beautiful part of the world and I have shown a willingness to work hard and make sure our regions needs are not ignored by Government.

I will connect with the communities in this region and listen to them, rather than bend to a party structure.

W H AT I STA N D F OR BETTER ACCESS TO SERVICES Standing up for regional Australia has been a consistent theme in my political life. I am driven by a belief that we need better access to services like transport, communications, health and education and should not have to accept second best because we are not living in a big city.”

SENSIBLE DECISION MAKING Sensible decision-making seems like such an obvious quality to expect from an MP and yet it is so rarely on offer. I believe in making sound decisions by seeking out and listening to the community and respecting expert advice and then making transparent, evidence-based decisions.

DECENCY Decency is also a quality we see less and less in politics. I have learnt to rise above the insults, name-calling and divisive language we hear too much of right now. I will always speak with decency and, even more importantly, act with decency.

RESPECTFUL COMMUNITIES I believe in treating everyone with respect regardless of their age, background, colour or circumstance. I reject any politics or policies that discriminate against one or more sections of the community.

Hi, I’m Rob Oakeshott I’ve lived in Port Macquarie for 26 years.

As a former State and Federal Member for Parliament, I’ve fought and delivered results for our region.

Now I’m ready to do it for Cowper.

In the past I’ve delivered: - A record $1billion+ infrastructure spend for our region including $110 million for the Port Macquarie Hospital Expansion.

- $80 million for Kempsey hospital and - I helped two major universities move to Port Macquarie.

If elected, I will: - Support local business, not big party donors.

- Get the Coffs Bypass done right.

- Support renewables and climates action - Improve NBN and mobile phone coverage.

- Address youth unemployment and NDIS. - Champion education, health and childcare.

Join our campaign www.oakeshott.com.au 104 Horton St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

84 80 Greater Greater Port Port Macquarie Macquarie focus focus

@RobOakeshott1

facebook.com/RobOakeshott1

Authorised by Rob Oakeshott, 104 Horton St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Rob

Oakeshott

Authorised by Rob Oakeshott, 104 Horton St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

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Angie Leeson P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

M A Z D A

Hi, my name is Angie Leeson, and I am one of the sales consultants here at Port Macquarie Mazda. I’VE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH TO LIVE IN THE LIGHTHOUSE BEACH AREA FOR THE PAST 34 YEARS. I’m a mum of three now adults and nanny to my little two-year-old granddaughter, Evie may.

M

y career in the industry as a car saleswoman started just on 18 months ago, when I came into Port Macquarie Mazda looking to buy a new Mazda 3. I met the Sales

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Manager Dean Orley, and we were just chatting about ourselves and my new Mazda. I must have been intriguing, because he asked me what I did for work. I explained to him that I have been on the road in sales for the past 20 years, but was looking to find something closer to home, with

less travelling involved. Dean asked would I ever consider selling cars ... I walked away thinking maybe this would be fun and just what I was after. I got a great vibe from the team, I gave it some thought, and the following week I called him and expressed my interest in the position that he offered - and, well, here I am.

As far as I’m aware, Trotter automotive is the only dealership in the area that employs female sales consultants. The reasoning behind this is some customers can feel intimidated or apprehensive about the process of buying a new car. In my opinion it should be an exciting and enjoyable experience in a relaxed atmosphere.

The feedback that I often receive from my customers is “Gee that was so easy and “why was I so worried about buying a new car”.

The Port Macquarie Mazda team consists of Dean, Michael and myself. We are all extremely passionate about the Mazda brand.

We work really well together as a team to make all Mazda customers feel that they are part of our forever growing Port Macquarie Mazda family. We pride ourselves on service after the purchase of your new car.

The launch of the new Next Gen Mazda 3 has been a very exciting experience for me, as I am already so passionate about the Mazda brand.

To say that I am excited would be an understatement about how I felt when I first laid eyes on this sporty and sleek hatchback when it arrived on the back of the truck on Tuesday.

I have had the pleasure of driving and getting to know the new Next Gen Mazda 3 since its arrival. What can I say about the New Mazda?

WOW, it’s incredible! The way it drives reminds me of driving the MX-5; the way it handles on the road, you know you’re driving the latest in technology and safety. Words that come to my mind if I was to describe the new Mazda 3 would be classy, comfortable, stylish, responsive, smooth, quiet, technically advanced.

The Next Gen Mazda 3 comes in two engine size variants: 2.0 L and 2.5 L, along with two options for the transmission, being a 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual.

Standard features across the range are, Apple car play / Android Auto, LED daytime running lamps, push button start, rain sensor wipers, auto LED headlights, satellite navigation, reverse camera with sensors, heads up display, automatic high beam, speed recognition camera, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, tyre pressure monitoring and alloy wheels, and that’s all packed in the base model. As you start to climb up to the higher specs in the range, more features are introduced with different interior options.

Please feel free to give me a call on my mobile 0474 807 650 or send me an email: angiel@trotterauto.com.au or just pop into Port Macquarie Mazda, and I will be more than happy to do a test drive together and show you through the new Next Gen Mazda 3.

YEAR 11

2020

picture Justice

Dedicated senior areas

The Picture Justice programme will land on Port Macquarie’s shores from 8th - 13th July this year, all the way from its New York City home. Picture Justice Australia will provide a unique opportunity for up to 15 Year 11 and 12 students across the Port Macquarie-Hastings to jump into this amazing program at Charles Sturt University. We spoke with CSU’s Lecturer in Design, Willhemina Wahlin, to find out more.

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hat is Picture Justice excited that it’s finally here!

Australia all about?

Is it only for “creative” people?

At its core, the Picture Although I think everyone is creative, Justice programme is definitely not! Picture Justice is about bringing all about lifting the young people together who have a range voices of young people in our communities. of talents, so if you’re keen on studying law, PJA will focus on the themes of “community, design, journalism, sociology or zoology, there’s citizenry and processes of democracy”, and will something that you can bring to the table. include workshops on civics, design thinking, Collaboration is key! photography, ethical interviewing techniques, How do the PJA stories get out there? narrative development and story editing. It will The photographs and stories that the be an opportunity for participants to learn more participants create will become a projected about our community, exhibition for Port but also to tell their Macquarie’s ArtWalk. stories and have fun We’ll also produce a while they’re at it! booklet later in the We have an amazing line up We have an amazing year, which we think of workshop facilitators and line up of workshop will make an excellent guest speakers, so we’re facilitators and guest addition to a portfolio really excited that Port speakers, so we’re just quietly!

Macquarie is the first really excited that Port How do people apply? place in Australia that Macquarie is the first Applications have the programme will run. place in Australia that been extended until the the programme will run. end of May, and are PJA is also a joint now open. It’s pretty research project between easy to apply, but if you Charles Sturt and Swinburne universities. have any questions, feel free to give me a call or We want to learn more about what young send me an email. All of the details, including people think about their community, and if info on the research, are on our website: this programme can give them new tools to https://www.picturejusticeaustralia.org/. participate.

Does it cost anything?

Where did the PJA programme start?

No! Successful applicants will automatically The Picture Justice programme was created receive a scholarship that covers the entire cost in 2014 by the New York-based non-profit of the workshop programme, including lunch. organisation, PROOF: Media for Social Justice, Participants will just need to arrange their in collaboration with the United Nations daily transport to and from the uni and bring International School. I have been PROOF’s some snacks. The programme has been funded Creative Director for almost 10 years, and through CSU’s Faculty of Arts and Education designed many of the exhibitions and zines Compact Funding Scheme, and has further for the programme over there. I have been support from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, working behind the scenes to get Picture Justice the Whitlam Institute and Constables Printing. to Australia for a few years now, and am so Thanks Willhemina.

ities n u t r o p p o g in z a am

Wide range of subjects At St Columba, we understand how important the final years of school are. We want to create graduates who value hard work and learning but we also know that there’s more to life than results.

Here at SCAS you can grow however you like, and we’ll support you.

Year 11 2020 Information Evening - Tuesday May 28 3 Iona Ave Port Macquarie NSW 2444 www.scas.nsw.edu.au stcolumbaanglicanschool scasinfo

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joined FAWNA two years ago and after training in wildlife rescue and care, I am mainly a possum and bird carer. I joined the committee last year.

My major project right now is organising a 30th anniversary fundraising evening at The Westport Club in Port Macquarie on Saturday 1st June.

We are inviting the community to celebrate with us, to support FAWNA into the future and to gain a better understanding and appreciation for our beautiful native wildlife. Local businesses have been very generous in donating some wonderful prizes for the event. We are proud to be sponsored by John Oxley Motors, The Westport Club, Eastern Air Services, Eastern Tour Services and Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park.

The local not-for-profit wildlife rescue rehabilitation and release group FAWNA (NSW) Inc. is celebrating its establishment 30 years ago. From humble beginnings in June 1989 with six inaugural members operating in Port Macquarie, the Camden Haven and Kempsey, the volunteer group has grown to a member base of 275 spread south to Bulahdelah and north to Grassy Head and West to Mt. Seaview - an area of 18,000 sq km.

FAWNA’s wildlife rescue line 6585 4141 fielded 11,450 incoming calls last year from Port Macquarie-Hastings, Kempsey and MidCoast, and the group provides a 24 hour seven day a week wildlife rescue service for native animals.

FAWNA relies on public donations to help augment its own fundraising activities to buy specialist wildlife care foodstuffs, pay vet bills and run the group. Last year’s

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food bill alone was $21,500, FAWNA relies on which is about half of total public donations to annual expenditure. FAWNA has help augment its own no formal funding, apart from fundraising activities a small grant from our licensee to buy specialist wildlife care National Parks and Wildlife 2017 - 2018 year, FAWNA helped 3,560 foodstuffs, pay vet bills and run Service. Proceeds from our dinner animals, with a good release success the group. will go to the wildlife food fund. rate.

FAWNA is blessed by the It takes dedication to be a wildlife support of local vets, some of carer and learn what foods to source whom give of their time and that closely mirror the native diet. It’s not skills to help wildlife, but the volunteers are the life blood. just a case of buying something from the shop; we need They come from all walks of life and have that common to grow certain types of food, including rodents, insects, thread of concern for the environment. Our wildlife faces and mealworms and going out in all weathers sourcing many challenges: climate change, extreme heat events, leaf tips and blossom. We can’t treat our natives like we and competition from humans. Housing, infrastructure, do domestic pets; they must be dehumanised and ready schools and roads all take what once was wildlife habitat. for their life in the wild.

FAWNA regularly receives large numbers of bird Please purchase tickets by 20th May by contacting nestlings that fall to the ground, making it difficult to be Louise: louise.fawna.nsw@gmail.com reunited with their parents. When kangaroo, wallaby or FAWNA’s next training course is in Wauchope on 7th possum mothers are killed on the road or attacked by July - see www.fawna.org.au predators, there is often a live joey in the pouch; FAWNA Editorial provided by Louise Moore. has to nurture them until they are ready to be released back to the wild. Pollution is affecting our marine fauna.

Flying-foxes and microbats come into conflict with netting, fencing and powerlines, but birds remain the FAWNA's Night Out 30th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner largest group of wildlife needing FAWNA’s help.

Saturday 1st June, 6:30pm, The Westport Club.

We take all wildlife except for koalas that are licensed Cost: $75 pp includes arrival drink and two course meal and to our good friends at Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and silent auction Enquiries: Louise 0407 646 370 or email by the Taree-based Koalas in Care down south. In the louise.fawna.nsw@gmail.com

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SUE REID

You’re just a few steps from improved hearing!

Blamey Saunders Hears has made it faster and easier for Australians to access and afford high-quality, custom-fit hearing aids and expert support.

Independent living is about bringing together community and lifestyle. To see how we do this at Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA), we invite you to attend one of our Open Days on Friday 24th May and Monday 28th May.

W

ith over 40 years the transition to independent living. Our of understanding teams also provide activities such as lifestyle the needs of older programs and support programs such as Australians, CCA has pastoral care. built a community CCA is part of St Agnes’ Parish, which of independent living villages that is vibrant, offers connections with Parish schools and caring and welcomes community programs, everyone. We in which our residents understand that care regularly participate. St needs change over time Agnes’ Parish is a notand our residents have for-profit organisation, CCA has built a peace of mind, knowing which means our focus community of independent that CCA will look after is on ensuring the best living villages that is them no matter what services for our residents vibrant, caring and their requirements. and not delivering profits welcomes everyone.

With all the to shareholders. contemporary comforts The best way to you want, our recently understand what it is refurbished villas are like to live in a CCA close to town and transport, with an emphasis independent living community is for you to on social engagement and activities. Our wellcome and see for yourself. Bring your family, designed and affordable accommodation is and even your friends, to our Open Day for secure and ranges from one bedroom (plus a St Agnes Village on Friday 24th May and study) to three bedroom villas. for Lourdes Village on Monday 28th May We are locally owned and operated, and our between 10am and 12pm. Call me on teams can answer all questions regarding 0407 843 515 to make a booking.

Step 1: Tell us about your hearing

Head to blameysaunders.com.au to take the free online hearing test. It’s clinically validated and we can use your results to set up hearing aids for you.

Step 2: Select your hearing aids

Order Blamey Saunders hearing aids online or over the phone, from the privacy of home. They’re delivered to you ready to use straight out of the box.

Step 3: Personalise your settings

Our award-winning IHearYou® programming software gives you the option to optimise your settings for different listening environments yourself—no clinic visits necessary!

Visit blameysaunders.com.au to help yourself to improved hearing!

You’re in control but never on your own.

Thousands of Australians have helped themselves to improved hearing, backed by our expert support. We’re here for you every step of the way, and can even program your hearing aids with you remotely.

Call 1300 443 278 or email info@blameysaunders.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 97

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: • • • • • •

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STAGE 1 of Pozieres Village with 37 new homes will be ready to occupy in mid-2019

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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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Left to right - Lorraine Williams Myra’s daughter, Myra Benson – Client, Judy – CAREGiver Bronwyn Finn – Recruitment and Learning, Sharon Cameron – Operations Manager

HomeInstead Senior Care

MID NORTH COAST

Home Instead Senior Care Mid North Coast is the trusted choice for in-home care and companionship services. Committed to making a positive difference in the lives of local seniors and their families, they take pride in every aspect of their care. Chrissy Jones spoke with Rod Lewis about how they ensure clients have access to the best quality care services and support they need to continue living, safely, independently and happily in the comfort of their own home.

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i Rod. Can you tell us a little bit about Home Instead Senior Care Mid North Coast.

Home Instead Senior Care Mid North Coast is part of a network of over 36 HISC offices around Australia. Each one is independently owned and operated, working within a nationally consistent quality framework. Scott Marsh and I opened the Port Macquarie office back in September 2015. We then opened further shopfront offices in Kempsey and Tuncurry.

What types of support do you offer to seniors?

We offer a wide range of in-home support services, including domestic assistance, help with personal care, cooking meals, transport to appointments or shopping. Anything from an hour to twenty-four in-home care. Services can be funded privately, and we are also an Approved Provider to deliver Government funded Home Care Packages and DVA Homecare.

We have supported our client Myra Benson (seated) with her daily needs for the past two years. She loves to venture out with her CAREGivers and continues to enjoy life to the fullest at 104 years young! She is an inspiration to us all.

The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has been in the news a lot lately; could you tell our readers a bit

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more about Home Care Packages?

There are four levels of Home Care Package based on an individual's assessed needs. Each level has a different budget allocation from the Government, ranging from a Level 1 at around $8,000 a year to a Level 4 at just over $50,000 a year. Once assessed, a person is placed in the National Queue to be allocated a package, but this can take time.

It is up to the organisation to charge what it believes is reasonable to cover its costs; the Government hasn’t set a limit. However, from 1st July 2019, organisations will no longer be able to charge separately for administration costs. Many providers charge up to 35% of the Government subsidy. Home Instead Senior Care Mid North Coast doesn’t have an administration charge, just a flat 10% coordination charge for the delivery of Home Care Packages. We believe that the majority of the funds should be directed into the services our clients require.

Is there a way that people can find out more information on services and support as they age?

They can contact us and have a chat with one of our team on ph: (02) 6583 9944.

We will also be holding information sessions for seniors and their families during May at Port City Bowling Club and LUSC in Laurieton.

To book a place, just call our office (02) 6583 9944.

Thanks Rod.

Your Local Offices Covering the Mid North Coast Your Local Offices Covering the Mid North Coast

Companionship Personal Care Companionship Meal Preparation Personal Care Medication Reminders Meal Preparation Light Housekeeping Medication Reminders Shopping & Errands Light Housekeeping Shopping & Errands

Kempsey 02Kempsey 6599 2342

Port Macquarie 02 6583 9944 Port Macquarie

02 6599 2342 02 6583 Manning/Great Lakes9944 02 6595 8188 Manning/Great Lakes 02 6595 8188

Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise Office is Independently Owned and Operated Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise Office is Independently Owned and Operated

H O M E I N ST EA D .C O M . A U H O M E I N ST EA D .C O M . A U

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CHORAL EVENT

Hastings Choristers are very excited to bring to the Hastings Community a special choral event over the long weekend in June this year. Choral singers from across Australia will come together in Port Macquarie on Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9 to learn Karl Jenkin’s stirring work, "The Peacemakers". he weekend will culminate in a concert, featuring the massed choir performance of The Peacemakers, with orchestral accompaniment, on the stage of Port Macquarie’s beautiful Glasshouse Theatre. This concert, taking place on Sunday at 7pm, will be open to the public, who will be able to delight in a very special night of inspiring, beautiful music.

These types of choral weekends are very popular. Last year, Hastings Choristers organised Handel’s Messiah weekend,

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to huge acclaim. Participants in these workshops enjoy a wonderful weekend of music, and the audiences at the resulting concerts are amazed at the professional standard achieved by choristers working together over two days to produce a superb concert performance. The musical director of Hastings Choristers, Robyn Ryan OAM is thrilled to offer this opportunity once again to performers and to the general public.

The choral work The Peacemakers is set to the words of renowned world peacemakers such as Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, the Dalai Lama and Mother Theresa, among

others. The work is very powerful. Karl Jenkins, the composer, stated, “The Peacemakers is dedicated to the memory of all those who lost their lives during armed conflict … [it] is a work extolling peace: all religions, all singing one song: peace be with you”.

A big coup for this event is that the highly-regarded choral conductor Paul Holley OAM will teach the workshops and conduct the concert. Paul Holley has worked with the Hastings Choristers previously during a similar weekend, presenting another Karl Jenkin’s work, The Armed Man, in 2013. He has inspired many singers to discover and develop their skills as choral musicians. Paul has served on both the Queensland and National Councils for ANCA, and he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in January 2016 for his services to choral music. Presently, Paul is the Associate Director of Voices of Birralee and conducts two ensembles within this organisation, touring nationally and internationally, most recently to France for ANZAC commemorations. Paul is also the principal conductor of the Australian national youth choir Gondwana Chorale, who also regularly tour internationally.

If you love choral music, this concert performance of The Peacemakers by a massed choir of choristers from all over Australia, with orchestral accompaniment and conducted by Paul Holley, will be the experience of a lifetime. The concert is on Sunday night, June 9, at 7pm. Tickets are available at the Glasshouse Box Office. Registration for The Peacemakers workshop weekend is open until May 27, but numbers are limited, and places are filling up fast. Interested singers can register at www.ticketebo.com.au/peacemakers. Tenors and basses are particularly needed, so all those men out there who love singing in the shower, come and join us for a fabulous weekend.

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PHILOSOPHY

An interview with Gary Dowling, a founding member of the Port Macquarie Philosophy Forum.

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or those who don’t know, what is the Port Macquarie Philosophy Forum?

The Port Macquarie Philosophy Forum was started in 2018 by a small group of philosophy enthusiasts from the local community. Our intention is to provide a venue for those who are interested to hear lectures and hold discussions about philosophy. Last year we organised one lecture per month between February and November.

We have ten speakers organised for this year too. It is a not-for-profit community venture run by a volunteer organising committee consisting of Carol Baker, Gary Dowling, Joan McKain and Dave Smith.

What sort of people are interested in philosophy?

Philosophy is for everyone who is curious about life. It is stimulating and fun! Just look at these questions: what is the meaning and purpose in life? How can I live a flourishing life? How can we have a flourishing society?

What is the best political system? Is it OK just to be self-interested, or must we think about what is good for other people too? Do we have free will? Does God exist? What is truth?

How do we know? What is knowledge?

How do I know when I am being informed and when I am being manipulated? What is good and evil? What is beauty? What is consciousness? What is the ultimate nature of

reality?

These are questions that anybody can find stimulating.

The wonderful thing about philosophy is that it is not dogmatic. There are so many different ways of thinking about these questions. We learn to think broadly, deeply and clearly, and to have good reasons for the conclusions that we come to.

We would like to get more young people and students to come along to see if philosophy might have value for them.

Who are the speakers at the forum?

We invite speakers from universities and other relevant institutions. We have been privileged to have professors and lecturers from the University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, University of Newcastle, Monash University, and the New Democracy Foundation come to Port Macquarie to speak to us. We have local speakers as well - there is a great wealth of knowledge in the local community.

Has the forum generated much interest in the community?

The support of the local community has been excellent. Between 50 and 90 people have attended each event. Feedback from the attendees has been enthusiastic for most topics, especially when they relate to everyday problems and issues. Here is what one person emailed us, “Enjoying the stimulation of the discussion. So much to think about and

We have been privileged to have to learn from others.

Robots, Collateral professors and lecturers LOVE IT!” Damage and the from the University After each lecture Philosophy of War. Our of Sydney, University there is an opportunity speaker is Jessica Whyte, of New South Wales, for discussion over a a Scientia Fellow and University of Newcastle, café meal, and we book Associate Professor in Monash University, and a long table for forum the School of Humanities the New Democracy attendees. People enjoy and Languages Foundation come to Port this social part of the (Philosophy) and the Macquarie to speak to us. evening too.

School of Law, University What topics have of New South Wales. been spoken about at When and where is the forum so far? the forum held?

We have had a great variety of topics Most events are held on Thursday or presented so far. These include: The Wisdom Sunday evenings, so that people who are of Crowds and Mindless Mobs, Distinguishing working and students are able to attend. The Islam from Jihadism, Personal Identity and forum is open to everyone. A small entry fee Rationality, How to Strengthen our Weakened is charged to cover room-hire costs and to Democracies, Values and Ethics, A Parade help with travel and accommodation costs for of Philosophical Paradoxes, Rights, Human our speakers, when necessary.

Rights and Rights of Indigenous Peoples, These events are all at Port City Bowling The Ambiguity of Freedom, The Historical Club, 4 Owen Street, Port Macquarie, usually Rise of Atheism, Ethics, Exports and Climate from 6 - 7:30pm. The entry fee is $10 for Change, Tolerance and its Relationship to general admission, and $5 for pensioners.

Social Development and Truth, Post-Truth and How can people get more information Politics. about the forum?

What topics are coming up soon?

We send out monthly emails about each On Thursday 23rd May the topic is Free talk. To get on the email list, people can email Will, Moral Responsibility and Guilt. Our us at philosophyforumpmq@outlook.com speaker is Dr Hannah Tierney, who is a Information about future events can also be lecturer in Philosophy at the University of found on our website: Sydney. portmacquariephilosophyforum.com On Sunday 9th June, the topic is Killer Thanks Gary.

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A PASSION FOR KEEPING HERSELF FIT AND HEALTHY LED JOAN NEWBOULD TO STUDY AND TRAIN ACROSS MULTIPLE HEALTH MODALITIES, so she could inspire others to Move To Health! Joan believes no one is ever too old to participate in an appropriate exercise programme …

Moving to

Health JOAN NEWBOULD

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i Joan. How did you come to live and work within the Greater Port Macquarie area?

I fell in love with Port Macquarie and its beaches whilst bringing my children here on annual vacation during their school holidays for many years. After a marriage breakup in early 2000s, this seemed the obvious place to relocate my life.

When/where did your interest in training/ studying in the health field begin?

I was drawn to the health and wellness industry by my personal passion for being fit, active and healthy myself - as well as an interest in alternate health therapies and meditation.

In my early 20s, I sustained a back injury, with a medical diagnosis of needing an operation or I would not walk properly by the time I was 40 years old. Being completely against any surgery, I decided to seek treatment by an alternate therapist - with great success. This sparked my enthusiasm to learn more about the various natural healing modalities available at that time.

I gained a great passion for the many health benefits and body awareness my injury situation had led me towards.

When my children were all of school age, I started studying fitness training with the Australian Accreditation Council and qualified in 1989 to begin working casually in my local health centres.

In 2002, I attained a Diploma of Health Science in Massage Therapy at TAFE Australia and also

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intimate atmosphere I was looking for. So in 2011, I purchased the current property, which has a more suitable sized shed that I've converted into an intimate, friendly and comfortable studio environment.

By conducting small classes, I'm able to provide more personalised attention, and each individual is invited to progress at their own pace. Using friendly encouragement, appropriate exercise programs, plus breathing and relaxation techniques, I assist my clients to get their life back onto their own desired track.

I believe no-one is too old to participate in an appropriate exercise programme, and as Port Macquarie has a large number of retirees, I design my classes to suit their needs and abilities.

My motto has always been "Make Moving To Health Your Life Practice", so the name of my studio seemed obvious to me.

What types of classes/facilities does the studio offer to those who visit?

At Moving To Health, I offer Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, Seniors “Active For Life” Gentle Exercise, and Posture Ball training. These classes incorporate all aspects of exercise: cardiovascular conditioning, resistance training, core strengthening, improved balance and falls prevention. They specifically aim to improve health, mobility, vitality, balance and coordination, at the same time increasing your peace of mind by helping you to reduce stress and anxiety and improving sleep patterns.

I also run a wellness clinic which offers Remedial Massage Therapy, Master Reiki treatments and initiation attunements, as well as group guided meditation sessions.

It's wonderful to be able to educate and support the people of Port Macquarie region to achieve their desired results of improved physical health and wellbeing, plus emotional balance and harmony in their life.

completed studies as a Master Reiki practitioner/ teacher. I now greatly enjoy sharing all this knowledge, experience and my healing abilities for the benefit of others.

It's wonderful to be able to educate and support the people of Port Macquarie region to achieve their desired results of improved physical health and wellbeing, plus emotional balance and harmony in their life.

What modalities are you qualified to teach?

I have professional fitness qualifications in Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, Seniors “Active For Life” Gentle Exercise, Posture Ball Training, Heartmoves, and Aqua Aerobics.

I am a qualified Massage Therapist, as well as a Master Reiki practitioner/teacher.

What's the history behind the Moving To Health Studio - how long has it been established?

I relocated here from Sydney in 2003 and worked for several gyms in the area, before opening my own unique studio in October 2005, with the intention of helping clients reach physical, emotional and spiritual health and wellbeing in the one centre. I realised that a health studio specialising in small classes based on improved wellbeing, posture correction and safe body movements was needed in Port Macquarie.

My original studio was opened in a large industrial bay within the industrial area, but I felt the wide open space didn't suit the

Who are your typical clients?

The majority of my participants are female, aged between 40 and 85. There is currently only one regular male participant. My clients come with a large range of fitness levels and physical limitation - so I instruct a variety of exercise options, so that everyone can achieve their highest potential.

What most inspires you about the field you work in?

With most of the conditions that I treat, I aim at preventing the need for the client to undergo surgery by reducing joint restriction and helping to relieve muscular aches and pain, by getting the muscle and joint to function in the appropriate fashion.

My passion is that I am able to inspire and motivate people to make positive lifestyle changes, which result in their improved physical and emotional health, as well as a greater peace of mind. Feeling healthy and happy is about having a physical body that allows you to continue to do the things you love, plus a mind that is clear and calm - so I like to remind my clients to "Take exercise regularly, not seriously!"

What's on the agenda for both you and the Moving To Health Studio for the rest of this year?

I'm very excited to say that I have only recently activated my web page in the last month or so.

I will continue to offer personalised service in an intimate and friendly environment, where each class session is a unique experience of Body, Mind, and Soul. All of my classes and sessions are tailored to suit you and your individual physical limitations or personal requirements.

Where can we contact you?

Web: www.joannewbould.com.au Email: joan.newbould@yahoo.com Mob: 0415 659 262.

Address: 30 Siren Road, Port Macquarie.

Thanks Joan. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 103

L I F E S T Y L E

•

R E T I R E M E N T

•

A G E D

C A R E

focus_contributor

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

Captivating Guide at the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, 2019

Arts Health AND

Big

70 The

Berry Financial At Berry Financial Services, we have the knowledge and experience to find the solutions that will allow you to do the things you want to do …

Whether it be retiring and going on a holiday, or making the most of what you have, so you have choices about what you can do.

Maybe you want to maximise your Centrelink entitlements.

Maybe you want a regular income to live on, or to find out if your superannuation fund is right for you.

What should you invest in? What will provide the right outcome to meet your needs?

Why use a financial planner?

In an ever-changing, often confusing world, you need the best financial advice possible in a timely and accessible way.

Sometimes when choosing investments,

104 Greater Port Macquarie focus

avoiding unnecessary mistakes and achieving a reasonable overall return on investment is more important than finding the best investment return.

Financial planning is an ongoing process that evolves as your needs change, so flexibility and constant reviewing of your financial plan by an objective professional can help to keep you on track with your goals.

Sometimes it takes an outsider looking in to find the solutions you are looking for.

We have been providing professional advice since 2006. With our experience, we can answer your financial questions and set a plan in place that is specific to your needs.

Make an appointment, come and have a chat. Let us help you to “secure your financial future”. Your first appointment is at our cost.

My favourite number has always been seven for some reason. Perhaps because the house I grew up in was no. 7 Fairfax Road. Possibly because when I turned seven, it just seemed so much more grown up than six.

M

aybe it was the number of my “best friends” in primary school, who formed a group called “The Secret Seven” (with oblique acknowledgement to Enid

Blyton).

Getting older is something I haven’t thought about much for myself. I just see other people getting older. But when the Big 70 arrives, somehow you take notice and finally admit you are an adult but recognise you are still permitted to have fun (perhaps even more so) and that you can be outrageous if you want to be.

I’d like to mention a recent standout movie experience.

About Time is a 2013 British romantic comedy-drama film about a young man with the ability to time travel who tries to change his past in hopes of improving his future. His close relationship with his father is beautifully depicted, with humour and sensitivity. His deep love for his sister remains steadfast, in spite of her choices.

And the whole family’s gentleness and respect for their Uncle Desmond is a model in caring for older family members with a confused memory, ensuring they retain their dignity and independence.

The relationship between his father and mother has poignant moments that many older people can identify with too. Being comfortable with another person is reassuring, yet allows both to live independently.

In all, I came away chuckling and deeply moved by the characters in the movie and the underlying family values of love and mutual care and stoicism.

The film was written and directed by Richard Curtis, who is well known for his films Love Actually, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill, Bridget Jones’s Diary, The Boat that Rocked and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.

Richard Curtis is also known for the drama War Horse (2011), and for having co-written the hit

sitcoms Blackadder, Mr. Bean, and The Vicar of Dibley.

I can hear lots of readers nodding their heads at this list of credits and reaching for the remote control. You won’t be disappointed. About Time stars Domhnall, Gleeson, Rachel McAdams and one of my total favourites, Bill Nighy, who exemplifies the very essence of creative ageing.

For the past seven years (there I go again), I have been a member of the NSW Ministerial Council on Ageing (MACA) and I have been privileged to share my advocacy for creative ageing with my colleagues.

One of the key outcomes from my time on the MACA is the development of annual Media Awards to recognise journalists, reporters, photographers and media organisations that portray older people in a positive way.

Established in 2016, the MACA Media Awards seek to challenge negative stereotypes about older people by highlighting examples of balanced and realistic media reporting about older people.

Simply put, the Awards program aims to improve public perceptions of older people and reduce ageist attitudes by showing there is more to ageing than becoming old!

Over 100 nominations were received for the awards last year. Nominations are open now for the 2019 MACA Media Awards. There are five categories. News, Current Affairs, Lifestyle and Health, Advertising, Images. Judging is based on originality and creativity and presenting a realistic and balanced portrayal of ageing.

Nominations can come from print media (newspapers, magazines, articles), broadcast (television and radio) and the internet (blogs, websites, YouTube videos).

To nominate visit: https://nswcommunities. smartygrants.com.au/mediaawards2019 Nominations for 2019 close on 31st August, and winners announced in October. It’s a great way to wave the flag for older people and create positive change in media reporting.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 95

Land ahoy!

Over the last couple of months, we have been looking into median sale prices for houses and units in parts of the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. Now it’s time to look at land prices.

Between 2009 and 2013 there was an average of about 21 lots sold per annum in Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills combined. In the five years since, the numbers have rocketed up to an average of 67 per annum, following the release of some new coastal estates.

The increase in sales numbers was accompanied by increases in land values. Between 2009 and 2014, prices were somewhat stable, with an average price of about $217,000, but this rose to $286,000 in 2015, $331,000 in 2016 and $318,000 in 2017, before levelling out at around $313,000 in 2018. Part of the levelling out was due to most of the high-value coastal land being sold, and some of the more "affordable" lots away from the coast were starting to sell.

Compared to the Port Macquarie-Hastings median land price of $240,000, it seems coastal is king - but you already knew that.

Mark Twain said, "Buy land; they're not making it anymore" and recent increases in land prices in Lake Cathie-Bonny Hills support that statement.

106 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

FAMILIES play a vital role in the lives of children and also the community. During National Families Week, from May 15 - 21, families are encouraged to celebrate the meaning of family and to make the most of family life.

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he enduring theme celebrate National Families Week - Australia's "Stronger Families, stronger annual celebration of families. In 2018, over Communities" highlights the 125,000 people participated in National important role that families Families Week registered events around play in our communities and Australia, illustrating the importance of that community wellbeing is families within the community. enhanced by family wellbeing.

National Families Week is timed to coincide National Families Week is a time to think with the United Nations International Day of about what individuals and organisations can Families on May 15. do in their local area to This day is observed enhance the wellbeing by the United Nations of children and families to mark the importance and to make all families that the international You may like to take an extra 15 stronger. community places on minutes a day to talk, listen It is also an families as the most and connect within opportunity to fundamental units of your family, discuss encourage families society, as well as to as a family things that to engage with and show concern about make your family strong strengthen their and things that can be their situation in many communities. worked on, have a family parts of the world.

Dr Brian Babington, movie marathon or spend some Organisations, schools, chief executive officer quality time together. councils, companies at Families Australia, and individuals are said, "Families are the invited to participate in most important building National Families Week. block of communities, societies and nations.

You could celebrate with your family, make I believe strongly that we need to think more contact with your extended family and friends about the value of families and do more to or share in the enjoyment of family activities support our and others' families, whatever within the wider community. form they take.

"What does your family mean to you?

What do you give to and get from your family? At times family life can undoubtedly be challenging, but families are the best places to share and to be understood.

National Families Week is a great opportunity to pause and take stock of how we can all work for greater family wellbeing."

Each year, over one hundred thousand people and hundreds of organisations

You may like to take an extra 15 minutes a day to talk, listen and connect within your family, discuss as a family things that make your family strong and things that can be worked on, have a family movie marathon or spend some quality time together.

More information can be found at nfw.org.au - organisations can register their event on the website, and you will also find resources and ideas to help you celebrate.

BRIAN OSWELL "I didn’t actually feel any fear during the course of an emergency. I was just too busy solving the problem and getting the aircraft down safely. It was only after I’d landed that the shakes began!"

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his was how Brian described his feelings when relating one of the systems failures in the undercarriage of an aircraft he was flying.

Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of chatting with Brian Oswell - pilot, about war aviation history.

Brian, you say you always loved the idea of flying. Tell us more …

I was too young for WWII, but was given an opportunity to gain my flying qualifications when the government needed combat pilots with the commencement of the "Malay Emergency" in the 1950s.

The Malay Emergency arose when three rubber plantation managers were murdered by Communist guerrillas. Australia immediately joined with Great Britain to quell the problem and keep the important supply of rubber moving.

I trained as a bomber pilot, and as a 21-yearold was sent to Tengah Air Base in Singapore, where I remained for nine months. I was flying the Avro Lincoln heavy bomber, derived from the famous WWII Lancaster. I and the rest of my squadron would fly up to a seven hour round trip from Tengah Air Base to the "target" zone not far from the now Malaysian/ Thai border, where we would drop our bombs on to guerrilla positions, before returning to Singapore.

Once back in Australia, you continued a long aviation career with Qantas and then finally as a full-time flying instructor for many years. Now, at a spritely 87 years old, the passion for all things aviation still burns strongly within you, Brian.

It does, Chrissy. With ANZAC day coming soon, I feel a renewed enthusiasm to highlight

the contribution of the airmen and women of the Airforce. I want to make everyone aware of the pilots who frequently faced enemy fighters, walls of flak and atrocious weather with marginal training and experience, whilst often flying inferior aircraft.

Of ground staff who toiled day and night to repair, service and arm the aircraft ready for their next flight. Ground personnel were often attacked by the enemy with bombs and strafing, so defence crews were also imperative to operations, but often forgotten. Many lost their lives, suffered horrific wounds, or spent years in POW camps.

You are in the process of setting up a fascinating and very detailed display of aviation history. Where and when will this be displayed?

The display will be at the Hastings District Flying Club at Port Macquarie Airport. This can be viewed by the public over the weekend of April 27 and 28 from 10am to 2pm. Some of the display will include D-Day Operation Overlord, the 13,000 aircraft involved in D-Day, as well as looking at WWI aircraft. Ultimately, I want to contribute to an aviation museum in Port Macquarie.

In the meantime, you are putting together an "Aviation Interest Group", which is open for anyone to join.

It is. The interest group could cover the amazing men and women pioneers, learning to fly, balloons, dirigibles, parachutes, gliders, airlines, charters, airforce life, ultralights and anything else that involves us being up in the air.

Contact: Brian Oswell 0439 342 022 or email brianoswell@yahoo.com.au for more information.

Thanks Brian.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 107

focus_tech

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

TECH U P C O M I N G

for 2019

Tech Head

A

2019 is an exciting time for tech, as we look at some of the more interesting and left of centre tech displayed at the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show.

LG SIGNATURE OLED TV R THE HALO SPORT 2

P

robably one of, if not the coolest, televisions on the planet. I admit walking into a house with a huge TV sitting front and centre in the living room like a black hole makes me cringe a little; I love a good TV, but find them a bit of an eyesore! But, LG has done something completely insane with its first rolling screen ...

Yes, I said a rolling screen! It does this by rolling up like a rug as it slides down into its cabinet.

The engineering in this is a technical marvel, as it’s an OLED panel powered with the most up

108 Greater Port Macquarie focus

to date tech on the market. My first thought was, how did they bend the speakers? But they are actually placed within the cabinet, which left me with my second question; what if you don’t like the aesthetic of the cabinet? Well, I think that’s a future me problem, because if by some miracle I could afford this amazing piece of tech (my guess is a five figure price tag) I’d be buying it just out of cool factor alone! Now, if you’re like me and can’t stand black holes on walls, be sure to check out Samsung’s “The Frame” TV as another alternative.

T

his one had me very intrigued and equally sceptical. Have you ever tried to learn something new, like play an instrument or refine skills in a sport, and you find the learning process longer than you would like? Halo Neuroscience has come up with its second iteration of headphones, which stimulate your neurons through electric pulses to increase the chance of two firing together and creating new pathways in the brain, creating a level of higher learning to improve motor skills.

So, they are saying by wearing these headphones 20 minutes before a task, it stimulates your brain into a hyper learning state. Will this work? Well, I’m not entirely sure, but at the price of “Beats” you are getting a great pair of headphones and the slight possibility of higher learning.

LG HOMEBREW

nother by LG! The Nespresso machine has revolutionised how we drink coffee at home, but what if I was to tell you that someone at LG has run with that idea and added beer? So, just like the Nespresso capsule machine you load your favourite drop, and two weeks later you have five litres of your own home brewed beer. Now, if that’s not good enough for you, this thing actually cleans itself - and anything that cleans itself is something I can get behind!

Greater Port Macquarie

Greater Port Macquarie focus 109

focusAbode.

Your kitchen is the heart of the home. Visitors and family all gather there, and it’s important to make this space practical and visually pleasing.

Concept Kitchens (CK) offer a wholistic kitchen service from ideas through to completion, including all associated trade work.

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K are experts in kitchen design and specialise in customer satisfaction. CK’s quality workmanship reflects their passion, making your kitchen suit you and your home.

About Concept Kitchens (CK) Concept Kitchens is an innovative business specialising in customised joinery solutions for your home. CK can organise your entire kitchen from start to finish, be it in a new home or a complete renovation. We have a team of qualified tradespeople who

110 Greater Port Macquarie focus

consistently work together, transforming our customers' concepts into reality. Our expertise is simply in ensuring the joinery in your home reflects your desired outcome. Whether it be a kitchen, vanity, walk in wardrobe, office or built in storage space, we can help you achieve the transformation that you deserve.

Combining the experience of skilled joiners and the use of sophisticated computer systems, CNC machines and our very own 2 pac polyurethane painting process, our end-to-end quality control process means that unlike many kitchen companies, we do not

rely on third party manufacturers. It's our local factory, employing local people, that allows you assurance that only top quality is delivered to your door. The superior level of craftmanship is from design and manufacturing through to the final kitchen installation. Our designers are up to date with the latest trends and products that are available and pride themselves on their ability to use them creatively.

Here at Concept Kitchens we use only the best materials and suppliers. It’s our long-term relationships with trade suppliers that allows us to build long lasting and outstanding quality

kitchens and joinery.

What does CK specialise in?

CK specialise in new kitchens, renovations and the overall design of your space, whatever that may be. As one of the more trusted companies in Port Macquarie, CK can guarantee kitchens that not only meet your needs, but are also up to industry standards as well. Our exceptional customer service makes us a wise choice for builders and renovators alike.

Everyone has different tastes and requirements, and the diligence of our

focusAbode.

designers ensure that our work is customised to your concepts and dreams. We tailor our designs to your preferences and deliver an individualised finished product.

Tell us about your factory …

After we design your kitchen, the required joinery will be custom manufactured in our very own factory. Our factory is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and employs superior tradespeople, who combine to deliver exceptional quality joinery. At CK, from showroom to factory you are always dealing with professional, outstanding tradespeople who know and understand their profession explicitly. We strive to employ the best of the best in tradespeople, and we never settle for mediocrity.

All kitchen projects are managed internally by our dedicated team of kitchen designers, production and project managers, and

installers. This enables us to take the stress and hassle out of your build by us doing it all for you!

There is no need to restrict yourself to standardised sizes and colour selections; CK offer a full range of colours and options, from the kickboard through to the finishing touches of handles and benchtop selections. Our qualified tradespeople will build your cabinetry to special order.

Your kitchen will be made from only the highest quality materials. We adhere to strict quality manufacturing standards, and our accuracy and level of workmanship is second to none.

By retaining full quality control throughout your entire project, a CK kitchen certainly does equal perfection!

Why is a kitchen an integral part of any home?

We believe that the kitchen is the heart of the home. A space where families and friends gather and share stories over food is essential in unifying and strengthening relationships.

Ensuring that this space is functional, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing is the primary goal of all staff at CK. We realise that in our changing world, the importance of spaces within our home that promote togetherness are essential, and it is with great respect, diligence and honour that we are blessed to help people realise their concepts and dreams in this way.

Tell us about your Design Service …

At CK, we offer an in-home design service, where the whole mood of the home is considered in establishing a functional and effective kitchen or joinery design. We have a solution for you, whether you have your own ideas in mind, or you’re looking for some fresh,

cutting-edge designers to help conceive those ideas with you.

This personalised service, combined with our convenient showroom, makes the transformation of your kitchen a delightful experience. Once the concept has been made, we then follow through with our famous high-quality building and installation, to take those concepts from your mind, and make them a reality. We pride ourselves on open communication from beginning to end, guaranteeing our clients are fully informed and involved in their rewarding project.

CK create stunning, functional designs which stand the test of time.

How can we contact you?

Drop into our showroom at 3/175 Lake Road in Port Macquarie, or contact us on 6581 3544 to book a FREE in home design consultation.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 111

BY

MICHAEL

ADENDORFF

focus_contributor

JULIE HO FROM PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE

LivingininParadise Paradise at Wattlebird Living Wattlebird

Bypass Impacts and Opportunities

landcare. update

As most of us are aware, the NSW Government has announced that they and the Australian Government are funding the Coffs Harbour bypass project. The announcement further states the project seeks to improve connectivity, Weed Swap road transport efficiency and safety for local and interstate motorists.

Construction on the bypass is due to commence in 2020.

IY

May 26 is Landcare’s Weed Swap day. Your chance to bring beautiful free native n my experience, the home environmental, Acquisition Noticeplants! is issued. This formal

social and other impacts of a major notice will state the intention to acquire the project ou such as the Coffs Harbour property afterenvironment. a certain time period. no your home They bringIfwildlife can swap three weeds for city bypass can be massive.

The purchase can be negotiated before the three native plants per houseto your garden, including nature’s pestend conimpactshold. range from immediate to of the notice period, the legal Just bring your before and trollers like birds, lizards, frogsand andequitable beneficial long term. Theyafter can and do include direct interests photos. insects. in the property are converted impacts of construction and works around through a legal process to an entitlement to When you “trade in” a weed, Choosing them to replace weeds in your thewe project on residents property closer to compensation. will match its form,ofe.g. we’ll replace a garden can make a real difference. The less theweed site of the(Cocos new road and related works. tree palm) with a native BanIt is essential that including those who weeds there are in you, gardens, the less chance galow direct palm tree.

For can an Ochna bush (Mickey Those impacts take the form of may notweed suspect to behave impacted, consider those species to escape into bushMouse plant) you can get a Lillypilly bush, compulsory acquisitions, where properties your carefully and establish how landposition and farmland. and so on. are acquired to allow the and businesses the That’s projectwhy might you. To that end, theimpact Weed Swap is being sponTo to download of can the also weeds wethe are tar- further project proceed.a list They take details about the project are available sored by Landcare Australia, through crowd geting, you can go to www.pmhc.nsw.gov. form of noise, pollution online and also for funding. au/Services/Environment/Bushland/Landcare and the like. Anyone inspection in the CBD Now, you might ask why some garden the left may side is who On is affected bethe list of weeds (as at 11A Park Avenue plants are called weeds. well astotheir scientific names), and on the entitled compensation, Also,and Put simply, weeds Coffs don’t Harbour. belong here, So, yes, the old highway right side listed the native plants you will including forare works to seek legal advice, if they are an expensive nuisance. can be changed, to receive. insulate properties, you establish that you are plants introduced for decoration, beautified, andThey become If you need to make sure which plants in double glaze windows, be affected by sometimes or by people nostalgic a have newahub within our for food,might your garden are on the weed list, look replace evaporative the project. for the plants of their homeland. community. the pictureswith in the Master Weed Wackers air at conditioning are also Unfortunately, someThere introduced plants “esManual. It’sand on to our website: refrigerated, news caped” from gardensgood by way of impacts wind, water, www.landcareportmac.com.au build privacy screens the project. animals and carelessof humans.

They Some began to Now you’ll be are ready to take photos for properties that of those impacts will infest and damage bushland and farms. showing eachissues weedmay “before”.

Thentoremove affected.

Other be harder follow when the existing road will become Vine weeds like Asparagus Fern overrun that weed (into your green bin) and take identify in advance, such as the impact of an a bushland, local road.and So, hurt effectively oldtheir roadspines. will animalsthe with “after” photo of the vacant site that’s ready headlights at night.

Noise impacts that also become a local community asset.

We can The water weed, Taro, blocks creeks and for your plant from the Weed Swap. affect a number of properties may be even already startlocal dreaming andGlory planning that can cause flooding.

Lily isfor very Each Landcare plant comes with a label more difficult to gauge in advance. outcome, I believe.

So, yes, the old highway telling you how to care for it, and to help you poisonous.

In the case of an acquisition, an RMS can Some be changed, beautified, and become weeds change a whole ecosystem, remember its name. There’s even more detail representative will first attempt to contact the a by new hub within our community.

What stealing water, nutrients, light and space and pictures of the native plants - flowers owners and tenants of properties affected by is from now the crass and ugly can bebelong a community native plants that there. and fruit - on our website, under “Plant acquisition by door knocking in your area. In asset.

Let’s try to evict weeds, so our land returns Profiles”. this initial conversation, information would be Research shows that bypass have to health and productivity.

Youprojects can help by Our native plants are easy to care for, so provided about the project, as well as general positive outcomes for communities, and I joining in the Landcare Weed Swap. you save time and money. Grown in Port information about the acquisition process. holdItmuch willcorner be soof forLord ourand muchwill behope heldthat at the Hill Macquarie, these seedlings are already acFormally, the first step in the compulsory loved Coffs Harbour.

Street, Port Macquarie, from 10am to 1pm. climatised - unlike the ones from big stores, process is that a so-called Proposed Michael Adendorff.

See you there! that were grown far away.

Native plants are attractive and improve 112 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Julie Ho.

Build Your Dream Home - Small Acreage Build Your Dream Home - Small Acreage Right Near The Coast Right Near The Coast Just a short 10-minute drive from Nambucca Just a short 10-minute drive from Nambucca Heads you will find 24 Lifestyle Acreages from Heads you will find 24 Lifestyle Acreages from $230,000.00 in the tranquil Wattlebird Estate. $242,500.00 in the tranquil Wattlebird Estate.

Having close proximity to absolutely stunning Having close proximity to absolutely stunning pristine beaches, the estate is ideal if you like pristine beaches, the estate is ideal if you like boating, fishing, water skiing and of course, boating, fishing, water skiing and of course, there is golf, peace and quiet, good food and there is golf, peace and quiet, good food and friendly people in its surrounds. Wattlebird friendly people in its surrounds. Wattlebird EsEstate is truly a paradise. Secure affordable land tate is truly a paradise. Secure affordable land now and experience a country lifestyle that now and experience a country lifestyle that provides endless opportunities … micro-agriculprovides endless opportunities … micro-agriture, chooks and space for a horse for the kids. culture, chooks and space for a horse for the Location and Lifestyle kids.

The Nambucca Valley has Australia’s best Location and Lifestyle average temperatures, a unique scenic location The Nambucca Valley has Australia’s best with a welcoming community, lovely quiet average temperatures, a unique scenic location towns with all the amenities and great medical with a welcoming community, lovely quiet towns with all the amenities and great medical

facilities, including a newly announced hospital facilities, including a newly announced hospital coming and a good choice of schools available coming and a good choice of schools available in Nambucca Heads, Macksville and Bowraville. in Nambucca Heads, Macksville and Bowraville.

Wattlebird Estate is ideal for people looking for Wattlebird Estate is ideal for people looking for a break from suburbia and who want to enjoy abeing breakoutdoors, from suburbia andbuying who want to enjoy without a second job. being outdoors, without buying a second job.

Blocks available range from large one (1) hectBlocks range large one (1) hectare lotsavailable (2.4 acres), to from the largest block Lot are lots (2.4 acres), to the largest block Lot 12 being a huge 9.37 acres … more than 12 beingspace a huge … home, more than enough for9.37 youracres dream a chook pen, space for for theyour kids dream to play,home, plus all have enough space a chook good undulating, well-drained productive pen, space for the kids to play, plus all havesoils to grow fruit treeswell-drained in a beautiful piece of the good undulating, productive soils country. to grow fruit trees in a beautiful piece of the Get Help Choosing the Right Block for Your country.

Needs Get Help Choosing the Right Block for To help get the dream of owning your very own Your Needs acreage, contact the sales agent Paul To help get the dream of owning your very Loughland on 0402 639 265 or 1800 699 560. own acreage, contact the sales agent Paul Loughland on 0402 639 265 or 1800 699 560.

Coffs Coast focus 77

McGrath

A

Port Macquarie

There are good selling agents and there are great selling agents but one thing is a certainty, every great selling agent needs the backing of a first-class team and a fully-researched, industryleading marketing infrastructure; that’s a truly unbeatable formula for outstanding selling success.

t McGrath we have great selling agents, each should be exposed to the highest possible number of potential one the member of an elite and proactive buyers. As is the case with auction, the more people interested team. McGrath agents are experienced, in a particular property, the greater the prospects for achieving a honest, highly-trained and professional. They premium price. attend regular industry Just one of McGrath’s many unique refreshers, love what marketing innovations; the brand’s they do and achieve sales results which “pooled” database currently holds details consistently set new benchmarks for of a staggering 320,000 qualified buyers, streets, areas, regions or beyond. registered as looking for properties Digital technology at its very But they don’t do it alone. The McGrath throughout Australia. This number far finest, created by McGrath to network is recognised for its strategic exceeds competing agents' local databases. assist in the development of good presentation and innovative marketing, Modern technology records the details selling agents into great selling constantly introducing new formats and of each new listing and then initiates agents, with each agent opportunities to what was previously an almost instantaneous matching and dedicated to exceeding regarded as a relatively slow-moving automated notification program, with even the highest industry, establishing unique selling tools brochures provided to potential database expectations of McGrath’s and forging new pathways towards even buyers and details promptly relayed for wonderful clients. greater successes. Today, each and every McGrath’s great selling agents to pursue. home listed by our great selling agents Digital technology at its very finest, draws benefit from McGrath’s specialised created by McGrath to assist in the innovation and from the brand’s exclusive development of good selling agents into selling strategies. great selling agents, with each agent dedicated to exceeding even It’s not simply about finding a buyer but about maximising the the highest expectations of McGrath’s wonderful clients. client’s return at sale and to achieve this, each and every home Designed to attract buyers and to maximise interest, this

highly-effective broadcast concept is exclusive to McGrath and with almost 60% of local McGrath home sales currently being purchased by relatively affluent “out-of-town” buyers, it’s proved itself time and time again.

Great selling agents recognise the significant importance of great presentation. Often there’s just one fleeting opportunity to achieve optimum impact, which is why all McGrath listings appear with the highest quality professional photography and copywriting. Exposure angles, composition, structure and formatting, all are extensively researched and predetermined for maximum effectiveness. Nothing is left to chance. Only the very best promotional and marketing expertise goes into homes when they are entrusted to professional selling agents at McGrath.

With every confidence in the strength, integrity and superior marketing technology provided by their brand and recognising that they have full support from an industry leading, highly trained back-office team, great McGrath agents are always confident to focus upon the job at hand, selling homes for premium returns; achieving a great result for each and every client.

It really costs no more to use the best. So if you’re thinking of selling your home, why not speak with your friendly McGrath agent today and discover not only a great leap in professionalism, but also a unique pathway to a market-leading result?

Greater Port Macquarie focus 113

focusinterview.

BEFORE

AFTER

Guiltfree garden Feeling guilty that you’re too busy to devote time to your garden? If things are looking a bit overgrown or neglected outdoors at your place, Kia Allen and her passionate team can help you landscape, prune, mulch, and plant your yard back into a blooming showpiece!

H

i Kia. What's your background in our area?

Like many who have “seen the light”, I relocated from Sydney’s Northern Beaches two and a half years ago. The climate here is amazing, and plants just thrive here also.

What led you to study horticulture?

It was a journey to horticulture, after early studies in Environmental Science, leading to work in the Queensland tourism industry - diving and adventure travel, retraining in Rehabilitation Studies after a career-changing knee injury, then a move to the corporate world for 17 years.

A redundancy allowed me to follow my passion and reconnect with gardening. Studying horticulture just felt like finding what I was always supposed to be doing.

Tell us a bit about your business - Guiltfree Gardening Solutions. What's the meaning behind the business' name?

Guiltfree Garden Solutions initially started eight years ago, when my daughter was in Kindy and I was on a corporate-career break.

After designing and landscaping two of my own home gardens, I worked for a large landscape supply company and also within their retail and production nurseries.

I started a gardening business with a few local Facebook ads, and soon business was “blooming”. My clients were primarily stayat-home mums and working families - I was constantly saying to them, “Don’t feel guilty that you don’t have the time or inclination to do the garden - that’s what I’m here to help with … and I love it!”

114 Greater Port Macquarie focus

In Port Macquarie our client-base has changed, now supporting many retirees who may be unable to garden as much as they used to, or who are busy travelling. But the conversation goes the same, regarding the feelings of guilt around neglected gardens.

What do you and your team members each specialise in within the business?

Currently we are a team of five, with varied backgrounds, including weed management, bush regeneration and production horticulture.

We have a very strong focus on providing balance between a client’s lifestyle and their garden.

In leading the team, my strengths lie in communicating with the homeowner to understand their needs and aspirations and to manage expectations, budgets and timelines.

My passions lie in the creative - reworking and renovating existing gardens. Perfectionistic tendencies lead to strong attention to detail in everything we do. My philosophy is to do things right the first time! I love shaping and topiary, I’m a bit of a weed-geek, and I don’t miss much - in terms of pest, disease and potential issues.

We work as a team to get through our busy schedule, that includes a full range of garden maintenance services, including clean-ups and makeovers available to suit all needs and budgets. We all specialise in weed control and management. Our motto is “Never walk past a weed; especially a weed in seed!”

Describe the work involved with the project featured in the photographs.

This was a wonderful job that really got our creative juices flowing. Whilst the general brief was for a white-themed contemporary-cottage garden to marry in with the home design, my

fabulous clients allowed freedom of expression.

The creation came from a clean palette after removing the existing lawn and “saving” ailing plants (agapanthus and gardenia) to be reworked and reused in this and other future onsite garden projects.

It became a labour of love, and I thrived in researching new planting options and the challenge of working with new materials.

We welded steel edges to tie in with Merbau decking and posts and to create a strong framework and shape to the garden. Symmetry became a critical design element. Now 15 months later, the garden has matured, and a drip-irrigation system has ensured survival during the past two harsh summers. It is a garden that I am very proud to have been a part of creating.

What are some of your tips for jobs that should be done at this time of year?

Autumn is a great time of year to get out into the garden. The cooler days make it a joy to work outdoors, and autumn is a fabulous time to do catch-up jobs around the garden.

It’s time to reduce watering, kill off moss on pathways and heavily shaded or poorly drained areas of lawns and garden and clean up excess leaf litter, especially at the base of muchloved ornamental plants or citrus, to reduce fungal issues and where garden pests may be harbouring.

There are a lot of garden pests around at the moment - such as scale, mealy bug, looper caterpillars and sawfly larvae. Eco-friendly fertilisers and sprays are the way to go, but we endeavour to improve the overall health of the plant to become more resilient. This includes amending soils, aeration and drainage, conditioning with manure and compost,

improving nutrition, reducing competition (i.e. grass, weeds) and then mulching for water retention and weed suppression. Fungal problems can be dealt with now, and sometimes prevention is better than the cure.

Tasks include targeting autumn and winter weeds in garden and turf, including spraying for Bindii and preparing for the autumn battle against armyworm and curl grub.

Autumn is a time to finish planting spring bulbs, repotting plants and/or refreshing the potting mix in potted plants. Remember to use a really good potting mix.

Whilst it is not the time to be doing heavypruning, maybe do some dead-heading of plants like hydrangea or “Bird of Paradise” and cut back deciduous vines as their leaves start to fall.

It is the perfect time to start preparing to transplant any evergreen shrubs (such as camellia, azalea, gardenia) that may need to be relocated. Good preparation and not rushing the process is key, and whenever possible I prefer to do it in two - three stages.

Like most passionate gardeners, my own garden is eclectic and a constant work-inprogress. Ironically, I feel guilty that I spend more time in other people’s gardens than my own!

Where can we find out more info?

I can be contacted via email: kia@guiltfreegardens.com.au or mobile 0419 294 249 or via Facebook - https://www. facebook.com/guiltfreegardens/ I am happy to do consultations and can work with clients to better understand their own gardens.

Thanks Kia. Interview: Jo Robinson.

104 Greater Port Macquarie focus

104 Greater Port Macquarie focus