Greater Port Macquarie Focus i166

The Enfield Tribe

September 2019//issue 166

R O T A R Y

HUMANITARIAN

2 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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

contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont info@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson jo@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

Welcome to the September issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

ADVERTISING SALES Chrissy Jones JP

I

chrissy@focusmag.com.au

SALES EXECUTIVE Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

SALES SUPPORT Claire Dunkley claire@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Phiranno Chuon phi@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Cristian Campano cristian@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHER Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au

COPY EDITING Rite ‘n’ Rong Media Services rnrmedia@bigpond.com

TRAVEL EDITOR Susie Boswell sunconsulting@ozemail.com.au

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

Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 62128786005. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2005-2019 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

FOCUS paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

WHAT’S ON I

02 6581 8888

t wasn’t too long ago that we interviewed Dr Ray Hodgson about his book launch for Heartbreak in the Himalayas - and after four more print runs, we’re proud to say the book is now listed as a best seller! Off the back of Dr Ray’s work in Nepal with Australians for Women’s Health, he was nominated to receive the Rotary Australia and New Zealand Humanitarian of the Year award. Ray will receive this prestigious award in September in Christchurch. We’ve chosen Ray to be the lead health professional for our cover and edition this month, to recognise him for his achievements. Well done, Ray. You can read all about him on page 6.

Recently we took a drive out to Wauchope to discover the unique and boutique hub of retail, health and beauty businesses that have

opened. As a destination, Wauchope shouldn’t be overlooked, and for locals looking to support small businesses - there are plenty in Wauchope to visit. We caught up with Penny, Anna, Jemma, Emma, and Natalie, who own local businesses in the town centre, and they showcased for us what they have.

inside the corporate marquee area.

We've not only covered the hot topics of health, lifestyle and business in this issue, but the arts have received their fair share of coverage as well!

This will be our 10th event for the fashions, and we hope that all punters will be dressed to impress the judges on the day.

In this issue you can meet: Melanie Hay, an artisan jeweller who designs and creates gorgeous eco-friendly jewellery; Robyn Cornale, a local artist heavily influenced by our beautiful seascapes; musos Angus Gill and James Bennett, who are achieving amazing things in their industry; and the handsome, very eloquent Duncan Ragg, who is playing Benedick in Bell Shakespeare's production of Much Ado About Nothing.

Entrants will be scouted from 12pm on the day, with the final taking place after race four

And this, readers, is really just the tip of the iceberg this month!

Promotions are now underway for the 2019 Port Macquarie Cup Carnival and with $490,000 in race prize money, it is set to be a huge event. FOCUS will again be there on the day to present the Fashions on the Field.

THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

CLIFF RICHARD & THE SHADOWS

DIRECT FROM THE USA

glasshouse.org.au

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Follow Glasshouse:

PLAN 11.

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GLASSHOUSE PORT org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie. $30 per platter Important Information: A facilit 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Members Macq y of Port • Must be pre ordered up until 72 hours prior to performance.

33.

FRIDAY 13 SEPTEMBER, 7.30PM

SATURDAY 21 SEPTEMBER, 7.30PM

SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER, 7.30PM

This concert will be a brand new programme of wonderful 1940’s music as well as hearing your favourite Glenn Miller hits. Featuring special guests the Broadway Swing Dancers.

60th Anniversary Tribute Concert. This show delivers a captivating live concert recreating the unforgettable sound of Cliff Richard & The Shadows.

Join over 100,000 film-lovers in more than 400 venues across 6 continents for the 22nd Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival!

GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY

Gallery closed on Mondays

FINAL WEEKS

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Pick up a copy of ‘Your Visit to Pre S how Plathe tters Glasshouse’ brochure Pre Show Platters

or visit glasshouse.org.au to find out more.

• • • •

Platters not available on the night under any circumstances.

Platter purchase only valid on the date of the show purchased for.

Available only for pre show, one hour prior to the performance, from the Glasshouse Encore Bar. Must exchange ticket to redeem platter and drinks.

Pre Show Platters must be claimed in full.

$35 per platter non-Members

uarieHastings Council

A facility of Port MacquarieHastings Council

YOUR VISIT YOU TO THE TO TH R VIS GLASSHOUSE E IT G LAS

S HOU

SE

13 JULY - 29 AUGUST ELSEWHERE: Travels through Syria,

27 JULY - 22 SEPTEMBER JOHN MAWURNDJUL: I AM THE OLD AND THE NEW

SATURDAY 31 AUGUST FILM SCREENING: MAWURNDJUL

Wendy Sharpe & Bernard Ollis

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

Session times: 10.15am, 11am, 11.45am, 12.30pm, 1.15pm, 2pm, 2.45pm

Iran, Egypt, Morocco and Central Asia Wendy Sharpe, Uzbekistan Scroll (detail), 2017, gouache on paper.

Image courtesy and © John Mawurndjul/Copyright Agency, 2019, photograph: Jacquie Manning.

Ross Family Studio

Free. Bookings required.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

contents Issue 166 - September 2019

focusinterviews

11

Paddling Festival.

feature a special

HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

59

Many of us have a connection with water … our oceans, rivers, wild rapids and rolling waves … If you’d like to experience adventure at the next level, don’t miss the upcoming Paddling Festival at Majestic Cinemas, Port Macquarie, on September 24.

13

Robyn Cornale.

Robyn Cornale is a local Visual Arts teacher and a lover of creating beautiful artworks that are immersed with colourful and expressive style. It is the creative realm where her passion has always lied, and our beautiful region offers up an array of inspiration.

16

the Usual

Suspects

10. WHAT’S ON for September

National Photographic Competition.

22. EAT local restaurants 27. OUT TO LUNCH with Susie Boswell 35. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri 36. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye

Are you a bit of a shutterbug? Do you have an interest in photography, and a message to share about healthy living?

45. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell 48. TOURISM with Janette Hyde 53. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall

49

75. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon 82. PORT CHAMBER UPDATE with Michael Mowle 106. LANDCARE with Julie Ho

Travel Diaries.

On every continent of the world, you’ll find experiences that cannot be recreated anywhere else. Abundant in natural beauty, rich in history and culture and full of adventure, Canada and Alaska are certainly no exception to this rule.

For local Kerrie, it was an easy decision to make Canada and Alaska her next travel destination.

4 Greater Port Macquarie focus

follow us on

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

Dr Hodgson Humanitarian of the Year

Dr Ray Hodgson has been recognised as Humanitarian of the Year by Rotary Zone 8 Australia and New Zealand, for his work with women and children in Nepal.

dr ray h

H

i Dr Ray. How did you feel when you heard about the award?

I was blown away - I had no idea this was coming.

Even though our energy is focused in Nepal, our work takes us to a number of trouble spots around the world, where we work alongside some wonderfully compassionate people. I feel delighted to be given this award, but part of me thinks a number of others deserve just as much recognition.

When we last spoke, you were about to launch your book - Heartbreak in the Himalayas. How has the book been received ... and are there copies still available to purchase?

I’m thrilled to say that Heartbreak in the Himalayas is selling exceptionally well. It’s now on to its fourth printing run, and it’s just made it to Number One on the Amazon Bestseller List.

Copies of the book are available at Bookface in Port Macquarie, or on our website at www.A4WH.org The first part has also just been released as an eBook.

It’s great for Heartbreak to be doing so well, because all profits from the sales fund the construction of our Mothers and Babies Hospital in Nepal. But there’s another plus to the success of the book: we’re getting the word out there of the appalling state of health in women and their babies in Nepal. These desperate people don’t have any means to fix their problems, and they don’t have a voice. We have both of these. And the more of us who learn of the plight of these people, the greater the chance we can end their suffering.

How's the Mothers and Babies Hospital you're involved with constructing in Dolakha, Nepal progressing?

We’re not far away from the start of construction of our Mothers and Babies Hospital. As we speak, the road into the hospital is being excavated. Tenders for the hospital construction will be announced in October, and we expect work on the hospital itself will begin later this year.

6 Greater Port Macquarie focus

We’ve trained up local Nepalese our work. The whole top floor of doctors and nurses and midwives. our hospital will be entirely devoted These desperate people don’t We’ve got pathology staff, to teaching. Our aim is to create a have any means to fix technicians, hospital cleaning staff hospital that can eventually work their problems, and they and administrators. We’re all ready independently, without regular input don’t have a voice. We to go with the hospital - it’s just from us. Ultimately, when we discuss have both of these. And the that we don’t have a building to our hospital project, we want to more of us who learn of the plight put them in yet. be able to say that our work has of these people, the greater the We need $500,000 to build been so successful, that we’ve done chance we can end their suffering. the hospital. To date, we’ve ourselves out of a job! raised just over $380,000. And, How can FOCUS readers assist we’re pushing on as hard as we you with the vital work you're can to raise the last $120,000. doing ... are we able to make a Once we’ve done this and the hospital is built, Rotary donation, and do you need volunteers to help on the International has pledged to fully fit out the hospital ground in Nepal? with all equipment. Our own club here in Port Macquarie We still need lots of support for our Mothers and Rotary has been magnificent in their support for our Babies Hospital. It’s a competitive world out there, project. the charity world - we understand that. And there’s a What plans do you have for the rest of this year healthy cynicism about donations and where your money especially related to your humanitarian work? actually goes. With our organisation, AUSTRALIANS FOR It’s going to be a very full rest of the year. Later this WOMEN’S HEALTH, every single cent that’s donated goes month I’ll be off to New Zealand and United States to directly to Nepal and our hospital project - donations do promote the book in those two countries. Soon after not contribute to administrative or any other overhead that, it’s back to Nepal for another surgical camp, where costs. (These expenses are all covered from profits from we’ll be training more Nepalese doctors and nurses in the Port Macquarie Ultrasound.) treatment of severe genital prolapse. On this trip we’ll be Visiting www.A4WH.org will let you know how you can taking with us some of the techniques we use to train help, either with a donation or as a potential volunteer. our own medical students at our Clinical School in Port Buying a book will help us achieve our dream. And even Macquarie. the smallest donation will help us even more.

Training local medical staff in Nepal is a major focus of Thanks Dr Ray.

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 7

focusinterview.

Success comes slowly, with intent and a lot of hard work. These kids spend more time in the water than out and have each become great young surfers in their own right, proving nothing is impossible if you work hard and believe in yourself.

T

hese young surfers recently competed in the NSW State Surfing Titles, doing our region proud, and we sat down to find out a little more about this salty mob.

Please introduce yourselves ...

I’m Kayle, the only boy. I’m nearly 15 and started surfing just over 11 years ago ... Yep, falling in love with it at age three and a half.

I’m Imojen; I’m 12. I started at age five, joining lessons or jumping on the surfboards whenever conditions let me. I fell in love with it and joined the soul surfing kids lessons when I could and have not stopped since.

Hi, I’m Avalon. After having both Mum and Dad, my biggest sister Tahli, Kayle and Imojen all out there from my first memories, it was only a matter of time before I joined them. I am now 10 and started also at five properly and can now go out the back with them on most days they do.

Congratulations to you all for competing and representing our region in the State Championships. How did the competition go?

Kayle: Thanks Claire. The week in Coffs for the state titles was extremely enjoyable. The competition as usual was of a high standard, and it was great to get through my first couple of rounds. On the second last day of competition, the surf was extremely small, but contestable nonetheless. My quarter final offered up one wave that was over knee high, and unfortunately I didn't get it. It was tough to lose by just 0.3 of a point, but that’s surfing competitions. I broke down my weak points and turned it into a learning experience, which I feel is a vital thing to do. Overall, the surf was fun, the comp was good, and the week was worthwhile!

Imojen: This year I learnt a lot, but I didn’t go as well as I could, and I knew I could have done better. I got knocked out in the quarter 8 Greater Port Macquarie focus

final after a difficult heat in challenging surf.

Kayle: Surfing has always been about Although my competition side of things didn't having fun and enjoying the ocean, although go to plan, I still enjoyed the weekend seeing I became more interested in the comp side friends - and the vibe was awesome. of things at around 10. It has always been Avalon: This year was my first time doing an opportunity to test your skills and mental Regionals and State. I had no expectations at strength. I find now that to enjoy surfing for all. My goal this year was to have the most what it is, is an important thing to do, and fun! I sure made my to be able to relax and goal, but got knocked push your own limits and out in the repechage, achieve your own goals but I guess I made my can be more rewarding ONE OF THE MOST goal, so I am very happy. than other sides of IMPORTANT PARTS ABOUT Competition surfing surfing.

IT IS TO BE ABLE TO WALK is very different to Imojen: I started AWAY WITH SOMETHING free surfing. What doing local boardriders TO WORK ON. THIS COMP hve been the biggest at the age of about HAS GIVEN ME A CHANCE lessons learnt this year seven. From there, I TO FIGURE OUT THAT from these contests? realised I could take it HEAT STRATEGY AND WAVE Kayle: Competition further and at the age SELECTION IS SOMETHING I surfing is a sport where of about eight, I did NEED TO WORK ON. you are guaranteed my first big comp (as to lose more than you my brother, Kayle was win. One of the most also doing them). After important parts about I placed second in that, it is to be able to walk away with something I continued doing comps and haven't really to work on. This comp has given me a chance stopped. I love doing comps, but they can be to figure out that heat strategy, and wave very nerve racking and stressful - unlike free selection is something I need to work on. surfing, as you have no pressure and can try Imojen: The biggest things I have learnt new things. So, I love doing them both, but I this year from surfing competitions are not to think I am more drawn to free surfing, unless get nervous before I go in the water, as I surf I am doing really well in a competition - then better without nerves, not to pick bad waves, that is the best feeling ever! and to just enjoy it!

Avalon: I definitely enjoy free surfing more, Avalon: The biggest thing I have learnt is because you are not under pressure and you that it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, just can just enjoy the ocean more. I still think enjoy it as much as you can. I have also learnt comps are good, because you can challenge to be patient and wait for the right wave, yourself and gain confidence. instead of panicking and just catching any What is your earliest surfing memory? wave you can, because panicking is the worst Kayle: I started surfing at around three thing to do. and a half years old, and at first it was just When did surfing go from just having fun something I did, I guess, so I didn't pay much to more of a competitive sport, and which attention to that. I do remember when I was side are you drawn to more: free surfing about six - seven, I was showing my mates or competition? how to turn, although I wasn't much better

than them at the time. It is a good moment to look back on!

Imojen: I don't remember much of my surfing history, as it began over half my life ago, but I have this one memory when I was about five. I was riding my brand new first ever fibreglass surfboard that I had just gotten for my birthday out at Flynns Beach. My dad was out with me helping me get into the small right handers. I remember the wave he pushed me on, because it was one of the first waves I had ever tried to turn on; I remember being so stoked!

Avalon: I am still quite young, so don’t have that many long memories, but I remember when I used to be so scared to even catch a wave. I am so happy I got over my fear, because I absolutely love surfing now - and I never want to forget surfing.

Outside of surfing, what are your other interests?

Kayle: Surfing has been the only thing that I have loved since a little kid, and I think that is going to continue. As I become more aware of our environmental footprint and our climate emergency, I feel that it is important to change our political systems and help bring back our clean, glorious world that we once had many, many years ago. Change in political views and helping those across Australia who don't get to live a coastal, privileged life are two of the other things I am drawn to.

Imojen: My main sport focus and interest is surfing, but I do like to SmoothStar.

Other than that, I enjoy taking care of the environment, picking up rubbish and doing my part to give back to the ocean, as it gives me so much happiness!

Avalon: I used to do gymnastics, but I really just want to focus and work on my surfing skills. I now do drama at Encore Studios in Port Macquarie, and I really love it! I also love cleaning up our community.

Thanks guys.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 9

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

S E P T E M B E R

2

The Women's Adventure Film Tour

The Women's Adventure Film Tour presented by Paddy Pallin is back for its third season! This is Australia’s original women’s adventure film tour, created by Adventure Entertainment in partnership with She Went Wild.

This short film festival is a celebration of the inspiring women around who are doing extraordinary things in the name of adventure.

This year’s lineup features an all-star cast of Australian athletes, including cliff diver Rhiannan Iffland, climber Angie Scarth-Johnson, trail runner Jacqui Bell and many more, including women in snow sports, mountaineering and mountain biking.

When Monday 2nd September - 6:30pm - 9:30pm.

Where Majestic Cinema Port Macquarie.

Contact 0413 183 804. team@adventureentertainment.com www.womensadventurefilmtour.com/australia

2

SALSA Dance Lessons

Where Settlers Inn Hotel, 101 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie.

When Next four weeks beginners (Cuban style).

Block commencing 2nd September - Monday nights, 7:30pm - 8:30pm.

Cost $50 per person, payable up front (includes four weeks of lessons and one x drink voucher for use the first night - student discount $5).

Lessons held in a private function room.

Make a night of it, learn something new, meet new people, have some fun. Bring your friends - especially the men! Bring the kids and stay for a drink and dinner!

Arrive early for registrations, as limited spaces are available.

More venue information visit www.settlersinn.com.au

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2 0 1 9

7

14

Made Deadly 2019

Open Mic Session - Port Macquarie - Hosted by Saltwater Freshwater Arts. Saltwater Freshwater has partnered with music development organisation Grow the Music to run SEVEN open-mic sessions for Aboriginal artists, musicians, soloists and bands living in the Gumbaynggirr, Dhanggatti, Worimi and Biripi nations.

When Saturday 14 September.

Where Birpai LALC 14 Ashton Street, Port Macquarie.

15

Port Golf Poker Nights

Saturday, September 7,14, 21, 28, 6:30pm - 10:30pm. $11 entry.

Test your poker face amongst friends at the Port Golf Club Poker nights.

Port Macquarie Golf Club, Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie.

Telephone: (02) 6582 0409.

Camden Haven Country Music

12

2019 Camp Quality Giggle Ball

Camp Quality’s Giggle Ball Port Macquarie will be a huge night of celebration, bringing the community together at one memorable event to giggle, party and give, all to help Camp Quality give Australian children impacted by cancer every opportunity to thrive. The night will be filled with FUN, including; a live auction, raffles and balloon prizes on the night, plus live entertainment from Chill Factor. This event is not to be missed!

Theme A touch of colour. Where Port Panthers.

Over 18 event - ticket price includes booking fee.

When Saturday 12th October - doors 6pm.

Event starts 6:30pm. Tickets $80.

A live country performance every third Sunday of the month to assist in raising funds for local charities. For the month of September there is an open mic and band, as well as guest artist Dane Lefranc. Proceeds for September go to Laurieton Men's Shed.

When Sunday 15th September, 11am - 4pm.

Entry Gold coin donation. Where Laurieton United Services Club, 2 Seymour Street, Laurieton.

Contact (02) 6559 9110 - contact@laurietonclub.com.au

21

Learn To Low N Slow BBQ

Beef brisket, chicken wings and lamb shoulder BBQ masterclass with multiple award winning barbecue pitmaster Adam Roberts. Great gift idea for Father’s Day. Two hour class - Ribs cookbook included in price - tasting samples - hosted by Cue Deli.

Tickets Only $99pp - limited tickets.

Bookings in store at Cue Deli or via adam@ausbbq.com.au When Saturday, September 21, 3pm - 5pm.

Where Barbeques Galore, 30 Central Rd, Port Macquarie.

focusinterview.

Many of us have a connection with water … our oceans, rivers, wild rapids and rolling waves … IF YOU’D LIKE TO EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE AT THE NEXT LEVEL, DON’T MISS THE UPCOMING PADDLING FESTIVAL AT MAJESTIC CINEMAS, CINEMAS Port Macquarie, on September 24.

S

hane Downey, Tour Manager for The Paddling Festival, explains why this amazing showcase of short films has been brought to Australia for the first time by Adventure Entertainment …

Hi Shane. Share a little bit with us about Adventure Entertainment and its role in bringing action and excitement to Australian audiences ...

Adventure Entertainment specialises in the distribution of adventure films and events.

Our mission is to inspire people to get out and adventure via world-class outdoor adventure film content and events.

Adventure Entertainment distributes worldclass film content that is guaranteed to leave you breathless and inspired. Our experience includes distribution of feature films such as the Academy Award-winning FREE SOLO and worldrenowned annual film tours and festivals such as WARREN MILLER, REEL ROCK, MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR, EUROPEAN OUTDOOR FILM TOUR, INTERNATIONAL OCEAN FILM TOUR and more.

We also own and operate the WOMEN'S ADVENTURE FILM TOUR and RUNNATION FILM FESTIVAL. Adventure Entertainment works with filmmakers including the likes of Red Bull Media House and National Geographic and distributes through leading cinema chains around the world, including UCI, EVENT and Village cinema chains. Our distribution network includes Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Western Europe, UK and North America.

Adventure Entertainment also specialises in delivering first-class events within the outdoor and adventure community, including film premieres, outdoor events and motivational speaking tours like the recent Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson Live on Stage (www.tommyandkevinlive.com) tour.

Adventure Entertainment publishes a series of adventure magazines as well as programs for our

events.

What can you tell us about the origins of The Paddling Festival?

The Paddling Film Festival is like other touring film festivals, in that it includes a selection of short films; however, this tour is dedicated entirely to paddle sports such as whitewater, sea kayaking, canoeing, SUP and more.

The Paddling Film Festival has been running for 13 years based out of Canada and tours more than 120 cities annually around the globe.

Audiences will see hairy whitewater action, sea kayakers exploring remote coastlines, northern river canoe expeditions, international river travel films, motivating environmental documentaries and gruelling kayak fishing battles.

Attracting paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts, audiences can expect a fun, social and entertaining event inspired by compelling films.

Why was it decided to bring this particular festival to Australia?

With an evergrowing paddle culture in Australia, we thought it was about time we offered an entertaining and adventure-packed festival for paddle enthusiasts. The selection of films in the 2019 paddling film festival covers quite a broad range of paddle sports. This festival will appeal to people who love a specific type of paddling (as an example, Stand Up Paddle Boarding) and will showcase different paddling sports they might not normally be drawn to.

It broadens the horizons for paddle enthusiasts who may be limited to just one paddle sport.

These people will watch the film selection and maybe take up a new type of paddle sport, based on what they have seen. This is a great thing for Australian paddle culture, and it builds an industry that is already becoming very popular, not just in coastal areas, but right across the country "Paddling" covers a lot of territory! How large is the range of water sports featured in the festival?

It broadens the horizons for

The films in this festival connected to it all. paddle enthusiasts who may be cover sea kayaking, WE ARE SEND - is limited to just one paddle sport. whitewater action, stand up the story of Send These people will watch paddleboarding, canoeing, and what you can the film selection and river kayaking and river accomplish with a great maybe take up a new travel films, kayak fishing set of friends. It’s a type of paddle sport, and extreme kayaking. A truly exciting extreme based on what they have seen. number of the films focus whitewater film that will on the importance of our boost the adrenaline of waterways for sport and anyone watching. recreation. These films are Are any of the films all beautifully crafted, with some extraordinary featured particularly relevant to Australian locations covered. The films cover a lot of audiences - featuring actors/crews/locations/ ground and will inspire people to travel, see and events from the Southern Hemisphere?) use our oceans and waterways with a new light JUNK PADDLE features Australian filmmaker and encourage everyone to get out and explore and adventurer Beau Miles: www.beaumiles.com the outdoors.

Why would you encourage audiences How many and what types of films make up in Port Macquarie to come along and the festival content this year? experience the festival for themselves on The films in this year’s selection include award- September 24, at 6:30pm? winning films like: The film festival is not just for fans of BIG WORLD - which is an inspiring journey paddling. It’s a selection of films that encourage about a father and (seven-year-old) son team outdoor adventure, promotes environmental who embarked on a week-long standup awareness and purely entertains. Some films paddleboard journey down the Karnali and Bheri will leave you on the edge of your seat, some Rivers in western Nepal. will make you think, and some will pull at your FEEL OF VISION - features Lonnie Bedwell, heartstrings, but, all of the films will entertain. a former Navy Petty Officer turned extreme Anyone with an inkling of adventure should see adventure athlete, who became the first blind the films in this festival because it will inspire person to whitewater kayak the entire length of them to become more adventurous in their own the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon in right. a solo kayak.

Where's the best place to find out ticketing FRONTIER OF FIRSTS - follows the experiences details or further information? of a whitewater kayaker and an Alaskan bush Follow our Facebook page https://www. pilot during a kayaking expedition in southern facebook.com/PaddlingFilmFestivalAustralia Alaska.

Visit our Website: https://www.

GOING SOLO - is a story about a solo kayaker’s adventureentertainment.com/paddling-filmspecial bond with a river after almost drowning. festival JUNK PADDLE - is about creating something Buy tickets on Eventbrite: https://www. useful from junk. Collecting rubbish wood eventbrite.com/d/australia/paddling-film-festival/ between a train station and office, this is the Buy Tickets from Majestic Cinemas: www. story of a junk-made paddle. majesticcinemas.com.au WATERWAY JAY is the story of this one Thanks Shane. man's journey to save water, and how we are Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 11

focusinterview.

GRAPHIC WORKS BY NOAH CORNALE

Robyn Cornale is a local Visual Arts teacher and a lover of creating beautiful artworks that are immersed with colourful and expressive style. It is the creative realm where her passion has always lied, and our beautiful region offers up an array of inspiration.

robyn cornale

Y

ou are a local Visual Arts teacher. What do you love most about sharing your passion with others?

While practicing art can be a very instinctive action, teaching art is a complex process. Teaching forces you to break down all your thought processes and actions to be able to explain it, in a comprehensible and achievable way.

Visual Arts is basically another language to communicate your ideas and thoughts and can be just as powerful as a symphony or a novel. “Art speaks where words are unable to explain”. Art is visual. It is all about what you can see and how it resonates with the audience.

There is no greater joy than to witness the moment when students create their own artworks that are both conceptually and technically strong. It starts with an idea, they learn the skills to be able to express that idea, they problem solve as they progress, and then judge when to know when an artwork is resolved. They really surprise themselves at what they can achieve.

Was it always your ambition to have a career in the arts?

I always hoped that I would be able to work in a creative field. It was the subjects at school that I loved and had the most success with.

I attended Sydney College of the Arts and City Art institute, which was an inspiring and formable experience, immersing myself in the

12 Greater Port Macquarie focus

creative realm. While we all dream of making a living out of art making, teaching is the practical way to do that.

Have you always been someone to paint at home, or is this a more recent venture?

Making art has been with me for as long as I can remember. I sold my first work to my mother at a Kinder school fete. She couldn’t get it off the display wall quick enough. I had painted her with bright yellow curly hair, red dress, and her signature cigarette hanging out her mouth with a beautiful plume of smoke swirling around her head. She was mortified, and I thought it was the most beautiful portrait.

I think it made 20 cents.

How would you describe your artistic style?

My artistic style is colorful, loose and expressive. It is a visual response to my world, from the lush curves of the female form to the many textures and sensations of my coastal landscape.

Inspiration can come from unlikely places.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Our beach and surf culture is an endless source of inspiration, from the display of languid sunbathing bodies, the squeaky resistance of your feet in the sand, the white noise from the roar of the waves at night to the sulphury smell on the summer breeze. Most recently, the abstract aerial views from drones has inspired a whole new series.

Brett Whitely would have to be my biggest influence from Australian art history. He just

Our beach and surf culture is an endless source of inspiration,

had a vision that totally “every child is an artist. from the display of resonates with me.

The problem is how to languid sunbathing Art can easily be remain an artist once bodies, the squeaky likened to falling into a we grow up”. We are all resistance of your feet in dream. Describe for us very capable of making the sand, the white noise your creative process? art, as it is something from the roar of the waves The most difficult part we all begin as toddlers at night to the sulphury smell of making art is coming when we first grasp on the summer breeze. up with an idea. It is a big chunky crayon essential that I can see it and begin to scribble. in my head before I start.

Most of us give it up as I try to just cover the canvas in a thin layer of teenagers. As a teacher, it is a joy to reignite paint to take away the pristine stark surface, the simple pleasure of making marks, feeling which can be quite intimidating. Painting is the textures of wet clay in your hands, bending essentially building up layers, fixing areas that wire with your fingers or more commonly these aren’t working and emphasising the areas that days finding the extraordinary in the ordinary by are resolved. Knowing when to stop working on capturing a unique image on your iPhone in a it is the key. society saturated by visual noise.

Would you say having art as a creative Where can we find some of your work? outlet improves other aspects of your life?

Most people would recognise my work Artmaking is a very positive activity, although from Artwalk Port Macquarie. The past three you are probably also at your most vulnerable, years my work has been exhibiting at EyeQ as you are existing in the most honest and Optometrist Port Macquarie, which happens to authentic moment and hope that the audience be owned by my husband, Adrian. My paintings can relate to your work and make connections are on display and for sale here also. I am so to it in some way. Making art is an extremely lucky to have access to such a perfect space. mindful activity, as when you enter the zone of I also have my work at the Comboyne creative flow, you are completely absorbed and Collective, a funky little vintage homewares completely present. joint and gallery on the Comboyne plateau.

A lot of us tend to find our way back to My work can also be viewed on Instagram our creative sides later in life. Why do you @robyneasycornale and Facebook: Robyn Easy think that is?

Cornale Artist.

Picasso has a famous quote that states that Thanks Robyn.

Drawn from Here Drawn From Here, an exciting collaborative exhibition featuring Greater Port Macquarie creatives, will open at Sunset Framing and Gallery on Saturday 28th September.

Now in its second year, this unique project will showcase art journals from more than 60 creatives living in our region, from beginners to professionals, working in multiple arts disciplines.

Drawn From Here Coordinator Katherine Appleby established the project and exhibition to unearth hidden talent and unite creative locals.

“Displaying art journals, rather than finished pieces, allows us to see deeper into the creative life and process of each artist, each telling a different story and sharing a unique experience,” she said.

With an open theme, each project participant

takes a personal approach to completing the art journal. Some establish their own theme, which they explore throughout the book, while others allow it to become a space to visit when inspired. Some books are even pulled apart and re-bound to form something new.

As an interactive exhibition, visitors will be invited to don white gloves and explore the art journals at their own pace, perhaps making use of the gallery’s comfortable lounge chairs.

A People’s Choice Award will also invite votes for the duration of the exhibition.

Drawn From Here will open at Sunset Gallery and Framing from Saturday 28th September and will be on show until Saturday 12th October.

To learn more about the project, and other events run by Port Macquarie Creative, visit www.portmacquariecreative.com.au

A GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

ART JOURNAL PROJECT

28 SEPTEMBER TO 12 OCTOBER 2019 SUNSET FRAMING & GALLERY

2/25 CENTRAL ROAD, PORT MACQUARIE Greater Port Macquarie focus 13

focusinterview.

The

Reality

A

ngela, please introduce yourself and tell us how you came to be living in Port Macquarie.

Hi! I grew up in rural Connecticut in the northeastern U.S., and I’ve been living in the Port Macquarie area for 16 years now!

My husband and I moved here with our two children for family reasons - his parents retired here and since he’s an only child, we moved to be close to them. It’s a wonderful place to live, but it was a big change for me at first … but thanks to the hospitality of this wonderful community, I soon felt at home! I’ve put down some real roots now, and I really love it.

Your career has included the medical field.

Can you tell us about what you studied and where your career took you?

As a kid, I decided I wanted to become a veterinarian, because of my love of animals and science, and because there are so many different kinds of work you can do within the veterinary profession. In the U.S., you study an undergraduate degree first, so I did a BS in Biology at the University of Connecticut and then my VMD at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia. After two years in general veterinary practice, I aspired to specialise in oncology, so I applied for a residency in oncology at Tufts University in Massachusetts, and luckily was accepted. I say luckily, because it was a great training program; plus, I met my husband there!

You have a keen interest in the environment. How did that evolve

14 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Dr Angela Frimberger fell in love with nature at a young age and later pursued a career in veterinary oncology, before shifting her focus to the environment. Angela presents to audiences now as a Climate Reality Leader, and recently spoke at CSU on the Climate Reality Project. We caught up with Angela, to find out more. throughout your work and life? by his documentary An Inconvenient Truth.

Growing up in a beautiful rural area with In fact one of the main tools Climate Reality farms and forests, surrounded by living Leaders use is a slide show that’s based on the creatures of all kinds, it’d be hard not to fall in documentary. with nature! Even then, people worried about What was your role in the summit this human activities and chemicals damaging the year? planet, and I always felt Climate Reality I ought to do anything Leadership Corps training I could to help. But we is held about twice a didn’t really understand year, rotating all over about climate change the world. The event in AFTER REVIEWING THE until about the time Brisbane in June was the SCIENCE BEHIND WHY that I was in university. first one in Australia since CLIMATE CHANGE IS Unfortunately, the Melbourne in 2014, when OCCURRING, AND WHY response against I was trained as a Climate IT’S SO IMPORTANT AND switching to Reality Leader (along with URGENT THAT WE TAKE renewables for our 499 others!)

ACTION, THE DISCUSSION power supply then was So, this time I’ve had TURNED TO SOLUTIONS ... that it would take 20 the privilege of acting as years to get them up to a mentor for a group of speed. I wish we had new trainees. I helped my started then, because mentees prepare for the that was 30 years ago, and we wouldn’t be training, facilitated some small group work at facing the problems we are now. the event, and continue to support them in What is the Climate Reality Project, and their volunteer work after the training. I also how did you become involved? recruited two new Climate Reality Leaders The Climate Reality Project is a non-profit from the Port Macquarie area, increasing our organisation dedicated to educating people local crew from three to five! about the climate change problem - what’s As the guest speaker at CSU recently happening, why it’s important, and what on The Climate Change, what are we can and must do about it. One of the three of the areas you covered in your ways it does this is training volunteers called presentation?

Climate Reality Leaders all over the world The Climate Reality presentation focuses on how to educate people around them. The three questions, “Must we change?”, “Can Climate Reality Project was founded by Nobel we change?”, and “Will we change?”. The Laureate Al Gore and was initially sparked answer to the first two questions is, of course,

a resounding, “Yes!”. The answer to the third question is, “It depends …”. It depends on the choices we make, on every level from our kitchens to our industries and governments.

I helped the audience enter the discussion by talking about the Great Barrier Reef and the impacts of climate change on this Australian icon and World Heritage treasure.

I chose the Great Barrier Reef because, even though every ecosystem is impacted by climate change, and even ecosystems that aren’t as stunningly beautiful and charismatic as the reef can be equally important biologically; the Reef is near and dear to most Australians’ hearts. As a veterinarian, it’s extra dear to my heart, because like in other biologically important ecosystems, the number of animals out there being affected is just staggering.

After reviewing the science behind why climate change is occurring, and why it’s so important and urgent that we take action, the discussion turned to solutions - what solutions are available and how they can be implemented. I hope that everyone left with a sense of the importance and urgency of acting, but also purpose - and most importantly, hope.

What's next for you?

Obviously I’m very passionate about this issue and always ready to talk to any group! If any local groups are looking for a guest speaker, I’d be delighted to give a presentation. I can be reached at angela.climatevets@gmail.com or phone 0410 010 115.

Thanks Angela.

Looks like a new look!

WIN a $1,250 Personalised Shopping Spree *

Simply spend $75 or more at any participating fashion store. Complete the entry form, attach your receipt and place in the entry barrel in front of Big W for your chance to win*. *Terms and conditions apply and can be found at www.settlementcity.com or by visiting Centre Management.

Authorised under NSW permit number LTPS/19/36660

Greater Port Macquarie focus 15

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Are you a bit of a shutterbug? DO YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN PHOTOGRAPHY, AND A MESSAGE TO SHARE ABOUT HEALTHY LIVING? Carolyn Guichard, Manager Integrated Multi Media Unit, Mid North Coast Local Health District, shares some details about this year’s Your Health Link National Photographic Competition.

Y O U R H E A L T H L I N K

National

competition

PHOTOGRAPHIC

E

ntries are open for primary school age and up - and the criteria is photos taken must share what the phrase “Healthy Life, Healthy You” means to the person behind the lens. There are some terrific prizes on offer for this competition … but be quick, as entries close on October 13!

What's a little of the history behind the Your Health Link National Photographic Competition?

The Your Health Link National Photographic Competition was created in response to a need to increase health literacy, while encouraging people to embrace healthy living.

Close to 60 per cent of the Australian population have low health literacy, which means they don’t have enough knowledge about what causes disease and how to prevent it. Low health literacy results in poorer overall health and higher rates of hospitalisation.

The photo competition is part of a broader suite of Your Health Link suite programs that are designed to connect the community to evidence-based health information.

16 Greater Port Macquarie focus

The award-winning Your Health Link program began with a website that connects the community to more than 800 health-related websites chosen by health professionals, linking people to services that will prevent chronic disease and promote healthy lifestyles.

The Your Health Link National Photographic Competition is an initiative of the Mid North Coast Local Health District and is endorsed by the NSW Centre for Population Health, NSW Office of Preventative Health and the Healthy Kids Association.

Now in its fourth year, the competition focuses on increasing health literacy through the exciting medium of photography, where community members are given a topic, “Healthy Life, Healthy You” to actively participate in creating images that represent the subject matter.

What are the aims of the competition?

The competition is all about promoting and celebrating healthy living. It is part of a wider strategy to foster a connection between health and the arts and to take action to reduce childhood obesity.

People of all ages and photographic abilities are invited to enter the competition. The

It is designed as a their photographs and images we have seen novel way to engage hearing the stories behind over the past three years members of the them has been truly have been absolutely community to creatively inspiring. captivating. The subject depict their own A host of prizes are matter has been so diverse ... concept of “Healthy on offer in the four Life, Healthy You”. categories - Primary, High People are encouraged School, Mobile and Open. to have conversations Entry to the Primary and with friends, family, High School category is teachers and students about healthy lifestyle free, with a limit of four entries per student. choices, using the broad range of health Mobile and Open have a $10 entry fee, with information available on the Your Health Link proceeds supporting health programs run by website as inspiration for their photographs. the Mid North Coast Local Health District.

Entries opened on August 19. What types The photographic competition has been of photographic submissions are you made possible thanks to the generosity of our seeking - and what age groups/categories partners. can people enter?

How long will the competition remain People of all ages and photographic abilities open? are invited to enter the competition.

This year the competition closes on 13th The images we have seen over the past October, which gives photographers eight three years have been absolutely captivating. weeks to create their entries.

The subject matter has been so diverse, and The competition website has a wide range the theme “Healthy Life, Healthy You” has of information, including tutorials on how to been interpreted in so many wonderful ways. take great photos, the judging criteria and Seeing the photographers’ connection to links to the Your Health Link website, where

Y O U R H E A L T H L I N K

National

competition

PHOTOGRAPHIC

there is a wealth of health information to inspire photographers.

This year, Canon Australia will be conducting photographic workshops for the community on a range of topics such as sunrise, active sports and family portrait.

Register for these workshops via the competition website.

How do people submit their entries?

Information about the competition, including entry details, is available online at: www.yourhealthlinkphotocomp.com.au We are very fortunate to have developed a reputation with the Your Health Link National Photographic Competition of quality and accessibility. It really is an opportunity for all ages and abilities to get involved, and we encourage everyone to enter. The word has definitely spread about the competition, and we have been finding people are now waiting to hear to opening date for entries each year.

It’s fantastic to see how the community has embraced the competition and the healthy messaging behind it.

The competition is also advertised across Australia via Facebook, newsletter, email, news outlets and WIN TV, including an invitation to 7,000 schools to participate.

What will the judges be looking for in the winning entries this year?

When you see the quality of the entries we receive, you will understand why our judges have such a difficult task - and they do it so brilliantly. Choosing between so many incredible images is a process that takes a lot of time, but the expertise of the judges and the valuable feedback they provide to entrants makes it all worthwhile.

The competition uses a “blind judging” process, where each entry is identified only as a number. The judges will be looking for photographs that depict a broad range

of health-related concepts and topics, including mental health, The competition uses a “blind inclusiveness, respectful judging” process, where each entry relationships, emotional is identified only as a number. The connections and healthy judges will be looking for environments. photographs that depict It’s important to show a broad range of healthhealthy behaviours in your related concepts and topics photos, such as making ... It’s important to show healthy sure the people in your behaviours in your photos ... photograph are wearing sun safe clothing if the 2018 People’s Choice image is depicting people Award. The photo out in the sun. We’re also subject, Magalie Lameloise shared with others looking for images that are creative - showing a wonderful story of how the competition the photographer has taken time to work had enabled her to show her son that cancer through how they are going to depict the doesn’t hold you back and you can find competition theme, “Healthy Life, Healthy beauty in all situations you might find yourself You”. experiencing.

Tell us a little about last year's winners Behind every photograph entered in the and their entries ... competition there is a personal, and many The 2018 competition attracted 787 entries times deeply moving, story. One of the best from every state and territory, including entries aspects of the competition awards night is representing 111 schools nationally. meeting the photographers and hearing their Throughout the duration of the stories. competition, we have received some amazing So many of our entrants shared the evening and visually beautiful images, and there have with family and friends, and it was just been some very touching stories relating to wonderful to hear the young son of one of our our semi and finalist entrants. The competition winners proudly say that next year he would has also had a very positive effect, particularly be in primary school and couldn’t wait to enter on our student entrants. We have received the competition for the first time. He was so feedback from parents stating that the excited at the prospect of taking photos that competition has raised their child’s self-esteem would show what being healthy means to and elevated them to celebrity status at him. We are so pleased that this competition is school, with one category winner expressing reaching out across the generations! her interest in photography as a career.

The competition culminates in an Another moving story came from a exhibition ... Is it only winnings works young woman who had gone through that will be exhibited, and do you have cancer treatment, and her son had taken a any details as yet about when/where the photograph of her henna tattoo that proudly exhibition will be held? adorned her head. This photograph won the The competition culminates in an awards

night, where semi-finalist and finalist entries are showcased and celebrated. The photographs are expertly hung and look absolutely amazing when they are all in place.

At the beginning of the evening there is plenty of time for people to wander through and look over the entries. After the awards night we hold the Your Health Link National Photographic Competition Exhibition, which is open to the public and free to enter. It is held at Sails Resort in Port Macquarie on 22 and 23 November.

Where can we find out more info?

All of the information you need to know about the competition, including entry details, is available on our competition website at: www.yourhealthlinkphotocomp.com.au Final say …

We are very grateful to our competition partners, whose generosity has enabled us to provide a great prize pool with major prizes, including camera and computer equipment, family holiday packages, and this year one of our major prizes is a family holiday to New Zealand. There are also prizes for schools, where each student category winner also wins a prize to support their school’s healthy school canteen program.

Thanks Carolyn.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 17

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T L T A E B

C

W i t h

PA M

H A T A

f r o m

O R I G I N A L

ongratulations on the This event is first and foremost run by recent success of Battle musos for musos; this was able to happen of the Bands. How did through Original Sound Lounge and with this year differ from the the support of local industry sponsors and others? live music venues, who worked tirelessly to Port Macquarie’s Battle of support music in our community. the Bands 2019 was the best yet, because it Who is the Original Sound Lounge? was the first one we've had for 20 years - so The Original Sound Lounge is a community that's pretty special! The event used to be a of musicians who provide a platform for proud tradition attracting artists to showcase bands from all over the their art, supported by coast. We had a dream locally owned venues to bring that back and to who support local and provide an occasion for original artists to grow OUR MAIN GOALS WERE our local bands to put on their careers.

INCLUSIVITY AND a show and compete for Industry professionals PARTICIPATION, GROWTH prizes - and they did - in run the gigs, and 100 AND SUPPORT true rock star fashion. percent of all proceeds FOR LIVE MUSIC Our main goals go back to the acts and EVENTS, PARTICULARLY were inclusivity and musicians.

We feature ENCOURAGING NEW participation, growth local, semi local and BANDS, ESTABLISHED and support for live touring acts from all BANDS, AND LIVE MUSIC music events, particularly over Australia and the EVENTS IN OUR TOWN. encouraging new bands, world, bringing our established bands, and locations a unique and live music events in our authentic experience. town.

As a direct result of our efforts, we are We restricted entrants to locals only; proud to have seen growth and collaboration however, we received astounding interest in our local band scene. Eighty percent of the from neighbouring regions - so next year we entrants for Battle of the Bands were entirely will open up registrations for them too. new acts, all boasting that they would not

18 Greater Port Macquarie focus

S O U N D

L O U N G E

have come together were it not for Original Sound Lounge providing this platform.

This is how grass roots music begins; everyone's favourite band started in a local venue somewhere - we just set the stage.

How many entrants were there this year?

Twenty acts applied to enter, nine made the cut, and four came away with titles, as there was a tied win by judges' points.

Who were the winners?

TITLE WINNERS - OPENS CRITICAL FOX Lead guitar and vocals: Keanu Jai Bass guitar: Ken Bottomley Drums: Kurt Barnes Keys: Joris Vaskys AGAPANTHA Vocals: Arman Asouri Guitar: Dean Tuckwell Bass: Oli Harris Drums: Marty Oliver Guitar: James Schaefer ALL AGE TITLE WINNERS MACK DADDY Drums: Cooper Joyce Guitar: Aaron Jonson Bass: Daniel Johnson Lead Vocals: Macklan Dawes VENUE/CROWD VOTE SIREN BAND Drums: Micheal Robinson

Guitar: Adam Wilson Bass: Kane VanChaos Dorrington Lead vocals: Pam Hata SPOT PRIZE WINNERS: For most unique sound, Mack Daddy $100.

Best bass player went to (Siren) Kane Dorrington - $100.

Best performance by a guitarist (Agapantha) Dean Tuckwell - $100.

What can we expect next from the winners of the Battle of the Bands?

Career success, more music, and awesome shows! First up it's the "victory lap tour", where all winning bands will feature in Original Sound Lounge showcases, then the inter region Aussie night market and Aussie food festivals planned nationally. There will be many Port Macquarie gigs and events played at, and hopefully major stages are on the cards.

What were the prizes?

All Ages Title Winners 2019 and winners of the musos' vote Mack Daddy have taken home studio time with a single launch and distribution/release with Zero-point records!

Cash prizes were awarded and victory lap tours have been organised.

SPECIAL MENTIONS: Lunar Rover, Liam Moylan.

Thanks Pam.

PORT MACQUARIE

Hastings

MUNICIPAL BAND

The current Port Macquarie Hastings Municipal Band Inc. was established in October 1979. A meeting was held in early 1979, and from this the band held its first rehearsal at The Civic Centre on 2nd October 1979. The rehearsals then continued in the old SES building in Gordon Street and then on to our current home in the Mac Adams Centre in Lord Street.

F

rom humble beginnings of twelve members (of which one still remains!) the PMHMBand has seen many people pass through the doors (too many to count).

Some ex members have continued their music careers to become school music teachers, music examiners, leaders in musical organisations, and others have continued with their membership in community bands.

The first PMHM Band Incorporated, proudly supported by Port Macquarie Hastings Municipal Band conductor Shirley Goodbar, would be very proud of the path that some of those members

have followed.

To celebrate the 40th year milestone, the band is holding a function at Port Panthers “Basement Room” on Saturday 21st September, 6pm. All ex members, families and public supporters are invited to catch up with old friends! The night will include cocktail food and concerts by all three of our current units.

The cost is $25 adults and children under 12 are $10 Bookings can be made via www.trybooking.com/BDYSS Any enquiries can be made to 0490 207 066.

RSVP by 12th September 2019.

Solo Roots/Folk artist James Bennett’s long awaited third album, titled This Time Tomorrow, is finally here!

J

zumba party Arabic

CHARITY

TEAM ZUMBA KRISTA IS GETTING READY FOR A PARTY ...

AND WE SHALL DANCE FOR A CAUSE.

C

elebrating four years of Zumba® GOLD in the Hastings, which has only been possible because of YOU! This party will be covered with lots of magic from the Middle East, as the theme is Arabian Nights! Come and enjoy a 90 minutes party class, during which several Zumba® instructors from Port, Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, South West Rocks and Macksville will be team teaching and sharing lots of Zumba® love.

The fundraiser is focused on Australians for Women's Health - founded in 2010 by Port's local Gynaecologist Obstetrician, Dr Ray Hodgson. The objective of A4WH is to improve the appalling state of women’s health in Nepal.

THIS TIME TOMORROW

Website: https://www.a4wh.org/ A Zumba® Gold class feels very similar to a regular Zumba® class, but it’s performed at a lower intensity level.

DATE: Saturday 28th September, doors: 1pm.

HOST: ZIN Krista Gilen. VENUE: Port Macquarie Primary School.

PARTY CLASS: 1:30pm - 3pm.

DRESS UP: Arabian Style. Lucky door prizes; cake stall on the day - sponsored by Love that Cake.

TIX PRE SALE PARTY CLASS: $10.

TIX DOOR SALE PARTY CLASS: $15.

TIX KIDS UNDER 16: $5 (accompanied by an adult). PARTIAL PROCEEDS will go to A4WH. CONTACT: Krista Gilen 0432 935 799.

ames incorporates many different Michael Barker, sorting out and recording elements into his performances, the songs for this new album, which including Weissenborn Lap Steel, included the two singles, Weird World and 11 and six string guitars, stomp Gypsy Love. box, tambourine, harmonica and There’s a total of nine tracks for this a very unique vocal style. new album, with everything from sweet HOW CHANCE LED TO A NEW ALBUM Weissenborn lap steel songs featuring This Time Tomorrow came about by harmonies by the one and only Wendy chance, through a Matthews, to quirky mutual friend with upbeat tunes like the John Butler’s exfirst single, Weird drummer/percussionist, World.

Michael Barker!

James has put 'THIS TIME TOMORROW' “He popped up on together an album CAME ABOUT BY my Facebook page as release tour to bring CHANCE, THROUGH a suggested friend, I’d the new album A MUTUAL FRIEND been thinking about into the world in WITH JOHN BUTLER’S who to contact to play the most intimate EX-DRUMMER/ drums/percussion, so and engaging way PERCUSSIONIST, I reached out to him possible, with four MICHAEL BARKER! in a message to see if solo performances he’d be keen to come in Port Macquarie, to Australia to record.

Gosford, Newcastle "To my total and Canberra. disbelief, he was not only keen to play on Port Mac album launch: Sunset the songs, but invited me to record with Gallery on Fri 20th September, 6:30pm. him at his home studio in Rotorua /NZ." Tickets: $25 plus booking fee.

In December 2018, James headed across Available at: https://www.eventbrite. the dutch (I mean ditch) to New Zealand com.au/e/james-bennett-port-macquarieto spend four days in the studio with album-launch-tickets-64760952753 Greater Port Macquarie focus 19

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MelanieHay.

A R T I S A N

J E W E L L E RY

Inspired by the textures, patterns and forms in nature, MELANIE HAY CREATES BEAUTIFUL ARTISAN JEWELLERY USING ARGENTIUM STERLING SILVER AN ETHICALLY SOURCED METAL that doesn’t tarnish and is both purer and brighter than traditional Sterling Silver.

rom concept through to design and creation of each of her pieces, it’s easy to see the care and attention to detail that’s a hallmark of Melanie’s work …

Hi Melanie. How long have you called Port Macquarie home ... and what originally brought you here?

I moved to Port Macquarie from East Maitland, NSW three years ago with my husband and two children for work and a much-needed lifestyle change for the whole family.

Your interest in creating beautiful jewellery began when you completed a metalsmithing course around 15 or so years ago ... but what prompted you to complete this course in the first place?

Have you always had an interest in working with metal or art?

There were a number of things that led me to do that metalsmithing course all those years ago.

Since I can remember, I’ve always had an interest in art and a love of unique jewellery.

As a young girl I was fascinated by the twinkle and sparkle of jewellery and anything shiny or sparkly that could be worn as a piece of jewellery. As a young adult, I also spent many hours wandering through town shopping centres and malls, looking at the latest jewellery collections in retail shop windows.

20 Greater Port Macquarie focus

In high school I majored in art and spent a year at Newcastle University The artist running the classes doing a fine arts degree, shaped and formed also made and sold her work in thinking I wanted to a flat piece of metal the gallery. From that very be an artist. However, into something with first visit, I was instantly although I really enjoyed depth and form, but drawn to all the tools exploring and working in the design possibilities and equipment used different art mediums like were endless. to make jewellery, and painting and drawing, I You've no doubt consequently decided to try a didn’t have a strong sense evolved and changed metalsmithing class. of connection to them. your creative style So, I changed degrees over the years. What and universities, and for have been some the next decade pursued undergraduate and of the things/events that have helped postgraduate studies in medical sociology and you develop your current direction as an worked as a university tutor. artist?

While on maternity leave with my second There’s been a few things that have child, by chance I came across an artist contributed to my current direction as an run studio/gallery in Armidale that offered artist. Over the last 15 years of making metalsmithing classes. The artist running the jewellery, I’ve seen many fast fashion trends classes also made and sold her work in the come and go and the negative impact this gallery. From that very first visit, I was instantly has had on both our environment and the drawn to all the tools and equipment used to working conditions of overseas factory make jewellery, and consequently decided to workers. try a metalsmithing class.

During the years spent looking at jewellery While sawing and sanding my very first in retail shop windows, I also began to simple project out of copper, I realised notice that the collections of many big that forging jewellery out of metal was an and small retail jewellery shops were also art medium I absolutely enjoyed working heavily influenced by fast fashion trends with because not only was it interesting too. In addition to the environmental and and exciting to be working with tools that humanitarian concerns this raised, it also had

the effect that many retailers were selling the same brands of jewellery as everyone else.

This meant that if your taste in jewellery was different from the current trend, you had to spend a lot of extra time searching for that right piece of jewellery.

In the last few years I’ve also had a couple of health scares with breast cancer, which prompted me to look at using more ecofriendly materials and manufacturing options in my own work.

As a result of all of these things, my current direction has been heavily influenced by a passion to locally design and make timeless artisan silver jewellery that is not only comfortable, durable and eco-friendly, but easy to care for, so it can be worn all year round, for many seasons to come.

What influences/inspires your designs most?

My jewellery designs have always been inspired by organic forms, textures and patterns found in nature.

Over the last few years my work has focused on imprinting skeleton leaves into sterling silver and designing everyday ecofriendly jewellery pieces that remind us of nature and our connection to it. Working with skeleton leaves is exciting because just like

focusinterview.

our fingerprints, each leaf has own distinctive lines and patterns, so each handmade piece is different to the next.

Since living on the coast and being surrounded by beautiful beaches, my work is evolving again to include freshwater pearls and semiprecious stones.

Receiving feedback from customers about pieces they’ve purchased and what else they would like to see in my range also plays a very important role in the design process when planning future collections.

How does your creative process work ... do you sketch ideas for designs first, work from photos etc.?

My jewellery collections begin as a series of abstract ideas - a pattern, texture, shape or form that catches my eye.

From there, I draw a series of jewellery concept ideas.

After much experimentation at my work bench and test driving in the real world (I wear all my pieces to see how they fit, feel, wear and tear) that design may be added to a collection as a prototype. All my work is currently made to order from these prototypes.

Tell us a bit about the materials you use to create your jewellery and why they're eco-friendly products ...

I use Argentium Sterling Silver instead of traditional sterling, because it’s: Tarnish resistant: unlike traditional Sterling Silver, Argentium contains Germanium, which when added to Sterling Silver acts as a very effective tarnish retardant.

Responsible: Argentium Sterling Silver is a responsibly sourced and ethically mined silver. Mining companies providing silver ore for Argentium must commit to regulations and provide transparency about where, how and the conditions under which the silver has been mined.

Purer: while traditional Sterling Silver

Jewellery made from Argentium Silver doesn’t need plating, because Argentium is the natural colour of pure silver. This means no more annual trips to your retail jewellery store to have your

is made from 925 parts pure silver, Argentium is made from 935 parts.

Wearing jewellery varies from piece to piece. made from a purer, Generally though, from a higher quality silver favourite pieces re-plated, which flat piece of blank silver to like Argentium means is better for your wallet, your skin the finished boxed piece unlike traditional and the environment! of jewellery takes a couple Sterling, pieces made of hours. from Argentium will What are some of continue to look the items/pieces of beautiful for many equipment in your studio that you simply years to come. couldn't be without?

Naturally beautiful: jewellery made from Let’s see … there’s my Pepe rolling mill, Argentium Silver doesn’t need plating, which I use to imprint patterns and textures because Argentium is the natural colour of into metal and my Foredom flexshaft, which pure silver. This means no more annual trips I use with a myriad of different bits to drill, to your retail jewellery store to have your sand, texture and polish. favourite pieces re-plated, which is better for I also couldn’t be without my saw frame, your wallet, your skin and the environment! various forging hammers, shaping mandrels Brighter: Argentium Sterling Silver is whiter and at least 10 different types of my favourite and brighter than: Platinum, White Gold, pliers!

Palladium and traditional Sterling Silver. This What are your dreams/goals for the means Argentium Silver jewellery is perfect for future? those who find gold jewellery too yellow and There are quite a few, but here’s my top the colour of traditional silver jewellery too bland for their skin tone.

Hypoallergenic: Argentium Sterling Silver is nickel-free and hypoallergenic. This means jewellery made from Argentium Silver is a good alternative for those with metal allergies and/or sensitive ears.

Your jewellery range includes rings, earrings and pendants. Typically, how much work would go into most of your pieces?

Developing an initial idea from an abstract concept to the finished sample can take anywhere from days or weeks to many months, because sometimes it requires learning a new jewellery making technique.

When a customer places an order from my current range, the time required to make it

three: To further develop and expand my ecofriendly artisan jewellery range to include: bangles, brooches and patterned wedding bands.

To teach jewellery making lessons and workshops here in Port Macquarie.

Find more boutique retail stockists for my work outside of Port Macquarie Where can we purchase your jewellery and find out more about your work?

Here’s where people can find out more about my work and shop online: https://melaniehay.com.au/ I’m also on Facebook and Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/ MelanieHayJewellery https://www.instagram.com/melaniejhay/ Thank you very much for opportunity to talk about and share my work in FOCUS. Thanks Melanie.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 21

Cakes & Desserts Urban Grain Bakery 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Urban Grain Bakery

Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant

Start your day in the best way possible; nothing beats one of our freshly baked croissants with a hot cup of coffee whilst enjoying the spring warmth in our outdoor seating area. Our croissants are available as plain, chocolate or one of our famously delicious almond croissants.

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

While you’re in, be sure to pick one of our stoneground sourdough loaves - several flavours available every day. Why not branch out and try one of our Emmer or Bok Sourdough loaves? Both are older grains that hold different flavours, but they're super delicious. We are also baking a special loaf every Friday and Saturday - each week it changes!

Our mission is to bring you simple food done well. With that in mind, we are introducing a variety of warm and hearty dishes to the new season menu that will make your taste buds sing.

We hold a convenient location in Hay St, with much parking available, but remember - if you’re in a rush you can call your order ahead.

Open from 7am Monday to Saturday.

The perfect space for a quiet coffee and catch up with friends, to a lovely night out the whole family can enjoy.

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

HEAD CHEF ANDY WHITEHEAD

Weekly specials include: $20 Steak & Schooner Sunday $20 Chicken Schnitzel Tuesday $20 Proper Roast Thursday

PEACHTREE WALK ARCADE, 17/78-80 HORTON ST, PORT MACQUARIE 0423 545 258

PORT CITY BOWLING CLUB, OWEN ST, PORT MACQUARIE 6583 1133 WWW.PORTCITY.COM.AU LUNCH 11:30AM - 2PM AND DINNER FROM 5:30PM.

MONDAY - SATURDAY FROM 7AM.

Pumpkin and Thyme Arancini served with Harissa Sauce Selections from our brunch menu: Corn Fritters, Hotcakes, Belgian Waffles, Tasting Plate.

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!

TAPP at Panthers Try our mouth-watering Pumpkin and Thyme Arancini served with Harissa Sauce, guaranteed to make your tastebuds tingle! There are so many delicious items * on our TAPP menu, including Smoked Salmon Wrapped Chicken Tenders, Crumbed Jalapeño Peppers, and Kuro Crumbed Prawns, which pair perfectly with a wine or a cocktail!

2 for 1 coffee

*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

The TAPP Bar has an eclectic industrial style setting with spectacular water views across the Hastings River. Whether you are visiting the area or are a local, you can enjoy a quiet day on the deck soaking up sun-rays, while sipping on a cocktail or a night out with friends in an electric atmosphere with inspiring live musicians every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

HEAD CHEF ADAM LOVETT

6585 5566

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.

open Wednesday to Sunday 7am till 1pm - 5pm till 8:30pm

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.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 23

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P

lease introduce yourself ... will enjoy an island feast.

My name is Tito; I was The combination of food and show with a born in Samoa. I founded the fantastic atmosphere will definitely give our Spirit of the Islands Dance guests a night to remember.

Company 23 years ago, and It will be informal and fun and something we have travelled around new for both locals and visitors, young or old, Australia sharing our rich and wonderful culto Port Macquarie. ture. I was trained in Hawaii in the art of PolyWho else is in the troupe, and what are nesian dance. Also, I am credited to perform their roles?

Fire Dancing, which we are going to include Our troupe has many individuals and while in our performances here in Port Macquarie. I the format of the show will remain the same, have now lived in Australia for 25 years. there will be different individual performances As a part of the Spirit from my cast. of the Islands Dance Everyone’s role is simCompany, can you tell ple. We enjoy what we us what makes your do and we just love to entertainment so exentertain and share our Our opening night is Friday citing for audiences? rich culture.

13th September, and we are We bring a Pacific When is the first performing shows every Island flavour that performance, and how Friday and Saturday includes culture, educan we book? night with a matinee cation and a sense of Our opening night is show on a Sunday, where we humour. Our troupe all Friday 13th September, are encouraging families to come perform in traditional, and we are performing and enjoy A Taste of Polynesia. colourful costumes. shows every Friday and Another feature is that Saturday night with with every performance a matinee show on a we have crowd interacSunday, where we are tion, which is always fun. encouraging families to come and enjoy A How does your heritage influence your Taste of Polynesia. performance?

Bookings are highly recommended, and We are naturally happy people, and our we encourage you to get a group of friends, performances highlight storytelling and as this night is designed as a big island party tradition. every night!

Theatre restaurant is very unique and will You can book by calling 0434 393 199 or be a new concept here in Port Macquarie. online at cruiseportmacquarie.com.au/a-tasteWhat can we expect from this experience of-polynesia/ on the night?

A Taste of Polynesia will be hosted at Cruise The venue is perfect for what we do. We HQ Restaurant and Bar, Clarence Street Port Islanders love our food! Everyone who attends Macquarie - Bookings essential.

24 Greater Port Macquarie focus

R N U E O C B U L E P M

a l a G Lunch

T U E S D AY 5 T H N O V E M B E R FROM 12PM

100

$

MEMBERS

2 COURSE FOOD & BEVERAGE PACKAGE FASHIONS ON THE FIELD LOCAL FASHION RUNWAY

110

$

GUESTS

featuring NATALIE BARR

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS

panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 25

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

PETA PINSON Elected Mayor two years ago this month, Peta Pinson has become widely known as our community leader. A year from now, residents go to the polls to elect a council for another term. Susie met up with Councillor Pinson to survey the mid-term landscape.

S

everal months ago when I booked the Mayor for an interim review I thought we’d discuss a pedestrian, if important, rundown of what’s being done around the traps. In the meantime PMHC has come under a sharp spotlight, with the attendance at its June meeting of some 300 people blowing out the chamber, three adjacent rooms, even flowing up the stairs, in what’s regarded as the biggest, angriest, protest ever seen at the Burrawan St HQ. The council’s orbital road study had ignited them (the Revive Lake Cathie group, and those interested in the new Aquatic Centre, also formed a big presence.) So it’s not everyday matters but the future that my chat with Mayor Peta Pinson happens to centre on.

In 12 months Port Macquarie-Hastings residents will elect our mayor and eight councillors for the next term, for all we want achieved in our rapidly expanding region. Cr Pinson’s priming for that date with a manifesto she believes critical for future good governance: “I’m seeking to put together a team of candidates.

I’ve had discussions with people I’ve been involved with over the past few years, whose character I respect. Integrity’s very important; we need to be innovative, visionary, independent, open-minded and community-focused.”

The background to this goal is that Pinson’s election was at a ballot to choose a single person in the role of mayor after the former mayor resigned for a private sector job about eight months into his four-year term, forcing a by-election for a new mayor only. The eight

26 Greater Port Macquarie focus

councillors previously elected naturally retained their tenure. At regular four-yearly local government elections many aspirants of like mind form a “ticket”: a recommended how-to-vote for, say, four candidates. People might like the look of one team or another, or vote for individuals. So this is the “team” Pinson’s looking to, having not had that opportunity when the solitary position of mayor came up and she was chosen to fill the single extraordinary vacancy. Forming a group ticket could have been her expected course of action in 2020’s general election anyway, but she sees current events as making establishing a harmonious team become pressing.

Over the past three months the contentious orbital road issue has caused mass dissension.

At the heart of it, residents and others affected in areas where an east-west corridor might run say it’s unviable, for numerous widely-canvassed reasons. So they, and Pinson, say it’s wrong to spend valuable ratepayer funds studying that route at all. Pinson’s support of the protesters at the June meeting met with a standing ovation, but they didn’t prevail. In July her second bid to meet the residents’ concerns, with support of Crs Griffiths and Dixon, again wasn’t successful. The chamber of interested parties erupted with cries of “Shame!”, “Wait till the next election” and “It’s another Glasshouse”. So Pinson subsequently took the matter to Local Government Minister Shelley Hancock, the issue was ventilated widely in the media and at time of writing the Minister’s office told me Hancock has referred the issue, the residents’ request for an inquiry into the

matter - and a “substantial” volume of submissions - to her department for assessment.

Pinson believes: “$800,000 is to be spent for an orbital road strategic business case, and an estimated $6m for a feasibility study. Why start something you can’t deliver: let’s find a viable route not ploughing through St Columba sports fields, ecological land, and people’s homes, with stress and uncertainty for them, for years, for nothing!” (Emmaus Nursing Home also formally protested at the route at the July meeting.) “In the meantime, let’s fix up the road network we’ve got.”

Pinson feels the resentment of some at her election, persisting over two years, interferes with progress. Many council decisions are resolved positively without rancour but she says her lead on some critical issues is unreasonably blocked. “I’m not telling you anything the community hasn’t seen for themselves.

We’ve had open displays of ill-will in the public arena.” Our first-ever female mayor, she adds: “I’ve been insulted, told publicly ‘Local government’s about more than lipstick and hairspray’.” (Hancock, incidentally, is another female-first trailblazer: NSW Parliament’s first woman Speaker, serving for eight years. A big supporter of women in government, she brings to her portfolio her own experience over 17 years as a local councillor.)

“On election,” Pinson explains, “I promised a new world. With a new council on board, a supportive team, I can deliver that. We need to show people we can work together.” She expected the initial disappointment of those who didn’t vote for her. “I was prepared for it,

but seeing it’s continued I need to go in with a fresh team next September. We’ve had some big issues for our community lately, the orbital road one of the biggest. The community’s rising up, having its say; we ask them to. From their say it’s incumbent on Council how we should move.

“In the past two years I’ve rolled up my sleeves and got very involved; I’ve invested myself 100 per cent in the community. I’m approachable, full of energy. I’m protective of our community, proud of this region and the opportunities it provides all of us. I get to see that as mayor, what all the individual pockets are doing.”

While she’s not a member of any political party: “I‘ve fostered good, vital, relationships with our four state and federal MPs, unlike in the past. It’s important they’ve a similar vision to us in how we see our region growing and that we get on, so we’re supported financially by the deeper pockets of the two governments.

Since my election we’ve had the most grant funding to the area. Good relationships bring that sort of money; our previous council didn’t have that relationship. I’ve a professional and respectful working relationship with the general manager; the GM and staff have got to know me, there’s really committed people here who want to do a great job: their intimate knowledge is so important. ”We need to be delivering based on what our community wants the future to be. That’s what we’re here for: public servants to serve the public.

"That's where our focus needs to be."

Ken Little's Fruit & Veg September will be a hard month this year, with the drought well and truly still around. Spare a thought for our local growers, who are really doing it tough. Som at Bago is one of our local growers, who has been growing beautiful produce for us for over ten years. The cooler nights are holding back the quick growth; however, most winter vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflowers and cabbage are still of a good quality and readily available. Now is the time to start looking at the summer ahead, with mangoes starting to come from the Northern Territory shortly; peaches will arrive soon also. The Queensland strawberry will soon come to an end.

Navel oranges are still sweet and juicy. Mandarins will start to disappear; however, look for the Murcot Honey mandarin.

They are still very nice. Apples are still in good supply and are crisp and juicy.

We would like to draw your attention to our beautifully constructed fruit and vegetable trays if you are looking for a gift for any occasion. We can do just fruit or just vegetables, and the prices vary. You tell us what you want, and we will do our best. They always look so nice and attract many compliments. Also available are our gift vouchers.

Pop in soon and say hello. A warm welcome awaits you.

Ken.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 27

28 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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do about a h c u M

nothing A timeless tale involving machinations, false accusations, miscommunication and the power of love to potentially overcome it all … DUNCAN RAGG PLAYS BENEDICK IN BELL SHAKESPEARE’S PRODUCTION OF MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, which will be visiting The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie on September 30th and October 1st …

i Duncan. How did you become involved with Bell Shakespeare?

This is my first show with Bell, who are a wonderful, long-standing pillar of the theatrical community.

I was doing a show with Judy Davis in Adelaide, when I got the call to audition. The people I were working with at the time were Toby Schmitz, who was in a previous iteration of Much Ado About Nothing and Pamela Rabe, who was also involved in an earlier productions, and they were both so excited to work with me on it. Luckily, I manage to avoid their clutches (laughs) and I worked on it myself. I flew out the next morning for the audition, and ten minutes afterwards I got the call saying they [Bell Shakespeare] would love to have me.

It was a bit of a whirlwind; it all happened within the space of about 40 hours across states, but I’m so very grateful for it.

What can you tell us about Benedick and how much you relate with him?

That’s a tough question! I’ll tell you a bit about Benedick first, and then whether or not I do relate with him (laughs).

Benedick is a soldier returning from war; he’s the offsider to two nobles, Don Pedro and Couunt Claudio. He’s the slightly lesser-born, but jovial friend of the two. He’s renowned throughout Italy for his biting wit and for bringing a lot of joy to the boys, which is why they keep him around. Whether or not he’s a good fighter is never really discussed!

He’s a long-time friend of Messina, which is where the play is set and where the other characters live. He’s visited before and has a history with Beatrice (played by Zindzi Okenyo).

He’s a man who is loquacious and he prizes his wit the most; however, he’s always run away

knows we should be from a fight where It’s so much fun to play, together - and they cheer he feels completely because the audience for us to do so. vulnerable. He’s entirely desperately wants you There’s a W.H. Auden bound to the men in his to keep fighting, and quote that Toby told me life and how they think at the same time they before the play started. He of him. want you to fall in told me to remember that I think he’s the love. It’s really the original of all the Shakespearean character we need for ‘rom-com’, and everyone characters, Benedick and these times. The way I knows what this dynamic is.

Beatrice would be the relate to him is because two you’d most like to he prizes intelligence have dinner with. These above all else; he sees characters kind of sit everything that’s going outside the world of the play, to a certain extent on and he’s sometimes afraid of doing what’s - Beatrice more so, looking at what’s going on, right - but ultimately in the transformation he seeing the machinations behind everything, comes to understand the dynamics at play. He and choosing whether or not they want to be realises that to be a good person and his true a part of it. These are the types pf people you’d self, he needs to be an ally and stand up for want to have at a dinner party, because they’ll what’s right - not for what will gain him the entertain you to the nth degree - but ultimately, most acclaim or the most laughs. they’re good people who make decisions based I think that as a man in 2019, that’s one of on what is morally right. the essential realisations we need to come to …

How has my entire upbringing led me to become Some people may be a little overwhelmed

by Shakespeare. How do you feel Bell this person, and can I step outside of this to Shakespeare has made this production a understand there are more perspectives than the little more accessible for people in general? ones I’ve been afforded previously?

I think we have actors and a director with a The relationship between Benedick and great deal of integrity in this production. When Beatrice is a complex one. How much are we first came together, we had a discussion you enjoying exploring this on stage? about how we could make this play feel true to It’s so much fun! Zindzi and I have a great now, while staying true to Shakespeare’s words, chemistry, and her Beatrice is fierce, determined, in a way people can relate to … We also wanted and vastly intelligent. My Benedick occasionally to give Hero’s character a strong voice, as she feels a little bit dwarfed by this, so he needs to can often be overshadowed in the play, and we always try to get the quick joke in - then run wanted to hold the boys accountable for their away while he’s on top. actions …

It’s so much fun to play, because the audience We did a whole lot of work on the text, with desperately wants you to keep fighting, and at small edits, so that it feels fresh and current the same time they want you to fall in love. It’s … and then we worked a lot on our voices, to really the original “rom-com”, and everyone make sure every word we speak is clear … knows what this dynamic is. Despite our It’s a very different thing studying Shakespeare bickering and prizing of jokes, the audience

in English to seeing it on stage. Theatre was not made to be read - it’s made to be seen and heard with a group of other people - it comes to life!

I’d never seen a play until I was 15, and then I saw a Bell Shakespeare production - I watched Darren Gilshenan in The Servant of Two Masters, and it changed my entire perspective of what a play is. He talked to the audience, which had us responding … no one else will ever have that exact experience, because between the text, the actors and the audience, there’s this incredible relationship that develops.

Benedick and Beatrice are timeless characters too … They’d fit right into other times and places, and still make sense.

Our costuming and sets also make the play appear fresh and current, and that the time is now.

Your favourite thing about the production?

My favourite part of the production is the audience. Benedick has such a wonderful relationship with the audience; they’re my scene partners for the majority of the play. Each place has had its own particular response to the play, but it’s all been so overwhelmingly positive and filled with love and laughter …

Theatre can’t compete with television in terms of a feeling of absolute reality, but it can make you feel like you’re in a moment that can only happen now … I’m here, you’re here, on this particular night, and the audience brings a new perspective every single time. That’s what I love about it.

Thanks Duncan.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Pics: Clare Hawley.

Visit: glasshouse.org.au for info about tickets, session times and education bookings.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 29

Hens club

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Party

If you’re looking for a different way to celebrate your hens night, artist Silvana WiRepa has the answer for you!

Silvana’s been able to combine her skill as an artist and experience with life drawing to create hens parties that are a whole lot of fun!

H

i Silvana. What brought you to the Hastings area?

I have lived here for six years now. I bought 46 alpine acres in Toms Creek with magnificent views. I fell in love with the country life, having lived in Newcastle for 13 years. I did my education there, including a Diploma in Fine Art and a residency with Muswellbrook Regional Art Centre, culminating in an exhibition of portraits of the local people. I ran life drawing classes for fellow artists in Muswellbrook for a short time.

How did you think up the idea for the Hens Party Club?

Life drawing for hens parties is very popular now, both in Australia and Internationally. Hens worldwide have wanted an alternative to the mainstream stripper, where the focus is not on them. I have taken the idea and created a program more suited for the women of the Hastings.

I began by offering regular life drawing classes for artists at the Port Macquarie Arts and Crafts Centre on Gordon St and realised there was a shortfall in the number of fit muscular models available.

When I was running Top Hat Gallery in Wauchope a number of years ago, I was approached by a group of women wanting to have a different type of hens party. They wanted something classier to cater for all ages from 18 years to 70 plus. I have been able to blend my different skills into this new venture.

What is “life drawing” - and how does this work for hens parties?

A "life drawing" is a drawing of the human figure with a live model. Our male models stand 30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

The games are designed

to focus on the women working together as a group, then as pairs, and finally as individuals.

holding a steady pose, while the artists We encourage creativity and capture the likeness; sometimes change the format, to it is much harder Weddings can be stressful make it as entertaining as possible. than it looks on both for a new bride, but hens scores! Muscles can parties are truly high energy cramp, and holding and memorable. steady is a challenge Where do you source in itself. the men you use as life models for your The hens parties are entertainment for all parties? levels, guaranteed to delight and cause high Facebook has been the most successful in excitement. We offer thematic shows, such terms of finding models. Word spreads quickly as the Aussie Cowboy, the Grecian God or the within social media, and people are always Bold Butler, with some dance moves thrown recommending others. The gyms have been very in to kick start the evening well. It’s all about supportive also, by allowing me to advertise on having fun with a little cheek. their notice boards.

What do you offer at the parties?

It can be difficult for an Aussie bloke to walk We provide all the art materials and coaching. into a crowd of women who all know each The event is purely a mobile service catering not other and be the only man in the room. It takes only to the Hastings Valley, but as far as Taree a very special guy to be able to do this, and it’s and Coffs Harbour. We go to private homes, not for everyone. Our models have worked function spaces, hotel rooms, local halls, or a hard to have the chiselled chests, gorgeous gallery if need be. We can offer help securing a oiled and muscled V-shapes, and the women venue. appreciate our well toned men who have We provide games for the guests and bottles looked after themselves extremely well. of champagne prizes for the winners. The Our models are always courteous and event is very inclusive, where artistic license is professional and are not shy to pose for and encouraged. with the party.

It can take a lot of confidence.

The games are designed to focus on the In saying that, I have seen models grow in women working together as a group, then as assurance with us, and that’s a great thing to pairs, and finally as individuals. We encourage see. creativity and sometimes change the format, Are you currently looking for more male to make it as entertaining as possible. We’ve models - and what's required of them at linked with Steve of Fab Photos, who is a terrific your parties? photographer.

We are always looking for fit and muscular We collate the drawings and present the models to go on our books as we build the bride with a book of the event at the end of the business.

They must be extremely comfortable party.

with their bodies, and not be shy about being nude or showing most of their body in front of a group of admiring women. It’s an art form, this type of modelling, that is both structured and professional, and we suggest they first life model for the Hastings Valley Fine Art Assoc. which is conducted on the first Saturday of the month in Bonny Hills.

The positions can be difficult to hold while standing, seated or being recumbent; however, we do provide support and training. First and foremost, the model must be punctual and reliable and not mind being photographed at the end of the modelling sessions.

What's been some the feedback you've received from parties you've held?

“It was more entertaining than we could have imagined and tasteful” … “What a fantastic idea; this is terrific for Port” … “What a lot of fun and a great way to start the evening” …

“We love you! Was huge fun!” (Tamara King).

“Was an awesome night” (Sarah Wood).

How do we contact you?

On facebook.com/hen.party.club Bookings are essential: 0467 700 307.

We operate primarily from Friday to Sunday afternoons, which are the most popular days.

When people say they can’t draw a straight line - well, there are very few straight lines in nature.

This is life drawing for fun with lots of laughter.

We aim to put the Art in Party.

Thanks Silvana.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Party photos courtesy of Fab Photos.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 31

The Players Inc. Players Theatre presentsTheatre The Birthday Party!

19/02/2018 7:40 pm

Look Who’s Talking

“The Birthday Party” is a party like no other. You see, Meg (Di Leslie) is a little deluded. She runs a boarding Directed by Di Gillies, Look Who’s Talking presents two house, which she thinks is just wonderful; has one unexpected guests, Jane and Brian, who drop-in on Sheila boarder, Stanley (Steve Harris), who she thinks is just and Andrew, a devoted middle aged couple by comedic wonderful; and when two of her boarder’s “mates” writer Derek Benfield, a master of comedy and farce. arrive and suggest a birthday party for Stanley, she What ensues a complicated and hilarious series of thinks that’s is just grand as well. misunderstandings and house mistaken identities, as Sheila and Trouble is, the boarding is running down, the boarder Andrew to weave elaborate web of lies and half‘The isn’t whatbegin she thinks he isan and it ain’t Stanley’s birthday. truths their own possible infidelities.

19/02to Birthday is a classic Black Comedy from the Pen of the /20Party’ 18hide 7:40 pm master British playwright Harold Pinter.

The Players Theatre Inc production of Look Who’s Talking Director Thompson would like to thisSunday production will run Lance from Friday 27th September 13th to play at two levels a comic with dark October and will –not be oneoverlay to miss!

Adda to theunderbelly. calendar The key to get theready comicfor side are the of Meg and now and a night of characters hilarious laughs. toEvening a lesserperformances extent Goldberg. her total delusional FridayMeg and with Saturday nights at 8pm optimism and childlike glee and Goldberg with his and Sunday matinee performances at 2pm. gentleman-like and benevolent thuggery (it’s almost an Theatre bookings online at www.playerstheatre.org.au or honour to be tortured by him)… The Dark underbelly is via The Glasshouse Port Macquarie on 6581 8888 or via the violence… verbal, emotional and physical (though most of Theatre Box Office, open one hour prior to each show, at the physical violence takes place in blackout or offstage). the corner of Lord and Gordon Streets, Port Macquarie.

Book now for cake, candles and chaos! Opening June 15, tickets available from The Glasshouse or online at www. playerstheatre.org.au. This is one play not to be missed!

Players Theatre presents The Birthday Party!

“The Birthday Party” is a party like no other. You see, Meg (Di Leslie) is a little deluded. She runs a boarding house, which she thinks is just wonderful; has one boarder, Stanley (Steve Harris), who she thinks is just wonderful; and when two of her boarder’s “mates” arrive and suggest a birthday party for Stanley, she thinks that’s just grand as well.

Trouble is, the boarding house is running down, the boarder isn’t what she thinks he is and it ain’t Stanley’s birthday. ‘The Birthday Party’ is a classic Black Comedy from the Pen of the master British playwright Harold Pinter.

Director Lance Thompson would like this production to play at two levels – a comic overlay with a dark underbelly.

The key to the comic side are the characters of Meg and to a lesser extent Goldberg. Meg with her total delusional optimism and childlike glee and Goldberg with his gentleman-like and benevolent thuggery (it’s almost an honour to be tortured by him)… The Dark underbelly is violence… verbal, emotional and physical (though most of the physical violence takes place in blackout or offstage).

Book now for cake, candles and chaos! Opening June 15, tickets available from The Glasshouse or online at www. playerstheatre.org.au. This is one play not to be missed!

32 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Singer/songwriter Angus Gill, at 21 years of age, is QUICKLY ESTABLISHING HIS PLACE AS ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S TOP RISING MUSIC ARTISTS, WITH DISTINCTIVE VOCALS, WARM STAGE PRESENCE AND TRADEMARK BRAND OF HUMOUR. From playing in a boxing ring at a Sonny Bill Williams fight to appearing on "Studio 10", "The Daily Edition" and "The Ray Hadley Show", Guy Sebastian has even tweeted, “Forget Duncan; I wanna have a beer with Angus”.

C

ANGUS focusinterview.

G I L L

hrissy Jones caught up Angus, as he prepares out the title, Welcome to My Heart. I instantly thought of my for the album launch of Welcome to My family. We basically crafted the song around what a casual Heart.

Sunday looks like at our place, so the concept for the song What has been the big news in the was born. Then in May this year, the video for the song was Angus Gill world of late? directed by the Golden Guitar winning Filmery.

A highlight this year was signing a Tell us a little more about your self-produced album of worldwide publishing deal with Origin Music Publishing, the same name. followed by an exclusive licensing deal with ABC Music/ The album sonically is challenging the notions of the country Universal Music for my upcoming album, produced at my sound, incorporating different world and folk music influences studio in Wauchope. and instruments; for example, a Greek You have been involved with the Bouzouki and an Indian Mohan Veena. youth of the local area in the past There is a strong theme of home and family few months; tell us a little more that permeates throughout the album. My about what you’ve been up to? favourite track is a song called In the Cards, I really appreciate the I really enjoyed speaking at the about my grandmothers. support we’ve been Luminosity Youth Summit. It was What we can expect from your album getting behind the great to come back, talk about myself launch at the Glasshouse on September track. The community for 20 minutes and provide some 20? and commercial radio comic relief. I attended the very first It’s going to be a big celebration, presenters and Ray summit, and I know I walked away with some special guests lined up. I’m a Hadley have all been from it feeling determined, inspired storyteller who loves to entertain, with giving it a spin. and motivated. I’ve also been back to something for everyone. I really want this St Columba Anglican School to speak show to be about the local community that with students about songwriting. have supported me since I started. Come You have been gaining some along, bring the family and book your traction in mainstream TV and radio; tell us about this. tickets early, so we can celebrate together.

My new single, Welcome to My Heart was released a few Thanks Angus. weeks ago. I really appreciate the support we’ve been getting behind the track. The community and commercial radio presenters and Ray Hadley have all been giving it a spin. I also dropped in to have a chat about it on Channel 7’s The Daily Edition.

Angus Gill’s self-produced album release of Welcome How did the new single come about? to My Heart is on 20th September at the Glasshouse.

After a conversation about the fact that there aren’t enough Tickets available from $19 at the Glasshouse Box Office platonic love songs, one of my Nashville co-writers threw and online at glasshouse.org.au

focusinterview.

it up

at Sails

Hastings Choristers’ spring concert, held in the Cape Ballroom at Sails Resort, was so successful in 2018, that it is all happening again this year in the same venue.

T

Old Bar Beach Festival 15 Years in the Making …

The 15th annual Old Bar Beach Festival is hitting our ocean shores once again this October long weekend!

What began as a small parade of Kombi vans has now grown into the ultimate weekend of family fun - kombis and classic car displays, markets, live music, amusement rides and all round good vibes, So grab the kids, load up the van, leave your worries behind and escape to our sleepy little paradise for a taste of the simple life.

The Old Bar Beach Festival is an annual community event that has been held every October long weekend since 2005. From the humblest of beginnings, the festival has grown to attract more than 30,000 people each year.

The Kombi/Transporter Australian record attempt is one of the major highlights of the festival. The number of Kombis attending the festival has steadily increased over the last 13 years due to the support of many owners, who now have made the festival an annual pilgrimage.

For Kombi owners, this festival is a place to meet and share their passion for their beloved buses with like-minded Kombi enthusiasts in a relaxed and festive atmosphere suited for the whole family.

Each year we look at what we can do to make the festival even better. The festival now boasts an impressive range of regular features: Kombi display, parade, and record attempt Old Bar Classic Two full days of live music Mega-markets Fireworks display Amusement rides Children’s entertainment Street-food vendors

he Swingin’ Sunday at Sails Cantabile, Port Macquarie’s favourite female Concert takes place on group of singers, will also be performing in the Sunday 15th September from concert. With their signature harmonies and 4pm to 6pm. The program varied repertoire, Cantabile always delight and has something to please impress the audience. everyone, with an afternoon Another attraction is that Sails Resort is of light, bright, easy-listening music. There offering ticket holders to the concert a 20% will be plenty of Swingin’ numbers, plus Jazz discount on any meal in the Boathouse and Blues, a little bit of Restaurant at Sails. You Gospel, a few folk songs could choose to have and some audience lunch or dinner before all-time favourites, such or after the concert, or as Hallelujah by Leonard you can use the discount MANY WILL BE Cohen and Danny Boy. at the Boathouse FAMILIAR WITH THEIR The choristers are Restaurant any other day, COOL JAZZ STYLE, teaming up with a Jazz on presentation of your INCORPORATING A Band Kentucky Fried ticket.

FUSION OF DIFFERENT Trio, featuring Geoff Come along to the SOUNDS AND MELLOW Kearns on Hammond Swingin’ Sunday concert, ARRANGEMENTS OF B-3, Chris Trotman Sunday, September SOME WELL-KNOWN on Sax, and Mark 15, 4pm to 6pm in the SONGS. Spence on drums and Cape Ballroom at Sails percussion, together Resort, Park St in Port “making some of the Macquarie. Bar facilities sweetest sounds you’ll are available, so bring find anywhere on the Koala Coast” quipped your friends and have a wine (or two), while Geoff. Kentucky Fried Trio perform regularly enjoying a real toe-tapping afternoon of at Panthers Club on Sunday afternoons and wonderful music and fun! have a regular gig in The Lounge Room bar in Port Macquarie on Thursday nights. Many will be familiar with their cool Jazz style, Tickets ($25 adults, $10 under-18s) are incorporating a fusion of different sounds and available at Glasshouse Box Office or at mellow arrangements of some well-known the door of the Cape Ballroom on the songs. An audience favourite is Fly Me to the afternoon of the concert.

Moon - check it out on YouTube!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 33

Café Buzz As we have bounced into spring, we realise how our taste buds are changing. From wanting hearty rich foods, we start to feel like lighter, leaner foods.

Luckily, our palate enjoys BUZZ fresh roasted coffee all year round.

At Café BUZZ in Peachtree Walk and at our online store www.buzzcoffee.com.au you will find the biggest range of coffees anywhere. Your palate is invited to celebrate!

Single origin coffees are coffee beans from one region - the pride and joy of the coffee farmers in the region and the result of their hard work. Our master roaster, Andrew, creates his magic to ensure all the best flavours come to the fore.

Blends are what Andrew does with single origin beans; he blends certain ones together. Our famous BUZZ House Blend has been served in our café, and many others, for 16 years - a sign of lasting quality.

Our BUZZ Strong Blend is for those who enjoy the big, mouth filling flavour of a dark coffee.

BUZZ Premium Blend is, as it says, our top of the line beans roasted perfectly. Think of the best of wine; you get the feeling?

Beans are sold in 250 g bags for $13.50, 500 g bags for $23.95 and 1 kilo for $40.

We also deliver to you at home or in the office. Call 0412 825 882.

If your business needs wholesale coffee, by the kilo or case, also call 0412 825 882 and we will showcase our coffees for you. Did I mention our teas?

Café BUZZ is always looking at our footprint on the earth.

Recently we discovered on Facebook "Envision hands - collecting bottle tops".

HELPING HANDS is a project organised by Envision (an Australian tax-deductible charity) that utilises recycled bottle caps and turns them into 3D printer filament. This filament is printed into prosthetic limbs and distributed to the victims of landmines in under-serviced nations. Helping Hands needs your help.

When you watch the video, you will see why we are so happy to help this programme, to assist kids with no hands ... no hands!

So ... what do you do?

1) Collect all your (and friends') plastic milk, water and soft drink lids. They must be number two or four in the recycle symbol.

2) Rinse them.

3) Drop into Café BUZZ, and we will forward them for you.

Simple.

This turns our rubbish into a life changing device!

PLEASE - Support - Discuss - SHARE. Together we are one amazing group of people, and together we can help ...

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

34 Greater Port Macquarie focus

nt days a i l l i r b 3 focus_contributor

LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

of Music

swallow there, and certainly not conducive to a world of guest appearances and autographed, glossy volumes of food porn.

Undeniably there’s a column to be devoted entirely to the problems inherent within the industry and the brutal work ethic demanded of hospitality employees, but this one at least is to be devoted to the less depressing and devastating reasons why the era of the celebrity chef appears to be on the wane.

Celebrity Chefs ... So Last Year

M

aybe it’s the demise of the holy trio (what are their names again?) from MasterChef, maybe it’s something to do with the

high percentage of celebrity chef branded restaurants that have had to shut their doors for the very last time lately - but it seems that after an incredibly long period of time in the spotlight, the role of the humble chef has

stepped off centre stage and away from the glare of the studio lights, back into the very kitchen that had initially propelled them into relentless stardom.

Perhaps contributing to the removal of glitz and gloss from the industry has been the very sad attention of late on mental health issues within the hospitality industry, with recent passings of such incredible kitchen legends as Anthony Bourdain and Jeremy Strode.

A dose of reality that nobody really wants to

Case in point, one of the most enduring and inspiring of the celebrity chefs, Yotam Ottolenghi recently released a cookbook entitled Simple, which has only a lemon on the cover, as opposed to a chef portrait. Indeed, there’s not a picture of the man himself to be found in the book, and as he said to Goodfood whilst in Australia on a recent book tour, “I’d rather the lemon does the talking”. Enough said - Ottolenghi’s back to basics approach and down to earth sobriety when it come to the craft and soul of cooking is inspiring, to say the least.

It signifies a return to the very essence of food preparation and the enjoyment of eating, one which we all can readily identify with and reproduce readily in our very own kitchens - being passionate about great ingredients, being curious about how to extract incredible flavours from everyday items and the

importance of working together as a team to achieve a beautiful result.

As Ottolenghi then said, “I get more credit than I deserve. My biggest strength is not how I cook, but how I get people to work in a team”.

And that is, in itself, what is indeed worth celebrating. Because in any successful venture, in reality it is not just about one figurehead who pushes all the buttons and deserves all the credit. It is about every single contributor however big or small, how visible or behind the scenes they may be. In the case of a restaurant, some of those contributors are inanimate objects called ingredients too! If they aren’t fresh, in their prime and at their very best, the whole thing falls apart. Hence the credit to the lemon …

We were all swept away with it while it lasted - the glossy pages, the demos, the reality TV shows. And somehow, I don’t really believe we’ve seen an end to it … let’s face it, people with awesome knife skills are always going to be pretty cool.

But it’s refreshing to see food returning to the kitchen and the plate - better for our tastebuds ... better for restaurant teams everywhere too.

And let’s face it, the lemon is so often the hero!

Music Festival

Music Festival

It signifies a return to the very essence of food preparation and the enjoyment of eating, one which we all can readily identify with and reproduce readily in our very own kitchens ...

October 18, 19

Diesel Lloyd Spiegel Hat Fitz & CarA TURNER BROWN BAND 19-twenty Hussy Hicks Mason Rack Blues Arcadia Andrew Swift Kris Morris & Josh Dufficy Afro Moses Blake O’Connor Fat Picnic Leanne Paris Montgomery Church

Beating Hearts Club Angus Gill Waang Djarri Dancers Mark Oats & Matt Zarb Sofiella Watt & the Handsome Husbands Josh Needs

Colin Lillie James Bennett Miniq Vena KLYMO Then Jolene Hudson Rose Trapps The Southern Hold Ruby Blunt Wingsong

October 18, 19 20

Greater Port Macquarie focus 35

focus_contributor

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

Aaron and Jorja Thompson - Best Dressed Couple at The Masquerade Ball, Rydges Port Macquarie

Meraki Photography

Meraki Photography

Meraki Photography

Beauties at The Masquerade Ball, Rydges Port Macquarie

Francessca O'Donnell - This is your life at Sails Port Macquarie

Meraki Photography

Christina, Jason and Victoria at their father Bob Charley’s 80th celebration at Innes Lake Estate

Clara Gardiner and the glam squad at The Masquerade Ball, Rydges Port Macquarie

Lindsay Moller Productions

Stacey Morgan and Jane Hillsdon at Jane's book launch

So much for a snoozalicious winter! It’s been an epic season of fun … from book launches to glam masquerade balls, farewells, belated champagne birthday sessions and celebrations of science and bioluminescence (yes, you read that right … bioluminescence!)This month was jam packed with events of ALL kinds from front to finish! Seriously welcoming the return of SPRING and some sunshine inspired events on the Port Mac calendar! Bring on the fun in the sun!

T

he fabulous Stacey Morgan secretly organised an absolutely stellar celebration at Sails Port Macquarie on August 9, with 150 friends and family who celebrated the legacy and career of local dance teacher and artist Francessca O'Donnell in a SUPER surprise "This is your life" style dinner in the Cape Ballroom.

Stunning students both past and present and their families came together to reminisce and to celebrate the mentorship Francessca has provided for generations of young dancers here on the Mid North Coast. Family spoke of Francessca's childhood and the long hours she would spend travelling to Sydney each weekend from the family home on the Central Coast in order to take dance classes in the city. Past students told stories about the many "pearls of wisdom" Miss Francessca had shared with them during their years of training and how they have used this advice to serve them well in their professional dance careers here and overseas.

What an honour to be a part of this special crowd, who loved every moment of the evening - a truly beautiful celebration of an incredible woman. Fab food, dancing and a not a dry eye in the house during the tributes. A huge shout out to Fiona Jensen, who emceed the event and literally had everyone in total hysterics from bubbly to dancefloor! Congrats, Francessca -

36 Greater Port Macquarie focus

you are truly an inspiration!

Congrats to Jane Hillsdon, who successfully launched her new book, How to do Marketing at Settlers Inn recently. Jane gathered with 100 friends for an evening of canapés, champagne and lots of celebration, as the book hit the shelves and online bookstores. Jane was supported by hubby Andrew and children Alice, Fleur and Henry and friends including Sara and Rob Oakeshott, Michael and Leisa Ferguson, Rob Turner, Geoff Hawkins, Ross Cargill, Craig Watson and Debbie Ross, Suzie Barnaby, Linvana Hanlan, Kath Bowler, Niccole Mace, Nicole Ban Murray, Hayley and Dave McGrath.

Congrats, Jane - huge amounts of hard work no doubt skyrocketing you to infinity and beyond!

The glam squad was out in force for the 12th annual Masquerade Ball, with 100 guests gathering for a night of celebration in honour of the Hope Shop. Amanda Perrin and the Rydges team put on a stunning evening of canapés, dinner and plenty of dance, with special guest appearances on the red carpet by The Milton Dixie Band, The Steal My Vibe fashionistas followed by a fabulous night of scrumptious food and fun. I was delighted to be invited back on the mic to Co-Emcee the event, with a Game of Thrones inspired green velvet and dark feathered gown. VIP guests included Hope Shop CEO Roger Munro and inspirational wife, Sue, Hayley and Sam Young, Mark and Cher

Van Der Veer, Raymond and Sharon Gouck and Hayley and Nathan Branch. Huge shout out to Clara Gardiner and her glam-bam crew, who lit up the dancefloor - shaking their tail feathers to amazing band Alter Ego. Congrats to Tim Joyce for a fabulous job on the fundraising mic and to Best Dressed Couple Jorja and Aaron Thompson; Best Dressed Gent Issac Richardson; and Best Dressed Lady Angie Hensing, with a swag of prizes including jewels from Le Dãin designs and Botanic Merchant. Always a fabulous event for a wonderful cause - raising much needed funds for our Port Macquarie community. I may have gone a little auction crazy and came home with a band and a swag full of goodies!

It was a stellar celebration, with special guests flying in from all over the globe to celebrate Bob Charley's 80th birthday. Bob and his brother Jim own the Inneslake Estate, which includes the Inneslake Vineyards and Little Fish Café.

Bob recently celebrated this special milestone with a stunning event on his estate, at which he entertained 100 guests, several of whom jetted in from abroad to raise a glass in honour of this special man. The guests stayed at Rydges and Sails Resort and fell in love with Port Macquarie.

The Rydges chefs and service team created a sumptuous seafood buffet to complement a delicious menu, with dishes designed and provided by Nina, Bob’s wife. After music and speeches by his three children, Bob responded

in true Charley style, followed by a tribute by his great friend Lord Vestey, who had flown in from the UK in to celebrate. Sun, champagne and good times flowed, as guests including Gai and Robbie Waterhouse and the extended Charley family and friends celebrated well into the evening. Happy birthday, Bob! A fabulous day - lots of fun and memories shared!

So … for the first time in the history of my life - EVER - I celebrated Science Week; it’s my new occupational hazard! The challenge was thrown down in the staff kitchen - Mad Scientist Morning Tea - bake your science inspired creation. EEEEEK … I’m just a little competitive, and I found myself suffering from severe baking anxiety! There is a lot pressure when you actually work with REAL scientists!

Volcanoes, chemistry cookies, biology bickies, and intergalactic chocolates - I trepidatiously turned out some David Attenborough and Brian Cox cupcakes! This was topped off with a fun night of art and science at Zebu with Dr Beric Henderson and a celebration of bioluminescent bacteria with Dr Nigel Urwin with sixty guests and of course, a few bubbles with the team to finish!

Watch this space for the Art of the Empire new gallery space and opening - looking forward to seeing what this team and space brings ... 'til next month.

Kate.

focusinterview.

It's definitely a big deal when a small town florist is nominated for a big city award ... It's an even bigger deal when they win! That is exactly what our friends at Touchwood Flowers did recently at the Sydney Flower Market Awards.

T O U C H W O O D

C

ongratulations, Ashley; you would have been super excited just to be a finalist! How did it feel having your name called out as the winner?

We were so thrilled to receive an email to say that we were a finalists in the 2019 Fresh Awards. Kaya and I attended the awards night with no expectations and excited to be a part of such a spectacular night. To have Touchwood Flowers announced as the winner was so amazing and such a proud moment for us.

What was the award for?

Our award was for the Merchandising and Branding Excellence category, recognising us for being proactive in marketing fresh flowers and our business through social media, educational activities and by having strong branding within our business.

The Florist Awards aim to encourage, recognise and reward best practice in fresh flower retailing. Award recipients are recognised as the elite of their industry, earning a place amongst a distinguished group by having their achievements highlighted at both the community and industry levels.

We were then named a Finalist in the Florist of the Year category.

Do you know what the judging criteria was?

The Fresh Awards are decided by an in-

depth judging process that is carried out by a panel of industry experts and a band of mystery shoppers over a period of six months.

Businesses participating in the awards and supporting mystery shopper program have the opportunity to gain invaluable insights that can help them better understand their customers' shopping experience and they're provided feedback that can add value to their Award recipients are recognised businesses. as the elite of their industry, All participating earning a place amongst florists receive three a distinguished group by mystery shopping visits having their achievements throughout the year. highlighted at both the Each visit is undertaken community and industry levels. by a different was it nomination, or accredited mystery did you have to apply? shopper.

All florists who purchase The mystery shopper their fresh flowers from Sydney Markets on completes a comprehensive questionnaire that covers numerous aspect across five key criteria: a regular basis are eligible to participate in the Florist Awards and free mystery-shopping • Store appearance program.

• Customer service Based on our mystery shopper results, we • Product quality, range and freshness were selected as one of four finalists.

• Merchandising and branding We have been a part of the Mystery A key element of the program is that all Shopper Program for many years now, but this participating businesses receive a copy of is the first year Touchwood Flowers has been a each mystery shopper's report, that includes finalist in the awards. So, to win was the icing the shopper's feedback, comments and on the cake. observations.

Can you tell us about the process to enter; What was involved for the awards night;

F L O W E R S

where was it held?

The awards night was held at The Star Sydney in late July. Hundreds of industry professionals attended a circus themed night, with acrobats, contortionists, singers, dancers and entertainment, with news presenter Chris Bath as our host for the evening.

Sixty businesses were finalists in the awards, with 15 being named the category winners.

It was a great opportunity to meet other florists and increase our peer recognition across Sydney and NSW. The awards have already proven to be successful with building these business relationships.

Thanks Ashley.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 37

38 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Grand Italian Experience

WITH DUBAI STOPOVER 23 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES | 24 MEALS FROM

$9,475* per person twin share

DEPARTURE DATE:

19 MAY 2020

Escorted by Sonya Wheatley, journey from the Italian Lakes to the Amalfi Coast and trulli limestone houses of Alberobello, with all the highlights in Venice, Florence and Rome, and some Trafalgar surprises in between.

Port Macquarie Travel Shop 4, 114 William St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 T: (02) 65831422 sonya@pmtravel.com.au

*Conditions apply. TT 388308912

Greater Port Macquarie focus 39

gardens this SPRING C O M E

A L I V E

FOCUS speaks with Carol Goulding and John van der Ley on the eve of Spring at Abundance.

H

i Carol and John. Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year in the Australian garden.

What are your top tips for planting for the new season, and what varieties should we invest in?

The current dry conditions are going to play a major role in our recommended selections for spring and going through to summer. Look for water wise plants with vibrant colour bougainvilleas, geraniums, lavender, daisies and gardenias. Grevilleas, callistemons, banksias, syzygiums and westringia are easy care in drought conditions and the NZ Christmas bush metrosideros - will give vibrant red flowers and a lushness often hard to find in the dry.

The Abundance business has many different aspects to the brand. What are some of the exciting things happening at Abundance for the month ahead?

Speaking of drought, we have almost

40 Greater Port Macquarie focus

completed a new water recycling project, so that every precious drop we use to irrigate our wholesale nursery will be recycled. This has been on the planner for a while now, and we have finally been able to implement it this month.

A fabulous new and fresh menu will hit the deck in mid September. Along with this, Mitch and his kitchen team are introducing delicious new cakes to delight and entice even the most die-hard dieters to indulge in a treat.

The emphasis is on edible flowers and bursts of colour and flavour!

The Garden Centre is having a revamp, and new giftware is arriving daily.

New season roses, fruit trees, deciduous trees and citrus are now in. We are newly appointed agents for Form-Boss metal garden edging and have joined the Independent Garden Centre Group, so we can bring new product to our customers at great prices.

The Abundance team members are led by you, John. What is your specific area of interest in the world of horticulture?

I like to produce plants that inspire, and I like to ensure there is constant supply ready for our retail nursery. I have spent many years developing a range of bougainvilleas that I believe is the best in Australia. There is a "boug" for every occasion, and they give such a spectacular show almost all year around. I want to educate our customers and give the best advice for their particular situation. I am also a collector and love getting out and about on our travels and bringing home some more unusual varieties ‌ and I am not very good at sharing these!

I understand the brand is also working to expand its beautiful ranges of giftware, making Abundance an ideal shopping spot to pick up a unique gift for a loved

one. What are some of the specific lines of giftware stocked?

We are always looking for new giftware, and it is often difficult stick to our theme of gardens and garden related ... Water features for table tops, the cutest dog breed salt and pepper shakers, bird and animal cups, fairy gardens, premium floor mats, stunning decorative pots and rattan hanging baskets, a fabulous cushion collection and beautiful botanical soaps!

Our seventh birthday is creeping up, and we will be celebrating with our customers. Night dining will commence when it is a bit warmer, and Christmas bookings are now being taken for private celebrations. Spring is here ‌ and from all of us, we are pumped!

Thanks Carol and John.

The town of Wauchope is a unique and vibrant hub of businesses with retail, health and beauty stores owned by these lovely local women.

We caught up with Jemma, Emma, Penny, Anna, and Natalie to share what they have on oer.

As a destination, Wauchope shouldn’t be overlooked, and for locals looking to support small businesses - there are plenty in Wauchope to visit.

Spring

wauchope

Greater Port Macquarie focus 41

Spring

Wellness the

COLLECTIVE

Natalie Warburton is a fully qualified Naturopath and founder of The Wellness Collective. "My work is committed to empowering clients, and I am passionate about providing the education and support to help them to improve their quality of life and enhance overall wellbeing."

Natalie uses evidence-based naturopathic medicine and scientific research to treat holistically and individually. She weaves iridology, herbal medicine, nutritional interventions and lifestyle coaching to bring about positive change.

My focus in clinical practice is: • Women’s health- hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities.

• Digestive concerns- digestive imbalances, food intolerances, and irritable + inflammatory bowel conditions • Nervous system support- anxiety, sleep disorders and stress management.

• Immune system deficiencies- chronic colds, allergies and recurrent infections.

• Skin imbalances– breakouts, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions The Wellness Collective also offers a beautiful Yoga Studio, Bowen Therapist, Core, Posture & Fitness Personal Trainer, Massage and Body treatment Therapist and Paediatric Speech Pathologist. We have a lifestyle apothecary with a full range of consciously curated life enhancing products.

wauchope

Antidote KITCHEN

natalie@thewellnesscollective.net.au 02 5514 0891 Mobile: 0432762393 Jacaranda House, 39 Cameron Street, Wauchope, NSW 2446 the.wellness_collective @thewellnesscollectivewauchope

42 Greater Port Macquarie focus

BEAUTY AND MAKEUP

Here at Antidote Kitchen, we’re all about the health and wellbeing of our customers and the environment.

Massage, Beauty Therapist, Holistic Beauty, Makeup Artist

We support local farmers, bakers and producers, selecting organic or sustainable products that are handmade with love.

Our menu is made from simple, natural ingredients, ensuring we have your daily health fix; the antidote.

As a natural skin clinic, Anna Carey Beauty offers corrective and evidence-based skin treatments to restore balance to traumatised skin. As a therapeutic beauty practitioner, I have a scientific and holistic approach to all of our treatments and skin care advice.

Fresh, seasonal produce, house-made preserves and pickles, served on local naturally fermented sourdough is our signature.

Our skin care is like a supplement for your skin. After a skin analysis, we can see exactly what needs correcting in your skin to help retrain your skin cells and reduce inflammation.

Choose from one of our delicious combinations, or create your own. Or, for a healthy lunch fix, opt for the Antidote Plate.

Want something sweet? Our range of homemade healthy cakes, raw sweet treats, fermented tonics and fresh coldpressed juices will tempt you. In a rush? Everything on our menu is available to take away.

Proudly serving Gabriel coffee made by our trained baristas with local, organic milk and a range of specialty nut mylks.

We also offer a range of hand blended, organic teas made by local naturopath Meegs Stephens, including our very own "Antidote" blend.

In need of a spring time detox? Home delivery cold-pressed juice cleanses will be available mid spring, to find out more email us and we will keep you updated on release dates hello@antidotekitchen.com.au

Open Tues-Fri 7.00 - 2.00 and Sat 7.00 - 1.00 Email: Phone: Address:

Anna Carey

Email: Phone: Address:

hello@antidotekitchen.com.au 0431 766 539 Shop 2 / 45 Cameron St, Wauchope (in the old Star Hotel building) Antidotekitchen Antidotekitchen

Facials and treatments are meticulously designed for all skin types and concerns. Your tailored treatment will deliver intense hydration, stimulation and detoxification for perfectly balanced skin. After a thorough consultation and skin analysis you will be pampered using a well-curated selection of dermaviduals active ingredients, masks and massage techniques to help retrain your skin cells from the outside-in. This is a results-oriented treatment that delivers what is best for your skin on the day.

We work with the dermaviduals dermatological range to customise your home care and heal your skin from the outside in.

Located in The Wellness Collective, we help clients achieve healthy skin safely and naturally. To help you clear your skin, we specialise in: Acne, Rosacea, Dermatitis, Sensitive & Reactive Skin, Pigmentation, and healthy optimal ageing.

We help you to clear your skin and restore your confidence.

M A S S AG E | B E AU T Y T HE R A P I S T HO L I S T I C B E AU T Y | M A KE U P A R T I S T Email: Phone: Address:

annacarey91@gmail.com 0400 620 465 Jacaranda House, 39B Cameron Street, Wauchope, NSW 2446 @annacareybeauty @annacareybeauty

Spring

wauchope THE WELLNESS COLLECTIVE

skn

ASSOCIATE.

Elements

of DESIGN & ELEMENTS of ZEN Elements of design was created from the ground up in 2011 by myself and my husband, with a vision to bring together an inspiring collection of clothing accessories and homewares.

With a background in fashion and interior design, we brought to life elements of design in a humble little corner store with a great location on the Main Street of Wauchope, NSW. Customers supported our unique vision and continued to come from near and far.

The elements journey saw it going from a small corner boutique to expanding to the whole bottom floor of the building creating an emporium, with the complete shop being fitted out by a family team effort.

After the store's continual growth, the next chapter saw elements acquire an additional large premises next door in the old Star Hotel building, which would now house elements of zen lifestyle store, a unique shopping experience of a garden atrium room, as well as the front of the store fitted out with a compilation of statement furniture pieces combined with a continually changing homeware collection.

The laid back vibe of the store is due to its strong natural textures and colour palette that are pleasing to the eye, with a beautiful range of Italian linen clothing that completes the zen ambience of a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

We pride ourselves on attention to detail and a personalised level of customer care, whilst aiming to bring you, the customer, a unique fresh collection of beautiful clothing, accessories, homewares and furniture and an experience of being "in your element" whilst in store @ elements.

Hey there; I’m Jem, a Registered Cosmetic Nurse Injector, obsessor of creating healthy skin and fresh cosmetic treatments in the boutique town of Wauchope. I’ve been working in the cosmetic industry for over six years and have loved every day of it.

My vision for my business has always been to provide a personalised service in a warm and inviting environment, where my clients can just be themselves.

Skn Associate is my own business and offers a range of bespoke Cosmetics injectables, including anti wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, skin hydrators and fat dissolving injections. Other skin treatments include microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, cosmedical chemical peels, skin needling with or without the option of PRP, skin consultations and skin care programmes to get your skin where you want it to be.

My passion is people and getting them loving themselves.

Working as a theatre nurse in reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries, I saw how empowering a little self improvement can be. Seeing people’s lives change from feeling negatively about their appearance to then enjoying the way they look is an amazing aspect of being a cosmetic nurse. I have also battled my own “terrible” skin journey, so can relate to a lot of my clients with not really loving the skin you're in.

I am privileged enough to be able to get my hands on some pretty amazing products to help support me and my passion for the pursuit of youthful healthy skin. The goal is always to look natural, youthful and reflect the glow from the inside on the outside.

ELEMENTS OF DESIGN & ELEMENTS OF ZEN

SKN ASSOCIATE

CURATIVE FACIAL AESTHETICS

Proprietor: Penny White Phone: 6586 0900 Address: 13 High Street, Wauchope, NSW. 2446 Website: elementsofdesignwauchope.com.au elementsofdesignwauchope @elementsofdesignwauchope

Email: Phone: Address: Website:

hello@sknassociate.com.au 0439 625 078 3/7 High Street, Wauchope, NSW. 2446 http://sknassociate.com.au @sknassociate SKN Associate

Collagen Inner Beauty Boost $42 | Glow Inner Beauty $65 | Antidote Cold Press Juice $7.50| Wild at Home Book $39.00| Salt & Pepper From $25| Neo Genesis Bio Protect 3D $45 | Exfoliance $70 | Age Reversion $70 | Jane Iredale Mineral BB Cream $70 | Quay Sunglasses $70 | Chyka Bow Shoe $149.95 | Woven Crossbody Bag $245 | Dermaviduals Cleansing Milk with DMS $75 | Liposome Concentrate Plus $90

Greater Port Macquarie focus 43

Spring into Colonial Cobbler The Rieker shoe collection includes a variety of footwear for women. From detailed, stylish sandals to formal loafers and trendy Mary Janes, Rieker offers you ideal seasonal footwear to complement any outfit and occasion, without compromising your foot support and comfort.

The Rieker footwear name has long been associated throughout the UK and Europe for the brand’s skill in combining fashion conscious footwear with incredible comfort and support in every product. Now a leading footwear company with global distribution, Colonial Cobbler is a proud stockist for our

44 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Port Macquarie locals and tourists alike.

Striking the perfect balance between fashion and functionality, every Rieker shoe is designed and built with the Rieker unique features and benefits that make the shoes a step ahead of its competition.

With the creation of their own individual technology known and developed as Rieker Antistress, this ensures that every shoe produced and sold comprises the best level of support, flexibility and durability for all round comfort.

Browse the range of new season Rieker footwear in-store at Colonial Cobbler and find the ideal shoe to suit your style.

focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

A BRAW BRICHT NICHT, lads ‘n’ lassies!

O

ne of the world’s best must-see grand scale arena events, coming to Sydney next month, is attracting tens of thousands of eager visitors to the NSW capital from across Australia and New Zealand. Tickets are still available for the thrilling, nerve-tingling pageantry of the visiting Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, celebrating 70 years in 2020 as a unique and rare international drawcard.

Annually, over many decades, hordes of aficionados make a special trip to the Scottish capital to experience the renowned breathtaking display of the massed pipes and bands, Highland dancers and varied cast of performers of the traditional Tattoo staged every northern summer at magnificent, historic Edinburgh Castle.

But in the new century the Tattoo began an “outreach” program of taking the spectacular touring to distant parts of the world. So popular is the event in Australia, next month’s staging at Sydney Olympic Park’s stadium marks the fourth time the Scots have come to deliver their outstanding authentic performances Down Under: in Melbourne in 2015 – and for the third time for Sydney audiences, previously in 2005 and 2010.

Set against the backdrop of a full-size replica of Edinburgh Castle spanning the width of the stadium the show will feature a 1,500 strong international and invited Australian cast including signature pipe bands, the world’s best Highland dancers, outstanding fiddlers and other military musicians, and precision drill teams, joined

by Australian Defence Force bands. The Scots contingent will be revved up from having just completed its annual August season at home.

The energetic mix of music, ceremony, military tradition, theatre, dance and Celtic folklore heralded by the world’s best massed pipes and drums is attracting hordes of local “Macs” who treasure their Scottish heritage, drums students, Highland dance troupes, modern fiddle exponents, local bagpipes players, schools, clubs and assorted other fans who simply love the unmatchable burst of energy, sound and light of a massed live performance - far superior and without compare to the regular re-telecast of each year’s Edinburgh event on TV here each New Year’s Eve. The prestigious global showcase is on a par with events including Rio’s Festival, Venice’s

Carnival and Biennale, Glastonbury, Oktoberfest, Oberammergau, the Running of the Bulls, La Tomatina and sports fixtures such as the Wimbledon Championships ... but achievable without the cost of international airfares.

Sydney hotels are offering accommodation at a wide range of price points: best to consult a local travel agent to find what suits individual needs and budget, accessible seats if required, as well as for easiest access to the stadium, including time for the security check. There are strict conditions regarding food, drinks, maximum size of drinks coolers and a no-BYO alcohol policy.

The event will be staged in four performances, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday 17, 18 and 19 October at 7.30pm and on Saturday 19 October at 11am. At time of writing tickets were available via Ticketek online or on 13 2849 “from” $79 (“best available” or “restricted view”) to $255 (platinum view) plus a $6.90 fee per transaction, with some alcohol-free areas sold out. Retired and current ADF personnel should ask for a 20 per cent discount applying.

The Sydney performance boasts it will feature the Tattoo’s biggest number of performers ever organised (including at home in Scotland, were cast numbers are listed as at 1,200.) Slated for next month’s toe-tapping, hum-and-singalong shows are 320 pipes and drums, 100 Highland dancers, 865 performers in 13 military bands, 40 Scots fiddlers and a 100-strong Australian Federation Guard (Army, Navy and Air Force personnel). The Tattoo is invariably a powerful memorable sensory masterpiece including classics such as Auld Lang Syne and Scotland the Brave, contemporary tunes ... and, no doubt, Waltzing Matilda.

According to the NSW Government’s Events news: “If you think you’ve seen it all before, you’re in for the surprise of your life”.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 45

focus_contributor

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

tourism UPDATE

We all love the whales, and they continue to produce magnificent displays as they make their way back south. Port Jet Cruise Adventures has recently published photos of the whales from their sought-after daily cruises. The annual whale migration is an incredible event to experience. Make a booking soon with Port Jet, to experience these exceptional occurrences.

P

ort AdVenture is adding another exciting addition to their current offer on the Hastings River and HQ Restaurant this month - a Taste of Polynesia - which includes a Sunset Cruise, a mouth-watering island feast and an island-style cultural and entertainment show.

Looking forward to this new event.

Now that spring has arrived, why not visit some of our wonderful local wineries:

48 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Cassegrain Winery and Cellar Door - explore the rolling lawns and formal garden boasting over 2,000 rose bushes. You can sample a drop at the cellar door or eat at Seasons Restaurant.

Long Point Winery and Art Gallery - take in this charming atmosphere, indulge in a tasting and take a look at the art gallery and sculptures.

Bago Winery and Maze - offers a unique and rustic tasting experience. Be sure to enjoy a local cheese plate and glass of wine under the

pergola.

The kids and those young at heart can test their navigational skills in the largest hedge maze in NSW. Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard - step back in time by visiting this historic homestead and vineyard, which showcases the last remaining fabric of the 1800s wine industry.

Stroll through the on-site museum for a taste of early colonial life in Port Macquarie.

Innes Lake Winery and Little Fish Café established as a 30-acre vineyard in 1844. Today you can visit this historic vineyard, which is set amongst Jacaranda, Poinciana and Magnolia trees. You can enjoy a meal and savour the wines at Little Fish Café, relax and take it all in.

Congratulations to all the members of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association who were successful at the Regional Tourism Awards held in South West Rocks in August: and now move on to the State Awards.

Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail Telegraph Retreat Cottages Congratulations also to the successful Association winners, who have now moved on to the NSW Business Regional Awards to be held this month.

Touchwood Flowers Port Macquarie Koala Hospital Kayla Fuller (Touchwood Flowers) OCTEC Limited Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail Cassegrain Wines We welcome five new members to Greater Port

Macqurie Tourism Association this month: • The Beach House Port Macquarie - located overlooking the beautiful Hastings River. With its relaxed atmosphere, contemporary menu and beverage offerings, it stands as a favourite amongst Port Macquarie locals. The Beach House is an iconic coastal venue with Port Macquarie locals.

• MBC Recruitment - excels in temporary and permanent recruitment, labour hire, traffic management, nursing agency staffing, healthcare services. MBC was very successful at the Hastings Credit Union Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce Business Awards - in fact, they were awarded 2019 Business of the Year.

• Prime 7 Port Macquarie - catch all the latest updates on your favourite shows. Your one stop resource for Australian news and events happening near you.

• Hastings Gateway - Wauchope’s original police station, courthouse and stationmaster’s residence. These buildings have been enthusiastically restored and one day will host Wauchope’s Visitor Information Centre. Open days are regularly held until the restoration is completed.

• Optimhotel - Lauren and Emilien Hosquet are dynamic thinkers who are passionate about helping small accommodation businesses to get the most out of their investment. They have created a proven done-for-you, affordable dynamic pricing system.

Check out other events happening in our region @ www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

focusinterview.

Canada and Alaska On every continent of the world, you’ll ďŹ nd experiences that cannot be recreated anywhere else. Abundant in natural beauty, rich in history and culture and full of adventure, Canada and Alaska are certainly no exception to this rule. For local Kerrie, it was an easy decision to make Canada and Alaska her next travel destination.

W

hat made you choose Canada and Alaska for your holiday destination?

Canada has always been on my list of faraway places to visit. The Rocky Mountains, glaciers, magnificent lakes and the unique wildlife all added to my desire to travel. Having the opportunity to travel into Alaska was an added bonus on this trip.

How long did you travel for, and who did you travel with?

I travelled with my husband, sister-in-law and brother-in-law. It was a 26 day tour with a group of 22, escorted by Leanne from Port Macquarie Travel.

What was the most unique and memorable experience on your trip?

I had so many wonderful, never to be forgotten experiences, but the most amazing experience for me was cruising on the spectacular Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park. There were breathtaking views throughout the 40-minute trip. Our journey took us to the iconic Spirit Island situated within the lake, surrounded by the clear blue glacier water and snow capped mountains.

It was exquisite in its natural beauty and a real privilege to spend time in such a natural, unspoilt and peaceful environment. Spirit Island is very important to the First Nations People.

Were there any top activities on your holiday?

Activities were many and varied and also optional. A number of us chose to take a rubber raft ride 16 km down the Athabasca

River at Jasper. Fourteen people were in our raft, with a very interesting guide manoeuvring expertly through class two and three rapids. To add to our excitement, we had light rain, which kept us all a little chilly after frequently getting splashed with the rapids.

It was so special to see a young black bear wander down to the riverbank for a drink, then calmly dive into the water. All of us on IT WAS EXQUISITE IN ITS board voted this raft ride NATURAL BEAUTY AND a great, exhilarating 90 A REAL PRIVILEGE TO minute adventure.

SPEND TIME IN SUCH A Canada and Alaska NATURAL, UNSPOILT AND have a fascinating PEACEFUL ENVIRONMENT. history and culture.

SPIRIT ISLAND IS VERY What stood out to IMPORTANT TO THE FIRST you? were needed for the NATIONS PEOPLE. A planned stop on our community of around seven day bus trip was three hundred. The to the UNESCO World practice was stopped Heritage site of Headover 200 years ago.

I found it quite moving Smashed-in Buffalo Jump near the town of to be in the exact area where this took place.

Fort Macleod in Alberta, Canada.

As much as I understand man had to survive A museum has been established at the and it was what was done then, I am happy site for the stories of the First Nations people to know that it has stopped. to be retold and displayed. Shane from the Blackfoot people shared his people's amazing How was your experience with Port Macquarie Travel? story with us.

Port Macquarie Travel through their The Blackfoot people lived in this area organisational skills provided an amazing and for some 6,000 years survived from the travel experience from the very beginning practice of driving the buffalo off the edge to the end.

All accommodation, transport, of a cliff face. The buffalo were killed for the places visited and activity options met all my survival of the Blackfoot people. Every part expectations and more. of the buffalo was used for their daily needs, I am so grateful for the opportunity to such as food, clothing, medicine and shelter. travel to Canada and Alaska, which was They killed only the number of buffalo that

made so easy and enjoyable by Port Macquarie Travel. A big thank you to Leanne, our wonderful escort.

What tips would you give to anyone wanting to travel to Canada and Alaska?

Just go! You will definitely have the best holiday. I would recommend to include on your itinerary the two day Rocky Mountaineer train trip, take a bus tour into Glacier National Park and Canadian Rockies and do the seven day inside passage cruise to Alaska.

This was my first experience travelling in an organised group, and any concerns I may have had disappeared almost immediately.

It took all the worry out of my holiday, and sharing with other travellers added to my amazing experience.

Thanks Kerrie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 49

NORFOLK ISLAND

3600

$

9 DAYS PACKAGE ALL INCLUSIVE

29 March to 6 April 2020

Immerse yourself in this fully guided tour of Norfolk Island.

Experience the history, culture and majestic scenery of our South Pacific paradise.

INCLUDES Free Airport Transfers, Sydney / Norfolk / Sydney Flights, 8 Nights 4 & 5 Star Accom., All Meals, Excursions & Tours, Full Guided

SILO MURAL ART TRAIL

3149

$

OUTBACK VIC & NSW

10 DAYS PACKAGE ALL INCLUSIVE

30 April to 9 May 2020

Highlights of this outback coach tour are endless.

Silo Mural Art Trail, Ballarat, Bendigo, the Spanner Man, Lake Tyrell, Wagga Canola Trail and so much more.

INCLUDES 9 Nights 4 & 5 Star Accom., Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily, All Coach Transport, All Entries, Experiences & Tours

969

$

4 DAYS

ALL INCLUSIVE

DUBBO ZOOFARI Mudgee Honey Haven, Mudgee Sculptures, Wellington Caves Dubbo Zoo Accom 16 - 19 September 2019

$

388

$

2 DAYS

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DAME EDNA Darling Harbour Theatre Parkroyal Accom 5 - 6 October 2019

388

2 DAYS

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CIRQUE DU SOLEIL Moore Park Sydney Parkroyal Accom.5 - 6 October 2019

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PICK-UP & DROP-OFF WAUCHOPE - PORT MACQUARIE - BONNY HILLS - LAURIETON NEWCASTLE - CENTRAL COAST

50 Greater Port Macquarie focus

$

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BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL Jenolan Caves Blue Mountains.

Norman Lindsay Gallery Parkroyal Parramatta Accom Jenolan House Accom 23 - 25 November 2019

1349

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3 DAYS

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HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD Puffing Billy Dandenong Ranges Pan Pacific Melbourne Accom Newcastle / Melbourne / Newcastle Flights Free Airport Transfers 5 - 7 December 2019

WAUCHOPE GETTING REVVED UP!

YOU'RE INVITED to celebrate the Third Annual Moto Fest - a family friendly event with something for everyone that will be held at Wauchope Showgrounds on Saturday 14th September. Chrissy Jones spoke with one of the event organisers, Jenny Pursehouse, to find out all about the event and the day's activities. hat is Moto Fest?

Our first Moto Fest was organised to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Wauchope being declared NSW’s first motorcycle friendly town. It’s an opportunity for riders to meet up and have a day out celebrating all things motorcycle and for the Wauchope community to enjoy a family friendly day out. The event has been steadily growing over the last few years and is a really fun day out, whether you ride a motorbike or not!

The Moto Fest is an initiative of the Motorcycle Friendly Wauchope Committee, which is supported by the Wauchope Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Port MacquarieHastings Council. Moto Fest was very grateful to have received a Community Grant from the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council recently, which has been put towards attaining assets for the event, such as line marking machines, P.A. system, fire safety equipment, a branded marquee and a trailer to put it all in. It’s an amazing resource for our Wauchope community.

There are quite a few activities happening throughout the day; tell us about some of them.

There sure is. One will be a Show n Shine event, where riders are encouraged to show their pride and joy to the crowds and be judged in categories. As part of this, we also have a “People’s Choice” award, which is always a very much sought-after trophy.

There will be gymkhana skills based events throughout the day, where the riders can compete against each other in some fun events, like the egg and spoon challenge. Dressage is one that is always a crowd favourite, as the riders go between stops putting on unusual items of clothing.

In the afternoon we also hold a Tattoo Show, which is also a lot of fun, and we encourage anyone with a tattoo (or two) to come along on the day and show it off. There are some amazing hand-crafted trophies to be won.

We have an opening ceremony in the morning, and following that we have a "Ride-In" of our feature group. This year's honour went to the Ducati Club. They will arrive as a group after the opening ceremony and take their place on the Showground ring. It’s a great sight (and sound) when the bikes all ride in together.

We'll also have plenty of trade stalls, with everything from motorbikes, clothing and accessories to Vickers Fudge and a barber! There will be plenty of food and drinks and a live band to add to the atmosphere.

Is there a cost to get into the Showgrounds on the day?

Yes, there is: adults $10; children under 18 years are free. The gates will be open from 9am to 4pm. More info can be found on our website: www.motofest.com.au and any trade site enquiries can be directed to me, Jenny, on 0418 186 336.

We look forward to seeing a great crowd on the 14th September, enjoying all the great activities and displays planned at the 2019 Moto Fest.

Thanks Jenny.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 51

focusinterview.

Willing &Able Willing and Able is a supported employment service provider whose mission it is to provide meaningful paid employment and personal growth opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities in a safe and happy environment, whilst providing quality products and services to our customers. With more than 34 supported employees, people are individually placed in work most suited to their physical and intellectual strengths and personal preferences.

A

pril, you started working at the Foundation in July this year; how did you come to join the team?

I was working at Valley Industries in Taree and was wanting to move to Port Macquarie. One of the workers at Valley Industries told me about Willing and Able Foundation, so I made contact and applied for a position. I completed my work experience in June and was lucky enough to be offered a permanent part-time position in July.

You grew up in Wingham; why the move to Port Macquarie?

I remember coming here for family holidays as a child. I have always loved the beach and really wanted to live closer to it, so Port Macquarie was an obvious choice for me.

It can be hard moving and settling into a new town - how are you finding it?

The move has been great. I am living independently in a small apartment which I love, and I have made new friends at work.

I have my own car, so I can drive down to Wingham on the weekends to see family and other friends as well.

So ... What do you do at Willing and Able?

52 Greater Port Macquarie focus

APRIL BARNES 24 years old, new team member at Willing and Able Foundation in Port Macquarie.

I am lucky enough to work in two departments at Willing and Able. I work as an Admin Assistant, which sees me answering the phones, filing and learning about the NDIS, and I also work in the clothing section in the Op Shop. I help out with sorting and hanging clothes and assisting customers.

What is your favourite thing about working at Willing and Able?

That’s a really hard question! I have so many favourite things about working here, and I have only been here for a short time. I am sure the longer I stay the more favourite things I will have. The people I work with are really lovely; I have a real sense of belonging and feel very comfortable. I also love working in the Op Shop and seeing the clothes that some people discard becoming someone else’s treasure. I love fashion, and I think it is really important to recycle and reuse things. It is good for the environment and also a cheap way to fill your wardrobe.

What do you strive for at work?

I want my customers to have the best experience that they can. I try to greet everyone with a smile and make sure they have everything they need when they come in. I love my job, and seeing my customers happy and satisfied means I am doing it well.

Tell me something about you that might surprise us?

In 2016 I spent six months at a Bible College in the Southern Highlands, living with 34 international students. It was a fantastic experience and I met so many incredible people, some of whom I am still in contact with.

What advice would you give someone who might be thinking about working for a supported employment service?

I would say definitely go for it. Working gives me a real sense of purpose, and the social side means I have a brand-new friend network and really feel like part of the team.

Earning money also means I can afford to live independently and still go on holidays. I am planning to go to Japan in 2020 for my next overseas holiday. I say set your goals and you can achieve them - I am proof of that.

Willing & Able has many successful businesses which generate revenue and

provide employment for supported employees just like April in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region. However, as commercial markets become increasingly competitive, the support of the public and business sector is more vital than ever.

How can you help?

You can donate unwanted saleable goods; call us on 6581 0939 to arrange a pick up or take your unwanted goods to our Op Shop located at 39 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and tell your friends about us.

Use our services - come in and grab a coffee and a bargain.

Donate a prize for a raffle - new goods that can be raffled, large or small, would be much appreciated. Your generosity will allow us to keep providing support for our existing people and the many others that will need our support into the future. www.willingandable.org.au

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

September 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

The ending of feeling suspended is on the way. Reflect on the past 12 months, and release any undigested emotions. These are the only things holding you suspended, as you can't take them into the future. It is time to let them go.

Ruby helps us release our fears and hurts.

Reflect yourself in your loved ones.

If someone is displaying behaviour you disapprove of, find out why you disapprove, instead of asking them to stop it.

Relationships are mirroring you presently; don’t judge - just observe.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

Love and romance will be high on the agenda this month. Reflect yourselves in each other, and you will discover a lot about yourself. Don’t end your day without solving any conflict when you put your head on your pillow; do it with a clear mind.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Know you deserve the best of the best. Let this be a motto for a few weeks, and see the difference life makes to you. Release any beliefs of bad luck or misfortune, and give yourself permission to succeed.

Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

To balance your moods, try spending more time near the water. Allow your negative thoughts to leave your mind and see them washing out to sea. The next wave in carries the answer to what you just released; see it wash over you.

Selenite is great for an abundance of crystalclear energy.

You have recently been recognising cycles that have repeated in the past. However, now they aren't affecting you the way they used to. This is because you have healed.

Identify the change you made to have this shift, and thank yourself.

Apophyllite tip placed on the third eye helps us to see clearly.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Your patience is being tested currently.

Don’t get frustrated by delays; use your inner sight to see the answer you will be living, then everything will fall into harmony.

Try to be a little more aware of your thoughts and remain positive.

Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

You’ve recently stepped out of emotional turbulence. Don’t look back; just focus ahead and let go of recently triggered future fears, as they are only FEARS. Concentrate your thoughts into the things that matter most to your heart.

Pyrite will bring back courage.

Better times are coming into clarity. Set some awesome fresh goals, give yourself permission to achieve them, and go and live life. You can expect new friends with social activities, and restless energy is likely to be satisfied by travel or commitment to adventure.

Jade brings a feeling of peace and wellbeing.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Justice is coming into play to balance any injustices from the last 12 month cycle. Don’t allow any negative experience to pass by without gaining your reward for it. Ask your higher self what you have to gain from it.

Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness.

You are a natural born leader and the master of your own destiny. Your word is your honour; this is why people trust in what you say. Your arbitration skills are going to be useful over the next few months; you're a natural peace keeper.

Clear Quartz amplifies strength.

Justice is coming into play. You can expect all kinds of change! Focus your attentions to the task at hand, to avoid a dazed, wandering mind. Your clever Capricorn brain will greatly benefit from some fresh goals or intention.

Carnelian is a terrific stone for focus and productivity.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 53

in Greater Port Macquarie “IT’S ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE!”

BELLROWAN VALLEY HORSE RIDING Port Macquarie’s authentic Horse Riding Experience

We’re open 7 DAYS; bookings essential.

Phone 6587 5227 Web: bellrowanvalley.com.au n Take to the hills and explore the hinterland, a real Aussie bush experience n Daily 1hr & 2hr Aussie Bush Trail Rides, Overnight Packages, Chicks in the Sticks, Campfire Shindig Ride, Billy Tea Bago View Ride, 3 Day Kids Camp. n Small groups w experienced & friendly guides n Shady, picturesque trails, abundant wildlife n Easy scenic 30 min drive from PortMacquarie n Happy, quiet, healthy horses; the best!

ABOUTRides THE are EXPERIENCE!” Hey Hey“IT’S Hey Camel on Lighthouse Beach

TRAIL RIDES AND TREKS

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

Join the Movie Club for great discounts!

Majestic Cinema's Select Series showcases a range of high quality content to engage the discerning audience. Hand picked for excellence.

To book and for session times, head to our website.

Web: majesticcinemas.com.au

Happy First Birthday to Amari!

Phone: 6583 8400

PORT MACQUARIE HELICOPTERS n Port Mac’s #1 Helicopter Tour Company n See “Port” from a different perspective n Air-conditioned, state-of-the-art, professional pilots n Gift certificates available online n Flight training Phone: 0487 771 200 Web: portmacquariehelicopters.com.au

Catch the whales on their way South with Port Jet Cruises 54 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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

n New Screens n New Foyer n New Candy Bar Join the Movie Club for great discounts!

MORE

Majestic Cinema's Select Series showcases a range of high quality content to engage the discerning audience. Hand picked for excellence.

To book and for session times, head to our website.

2019

Web: majesticcinemas.com.au Phone: 6583 8400

STONEY BAGO MAZE AQUA PARK AND WINERY Fun For Everyone

Take time out to visit Bago Maze Winery, a 10am-4pm SESSIONS BEGIN ON&THE HOUR unique adventure for the whole family. n Please arrive 30 minutes early to sign in, life jacket fitting and in a for safetyDoor talk Enjoy a wine tasting theaCellar followed by a cheese platter on the pergola n Slides, Blast Bags, Trampolines, Swings, See-saw, Challenge Tracks, Balance Beams, overlooking the picturesque Vineyards and Wobble Pads Maze. n BBQ & Picnic Benches, Sun Lounges, Lose yourself or Kiosk, the kids in the Welcome largest hedge Change Rooms, Groups maze in NSW – 2m High and 2km n Worlds largest Aqua Park just 10long! minutes north ofon Port Join us theMacquarie second Sunday of every Address: 16 Hacks Rd, Telegraph Point month to enjoy liveFerry music and a picnic on Phone: 6585 0090 the grass.

Web: www.stoneyaquapark.com.au Phone: 6585 7099 Open: 9am - 5pm with last Maze entry at 4pm (7 days) Address: Milligans Rd (off Bago Rd), Wauchope Web: www.bago.com.au

PORTMACQUARIE CRUISE PORT ADVENTURES GOLF CLUB n Whale watching nnEnjoy a tastyocean meal thrill at Aspire Awesome ridesoverlooking the golf course n Wave Rider, Port Macquarie's newest custom built boat n Bingo Monday AM and Thursday Evenings - National Parkgolf rivercourse cruise nn18Eco hole challenging n Famous sunset cruise n Golf lessons n Boom Net Cruises nnJunior clinics and classes Private charter for functions and parties nnTrivia Wednesday evenings Jet Ski hire in our exclusive jet ski park No licence required nnTAB & Foxsports n 10% off your second adventure with n Friendly, comfortable and relaxing Port Cruise Adventures Phone: Phone:6582 65830409 8811 or 0419 620 765 Address: Macquarie Address:Ocean Cnr ofDrive, TownPort Green & Short Street, www.portmacquariegolf.com.au Port Macquarie www.portjet.com.au

n Horseback riding, surfing, swimming, hiking, visiting waterfalls & rainforests and engaging in creative craft, sports and more n Camps are interspersed with team building & socialisation games, activities and free time, allowing kids to think and behave creatively. n Children are under full supervision throughout the camp by qualified and experienced camp leaders (NDIS Provider). n Campers are given the space to explore new experiences and friendships in a supportive environment. n Offers parents respite during the busy holiday periods.

“Audacious Adventurer Camp” 21st – 24th January 2019 Bookings: aussiekidsadventurecamps.com.au Phone: 0422 089 635

WAVE BOWL BOWL WAVE Wave Bowl strikes it right with fresh

n Ten Pin Bowling Fun a whole new space. renovations that offers n Awesome Bowling Deals ROOM! Decadent NEW PRIVATE KARAOKE furnishing, latest inEarly audio and$ visual equipment. n School Holiday Bird 7 Games from Bar service and graze platters with 8.30-9.30am everyday duringavailable the school room hire — awesome! holidays. n NEW BAR! New seating and eating areas. Slip n Beers ’n Bowling Every Monday, Tuesday, into a chesterfield with tap beer or a cocktail, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday. 8pm watch the lanes or sports screens.

- 10pm $ 4 Beers - $ 6 Games n NEW KITCHEN! Serving ‘Merican cuisine to lanes, bar and2238 karaoke room — pizzas, tacos and Phone: 6583 American style hotdogs — easy on the pocket!

Address: 159 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie Tell your friends, the place to be is Wave Bowl.

Web: www.wavebowl.com.au Phone: 6583 2238 Address: 159 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie Web: www.wavebowl.com.au

PORT MACQUARIE JUMBOS PLAYLAND Don’t let your kids be bored these school SURF SCHOOL holidays. We provide all the fun and activities nwhile Group Lessons ticking all your boxes for healthy and kids. nactive Private Lessons n4Hire Boards Exercise 4 Healthy Café Menu Craft and Activities n4Lesson 7 Days a week EVENTS: Appearances

by Paw nSTAND-OUT All surfing equipment supplied Elmo and Leo nPatrol, Learn Poppy to SurfTroll, with Moana, Port Macquarie’s (TMNT) and multi award winning Surf original School CRAFT: Plaster painting, creative textile and sensory art, cooking - biscuit decorating and Phone: 6584 7733 fruit kebabs and more.

Web: www.portmacquariesurfschool.com.au SEE OUR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA SITES FOR MORE INFO. Sun-Fri 10am-3pm • Sat - 9am-4pm Phone: 6581 0909 Address: 17 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie Web: jumbosplayland.com.au

SEE EVEN PLAYLAND MORE AT WWW.52THINGS2DO.COM.AU JUMBOS Don’t let your kids be bored these school holidays. We provide all the fun and activities while ticking all your boxes for healthy and active kids.

4 Exercise 4 Healthy Café Menu 4 Craft and Activities STAND-OUT EVENTS: Appearances by Snow Queen Elsa, PJ Masks Catboy, Paw Patrol Chase, Mermaid Ariel, Kung Fu Panda, Poppy Troll, Princess Belle, Ninja Turtle ALL SPECIAL APPEARANCES WILL BE FOLLOWED BY CRAFT AND COOKING ACTIVITIES.

What's on this September Snow Queen Elsa, PJ Masks Catboy, Paw Patrol Chase, Mermaid Ariel, Kung Fu Panda, Poppy Troll, Princess Belle, Ninja Turtle

SEE OUR WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA SITES FOR MORE INFO. Sun-Fri 10am-3pm • Sat - 9am-4pm Phone: 6581 0909 Address: 17 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie Web: jumbosplayland.com.au

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

Port Macquarie focus 53 HYDROGreater GOLF & PUTT-PUTT Web www.hydrogolf.com.au Phone 6583 3200 Boundary St, Port Macquarie.

Open 7 Days

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 55

Flying orthodontist

lands in Port

From studying dentistry in South Africa and specialising in orthodontics in the USA, to buying a practice in Bondi before settling down to make a long-term home in Port Macquarie, Dr Eric Saacks is a local specialist with truly global expertise. Did we mention he’s also a qualified pilot?

O

ver a decade ago, Dr Eric Saacks moved his home, family and business to Port Macquarie, and he hasn’t looked back.

“With a busy city practice and a growing family, we’d been eyeing off Port as an idyllic place to put down roots and create a long-term home to raise the kids. When the opportunity came to open a practice here I jumped at the chance.”

The support of the local community quickly saw the one-person practice grow into a thriving team, and ultimately allowed Eric to sell the Bondi location to focus on Port Macquarie patients full time.

Changing lives one smile at a time “The thing I love most about what I do is the before and after transformations. Even having treated thousands of patients over 25 years, I never tire of seeing my patients - especially children - leave with a renewed sense of inner confidence that lasts a lifetime.

“Most of our work is either from personal recommendations - many are parents from school - or referrals from local dentists, so we really get to know everyone. It’s that personal service, community feel and oneon-one treatment that sets us apart.”

A close-knit staff with a reputation for their caring service, Saacks Orthodontics has built up a loyal local team including therapists, hygienists, treatment coordinators and dental assistants - with all treatments personally overseen by Dr Saacks.

A genuine family-owned and run business, Eric’s wife Dagmara, who is also a hygienist and dental technician, oversees and manages the practice.

Prevention is better than cure While offering the complete range of proven treatments for teenagers and adults, a specialty and passion of Eric’s is early intervention and prevention.

I’d been flying back and forth to Sydney, but our hearts were 100% here in Port.”

56 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Eric and Dagmara love getting into the community spirit, sponsoring the Port Macquarie Surf Lifesaving Club, Thunder Hockey, and several local sporting teams, as well as getting involved with local schools.

“Early treatment can give brilliant results and provides the best long term outcomes. It’s a chance to make small adjustments that guide the jaw, correct harmful habits, improve appearance and prevent more serious problems down the track.

Often you can significantly reduce the need for extractions, and the time or need for braces, if you work with kids as their teeth develop.”

In line with his love of flying, Eric also volunteers as a pilot for Angel Flight Australia, who arrange flights for regional families to access specialist medical treatment that would otherwise be unavailable. A flight from Coffs to Sydney, is all in a day’s work for Eric.

“We’re here to stay, that’s for sure.

It’s the lifestyle, people and beauty of Port that we all love.”

Chat to a local expert You may be surprised at how fast, discreet and affordable the latest treatments and payment options are, particularly for early intervention.

If you’re interested in exploring the latest orthodontic treatments for you or your family, contact the friendly Saacks Orthodontics team for a FREE consultation with no obligation.

Why choose Saacks Orthodontics?

• Local specialists, global expertise • FREE no-obligation consultation • No referral needed • Visit us from age 7

• Children, teens and adults • 0% finance plans* • No down payments* *Terms & Conditions Apply

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends seven as the ideal age to review your child’s teeth.

Invested in your future “As a true-blue local now, I’m committed to serving the Mid-North Coast. community for the long-term.

“We recently invested in a new facility (85 William Street) with state-of-the-art equipment, 3D X-ray, digital impressions and all the innovative technology from Australia and the USA. “If you recall the old school railway tracks from the 80s and 90s, you’ll be amazed at how sleek, small and comfortable the latest treatments are.”

Call 02 6584 2333 Email admin@saacksorthodontics.com.au, visit saacksorthodontics.com.au or drop in to the treatment rooms at 85 William Street, Port Macquarie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 57

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

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

medicines

the TRUTH about GOING BLONDE. for

can be AFFECTED by a range of things ...

There are several different groups of medicines used to treat depression. There are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and other antidepressants that don’t fall in to these groups.

S

SRIs are the most commonly problem with the SSRIs. The combination can used group of antidepressant cause anxiety, difficulty sleeping and feeling medicines. Examples of these jittery. medicines include paroxetine, Food fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram Some antidepressants can cause weight and escitalopram. gain. Eating a healthy diet will help to TCA examples include amitriptyline, prevent this, as well as help with feelings of doxepin, clomipramine and nortriptyline. depression and anxiety.

As well as St John’s Wort treating depression, St John’s Wort is taken antidepressants are by some people as a used for anxiety, panic natural antidepressant. attacks, incontinence The way this works is WHETHER CAFFEINE and hot flushes, by increasing serotonin IS CONSUMED FROM amongst other uses. levels. This is a problem, COFFEE, TEA, SOFT Alcohol because prescription DRINK OR EVEN The antidepressants antidepressants also CHOCOLATE (WHICH that interfere most increase serotonin levels.

HAS A BIT OF CAFFEINE) with alcohol are Having serotonin levels IT CAN BE A PROBLEM mirtazepine and the that are too high can cause WITH THE SSRIS. TCAs, due to the fact severe side effects. these medicines cause Codeine and other a lot of drowsiness. opioids Combining these Strong pain medications medicines with alcohol like codeine and other makes the drowsiness much more likely. opioids are a problem with antidepressants, There can also be difficulty breathing with because they too increase serotonin levels, the TCAs. which can be very dangerous. The dose Caffeine of pain medicines needs to be monitored Whether caffeine is consumed from by your doctor, to make sure serotonin coffee, tea, soft drink or even chocolate syndrome doesn’t occur from levels that are (which has a bit of caffeine) it can be a too high.

54 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I

Going from brunette to blonde is not an easy process. A lot of clients think it can just be done in one visit, by putting one colour all over the hair - simple as that! But, that's not the case.

t takes skill, patience, confidence, experience, a colourist who knows her stuff, and a client who is cool, calm and collected through the many stages of blonding. Lauren from Living Doll will talk about whether you're the right candidate for becoming a blonde!

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS? First things first.

You need to ask yourself if you're ready to be a part of a blonde entourage. Let’s talk about what it entails to become a blonde.

Damage - going lighter calls for some type of damage to your hair. If you have box colour, or any type of colour at all on your hair when going blonde, your stylist will HAVE to use bleach.

There is no other way to lighten hair with colour on it. Colour does not lift colour out of hair. End of story. Therefore, it's important to gradually lighten your hair when going from one extreme to the other. If your hair is already severely damaged, you need to ask yourself, and your stylist, if it’s in your best interest to go lighter. I've had to ask clients several times, would you rather have healthy, shiny hair or dull, damaged hair?

If your stylist (or several stylists) tells you it's not in your best interest to go lighter, PLEASE trust them. You will find some stylist out there who WILL lighten your hair; however, it will probably cause damage or in worst cases, break off. I'm not saying that you can't ever go light. If your hair is healthy, and the lightening process is done correctly and slowly, you can safely go lighter with your hair over time. But even then, there will most likely be some sort of minimal damage to your hair.

Time - going from dark to light takes several appointments, and normally several hours at a time. Plan to be in the salon every four - six weeks to start with, and plan to spend several

hours in the salon with each visit. No stylist should try to take your hair from a very dark colour to light in one session. In fact, I have turned clients away who would just not listen to me when I said I couldn't take them from dark brown to blonde in one session. If you're planning on going light, make sure you tell your salon beforehand, so they can schedule enough time for you. If you're a new client, go in for a consultation first.

Patience - like I stated above, it takes time to get to the desired blonde of your choice. Be patient with your stylist when going lighter and understand that you might have to live with a colour that is "in between" what you're hoping to achieve for a few weeks. Dark hair is naturally going to lift to warmer tones, especially if it has old box colour on it, so you are most likely not going to be an "ash” blonde until you're closer to the lightest blonde shade. However, it should still be a pretty colour in the process.

Money - being blonde isn't cheap. It’s a higher maintenance lifestyle, not suited for everyone. If you’re going from brunette to blonde, you will need several appointments for full highlights about every four - six weeks, until your desired colour is achieved. Once you've reached your desired colour, you will need to come in for touch ups or a base break every five - 10 weeks, depending on the contrast in your natural colour vs. your blonde. At this point, you can get by with just doing a partial highlight, and a full every few times, which is less expensive. You will also need to invest in good products to keep your blonde looking healthy! Something to think about, Dolls.

professionals

SMART Pilates

Massage @ Port Macquarie

SMART Pilates offers tailored sessions in both matwork and reformer/equipment Pilates. The 55 minute classes are an all-encompassing body workout designed to develop longer, leaner muscles and establish good core strength and stability.

Many of us suffer from core weakness, which can lead to postural problems and pain. Pilates allows you to strengthen the core and stabilising muscles around the joints, helping you to move more freely and with less pain.

At SMART Pilates, the classes are designed to allow each of my clients to focus on their body awareness, whilst teaching them how their bodies work, how they age and change over time and how they can restore their wellbeing through preventative measures such as Pilates.

At SMART Pilates, my clients, regardless of injury or fitness level, start their journey with an initial consultation. Drawing upon my expertise, in both working with the body through sport, to the rehabilitation perspective through remedial massage, allows me to tailor the Pilates program to their needs, find out what their goals are and/or select an appropriate class for them to join.

For the month of September, all new clients will receive a 20% discount on their initial consultation.

Plum Studio Plum Studio started from a love of hair, people and our environment. We are an environmentally sustainable salon that strives to make as little an impact to our planet as possible.

I saw a need for a luxury upmarket salon that provided consistent quality hair styles and colours, with a relaxed chic vibe. We have created a space with lots of natural light, greenery, wood and a touch of gold, where everyone feels welcome and can completely unwind.

At Plum Studio we are constantly evolving and changing our techniques with the fashion trends. We regularly attend education with our industry's top hairdressing educators and love learning how to be better than yesterday. It's a passion for us, not just a job, and we love creating that perfect colour or style for our clients.

We specialise in everything colour, from bright blondes, balayage, to natural lived in colours and shiny brunettes, then top it off with a great style cut that you can maintain.

To make your next hair appointment at Plum, call the salon on 0401 826 388 or book online at www.plumstudio.net.au

There is absolutely no doubt that professional Remedial Massage therapy delivers positive results and many people agree that 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 timehonoured 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 and 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-so-young with compassion, respect and always with traditional Chinese courtesy and values.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 59

professionals

Work beyond 2020 the future of healthcare FOCUS speaks with Maree Bernoth, Associate Professor of Nursing at Charles Sturt University, to explore the nature of these changes and how healthcare provision is responding to them.

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here is healthcare headed?

The coming decades will present the healthcare industry with unique challenges. These challenges will need innovative solutions to ensure patient care remains effective, equitable and economically viable.

How do we meet the needs of a changing and ageing population?

The demographic profile of Australia is changing like never before. Immigration is one factor, but the biggest structural shift is that Australia is, in terms of the people who live here, getting older. Often this shift in demographics is presented as a negative thing.

You may read of a “time bomb” or a “looming crisis”. Of course, an ageing population presents challenges socially, economically and in terms of healthcare provision, but it also presents opportunity. Associate Professor Bernoth feels that the changing demographic means unique

possibilities for healthcare workers.

“The growing number of older people means that healthcare workers can work with people from preconception right through the lifespan, so that patients have quality of life throughout their lives. That’s exciting for healthcare workers. More people living longer is a sign of a successful society. However, we want people to age so they don’t have co-morbidities and chronic health problems that some of our current older members of society have.”

“And, as we understand more about the ageing process and effects on it through research, frontline healthcare staff like nurses can help people apply this knowledge to ensure their quality of life. That means things like health promotion about lifestyle choices as we age,” says Professor Bernoth.

Meeting the needs of an ageing population who make more demands on healthcare services will require growth in dynamic services, delivered by agile workers able to respond to change positively. Growth in the industry will

Become a nurse, right here in Port Macquarie!

Now you can study nursing at Australia’s #1 university for grads who get jobs.* Join the ranks of Charles Sturt University nursing graduates with the degree that’s led the way for almost 50 years.

•

Launching 2020 at Charles Sturt University in Port Macquarie.**

•

Three-year undergraduate degree.

•

Benefit from brand-new clinical and teaching facilities.

•

Get hands-on with more than 800 hours of workplace learning in an exciting range of health settings.

•

Enjoy small class sizes, with personalised attention and support.

•

Learn from our nursing experts.

•

Strong links with local industry partners means opportunities for clinical placements and employment after graduation.

Please note: only first-year subjects offered at Port Macquarie in 2020.

csu.edu.au/bachelor-nursing *The Good Universities Guide 2018/19 **Pending external ANMAC accreditation. CRICOS Provider Number for Charles Sturt University is 00005F. © Charles Sturt University, 2019. S1001.

60 Greater Port Macquarie focus

mean opportunities for shortage of nurses in those looking to work in our regions by studying the field. Just in terms of nursing in your region? nursing, in the medium Charles Sturt University GROWTH IN to long term Australia’s delivers the Bachelor of THE INDUSTRY demand for nurses will Nursing across most of WILL MEAN their campuses, making it significantly exceed OPPORTUNITIES supply. It is thought as convenient as possible FOR THOSE the shortfall will be for its students. From 2020 LOOKING TO approximately 85,000 onwards, the degree will BUILD A CAREER be offered at the Port nurses by 2025 and IN HEALTHCARE. Macquarie campus. Get 123,000 nurses by ready to make a difference 2030. (Dept of Health, to the future of healthcare Australia’s Future Health and study by the beach!

Workforce - Nurses).

How can we increase the number of nurses? Find out more or apply now at csu.edu.au/ bachelor-nursing Did you know you can help combat the

professionals

20% OFF Spring time: allergy time September marks the start of spring and for many, it also marks the beginning of red, itchy and watery eyes. Lucy Liu from OPSM Port Macquarie Clarence Street says the chance of suffering from an eye allergy this season is much higher than usual.

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ith such little and the risk of picking up these conditions is rainfall this year, less if you don’t rub your eyes. airborne agents “Some people also experience cold that cause and flu-like symptoms, such as sneezing, irritation, such as sniffling and a stuffy nose. pollen and grasses, “To manage allergic conjunctivitis, it is are more active and likely to cause eye important to determine the cause of the allergies,” said Lucy. allergen to enable you to avoid it, and to “When not treated correctly, eye allergies therefore reduce the frequency and severity can become so severe, of symptoms. that they affect your “Having your eyes concentration and tested as soon as any ability to work. So, if signs of an allergy you experience a new or present themselves HAVING YOUR EYES unusual allergic reaction gives you the best TESTED AS SOON this spring, it’s important chance of eye allergy AS ANY SIGNS OF AN to have your eyes relief.”

ALLERGY PRESENT THEMSELVES GIVES checked.”

If you are constantly YOU THE BEST You may remember rubbing your eyes, CHANCE OF EYE your parents saying then one thing is for ALLERGY RELIEF. to you, “Don’t rub sure: you should have a your eyes!” Well, that general eye test to rule parental advice should out the fact that you always be followed. don’t need glasses or Lucy says the most common of all eye have any other eye health issues. allergies is Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis, The commons symptoms to watch for where the body’s reaction can cause include: swelling of the conjunctiva, the thin layer • Itchiness lining the whites of the eyes and inner • Redness eyelids. The most common forms of • Lid swelling conjunctivitis are bacterial or viral in origin, • Watery eyes

LENSES

WHEN PURCHASED WITH AN OPTICAL FRAME*

OPSM Port Macquarie Settlement City Ph: 6583 4271 OPSM Port Macquarie Clarence St Ph: 6583 1377 OPSM Wauchope Ph: 6585 2755 OPSM Laurieton Ph: 6559 9007 OPSM Kempsey Ph: 6562 5886 OPSM Taree Ph: 6552 2391 *T&Cs apply, see in-store for details. Offer ends 30/09/19.

OP0819-36 FOCUS MAgAzINE HALF PAgE PRESS AD 125X317MM v2

Greater Port Macquarie focus 61

professionals

fat

F R E E Z I N G

now available at Port Skin Clinic

It’s universally accepted that most women have a stubborn little pocket of fat that no diet or extreme exercise plan can blitz. And this nuisance sag can come in all shapes and sizes ... Inner thigh thickness, bingo wings, or post-pregnancy muffin tops.

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hatever its form, it’s usually downright impossible to banish without surgery. Well, that is before Cooltech.

What exactly is fat freezing?

Cooltech uses a number of different paddles to suck up the fat to freeze. Initially, the area feels cold, but then it goes numb and patients don’t really feel anything. After an hour, the paddle is removed, and what’s left is a very strange hard shape from where the fat has frozen. It is then massaged back to fat.

What are the results?

There’s a 20-30 percent reduction of fat in the area treated. This cell death is permanent,

62 Greater Port Macquarie focus

making it harder for them to put the weight back on in that area. Results take about two months to be fully seen.

Who can use it?

Sadly, this isn’t a weight loss tool, so isn’t for extremely overweight women trying to lose lots of weight. Instead, it’s more suited to those who are generally fit and are healthy, but have an area which is really hard to shift.

Is it safe?

Some patients do suffer from numbed nerve feelings, but this is temporary and only lasts for a few weeks to a few months. Generally, this is a low risk procedure in comparison to liposuction.

Book Now to see how Cooltech can help you.

Port Macquarie's Private Hospital's

Dr Nick Confos Ophthalmic Surgeon at The Grange Eye Centre, 81 Lake Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Tel: (02) 6583 6466 Fax: (02) 6584 9094.

Dr Confos, can you tell us your specialty field and how you came about choosing this field?

Since moving to Port Macquarie, I have been practicing as a solo general Ophthalmologist. I originally trained as a General Practitioner (GP) before I took on further training to become an Ophthalmologist. This grounding in general practice has had an influence on my current practice . I believe it enables me to offer a more wholistic approach to my clinical practice. In addition, general practice has taught me the importance of giving patients time, which makes them feel valued and in control of their eye health. Ophthalmology is a rewarding and complex specialty and there is great satisfaction in improving a patient’s vision.

How long have you been in Port Macquarie and what attracted you to the region?

My wife Sarah and I moved to beautiful Port Macquarie from Sydney 10 years ago.

The lifestyle the region offers was the main attraction and the short commute to work!

When I am not looking after patients I enjoy riding my motorcycle, bicycle and playing guitar.

What are the common conditions you see in your practice?

The most common conditions seen include cataract, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Many patients are seen who require regular eye injections to control wet ARMD in order to improve or preserve vision. Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) scanning represents a significant advance in the management of patients with ARMD as it provides a detailed scan of the retina/macula at the back of the eye.

on the eye lids such as blepharoplasty (for droopy eye lids). In addition laser treatment (SLT) and new drainage devices are now available for open angle glaucoma to avoid the need for long term eye drops. Minor procedures are also performed in the rooms e.g. skin biopsies and eye injections.

Private patients who require surgery, can have their surgery at Coolenberg Day Surgery and for public patients I operate at both Kempsey Hospital and the Base Hospital in Port Macquarie.

What type of surgical procedures do you perform and where do you perform your surgery?

The most common surgery I perform in my clinical practice is cataract surgery. I have gained considerable experience performing this operation in both Australia and England where I completed my fellowship training.

Refractive surgery is also an option for suitable patients who no longer want to wear glasses.

Both cataract and refractive surgery are satisfying and effective procedures which provide patients with excellent results very quickly. Other surgeries I perform include, pterygium surgery and a wide range of surgery

What is your top tip for maintaining eye health?

To maintain your eye health it is important to have regular eye checks the frequency of which depend on a number of factors including current eye health, family history and visual needs. If you are unsure or have any concerns about your eye health talk to your GP or optometrist.

Practice details The Grange Eye Centre, 81 Lake Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Tel: (02) 6583 6466 Fax: (02) 6584 9094.

professionals

Port Macquarie Orthodontics

T

talks Invisalign

rue or false? The science of braces is the same as it was 20 years ago.

False. Whilst traditional metal braces are still an option, Invisalign Clear Aligner technology is more advanced and more comfortable. Of course, traditional braces are still an option at Port Macquarie Orthodontics, with tooth coloured brackets for those who want a more discreet look and colours for those who want to have some fun!

Is the doctor still in control of my treatment

64 Greater Port Macquarie focus

®

with Invisalign®?

Yes! In fact, our orthodontists have more precise control over your treatment planning than compared to using manual braces. We digitally plan your tooth movement using 3D treatment software. Because your smile is designed before you start treatment, we can show you what it is intended to look like, from beginning to end. No more wondering.

Do Invisalign aligners take longer than braces?

No. In our experience, Invisalign treatment

is much faster than the older style method of braces for the majority of cases we treat. Unlike traditional braces that use metal wires, every Invisalign aligner is pre-customised to your specific teeth. No two aligners are the same that’s the advantage of the digital technology.

Is Invisalign more convenient than braces?

Yes. With Invisalign, your check ups are faster. Plus, you don’t have to wait until your next visit to have your next tooth movement progress. Unlike traditional braces, where you need to make an appointment for a wire change, wire poke or broken brackets, your Invisalign treatment progression is not dependent on your availability to see us. Every aligner is numbered, and each week you move to the next aligner in the comfort of your own home. We monitor your tooth movement face to face and with digital treatment planning. If you get busy or need to travel, your treatment continues without interruption.

My child doesn’t brush their teeth well; how can I expect them to wear aligners?

Because aligners don’t cause the pain that broken bracket and poking wires from braces do, we find that children are better at wearing aligners than they are at taking care of braces.

And with no brackets or wires to brush around, Invisalign is the more hygienic alternative. With braces you must be sure to diligently brush around the brackets to avoid plaque build up. It is the plaque build up that can lead to decalcification or "stains" on the teeth. If you are concerned about your child not wearing their

aligners, don't be. We often find children are more keen to wear the aligners than braces as they don't have the poking wires to worry about.

Why is Invisalign more comfortable than braces?

With traditional braces, there is a bigger force of movement applied approximately every six to eight weeks when the wire is changed. With Invisalign, the total tooth changes are broken down into smaller weekly moves. You don’t have to see us every week - just change your aligners at home. It’s these smaller changes that makes Invisalign more comfortable. Plus, with no brackets and wires poking into their gums, there’s no excuse for kids not to eat their veggies!

How do I know how much experience my doctor has with Invisalign?

Any of us could use a tennis racquet designed

by Roger Federer, but that doesn’t mean that we will instantly be a world class tennis player.

The same applies to any tool we use. It is the expertise and experience of the doctor that determines your smile result. Many doctors say they offer Invisalign, but in fact have only treated a small number of patients with Invisalign. You can check how much experience a specific doctor has using Invisalign here at invisalign.com.au/ find-a-doctor. Drs Ballard and Rex have received the highest award given out by Invisalign in 2018 - Invisalign Blue Diamond. They treat over 750 patients a year using the Invisalign technology.

Our orthodontists' experience in creating new smiles with Invisalign is unmatched in Port Macquarie.

professionals

Common W H E N

C H O O S I N G

A

DENTIST 1. Don’t let pain rush your decision Waiting until you are in pain to ring a dentist is not ideal, because it sets an unrealistic time line in finding a dentist to look after your dental health long term.

2. Choosing the first practice with an available appointment - just because they have time on the day to fit you, doesn’t necessarily make them the right dental practice to help you maintain your smile for life.

3. Choosing your closest dentist - just because they are local and you’ll save travel time doesn’t necessarily mean they are the right dentist for you or your family's needs.

4. Credentials and specialised training are important, so understand your dentist's training - not all dentists are created equal; you wouldn’t ask your tire repairman to rebuild your engine, would you?

It’s important to inquire about the dentist’s clinical experience and training when booking, so you understand their area of expertise or specialised training.

5. If it isn’t done right, you’ll probably pay to do it again - choose a practice with a good, long standing reputation, because they will pride themselves on what their patients say about them and they have built a reputation on that feedback and lasting results.

6. Choosing a dentist based on a really low advertised price is not a good idea - if you plan on keeping your teeth, you shouldn’t trust your dental health and smile to a dentist whose only redeeming quality is a discount bargain! Don’t buy into cheap offers; if a practice is advertising a cheap offer, it is usually indicative of a cut price approach to treatment, training their team or the equipment they use. Low price often equals the bare minimum care, and it’s likely that you’ll receive poor care from an inexperienced and untrained dental team.

7. Request a written quote or an itemised list of services with prices included before agreeing to any treatment - and observe if the

staff and dentist show pride in their quote and estimate accuracy.

8. Asking a friend and then basing your decision upon their dental needs - not every patient's dental needs are the same, and the dentist that suits one patient may not be able to offer the right solutions for another.

So instead, ask many of your friends for recommendations and ask what kind of work they have had done before you book.

Do your research, and choose several well established practices that have a good reputation. Call and enquire with each about becoming a patient, or maybe call and enquire, then visit the practice. Choose a practice that is clean, friendly, hygienic and makes you feel at ease - a practice you feel you can trust your dental health to. Make sure the entire team, including the dentist, demonstrate good communication skills.

Make sure it’s a team you would you feel comfortable asking questions of, and not just the dentist.

Choose a practice that invests in their technology, their team and community. Do they use digital technology such as digital X ray or 3D dental imagery? Do they have an oral health therapist or a hygienist working with them? Do they sponsor local community events or children’s sports?

When you book a consultation, bring your questions and evaluate the team's answers and decide if this is the team that you are confident in to look after your smile! Do they guarantee reliable service and promote optimum health, as opposed to treating you like just another customer that comes and goes?

Finally, does the practice accept your health fund and can you process the Hicaps in the practice at the point of payment, so that you only pay the gap? For more information, or to book an appointment, call the caring team at Sundial Dental Port Macquarie: 6583 3533 or Wauchope 6585 2015 or visit www.sundialdental.com.au

Australian Cosmetic Tattoo College Donna is now into the 30th year in the beauty industry, specialising in cosmetic tattoo, microblading and paramedical work.

Her salon room is located on the first floor of the Galleria building, corner William and Horton Streets, here in Port Macquarie. Clients travel from all over Australia to have their brows, eyeliner, lips and paramedical work and scalp micro-pigmentation performed here in town.

Donna works with Sydney Plastic Surgery to give clients back their confidence after accidents, burns or other trauma to the body, including breast work after cancer. She offers free treatments for breast cancer patients:

mature clients a new brow look - one that is natural. I find the skin needling is one of the most popular treatments; it is more natural, no injections, but allows the clients' own collagen to activate. It's also great for open or large pores or acne scarring. It is beautiful when combined with the LED red mask lamp. During this month, mention this ad, book a skin needling treatment, and receive the red mask free - value $50.“

“It’s my way of giving back to the community”.

Scalp micropigmentation has been more popular since Mike on Married at First Sight admitted to having this procedure performed. It gives a more youthful look to balding men and works best on men who have had darker hair - not forgetting women who have bald patches.

Donna travel overseas each year to speak at conventions and to ensure she is one of the elite in her field: “I love my work, especially giving

Donna still trains from her salon rooms and at times requires models for procedures; call and make a free consultation time on 6583 4626.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

professionals

Sleep

A P N O E A

with Plunkett's Terry White Chemmart

ARE YOU FEELING TIRED? DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE SLEEPING? PLUNKETT'S TERRY WHITE CHEMMART CAN HELP.

H

i Pat and Bianca. Thank you for speaking with FOCUS. Sleep disorders like sleep apnoea can be very debilitating, having a huge impact on a person’s life and wellbeing. What exactly defines this medically diagnosed condition?

Sleep apnoea is characterised by pauses in breathing during sleep, usually caused by the soft tissue in the throat collapsing and blocking the airways. The pauses in breathing can last for a few seconds to over one minute in some cases and often happen repeatedly throughout the night. Indications of sleep apnoea include loud snoring, waking due to choking/gasping, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches and forgetfulness. Sleep apnoea

66 Greater Port Macquarie focus

can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes and depression.

How can Plunkett's Terry White Chemmart assist someone who is suffering with sleep apnoea - or concerned they might be?

We are able to identify patients at high risk and with referral from a GP, we can help you can perform a sleep study in the comfort of your own home, which is then reported on by local respiratory physician, Dr Geoffrey Williams. Once diagnosed, we are able to facilitate and monitor a trial of CPAP therapy and hopefully gain our patients some symptomatic relief.

The pharmacy is certainly a destination for health-related treatments and solutions. I understand there are now some high-tech sleep masks on the

market from renowned ResMed that are far brands ResMed and more comfortable and ApneaSeal. Please tell us quiet, including the Airfit Staff at Plunkett's about how these work F30i, N30i and P30i, full Pharmacy are able to and some of the other face, nasal and pillow identify patients at high options available for options. Something to risk and, with a referral sleep apnoea? suit everyone! We’re from a GP, can help you Many individuals are also the only suppliers perform a sleep study ... reluctant to seek proper of ApneaSeal in the diagnosis and treatment for Hastings, which is a nasal their sleep apnoea, because mask we have 3D printed previous technology proved from a scan of your quite cumbersome, but at Plunkett's we have facial dimensions taken in store. It is custom some fantastic new masks available from designed especially for you!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

professionals

focus_contributor

community S E R V I C E

Have you ever had a panic attack? If you have, you will know it can occur at any time and without warning.

R

esearch from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows one in five Australians have a clinical mental health issue, with anxiety being the most common. In August 2019, the Federal Minister for Health released Australia’s Long Term National Health Plan. A key pillar of this plan is to treat and manage mental health issues earlier and also to reduce the stigma and discrimination which is often a barrier to people seeking help.

Aid to all of its staff and volunteers. The training is also open to members of the public. It is a two-day course, based on the latest evidence, and provides the skills and strategies for people to identify and respond to the most common mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, psychosis, self-harm, suicide and substance use. In June 2019, thirteen people became accredited as Mental Health First Aiders, and the response from course participants was very positive.

Mental health and wellbeing impacts all aspects of our life, including relationships with our family members, our productivity, our personal motivation and our physical health. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has also recently released alarming mental health statistics, including suicide as the leading cause of death for people aged 15 - 44 years.

Research evaluations of the Mental Health First Aid training conducted by the University of Melbourne has shown course participants have improved knowledge of mental health issues and are more likely to identify, intervene and provide support.

For more information about attending an upcoming Mental Health First Aid course, call Centacare Mid North Coast on (02) 6581 6800 or follow us on social media.

St Agnes’ Parish is a strong supporter of the mental health and wellbeing of the community. This is why it is investing in the regular delivery of Mental Health First

If you need mental health support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or talk to your GP.

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

68 Greater Port Macquarie focus

@CentacareMNC

@CentacareMNC

professionals

40 years of care GARDEN VILLAGE

The Garden Village retirement living and aged care community is conveniently located right in the heart of Port Macquarie. The local bus stop is just across the road, and we are a short stroll or drive to local shopping centres, clubs, beaches and medical facilities.

G

arden Village is built on a notfor-profit, benevolent platform and is locally born and bred.

From the Board of Directors to the leadership team and senior staff, carers and support staff - we are living within and aligned to our beautiful Port Macquarie-Hastings region.

2019 sees Garden Village celebrating 40 years of service to the local Port MacquarieHastings community. We are proud of the service that we have been able to provide you, the local community, and look forward to celebrating this important milestone on 6th September.

We can provide you a balance of new and old, which means there are homes and facilities to meet your diverse needs. Our classic units will provide you a well-appointed and homely one or two bedroom unit with a pleasant garden outlook, making the most of

the morning and afternoon sunshine. These classic units are what Garden Village was built on and lend themselves to a wonderful style of community living, allowing you to feel connected to the village while maintaining a warm sense of security and comfort.

We can also provide you a more modern style of retirement living in our Cascades Apartments. The first vertical living retirement living complex in the region, The Cascades will provide you a beautifully appointed, large, two or three bedroom apartment. Some apartments enjoy stunning views of the Port Macquarie waterways and beyond to the ocean to the east and mountain ranges to the west.

Three aged care centres complete our community, accommodating 142 residents and providing additional support to our retirement living residents. Care staff at Garden Village are dedicated to providing you support and care, whilst empowering and encouraging an active

role in the care provided.

The facilities and activities at Garden Village are focused on creating a healthy mind, body, and spirit, and you can participate in proactive health and wellness programs focusing on four key areas, including: • A healthy heart • An active and engaged mind • Increased social involvement • A nutritious and healthy diet Community facilities such as GV’s Café and Waterfall Café and Restaurant enable social interactions and connections. Both are lovely

places to get a bite to eat or a coffee with friends. Our busy social calendar provides for many opportunities to be active and social, with monthly outings and activities planned and coordinated by our team of dedicated staff.

If you are curious about retirement living or aged care, please get in touch with our friendly team. We have short stay accommodation options available for you to test the water and find out if retirement living is right for you.

Our Village Manager, Sarah looks forward to shouting you a coffee and providing you a personalised tour of our community.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 69

“We love training at F45, the staff are

36 UNIQUE & SYSTEMISED PROGRAMS

friendly and helpful, and with no two classes the same, working out never gets boring”

F45 Training combines elements of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), Circuit Training, and Functional Training. The fusion of these three training concepts has lead to the development of 36 different, 45 minute workout experiences, with more in development by our F45 Athletics Department. This combination of interval, cardiovascular and strength training has been proven to be the most effective workout method for burning fat and building lean muscle.

The variation of our workout programming keeps our members challenged, eager to grow and ready to have fun.

"F45 Port Macquarie has been great in bringing balance to an otherwise busy week. The high intensity workouts are always changing which is invigorating and the social aspect of group training has been motivating. Its now embedded in my daily routine" Mark Power Evolution Road

MOTIVATION.INNOVATION.RESULTS.

Jess and Ashley - Sess and Sass

This gym is definitely the ultimate if you are serious about getting results. I love it because every workout is different, you can get in and out in just 45 minutes, the team training environment keeps you motivated and unlike some gyms it works for everyone of all shapes, ages and sizes.”

David Evans HEM Property

TIMETABLE MON THUR 5.15AM 6AM 7AM 9.15AM 12.30PM 4.45PM 5.45PM

FRIDAYS 5.15AM 6AM 7AM 9.15AM 12.30PM 4.45PM

SATURDAYS 6AM 8AM SUNDAYS 7.30AM 8.15AM

Level 2, 10 Short Street, Port Macquarie, portmacquarie@f45training.com.au @f45_training_portmacquarie www.f45training.com.au

focusinterview.

e, thriving and The fitness industr y is immensTFORM “BIG growing. FROM OPEN-PLA SPECIFIC BOX” GYMS TO SPORT- ERE IS A TR AINING STUDIOS, TH OUNT OF AM SEEMINGLY ENDLESS TR AINING DIFFERENT TYPES OF E WORLD, all FACILITIES AROUND TH fits. FOCUS caught with their own perks and bene acquarie's F45 ... up with the owners of Port M

C

an you please introduce yourself and your family to our readers?

Hi! We are Monique and Nathan and just recently we added our newest edition, baby Hugo, the youngest member of our F45 family.

You are the proud owners of F45 here in Port Macquarie. How long have you lived here for, and what was it about Port Macquarie that drew you to the area?

We have been residents of sunny Port Macquarie for the past two years, moving from Sydney in 2017 after we got married.

We lived in an area in Sydney where it took over an hour without traffic to get to the beach, so moving to this coastal area and being 200 m away from one of the most beautiful beaches on the Mid North Coast was a huge drawcard. We love that Port Macquarie feels like a city, yet has this genuine small town community where everyone knows each other and supports one another.

What is your background in the fitness industry?

Monique: I come from a functional fitness background, with many years' experience training myself and being involved in community/team sports.

Nathan: After over 20 years of Rugby League, I hung up the boots to move into functional fitness training.

They say F45 is a workout like no other; can you explain this?

The best thing about F45 is every day designed to give you “life changing results” members can expect to come to the studio in just eight weeks through an extremely with a brand new layout for a brand new motivational environment. We use a class - no two days are ever the same! Every innovative portal that provides eight weeks day at F45 the whole body is targeted with of meal plans and macro breakdowns, so you functional movements, to assist in everyday can stay accountable of what you are putting living with a combination of cardio and into your body. Our highly accessible app resistance exercises. It really is the fitness provides a meal plan, shopping lists, recipes, revolution that the fitness industry was blogs and daily point checklists to help you lacking previously. achieve the best results Why did you choose possible. to purchase F45; Not only do we give what is it about this away a huge studio I’M SUPER LUCKY THAT I franchise that excites prize to our winner each HAVE AN AMAZING TEAM you? challenge (last prize WHO HAVE ALLOWED ME Nathan: If you are was a trip for two to TO TAKE THE TIME I NEED going to purchase a Thailand), but you can TO BE WITH MY SON AND business, it has to be also go in the running GET MY HEAD AROUND something that you to win the global prize BEING A MUM AND NOT honestly believe in. of $10,000 in cash, or a HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT We were looking at $3,000 paid vacation.

TOO MUCH ELSE AT THE purchasing an F45 in What would be your MOMENT. Sydney, and luckily favourite workout at enough the one in Port the gym and why?

Macquarie came up for Nathan: Cardio classes sale, and we knew it for sure! I love the fast was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up. paced movements, high energy and the fact Monique: We love the innovative workouts, that you can really spike your heart rate if you and being able to be involved in a franchise want to. that honestly changes people's lives for the Monique: I love anything with weights - a better is the icing on the cake. Not many slow heavy workout is my jam! In particular, people can go to work each day and say they Renegade, which has lots of core exercises love their job - we are very lucky! specifically designed to help with every day F45 is home to the Eight Week Challenge; life. can you tell us a bit more about this?

How do you keep a healthy mind to go The Eight Week Challenge is specifically with the healthy body?

With a healthy lifestyle and a regular fitness regime, often a healthy mind comes naturally due to the release of endorphins after exercise.

With a poor diet, you can feel lethargic and unmotivated, but if you eat right and train regularly, then usually a good mental state will follow.

What’s your secret between a healthy work/life balance?

A healthy work/life balance is super important, and I’m realising that now more than ever after just having Hugo. I’m super lucky that I have an amazing team who have allowed me to take the time I need to be with my son and get my head around being a mum and not have to worry about too much else at the moment.

However, surrounding yourself with likeminded people and really appreciating the beautiful place that we live in is a good start. Also, having a healthy mind and body is a huge part in getting the healthy work/ life balance; if you feel good about yourself, nothing is impossible.

How can people get more info about F45?

There are so many ways you can get in touch with us: Phone: 0435 539 562 (Nathan).

Email: portmacquarie@f45training.com.au Facebook and Instagram.

In studio: pop on in and chat to any of our friendly trainers, who can help answer any questions you may have!

Thanks guys.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 71

focusinterview.

Alone

NoOne

They’re a small local group achieving big things … Just nine members strong, the No One Fights Alone (N.O.F.A) group was formed with the aim of raising funds to assist our own local cancer patients - and they’re certainly reaching this goal. Patricia Knudsen tells us more about this group of hard workers …

W

hen/how was the No One Fights Alone group established in Port Macquarie?

No One Fights Alone was started in 2014 with four of us. Having worked with the Cancer Council Relay for Life for a number of years, we realised that we needed to work for the same cause, “cancer”, but wanted to keep the money raised here in Port Macquarie to assist our local cancer patients. We didn’t want funds to be sent to Sydney, where, when the money is dispersed, we never know how much of our local money actually reaches its original aim, as there is so much used on administration costs etc.

What are the aims of the group?

No One Fights Alone (now affectionately known as N.O.F.A.) is a voluntary group with no premises, and we can assure our readers that all money raised stays locally.

We support the MNCCI at Port Macquarie Base Hospital, helping them to purchase much needed equipment for the use of our cancer patients.

How many members do you currently have - and what was the common thread that brought you all together?

We have grown to nine members now. The common cause that drew us together is cancer and the need to make life during treatment as smooth as possible, by helping to provide equipment that does just that.

The group recently donated a $5,000 vital signs monitor to the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute. Why did the group decide this was a worthwhile project -

72 Greater Port Macquarie focus

IF YOU'RE WANTING TO JOIN US, YOU COULD POP ALONG TO ONE OF OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS HELD AT 10AM ON THE SECOND FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH AT THE BELLEVUE GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE CLUB HOUSE.

and what will the machine be used for?

Well, this machine is capable of being integrated into a central database using wireless technology to record patients’ observations, such as blood pressure, pulse rate and respiration.

What are some other achievements the group has worked towards in the past that you're all especially proud of?

We are very proud to have financed the building of the “cancer library” located in our Oncology Unit (at a cost of $3,500); it was one of the first cancer libraries in NSW hospitals.

We were also able to provide one of the first Quantum Treatment Recliner Chairs (at a cost of ($8,589).

Other fundraising efforts have been to help the Cancer Trust provide assistance to other local groups who help cancer patients and their carers.

What are some of your upcoming projects ... and how can FOCUS readers help with these?

We have another two fundraising functions this year, in the form of a Devonshire Tea CUPPA-for-a-CURE on 19th September for only $10 a ticket, offering a scrumptious Devonshire Tea, a fashion parade, lots of lucky door prizes and of course, a raffle. Tickets are available from Monday 2nd September from Bellevue Gardens (Retirement Village) reception area.

Then, our Christmas Craft Fair on 29th and 30th

November - both functions to be held at Bellevue Gardens, Port Macquarie.

Are new members welcome to join your group? How would they go about doing so?

New members would be very welcome to join our group. We are always looking for new fundraising ideas, and we certainly need more

people to help us further our aims.

Where/when do you all regularly meet?

If you're wanting to join us, you could pop along to one of our monthly meetings held at 10am on the second Friday of each month at the Bellevue Gardens Retirement Village Club House.

Where can we find out further info?

For more information, please feel free to contact me on 6583 8335 or 0448 604 541.

Thanks Patricia.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Pic (left): back row L - R: Peter Brasher, Patricia Knudsen, Dennis Knudsen. Front row L - R: Suzie Kanturek, Frances Brasher, Lola Brenton.

Pic (right): courtesy of Mid North Coast Local Health District - No One Fights Alone members Patricia Knudsen, Peter Brasher, Frances Brasher, Denis Knudsen and Lola Brenton proudly present the new vital signs monitor to Mid North Coast Cancer Institute nurses Colleen Boyd (front), Nurse Unit Manager Jenny Baroutis and Natalie Nickelson (back).

focusinterview.

P O R T M A C Q U A R I E

SPORTS Medicine Ali and Stuey Fitch are the awesome team behind Port Macquarie Sports Medicine. PASSIONATE ABOUT BOTH SPORT AND BEING ACTIVE, THEY’VE CRAFTED A BUSINESS TO ASSIST PEOPLE PERFORM AT THEIR BEST, whether they’re recovering from an injury or suffering from some aches and pains …

H

i Ali. What brought you and husband Stuey to the Greater Port Macquarie area?

Great beaches, lovely weather and a very active sporting community. We spent 14 months arriving here via travel along the east coast from many years living in Darwin. I was due to start my PhD in Canberra, but the combination of a few factors and a killer winter led us to look for somewhere warm and coastal.

Why did you decide to qualify as a physiotherapist?

My first undergrad degree was in sports science from UNSW, bringing together my love of sport and how to train. It seemed to me that every second person in that degree was at some point injured due to a new endurance sport trend at the time. This led me to return to the University of Sydney to complete a degree in physiotherapy. Then in 2016, after many years practicing as a physio and competing as an athlete, I completed a postgraduate Master’s degree in sports and exercise physiotherapy at La Trobe Uni. As part of my Master’s I also did a number of very interesting placements, including some weeks at the US Olympic Committee facility at Colorado Springs, Colorado USA, and another with the head of Australian Olympic Physiotherapy.

What's the history behind Port Macquarie Sports Medicine?

Both Stuey and I are very passionate about being active. I worked in a large multidisciplinary sports clinic in Darwin, before coming to Port. We had a sports and exercise physician, and sports doctors, combined with a whole team of sports

and exercise physiotherapists, a musculoskeletal physiotherapist, physiotherapists and massage therapists. It was an excellent opportunity to learn and share the latest research and information and enabled us to service the Darwin sporting community with a very high standard of care. I wanted to carry that idea forward and share my love and knowledge of sport and exercise with the Port Mac community.

Who are the other people you work with?

I am the clinical director, with Stuey running the business, administration and reception side of things. Stuey was the CEO of a marine science organisation in Darwin in a past life, so is very well qualified to handle the non-clinical side of things. We have also developed a nice reciprocal network of fellow professionals in Port.

As our client-base grows, we would consider engaging more sports/exercise physios and other allied health professionals and would love to include a specialist sports and exercise doctor in time, so clients don’t have to travel out of town.

What are some of the common issues athletes come to you for help with?

Many of my sporting clients may not know it at the time, but a lot of the problems that present are a manifestation of inadequate strength for too large a “load” (force) placed on their body. This may identify itself as, for example, simple knee, hip or foot pain, but essentially the problem is often much more complex than a local injury. I like to dig deep and get to the source of problems and get my clients back doing what they love, without their injuries reoccurring.

You're an athlete and Ironman competitor yourself, which must give you a terrific insight into the stresses and strains many of

your clients experience?

Yes, very much so. I have had many traumatic injuries over the course of 12 years competing as a professional athlete. My pro-career even started after being hit by a 4WD while bike training - I broke five vertebrae in my back, decided that life was too short to waste, and that I would become a professional athlete. The problem was this accident caused profound pain and muscular “compensations” for many years and tons of rehab. I have had many surgeries from this accident and also other accidents and broken “bits” along the way. I have lived and breathed the extreme highs and lows of injury and performance.

It takes discipline to recover from any injury and that is really hard to do, no matter what level you are at. There are also two aspects to every injury: • There is the injury itself, which can be seen, often treated, and which with time and specific attention will probably cure. But there is also the psychological impact, which cannot necessarily be seen, is often difficult to treat, and it can be unclear if it is cured.

• This psychological impact can be as simple as being unable to train/exercise, to fears that you will never return to your sport or exercise again, to doubts about reaching previous levels of achievement and so on.

My experiences over many years as an athlete, coupled with over 20 years’ clinical experience and extensive tertiary study equip me very well to assist others.

“Exercise is the best medicine" … what would be your take on this phrase?

We continue to read and challenge our mental

capacity as we get older and our “facilities” decline, but why don’t we (as a nation) continue to challenge our bodies and physical capacity as we get older? Your mind/body are one and the same; both need “working/exercising” to remain healthy, and much research supports how your mind/body have a highly symbiotic relationship and need to remain healthy to prevent chronic disease.

Like reading, some days we may enjoy flipping through the newspaper or a magazine, other days a solid novel, and others, a ‘brain straining” work document.

Exercise/activity is the same - some days an easy stroll catching up with friends, others a solid walk which is a bit longer and then the next, you throw in a few stairs to get the heart-rate up.

What plans do you have moving forward?

I want to reach out to more active people in and around Port Macquarie, delivering to them a sports and exercise physiotherapy/sports science service at a highly experienced and researched standard, and assist my clients to return to their activities/sports as quickly as possible.

We are also developing sports science in our business - this includes specific exercise programs and lactate testing, to name but two - which will work-in nicely with our running assessments and clinical bike fits.

More info?

We are currently redeveloping our webpage: portsportsmed.com.au - appointments can be made by sms/call to Stuey on 0418 437 075.

Our hours are both part-time and flexible; being home-based, we try to best meet our clients’ needs.

Thanks Ali. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 73

FOCUS ON

70 Greater Port Macquarie focus

BUSINESS

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS MINDS

Simon

Bank W E B S T U D I O

S

imon, can you please tell us about your business, Webstudio, and your role within the business?

Webstudio was conceived 15 years ago while I was studying accounting. I had been building websites as a hobby and decided to register a business and was lucky to secure webstudio.com.au as the domain. I took out a classified ad in the local paper and got my first client, a kitchen company in Queensland, whom I still look after to this day.

Fast forward to now, my role as director is to meet with clients and personally manage their project as their single point of contact from our initial meeting right through to launching their website and beyond. I am quite hands-on in the design process, but often collaborate with other designers for certain projects, and I employ two full-time developers to bring designs to life using a platform called Wordpress.

I also work closely with other creative professionals who complement our offering, including marketers, copywriters, photographers and videographers. This allows us to offer a one-stop service, without the challenges of building a full-scale agency.

What do you think are the characteristics of an effective website?

An effective website starts with a clear marketing strategy, because a website is generally only one piece of the marketing

everyone. I am grateful to be part of a vibrant local web community. So instead of "competing" with our industry peers, we can "co-opete", where competition and co-operation meet to bring something meaningful.

An example of how four businesses collaborated recently is a Web Industry Day we collectively planned and delivered in May for 30 IT teachers from across NSW, in partnership with Mid Coast Connect and hosted by Charles Sturt University. The group of facilitators included Robey from Bearded Friend, Colby and Luke from Phiranno Designs, freelancer Caleb Grams, and me representing Webstudio. We showcased various aspects of a day in the life of a web developer, which teachers were able to take back and share with their students.

What have you learnt about growing a business?

In order to succeed in anything, you've got to keep it fun. If running your business is a chore, it's time to change something. I've found that keeping a positive mindset leads to better relationships, which fuels growth.

What are you hoping to achieve in business this financial year?

I am very grateful for the support we’ve received from local businesses over the last year, as we’ve focused on being a dependable local website agency. We also have a large number of clients spread right across Australia, many whom I have never met.

Over the coming months, I would like to use video to stay in touch with our clients and provide them with useful tips and advice that I have gleaned over the last 15 or so years in business.

What’s one thing that you wish someone would have told you before you embarked on being a business owner?

I wish I had been told to write a business plan and have a clear strategy. I had studied for four years to become an accountant, but my entrepreneurial passion got the better of me and I quit that career pathway with minimal planning, which took a lot of bravery! I was full of enthusiasm to follow my dreams and decided to wing it, working hard to keep myself busy, but not always the "right kind" of busy.

In order to succeed in I made plenty of mistakes and learned a lot of lessons the anything, you've got to hard way. In hindsight, I know that proper planning could keep it fun. If running have helped me make better decisions along the way. your business is a chore, What have you learnt about compromise when it it's time to change comes to balancing running a business, family and something. I've found actually having a life? that keeping a positive Getting the balance right is tough, and I've been through mindset leads to better seasons where I've nailed it and others where I've failed relationships, which fuels puzzle. The strategy should miserably. growth. clearly define the audience In the early days, I'd work crazy hours until one or two in you’re seeking to engage with the morning at times. A friend said to me about ten years and help shape the content of ago, "You've got to take time out to sharpen the axe". This the website. Content should advice was pivotal and prompted me to set clear boundaries be succinct and well written, in order to speak to the needs of and put in place some systems to allow better routines. your target audience.

I love getting outdoors to disconnect from technology and recharge; I try People buy from people, so a human element in your to get out for a run or a ride a couple of times a week. website, such as a prominent team photo or a welcome video As a family, we enjoy camping, or "glamping" in our caravan whenever are great ways of replicating the warm welcome you would we get a spare weekend, which is an awesome way to spend time together offer in person. in the outdoors.

Quality photography and video bring authenticity to your And finally, if you could invite three business people to lunch, who site, and I always recommend hiring a photographer, rather would they be and why would you invite them? than using stock photos.

I imagine that running a country is like running a big business, so I’d like to You are an advocate for collaboration in business and invite New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, to lunch. In my opinion, regularly collaborate with other locally based Wordpress she is setting the standard for compassion-driven empathetic leadership. developers to help educate and inspire people about I'd also love to have lunch with Bianca Azzopardi, CEO of Zambrero, the web development industry. Can you tell us a little whose company has woven social purpose into the core of their business bit more about this approach and how it can benefit model. Their Plate4Plate initiative aims to donate one billion meals by 2025 businesses? to combat world hunger.

I'm passionate about driving positive change within our Or Simon Griffiths, co-founder of the Who Gives a Crap toilet paper industry here in Port Macquarie. I know that we cannot company, which builds toilets to improve sanitation in developing countries, possibly provide services to everyone, and people like choice. donating 50% of their profits to the cause.

We're not going to be the right fit for every business, so It would be great to learn from these leaders and perhaps explore we're not threatened by competition. If anything, we thrive opportunities to make a difference on that scale. and grow because of it, leading to a better outcome for Thanks for your time, Simon.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 75

focus_contributor

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

As a passionate educator, Nicole Mitchell travelled from the Netherlands, via Sydney to Port Macquarie to make her mark in educational design. When she isn’t devising creative ways of engaging students in her marketing lectures here in Port Macquarie, she is jetting across the world to share her innovative skills in educational design and facilitating academic skills workshops. Her recent international project with CSU colleagues Executive Dean Professor Tracey Green and Dr Andrew McInnes was an exciting collaboration between Charles Sturt University and the Maldives Police Service to launch an orientation program for the Master of Leadership and Management Program (Policing and Security). Nicole shares this innovative educational and cultural exchange with us and assures us it certainly wasn’t bikinis and daiquiris!

WITH BUSINESS LECTURER + EDUCATIONAL DESIGNER

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s a Dutch native, how did you come to be in Oz and ultimately call beautiful Port Macquarie home?

In the early '80s, my parents made a decision for which I will forever be grateful; we left The Netherlands and ended up in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia. This is, after all, where I met Grant, my husband of 25 years. I became a mum to Anneka in 1999 and after our second child, Bessie was born, we decided to get out of Sydney and move to beautiful Port Macquarie for a change of pace. We haven’t looked back.

Our youngest, Tara was born here, and we have since added two dogs, as well as seven chooks to our family.

Can you tell us about your role at Charles Sturt University and what it is that drives you to create and teach each day?

I am fortunate to have two different but closely related roles at CSU; I am an Educational Designer, as well as a Lecturer in various business subjects such as Marketing, Consumer Behaviour and Ethics.

As an Educational Designer I work on a range of projects, and these vary from working on developing or improving a whole course (such as the Master of Leadership), improving specific subjects - including online subject sites, learning activities and assessment tasks, to on-boarding new academics and providing support and advice as part of peer reviews.

What ultimately drives me though, is the students; both my roles aim to improve the student experience through sound educational design and help them succeed through innovative and inspiring learning design and contemporary and relevant content. The student experience of their learning journey is at the forefront of my mind - if they enjoy it and feel inspired, they will be motivated to learn and to keep on learning!

76 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Nicole Mitchell

Can you tell us about the Maldives project and team that you were lucky enough to be part of this year?

This project came about from a collaboration between the Maldives Police Service and CSU. The MPS, as well as a selection of other security, immigration and border patrol organisations in the Maldives, wanted to enrol their staff in CSU’s Master of Leadership and Management (Policing and Security), rather than a more generic Master’s program, because of its specific focus and contextual relevance to policing and security.

As most students had neither studied online, nor at post-graduate level, it was decided to run an orientation program, in country, by CSU academic staff. This is when I was approached and asked to be the Educational Designer to design the program. I developed an online site, a comprehensive student workbook and facilitator resources for the program and then facilitated the academic skills workshops which formed part of the program.

Dr Andrew McInnes, Senior Lecturer in Policing, developed and delivered the workshops, which focused on the content of policing and security, and provided an overview of the first subject and its assessment tasks.

Our aim was to transition the students into successful online, post-grad study - and although it is still early on in the session, it appears that the students are doing very well, if their first assessment task and their discussions on the online forum are anything to go by!

What struck you the most on arrival to Malé?

What struck me on arrival at the airport was being met with a very warm welcome from MPS' Nahy accompanied by two buff police officers, who proceeded to retrieve my luggage, even though it was after 11pm at night!

Malé is a crazy, busy, hectic, over-populated but exciting city on a very flat and over-

developed island connected to the man-made airport island and Huhumale island by the giant China-Maldives Friendship Bridge.

What was the most exciting and most challenging elements of the project?

The most exciting was the immersion into a very different culture; I have never had beef stroganoff with fries and pineapple rings, and the drive dodging mopeds to Police Headquarters every day was hair-raising!

The most challenging was probably being in the Maldives but not getting the opportunity to enjoy lying on the beach, snorkelling and having a cocktail - that is, after all, what you imagine when you mention the Maldives, isn’t it?

Amongst the design and delivery of the course, did you get to enjoy any time seeing the country and experiencing the culture?

We put in long days, but did get to enjoy one day off. Two of our students took Andrew and I sightseeing, and I loved visiting Villigili island, what the locals call the "picnic island", on the 30 cent ferry. The history of this island was fascinating; it once had a five star resort on it (the ruins now overgrown by big trees) and has also been a political prison. We had a lovely lunch at the wharf back in Malé with the locals, and visited the amazing Malé Fish Market - the fish so fresh, the market didn’t even smell!

What will be the memory you take away from the experience?

On our last night of the program, the students threw us a surprise party, complete with dried tuna Maldivian pizza (not my favourite!) and a beautiful cake with a sign on it that said "Critical Thinking". All throughout the orientation program, Andrew and I had been emphasising the importance of critical thinking at post-grad level, and it was so great and also funny to see they had the sign especially made! The students were such a pleasure - so motivated, engaged and hard working. The

MPS really looked after us too, and a huge thank you especially to Nahy and Munas, who helped to ensure the program ran smoothly.

Charles Sturt has forged an ongoing relationship with the Maldives Police Force; what is the most important thing you believe you imparted to the students before you left?

In the program we identified some of the challenges that students may face when studying online at a post-grad level and provided them with strategies, skills and resources to help them to succeed in their studies. The most important thing I hope that we have imparted is that it is OK to seek support when needed, from not only CSU staff and resources, but also from each other.

Lastly, when was the exact moment you knew you would be an educator? Do you have any advice for anyone heading into that field?

I think I realised that I loved teaching when I started working as an "Explainer" at the Australian Museum in Sydney when I was still in high school. I never imagined at that stage though, that it would ever take me to the Maldives!

In terms of advice, a solid degree in Education will provide you with a sound foundation. I would say keep your mind open; teaching can take you to so many places, far beyond the traditional classroom or lecture hall. Embrace opportunities, always aim to inspire and above all, enjoy it!

Thanks Nicole - we wish you all the best with your next trip in November this year.

Keeping Builders Building and Cashflow Flowing

Small business owners are more than familiar with the importance of prompt payments to maintaining cashflow and keeping their business operational.

Fortunately for those in the building and construction industry, the NSW Government is in the process of implementing recent amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act (NSW), otherwise known as the SOP Act, that are designed to better protect subcontractors and those further down the chain.

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s a law firm dedicated to the building and infrastructure sector, too often we see subcontractors, suppliers, builders, and other trades running into financial trouble due to slow payment and other delays from head contractors, developers, and others higher up the contract chain.

them operating, keep the cash flowing, and keep the industry alive and thriving.

These smaller operators, who are the lifeblood of the industry, shoulder the burden of disproportionate risk when it comes to taking on work to keep their businesses running.

1. No more reference dates

Fortunately, the NSW Government recognises the importance of increasing protection for these crucial players, to keep

Maximum time a head contractor has to pay a subcontractor reduced from 30 business days to 20 business days.

To that effect, amendments to the SOP Act have been passed that will carry with them widespread implications to the way payment claims and related processes are handled.

These important changes will come into effect on 21st October 2019.

So, what’s new …

Subcontractors and suppliers entitled to monthly progress payments, or more regularly if provided by the contract.

2. Faster payment

3. The Magic Words are back Payment Claims must be identified as being made under the SOP Act, eg. “This claim is made under and in accordance with the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act”.

4. Greater enforcement Authorised officers will be granted greater power to investigate offences against the Act. Penalties for offences will also be increased.

5. Withdrawing Adjudication Applications Claimant will be able to withdraw an Adjudication Application prior to determination. The Respondent may object, in which case the Adjudicator will determine if it is in “the interest of justice” to proceed with the Adjudication.

6. Companies in liquidation cannot claim Payment Claims and Adjudication Determinations will no longer be enforceable by companies that have commenced liquidation.

It is important that all operators are aware of their obligations and the upcoming changes when they come into effect.

For further information on the reforms, head to morrisseylaw.com.au If you have any questions regarding your obligations under these upcoming reforms, the Home Building Act, or compliance and risk in the construction industry, please don’t hesitate to contact the Morrissey Law + Advisory Team.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 77

S I N C E

1 9 9 9

“WHEN WOMEN SUCCEED, WE ALL WIN” - Sheryl Sandberg, Chief Operating Officer Facebook.

T

wenty years ago, a small group of like-minded visionaries disrupted the status quo of traditional business networks by forming Hastings Business Women’s Network (HBWN).

Created by women for women, this year we celebrate their foresight and a very special milestone birthday. Always evolving, we reflect on how HBWN continues to forge a sisterhood for our members and the wider community, providing a safe place for women to grow professionally, develop friendships and advocate for those in need.

Moving into our third decade, HBWN core values to encourage, empower and educate women stand strong. With “Balance for Better” and “More Powerful Together” being the two themes for International Women’s Day 2019, the network sustains the momentum to make a positive difference for women. With the support of our members, sponsors and in-kind partners, we action balance for better and proudly embrace the awesome power of unity.

Offering a diverse range of opportunities, we connect and learn from each other. Whether it be face to face or online, the sisterhood of HBWN fosters a culture of sharing, wisdom, support and understanding. Hopes, dreams or fears - we all share similar stories, challenges and a willingness to help each other improve.

Our upcoming events promise some great opportunities to connect and learn.

Join us for a fun evening to meet new people and catch up with friends on Thursday, September 26. HBWN member Monica Robinson from The Other Chef will demonstrate how their artisan food manufacturing business has evolved and showcase their award winning products. Beautiful canapés made with local produce and drinks in a casual setting - a perfect way to build your social and professional networks!

78 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Start the day right with positivity and style on Thursday October 31 at our breakfast event in Wauchope. An exciting collaboration with Mariane and Jen from The Posify Group and Vanessa from The Style Vibe, you won’t want to miss this high energy presentation of styling tips with a positive mindset. Hosted by HBWN member Tanya Simmons at Sheathers on High, we guarantee the early start will be worth it.

SAVE THE DATE Friday, November 22nd Wrapping up our calendar of events for 2019, will be our 20th birthday celebration. With a theme of glitz and glamour, our sponsors The Westport Club will host this gala event. We welcome all members, guests and sponsors to bring your partners and friends to join the party and celebrate HBWN’s history and plans for the future!

Traditionally, our end of year event is also a fundraiser. Once again, HBWN’s charity of choice will be Share the Dignity - an Australian organisation that distributes personal and sanitary items to women who are homeless, at-risk or experiencing domestic violence. November is the #itsinthebag drive. If you’d like to donate, we’ll collect bags on the night. More details will be provided closer to the event.

HBWN encourages all women from 16 years of age seeking the support of sisterhood to join our community. From professional development to online group chats, we learn. From coffee catch ups to networking events, we connect.

To read more about HBWN and register for events, visit www.hbwn.com.au

galore at Gardens DOUGLAS VALE H O M E S T E A D

A N D

V I N E Y A R D

On Saturday 19th October, Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard will be celebrating National Gardening Week with a very special Garden Party Open Day. Commencing at 9:30am and concluding at 2:30pm, there will be an amazing variety of garden associated promotions. The Port Macquarie Garden Club will be there in full force, with many of the fruits of their labour.

T

he Port Macquarie Quilters will host a display of their wonderful creations on the verandah of the homestead.

The Hastings Art Association with an exhibition of their beautiful art works will be on site, and the Port Macquarie Vintage Car Club will have an automobile display not to be surpassed.

The magnificent bamboo entrance to Douglas Vale will be filled with the beautiful rainforest plants of John Van Pierce, and both Westport and Port Macquarie High Schools will have stalls proudly displaying and selling items from agricultural pursuits.

There will be a book launch on the day of a delightfully illustrated children’s picture book, titled The Prickly Princess and the Pixies. This

story is set in a beautiful garden and tells the story of a Giant Prickly Stick Insect and her search for happiness. What a perfect opportunity to release this lovely story, as the emphasis for National Gardening Week this year is on children.

There will be a variety of market stalls, including the beautiful flowers of The Longest Row Nursery, Gills Variety stall, featuring fruit and vegetables, plants and craft items, Vickers delicious fudge, locally made honey, beauty products, hand sewn items, soaps and candles, local pottery, leatherwork and handmade cards.

Mrs York’s Garden, PMHC, Westport High School Agricultural Department, Mid Coast Gardening Friends and John Van Pierce with his rainforest plants will also be participating.

Delicious Devonshire teas, ice creams and tasty BBQs will be available to purchase, and there will

be experienced tour guides who will lead tours of both the gardens and homestead.

There’s an opportunity to taste and purchase the unique DV wines and a chance to win some of these wines in the raffle which is drawn on the day.

A full day’s entertainment on the stage has been planned, including such popular entertainers as Sing Australia, Khristina Joy and the Z Chords, the Port Macquarie Bush Poets and Spiral Time.

This year, for the very first time at Douglas Vale, we’ve been given an opportunity of hearing the wonderful entertainer, Trevor Knight, who will be appearing twice on the program.

Trevor is one of Australia’s finest Country/ Folk entertainers. He wrote the song The Days of Old Khancoban; he used to perform with Smokey

Dawson, is an international performer and has won two Golden Globe Awards. He made an album called Rocky Mountain Echoes, a John Denver tribute. He has also recorded I Love A Sunburnt Country, he plays guitar and banjo and is sure to delight the audience with his music.

Trevor will be performing at 11:30am and at 1:45pm.

As if this is not enough, at 12:15pm on the stage there will be a presentation by our local school and community garden representatives on the gardens in Port Macquarie.

All this for a gold coin donation! This opportunity cannot afford to be missed!

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Soft Skills Training - Empower your staff and add value to your business with our diverse range of soft skill courses.

Traineeships - Help a new or existing staff member develop the skills they need to thrive within your business with a traineeship. Novaskill provides the resources and a dedicated Vocational Educator who will come out periodically to assess your trainee along with support whenever they need it.

Apprenticeship & Traineeship Staffing Solutions - Take the hassle out of filling staff shortages by taking on a trainee or apprentice through Novaskill. We handle the Recruitment, Induction, Maintenance and Payroll of each Apprentice or Trainee.

Providing you a staff member for a simple hourly rate.

Novaskill Mid North Coast | 6500 1100 | MidNorthCoast@novaskill.com.au 2/40 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Greater Port Macquarie focus 79

COMPASSION. VISION. INNOVATION.

106 80 Greater GreaterPort PortMacquarie Macquariefocus focus

IMAGES COURTESY OF LINDSAY MOLLER PHOTOGRAPHY AND CHRIS AT MERAKI PHOTOGRAPHYÂ

THANK YOU

THANK YOU TO ALL BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT LUMINOSITY YOUTH SUMMIT 2019!

Belle Property Port Macquarie Blueprint Life Coaching Branch Productions Camden Haven High School Charles Sturt University Chatham High School Clancy Corporation Coastline Credit Union Constable Printing CowanCreative Dana Management Digital Signs and Printing Discover Magazine Port Macquarie Enterprise & Training Company (ETC) Flow Kitchens Focus Port Macquarie Glasshouse Port Macquarie Grace Church Port Macquaire Gunnedah Shire Council Hastings Co-Op Hastings Rotaract Hastings Secondary College Port Macquarie Campus Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus

Hastings Women’s Business Network Holiday Coast Credit Union headspace Port Macquarie Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts Laing + Simmons Port Macquarie Legacy Port Macquarie Leslie Williams Lindsay Moller Productions Macleay Options Inc Mackillop High School Meraki Photography Mid Coast Gaming Mid North Coast Local Health District MJ Wilkie Productions Mount Seaview Water Port Bus Port Combined Netball Club Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Port Macquarie News Port Macquarie Performing Arts Power Natural Therapies Rotary Clubs of Port Macquarie

Phiranno Designs Regional Australia Bank Regional Development Australia - SISP Rotary Clubs of Port Macquarie Rustic Pathways Rydges Port Macquarie Salty Crew Kiosk SeaChange Accounting Solutions Snap Port Macquarie St Columba Anglican School St Joseph’s Regional College Stormriders Sunrise Interact Rotary TAFE NSW Taree Business Chamber Taree High School The Posify Group University of Newcastle Wauchope High School World Changers Grace Church Youth XYZ Support Zebu Bar + Grill

Greater GreaterPort PortMacquarie Macquariefocus focus107 81

focus_contributor

MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Minding your Most businesses and investors would be watching the international turmoil on stock markets generated by the US and China trade war with some degree of trepidation. As a relatively small economy on the world stage, Australia will inevitably be affected by a full blown trade war between two of our major trading partners. How this might play out in terms of the domestic economy and whether there is a significant impact on local business remains to be seen.

T

he recent stockmarket month-on-month decline in the national volatility is an indication series since March 2018”. that not even the experts Thirdly, according to Deloitte, the recent are sure what is going to economic slowdown is not expected to happen. The only certainty is last, with the removal of negative factors the lack of certainty. Despite which were contributing to lower growth; this and the sluggish domestic economy for most notably, that lower interest rates and the first half of 2019, some recent data gives tax cuts should boost household disposable cause for optimism in the near future. income and consumer spending.

Firstly, the lower interest rates and Coupled with these factors, a significant reduced taxation rates adopted respectively program of funded state infrastructure by the RBA and the spending will support Federal Government the construction industry have provided the through the back end of right environment for the housing downturn a return to economic and boost employment A HEALTHY HOUSING growth in the desired across the east coast of SECTOR WILL range of 2.5 - 3%, NSW. Although there is BOOST SPENDING according to several a more positive outlook AND HOPEFULLY finance commentators. for consumer spending FLOW THROUGH TO Secondly, much and business investment OTHER IMPORTANT improved housing to support economic SECTORS, SUCH data from Sydney growth, this financial AS RETAIL AND and Melbourne in year it is expected that HOSPITALITY. the form of higher such growth will remain auction clearance at the lower end of rates and increased historical levels. building approvals Port Macquarie can signals a bottoming of the housing market expect road infrastructure projects such as decline. A healthy housing sector will boost Ocean Drive to begin soon, many private spending and hopefully flow through to investment projects are continuing, and CSU other important sectors, such as retail and is moving ahead with the planned expansion hospitality. of its campus.

A recent assessment from CoreLogic Our local housing market can also expect head of research, Tim Lawless stated that: a boost following the more positive news “June housing market results present an coming from the Sydney market. early sign that lower mortgage rates and Despite the many local business success improved sentiment are already having a stories and our domestic economy being flow-on effect for housing market conditions underpinned by sound government policy in Sydney and Melbourne” and, “National settings and a significant infrastructure housing market conditions continued to spending program, the potential impact of improve through June, with a 0.2% fall international trade unrest cannot be ignored. in national dwelling values - the smallest

82 Greater Port Macquarie focus

50 of Footy years

focusinterview.

Wauchope Junior Rugby League Club has recently celebrated its 50th birthday.

We caught up with Danny Marchment, who is the President of the club.

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WAUCHOPE JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB ifty years is a standout achievement for the Wauchope Junior Rugby League community. Why do you think the club has been so successfully long established?

The support of the community is what keeps the club successful. The club has

had some really committed people involved over the last 50 years and wouldn’t be where it is today without the

This year 20% of our players have been female. Girls can play in mixed teams from sixes - 12s. We also have League Tag and can offer Under 12s, 14s and 16s the chance to play. This year we also had a team in the Under 16s girls tackle comp. They were undefeated all year and took out the premiership.

support and commitment from

We are offering the girls the

the committee and sponsors.

opportunity to play tackle in

What is your role within the

October. If any girls are interested

club, and how long have you been involved?

I am the 2019 President and my wife, Bonnie is the 2019 Secretary. I played junior footy with Wauchope Blues for over 10 years, before playing seniors for Wauchope. Over the years I have been a coach, refereed and been on the general committee.

When my eldest son, Jack started playing, I joined the committee

RUGBY LEAGUE IMPARTS THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND BEING PART OF A CLUB. THE RUGBY LEAGUE CODE OF CONDUCT IS SOMETHING WE SUPPORT AND THINK IS IMPORTANT FOR ALL OUR MEMBERS TO FOLLOW.

again and took on the Vice President role.

What standout achievements has the club had over the years?

We have had many standout players come through the

in play in our Under 15s or 16s team, please contact Bonnie at wauchopejrlsecretary@outlook.com For both the younger and older generations of players, what values can Rugby League impart?

I think the sense of community and being part of a club. The Rugby League code of conduct is something we support and think is important

makes all the hard work worth it, and seeing kids playing with their mates and improving each game.

How did you celebrate this milestone?

We celebrated 50 years with a family fun day of footy.

for all our members to follow.

We encouraged the whole community to come out and

Some of the players have been

be involved. All ages played against the Port Sharks.

with the club since a young age.

There has always been a bit of rivalry between the two

How proud are you to see them

clubs; we are so grateful that they agreed to be part of

grow into young adults?

Extremely proud. Many players start in Under Sixes and continue to Under 16s. It’s great to see some of them

our special day. The main game was our Under 16s; we come out on top, which was a great end to the day.

The day finished with a reunion at the Wauchope

club, with some playing first grade in the NRL. Others

giving back to the club by becoming coaches, sports

RSL. It was a great night, with players, sponsors and

have played with Wauchope JRL to continue to play 100

trainers or refereeing for the club once they are old

supporters being able to get together and reminisce

first grade games with Wauchope Seniors.

enough.

about the good old days. The committee put in a lot of

Who can play football? Can the girls get in on the

Tell us the best thing about game day.

time and effort to make the day special.

action?

Watching the players have fun playing footy is what

Thanks Danny.

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

Room with a View, Uzes

Nature, Art and Green Spaces "The connections we make with nature through art, culture and green spaces have never been more important.” Nick Boyle, Director Welfare, Conservation and Science at Taronga Conservation Society Australia spoke these words at the official opening of the "Wild Thing" exhibition at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney this month.

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n my early years working in arts and health in the '90s, one of the leading researchers at the time was Roger Ulrich, who espoused the idea that hospital patients, residing in a room with landscape paintings of tranquil nature scenes and windows providing access to harmonious views of the outside world, were more likely to recover well and sooner than those without.

A warm, welcoming and safe hospital environment puts people at their ease and gives comfort in the stressful responses we may have to medical treatment.

Roger Ulrich is now Professor of Architecture at the Center for Healthcare Building Research at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Arts &Health and adjunct professor of architecture at Aalborg University in Denmark.

He is the most frequently cited researcher internationally in evidence-based healthcare design, with his work directly impacting the design of considerable hospital construction and improving the health outcomes and safety of patients around the world.

His recent work has dealt with subjects as varied as the negative impacts of hospital noise on patients and nurses, and how nature, gardens, and art can lessen pain, stress, and healthcare costs.

The idea of art easing pain, discomfort and anxiety is well established. One hundred and sixty years ago, Florence Nightingale observed that objects can help the healing process,

writing in her Notes on Nursing in 1859 that “the variety of form and colour in the objects presented to patients have a physical effect and are actual means of recovery”.

Those traditional landscape paintings of classic nature scenes with cattle grazing or sheep meandering along dusty roads with towering gums still bring joy to many, but increasingly more contemporary images of people connecting with one another and with the natural world are finding their place in the built environment in hospitals and aged care facilities.

Music has become an intrinsic part of an arts and healthcare environment too, along with dance, theatre, storytelling and painting on ipads.

Digital cameras have changed the way we take photographs, brandishing a smart phone to capture instantaneously all sorts of images of interactions with family and friends and a record of happy and shared memories.

Social media has given an immediacy to the way we live our lives in ordinary or extraordinary circumstances too. One of my favourites is the way Facebook throws up an image unexpectedly to celebrate an anniversary of some sort.

Today, I am flying to America for arts and health work and with delays along the way, it will be over 35 hours before I arrive at my destination in New York. I checked my phone along the way and up popped a photo of me with children and grandchildren on an overseas holiday in France in August two years ago. It was a gorgeous holiday of three generations enjoying

each other’s company - two grannies, three adult children and four grandchildren - with singular highlights along the way.

Standouts include the visit we made to the bijou Picasso Museum in Antibes, the medieval castle in Carcassonne, visiting with a group of people from overseas sharing their love of making architectural objects out of wood, discovering the dinosaur museum in Meze (where the idea of a Hello Koalas dinosaur sculpture evolved), riding the old fashioned carousel in Montpelier and taking time out for some sketching in the Montpelier Arts Centre.

We stayed in a French Chateau in Uzes and joined in a ceramic class in an old stone cottage amidst a field of wild flowers and drifts of native grasses. I was proud of my grandchildren showing the local French kids how to draw images of koalas on clay tiles.

And in Antibes we pretended to live in the world of Scott Fitzgerald, staying in a hotel which had once been his home with his wife, Zelda.

I am glad I had such a long journey to New York. It gave me the chance to reflect and remember this time two years ago and feel blessed to have had a travel adventure with my family that has left such warm and vivid memories.

To my mind, it’s called creative ageing and we all have it at our fingertips on our smart phone, in our photo albums and sketch pads and best of all, in the power of our imagination which always lingers with us throughout life.

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Bethany Aged Care is an arm of The Salvation Army that offers resident focused and individualised care in a stunning location in Port Macquarie, with well trained, caring and empathetic staff. The 68 bed facility in central Port Macquarie takes pride in having core staff that is not only invested in providing the best possible care that residents could ask for, but is highly committed to helping to educate studying and new care staff so that “The Bethany Way” is sustainable and continued

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Bethany Aged Care has rooms with ocean or town views, private resident balconies, a group of committed and caring general practitioners who regularly visit the residents within the facility, a healthy and active lifestyle program - providing in house activities and

entertainment, as well as regular day trips, access to premium allied health professionals including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatry and dietitians, and a new management team that are committed to innovation and gold standard care, providing opportunities for residents to age in place and provide diverse care to those with increased needs.

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hether wanting to experience an aged care setting for you or for a loved one, Bethany Aged Care has a wide range of services and approaches that are highly regarded and sure to meet your needs. For enquiries, bookings or to arrange a tour of our beautiful facility, please contact Facility Manager Louise Gallagher or Care Manager Nick Bannon on 6583 7600. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to the Bethany Aged Care Family.

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for years to come. Bethany Aged Care has established multiple relationships with local training organisations, to provide an example to care staff entering the sector that personifies the recent changes to the Aged Care Standards and sets the gold standard in Aged Care provision. Notably, Bethany Aged Care was recently awarded the “Employer of the Month” award from local Training and Recruitment specialists, ETC. Bethany Aged Care and ETC have entered into agreements that regularly see aspiring care staff matched with highly

qualified, caring, passionate and dynamic carers that guide the transition into the workforce for equally passionate and dynamic future care staff. This has been a wonderful partnership as not only has it provided training for aspiring care staff, but Bethany Aged Care has been able to add to its already healthy staffing with a whole new generation of care staff that continues the brilliant work that is consistently seen at one of Port Macquarie’s premier aged care facilities.

Website: www.agedcare.salvos.org.au

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SUE REID

In September, our villages are hosting "Wellbeing Forums", which are dedicated to providing help and advice on the aspects of life faced by the members of our community.

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hese forums provide information on the services we offer to ensure the financial, social and emotional wellbeing of our residents.

of our villages is not only about the quality of the accommodation or the support that CCA provides, but it is importantly about the welcoming and caring nature of the community in which they live. Of course, the families and friends of prospective residents are welcome Key staff and subject matter to attend the forums too. We understand it is experts will be available to answer questions on important for families to a number of our services be involved in the decisionthat we provide in the making process, to see villages. This will include first-hand how CCA brings the way Catholic Care of lifestyle and community the Aged (CCA) helps you The forums provide the access government support together. opportunity to visit our such as Home Care or NDIS The Wellbeing Forums newly refurbished villas and a showcase of the will be held at the Tenison surrounded by lovely great services and support Woods Centre in Lochinvar gardens in our very open we provide to residents.

Place, Port Macquarie. village spaces.

Attendees will also have They commence from the opportunity to chat 9am on Wednesday 18th with existing residents who September for St Agnes already live in our village Village and from 9am on communities.

Thursday 19th September at Lourdes Village.

The forums provide the opportunity to visit our Registrations are essential and can be made by newly refurbished villas surrounded by lovely calling 5525 3600 or visiting Donnelly House in gardens in our very open village spaces.

Horton Street, Port Macquarie or by emailing Our residents often tell us that being part sreid@cca.stagnesparish.org.au

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focusinterview.

Dementia

Month

Awareness Dementia Awareness Month is an initiative of Alzheimer’s Australia held from 1st September to 30th September every year. Its aim is to encourage all Australians to become more dementia aware, to get a better understanding of what it’s like to live with dementia.

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anielle Dyce recently completed her Bachelor of Dementia Care at the University of Tasmania.

She is currently working as a dementia care program coordinator in a dementia specific unit at Macleay Valley House. Chrissy Jones recently chatted with Danielle.

In Danielle’s words; “We aim to give every resident the best day possible every day they are living with us”.

What does dementia care mean to you, Danielle?

Of course, when caring for a person living with dementia it is important to ensure their clinical and physical needs are met, but for me, it is much, much more. My interest lies in ensuring that a person living with dementia has their emotional and psychosocial needs met as well, promoting a sense of wellbeing. Dementia is much more than just a physical illness.

When the wellbeing of a person is met, they feel healthy, happy and have a sense of comfort. Good dementia care leads to a sense of wellbeing. This type of care can be achieved by focusing on the person, their personality, their likes, dislikes and wishes and by giving them the opportunity to maintain their independence as much as possible with support from their carers. A diagnosis of dementia does not mean you need to stop your life, change everything and let the dementia rule your life until you die. It is possible to live well with dementia and still enjoy life, with a little help from others.

Having worked in aged care for more

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than 20 years, what made you further your studies and complete your Bachelor of Dementia Care at the University of Tasmania?

I have always believed in the value of education and have undertaken as many courses as possible to continually improve my skills and knowledge. I undertook the Understanding Dementia MOOC, which is a massive online course provided by the Wicking Centre at the University of Tasmania, open to anyone at all, not just nurses and health care workers. This course was one of the best dementia training courses I have ever done.

When the University started offering the Bachelor of Dementia Care, I felt it was something I could try to undertake, albeit nervously, as I had not completed a university degree previously. I would be lying if I said it wasn’t hard work, but it was so rewarding - and here I am out the other side and would not change a thing.

What is your current role?

My role at Macleay Valley House is Dementia Program Co-ordinator. At Macleay Valley House we follow a “household” model of care, encouraging all our resident family members to be part of our household, supporting them with activities of daily living, providing opportunities and assistance to enable our residents to live happy and fulfilling lives and achieve their own sense of wellbeing in a safe and supported environment.

My role is to develop and implement this model of care for our resident family members from the lifestyle point of view, and I am supported by a team of other staff

who focus on the more Competition was run I feel as though I really do clinical side of care.

by Dementia Training make a difference to What do you enjoy Australia, open to the wonderful people most in your role? any university student living with dementia Well, this is a hard throughout Australia, that I am privileged to question, as I enjoy and focused on a care for. It is humbling, and everything about my “salutogenic approach every day I learn so much from role. I love the contact to dementia care”. A each and every one of them. and engagement with salutogenic approach all our resident family is one that supports members, who are just health and wellbeing, like my own family. I love and is something I am seeing them enjoying themselves and seeing very passionate about. the smiles on their faces and the sense of My entry was in the form of a short film achievement when they can still do those that discussed this approach, followed the things they used to do. journey of four people living with dementia I really like the fact that all the staff and in residential aged care, and the different management are so supportive of our model salutogenic strategies that were being used of care, and this is reflected in the wonderful in their care. It also focused generally on the feeling of happiness that radiates through household model we use at Macleay Valley our home.

House.

Is your role fulfilling?

If you would like to view this film, it can I would have to say that this role is the be found at https://vimeo.com/277582581 most fulfilling I have ever had throughout Would you encourage others to seek a my working life. I feel as though I really do career in aged care and further on into make a difference to the wonderful people dementia care? living with dementia that I am privileged to Absolutely. Caring for our elderly is care for. It is humbling, and every day I learn not just a privilege, but one of the most so much from each and every one of them. I rewarding careers available. However, believe that so many of our life lessons come aged care and also dementia care is not for from caring for our elderly, as they have so everyone, and it is something that one must much wisdom to share that has come with try and then decide if it is indeed the career age and experience. for them.

You were awarded third place in If you love it, then I suggest you continue the National Dementia Storytelling to learn new skills and educate yourselves Competition. What was the competition with all the wonderful educational about, and can you summarise your entry for us? opportunities that are available nowadays.

The National Dementia Storytelling Thanks Danielle.

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 91

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Hastings Orienteering Orienteering is a super-fun adventure sport for all ages - but did you know that our area now boasts its own orienteering club?

President Matt Bell of the Hastings Orienteering Group (HOG) explains just what’s involved with this unique sport ‌

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i Matt. When did the Hastings Orienteering Group begin?

Hastings Orienteering Group became formally affiliated with Orienteering NSW in March 2019, and ran our first event in Port Macquarie in July, so it's all very new.

The seeds of our club were sown back in 2017, however, when Orienteering NSW (ONSW) brought a "taster" event to Port Macquarie as part of a Participation Expansion Program with the Australian Sports Commission.

Based on the interest shown by the community and a few local contacts, ONSW returned with a long-weekend full of orienteering events in June 2018. The great response to these events created the impetus to establish a permanent orienteering club in the area.

Orienteering NSW Marketing officer Ian Jessup led the charge, with a few volunteers from Sydney orienteering clubs lending a hand. After a few information and coaching sessions led by Ian, a core group of locals came together to set up the club. Chris Delaney was instrumental in getting the ball rolling, and our committee includes local adventure racers, runners, experienced orienteers and enthusiasts!

For those not in the know, what exactly is orienteering?

Orienteering is an accessible adventure sport for everyone, that exercises both the body and mind. Participants navigate their way to numerous control points with the use of a special orienteering map, aiming to complete the course, or as much of it as they can, in the shortest time.

Participants record their visit to each control point using either a manual paper punch, or an electronic receiver, depending on the setup.

Orienteering events are run in urban parks and streets, as well as in the bush. Urban events 92 Greater Port Macquarie focus

rely on speed and the matching of features on the map to objects on the ground, whilst bush events include the use of a compass for an added challenge.

Whilst orienteering is traditionally done on foot (FOOT-O), mountain bike orienteering (MTBO) is very popular, and there can be other variations such as canoe orienteering and ski orienteering!

Orienteering can either be a highly competitive individual sport for athletes, or when run as a family or group of friends, a fun recreational experience. It is often described as part trail run, part treasure hunt, involving a combination of speed and strategy not seen in other sports What do you enjoy most about the sport?

I really enjoy the variation between every event, as no two orienteering courses are the same. Between changes in the environment and terrain, unique features and different scoring formats, you can never take orienteering for granted. No matter how experienced you become, there is always a challenge to be had at each event, with some presenting a more physical challenge, and others having a more strategic focus.

I also like that you can participate as an individual or as a team for score events and relays. Even when participating individually, there is always the opportunity to catch up with other competitors at the finish to compare times, route selection and epic tales of where things went wrong! This makes orienteering quite a social event, with plenty of opportunities to learn from fellow orienteers.

What skills do you feel orienteering helps participants to learn?

Orienteering really develops and maintains that brain-body connection that we need throughout our lives. The ability to move quickly through variable terrain whilst maintaining

EVEN WHEN PARTICIPATING INDIVIDUALLY, THERE IS ALWAYS THE OPPORTUNITY TO CATCH UP WITH OTHER COMPETITORS AT THE FINISH TO COMPARE TIMES, ROUTE SELECTION AND EPIC TALES OF WHERE THINGS WENT WRONG!

attention to detail and constantly evaluating your decisions is a set of skills that we are always striving to perfect.

Participants are constantly working on their map reading skills, which allows them to match symbols on the map with real features on the ground. Compass navigation is a unique skill that many people never learn, but which is incredibly engaging and useful. Teamwork, time management, planning and pacing are also vital skills for all participants.

Along with the many skills participants learn, confidence is another big benefit of orienteering. Successfully navigating through unfamiliar terrain and solving problems on the run promotes self-reliance and builds tremendous confidence in your ability.

What age groups can you cater for on orienteering sessions with your group?

Hastings Orienteering Group caters for all ages. Orienteering is a great family activity and bonding experience, as well as a unique challenge for established athletes. The beauty of orienteering is that participants can make an event as hard or relaxing as they want.

Another unique feature of orienteering is that older, more experienced orienteers often outclass younger and faster participants through their superior planning and navigating skills.

What upcoming events does your group have planned?

HOG is continuing our introductory "score" events over spring and summer. Our next events will be at Lake Cathie Community Hall Reserve on Saturday 28th September from 11am to 1pm, followed by Town Beach Reserve on Sunday 24th November, also from 11am

to 1pm. We are also planning further events in January and March 2020. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for regular updates.

How does one become a member of your group?

Easy! Come and speak to one of our team at our events. When you become a member of HOG, you also gain membership with Orienteering NSW. This gives you access to orienteering news and events all over NSW and Australia, and discounts to all events. For keen participants there is access to training opportunities; plus, as our club grows you'll be able to contribute to bigger and better orienteering opportunities in our region.

Visit the Orienteering NSW website for more information and to sign up as a member.

Membership costs are very reasonable at $60 a year for adults and $40 for juniors (under 21).

Families can sign up for $100, which includes parents and any juniors. Families can also use Active Kids vouchers for orienteering.

Where can we find out further info?

The Orienteering NSW and Orienteering Australia websites have great information on all things orienteering. They provide links to training and skills development, along with information on other orienteering clubs and events. It is worth checking out our neighbouring clubs: Bush 'n' Beach (Coffs Harbour), Newcastle and Northern Tablelands.

The Hastings Orienteering Group Facebook page will be our main way of communicating with everyone about orienteering in the Hastings.

Thanks Matt.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

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focusAbode.

Hardwood

Hurfords Roasted PEAT 128 x 14 mm solid hardwood timber flooring

T An absolute showstopper, the September FOCUS Home of the Month is a blend of elegance and sophisticated design, with a coastal warmth feel ideal for relaxed, laid-back living. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of viewing the executive residence with owner Kimarie.

he home has a timeless appeal, boasts grand features and top quality finishing touches throughout in true Hamptons style.

The first thing to grab your attention in the streetscape is the atrium centrally placed in the gabled roofline; this instantly marks out the home as a showpiece.

The exterior finishes are a delight to look at, with a blend of Linea weatherboards, rendered brickwork and crisp white pillars that match the white aluminium picket fence enclosing the front grassed courtyard. Comprising three levels, the design features throughout are clean, strong lines; they embrace natural light and create seamless indoor/outdoor spaces made for easy entertaining.

Ground Level - Entrance Hall, Media Room, Master

Bedroom Suite Entry is via an exposed aggregate drive leading to the three car garage with extra boat storage and through the gated courtyard to the front portico. A white timber and horizontal frosted glass entrance door opens into the entrance hall. Hurfords Roasted PEAT 128 x 14 mm solid hardwood timber flooring has been installed over ply on the concrete slab of the ground floor. Finished in a Galaxy Timber Floors special matt water-base urethane coating, the best thing about this beautiful roasted peat floor is that the roasting (colour) is all the way through the timber, so when the need to re-sand in the future arises, there is no reason to worry about getting the same colour back again; it will always remain the same.

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Phone (02) 6581 0003 OPEN 7 DAYS Greater Port Macquarie focus 95

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Truly forever beautiful ... Complementing the dark tones of the flooring is the contrasting, crisp white of the walls. In Hamptons style, frame wall panelling has been used to a height of 1.2 m in the entrance hall and continues on the magnificent stairway to the second level; this adds a greater sense of height to the hallway, that opens to the void provided by the atrium above.

Right on entry, behind a double, wooden sliding cavity door is the media room or formal lounge. There's plush carpet underfoot and custom-built wall cabinetry that houses the wall-mounted TV, ducted air-conditioning, downlighting, and plantation shutters on a

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Matt black tapware from

wide picture window the Highgrove Bathrooms add to the privacy and natural light, and all is Spin range, 'Beethoven comfort of this relax hidden away behind a Anthracite' floor tiles zone. cavity sliding wooden and 'Luna Satin Matt' Continuing along the door. Adjoining the gold fleck wall to ceiling hallway, past a triple set master bedroom is the tiling complement the luxurious of conveniently placed exquisite en-suite. free-standing oval bath. storage cupboards Matt black tapware to house the kids' from the Highgrove toys, you will find the Bathrooms Spin range, master bedroom suite.

“Beethoven Anthracite” Luxuriously appointed, the master has its own floor tiles and “Luna Satin Matt” gold fleck walk-in robe with him and hers hanging and wall to ceiling tiling complement the luxurious free-standing oval bath. A feature goose neck shelving spaces divided by a custom-built tap - a matt black Meir Free Standing Bath double-wall cabinet. A skylight above provides

Mixer with hand shower makes washing your hair in this bath a breeze.

All are placed alongside a frosted glass window adjacent to the glass screened shower recess. The shower has both a rain-head and a handheld shower rose and LED strip lighting installed along a purpose-built shelf, giving a space to store shampoo and the like. A wall-mounted his/her vanity that has an epoxy coated, Bluegum timber benchtop with twin above bench hand-basins and a WC tucked away behind a dividing tiled wall complete the en-suite.

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French Door Fridge

Fisher & Paykel French Door Fridge Freezer offers generous storage and flexible shelving options in a striking black brushed stainless steel finish.

Panoramic Fire

BBQs Galore Landscape fireplaces feature a range of stylish finishes and full width glass viewing area to maximise the brilliant flame pattern’s impact.

KITCHEN, DINING, LOUNGE The hallway continues on, opening into the open plan lounge/dining/kitchen with guest powder room offset to the left. All continues out to the outdoor entertaining area through a triple set of stacker sliding glass doors that have been fitted with recessed "Motorlite” auto roller blinds that have a remote control that can open the 3 panels separately or together.

The lounge features a Real Flame Landscape 1600 panoramic fire that has a frameless look and a full-width glass viewing area to maximise the brilliant flame pattern’s impact.

It is a stunning centrepiece for the room and is framed by stacker stone tile from Amber

Tiles and has a custom made mantel from Keena Kitchens. The Landscape looks great and impresses with its high energy efficiency star rating and is fully remote-controlled, so as to allow for complete control over the room’s temperature.

Keena Kitchens have supplied and installed a superb kitchen fitted out with top of the line appliances from Bing Lee. “Noble Grey” Caesar Stone benchtops have been used throughout, providing a surface with exceptional properties of heat, stain, scratch and chip resistance.

Sectioning the kitchen from the dining area, a waterfall edge island bench also acts as

a breakfast bar. It has an integrated Bosch dishwasher, a double stone coated Oliveri kitchen sink with a Vilo pull out tap, under bench soft close drawers and cupboards.

The back wall of the kitchen has a window splashback above further Caesar stone-topped cabinetry. Centrally placed in the benchtop is an Electrolux pyrolytic oven and induction cooktop, plus range hood concealed in overhead cabinetry. The Fisher & Paykel refrigerator is placed alongside and has a set of cupboards placed above. Velux skylights overhead allow in natural light and also add to the spacious feel.

Adjacent is the butler's pantry fitted out

superbly with an Oliveri sink in the u-shaped Caesar stone benchtop that serves as a food preparation area. The cabinetry above and below provides spaces for appliances and cooking condiments and the like.

Alongside the kitchen is the laundry. L-shaped cabinetry with a “Georgian Bluff” Caesar stone benchtop has subway tiles as a splashback, storage cupboards above and below and clothes hanging rail placed above a stainless steel laundry tub. A glass wooden framed door opens out on to the side yard that has a drying area, storage shed and an astroturfed courtyard.

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focusAbode.

Ziegler & Brown TURBO SERIES

Understated elegance combined with the ultimate in barbecue power to take your outdoor dining to new heights.

Outdoors

Beverage Centre

Outdoor chairs and tropical outdoor cushions from Macleods Furniture.

Beverage centre designed to store beers, soft drinks and champagne as low as 2°C.

2ND LEVEL

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT AREA The interior of the home is light and bright with a sophisticated yet beachy vibe; it is effortless and calming. This continues out through triple stacker sliding glass doors on to the rear outdoor entertaining deck.

Keena Kitchens have supplied the outdoor kitchen’s “Georgian Bluff” Caesar stone benchtops that have a centrally placed “Ziegler & Brown” Turbo Classic built-in barbecue from BBQs Galore and a stainless steel sink one end.

Under the bench is a 100 Beer-Bottle Beverage Centre, designed to store beers, soft drinks and Champagne as low as 2°C, and storage

cupboards.

Pizza oven, outdoor lounge and dining seating sit alongside frameless glass balustrade overlooking the tranquil pool. Step down to a tiled landing; left is an easy-care backyard of astroturf and right a glass entry door to the pool.

The Avanti 6.5 m pool is a Masterbuilt shell from Port Pools By Design in the colour Bahamas with Waterco filtration equipment that enables the pool to use salt or mineral additives. A natural stack stone 1,200 cascade waterfall feature adds beauty and further tranquillity to the pool area, that is encased in silver Travertine.

BEDROOMS, KIDS’ RETREAT, FAMILY BATHROOM, VIEWING PLATFORM Ascend an exquisitely handcrafted staircase to the second level. LED strips are placed on the timber treads (that match the roasted peat flooring) and white timber risers; a solid timber handrail with vertical slats provide a stylish safety element on the stair. You are greeted at the top of the stairs by a picture frame nook with LED lighting. Right is the kids' retreat, study with custom drawers built into the desk, three x sliding door office/study storage

cupboards, with all wrapping around the atrium above to the guest bedroom and first of the family bedrooms.

The guest bedroom has its own private quiet balcony that has crisscrossed Hamptons style white timber balustrade and tiles underfoot. The bedroom itself is very comfortable, being carpeted, having plantation shutters, ducted air and a walkin robe.

The first of the family bedrooms is a young girl's dream, with a Hamptons style daybed or window seat that has storage

PORT MACQUARIE Australian family owned for over 60 years.

COME IN AND SPEAK TO OUR FRIENDLY TEAM!

PORT MACQUARIE | 158 Lake Road 9781 3141 98 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusAbode.

Matte Black Matt black tapware from the Highgrove Bathrooms Spin range.

Tiles

“Beethoven Anthracite” floor tiles and “Luna Satin Matt” gold fleck wall to ceiling tiling complement the luxurious free-standing oval bath.

under and shelving either side, plus a walk-in robe. Bedrooms three and four are virtually mirror image, both having windows with plantation shutters, built-in robes, ceiling fans and downlighting. Bedroom three has a corner window with hinterland views, whilst bedroom four has a centrally placed window with ocean views.

Servicing all bedrooms is the three-way family bathroom, with separate WC, vanity and shower/bathrooms. It is very well appointed

The first of the family bedrooms is in the same theme as custom-made laundry a young girl's dream, with the master en-suite, shute; the kids can easily a Hamptons style daybed with floor to ceiling send their washing to the or window seat that has tiling, shower recess and laundry below. storage under and shelving freestanding bath. The Last, but definitely not either side, plus a walk-in robe. wall hung vanity has least, is the kids' retreat twin hand basins atop a private space for them epoxy coated, Bluegum to watch a movie or play timber bench with a a board game, that opens set of centrally placed drawers plus cupboards out to a private balcony with ocean-views. To either side. One of the cupboards houses the top it all off, a powder coated, galvanised steel

spiral staircase leads you to a viewing platform roof top high! 360-degree views from the mountains to the sea are offered up. A bench area has been provided to sit around and have a cool drink or cuppa and do some whale spotting.

Beautifully proportioned, well detailed, fresh, bright and breezy, this modern twist on a Hamptons style home brings together traditional architecture and a sophisticated coastal style. Truly a show stopper!

indoor + out

bathrooms indoor living outdoor

PORT MACQUARIE

193 Lake Road Port Macquarie (02) 6581 5066 ambertiles.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 99

focusAbode.

FROM THE OWNERS What were the first steps when you began your new home journey?

After we chose our block, we met with Alisdair Ross to create a custom design to suit our style, lifestyle, the block and location. He drew a very detailed design by hand, which was pretty special.

We then engaged Richard Swan as a builder to help turn our design into a home.

You chose Catarina as your location; any particular reason?

We’ve always loved Rainbow Beach, and living at Catarina gave us the perfect opportunity to be so close. After we looked at the block of land, our family went for a walk

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through the beautiful bushland to the beach and knew it was the perfect place for us to build our new home.

Did you have any particular desires when you first started to plan your new home?

How were these met?

Being so close to the beach, we wanted a coastal home and loved the Hamptons style, so we worked it into the overall design.

We wanted to make the most of natural light and ventilation, so the roof atrium was included in the design. Thanks to the engineered structural system designed and manufactured

by Eastland Truss & Timber, we were able to seamlessly add unique features such as this and

focusAbode.

our rooftop terrace. the ocean views and even try to spot whales.

Another interesting design element I How does the home suit your lifestyle? wanted was having LED lights recessed under Our three children love being outdoors; each stair. It turned out amazingly, thanks to swimming, playing and exploring, so living Graham Keena’s stair close to the beach construction and David provides the perfect from DTL Electrical’s lifestyle for our young lighting installation. family.

What is your favourite The design of the home Outside my favourite part is our part of the home? also has a good mixture little rooftop terrace at the back My favourite part of open spaces for family of the house. Going up the inside is probably time, as well as quiet white spiral staircase the fireplace. The retreat areas. feels like climbing a surrounding stone Our kitchen and living lighthouse, and then at the top feature and mantle are area opens up on to our we can take in the ocean views so beautiful, and there alfresco area, which is and even try to spot whales. is nothing more relaxing great for entertaining and then cosying up by the with the pool adjoining it, fire and watching the we’re able to keep good flames. watch over the children Outside, my favourite part is our little rooftop while they play. terrace at the back of the house. Going up We’re so happy with our new home and the the white spiral staircase feels like climbing a amazing beach lifestyle that we get to enjoy lighthouse, and then at the top we can take in here.

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Custom Metal Roofing With over 20 years of industry experience, we offer all aspects of quality metal roofing. The trade industry can be so rewarding; you just have to work hard. After a move from the far South Coast, the past two years we have been busy building our business and working for many local builders and contractors in the area. We specialise in new roofs, re roofs, wall cladding, fascia and gutter, Velux skylight installations, Leaf Guard and downpipes. We work closely with our clients, to give them the best possible outcome for their requirements.

What are your greatest strengths?

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Patience and perfectionism - which works well for me in my trade. When I do a job, it has to be done right - no shortcuts. If something's going to take a few extra hours/days, but get a better result; you do it. At the end of the day, the client always deserves the best completed work. I’m very conscious of that, and I have always taken great pride in what I do for others.

What virtue do you think is most important in people?

Integrity. To me, this quality in all aspects of life makes for a successful individual.

Hawkes Conveyancing Hawkes Conveyancing welcomes Jessica Stucke, Port Macquarie’s newest licensed conveyancer.

Jessica has been working in local law firms for the past six years and has now completed her studies and obtained her conveyancing licence. Jessica joins Lauren and Ivy with their fresh approach and enthusiasm for all things conveyancing.

Our new look team would love to assist you with your next property transaction.

Please give us a call or pop into the office anytime.

Hawkes Conveyancing is also a sponsor at the upcoming Camp Quality Giggle Ball on 12th October 2019 at Panthers. Contact Panthers to book your tickets today and come along and support a great cause.

focus_tech

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

WHEN YOU THINK OF THE WORDS “ELECTRIC BICYCLE”, YOU MIGHT IMAGINE SOMETHING LIKE AN ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE OR SCOOTER. BUT, JUST IMAGINE YOUR REGULAR BICYCLE, ADD S O M E E L E C T R I C A L C O M P O N E N T S , A N D Y O U ’ R E S O M E W H AT T H E R E .

T H E

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-bikes have hit different bicycle scenes in a big way, and by a big way I mean they are the fastest growing category in the cycling industry globally, despite some opinions from purist cyclists.

Aside from the often obvious electric motor system that integrates into an e-bike, modern e-bikes are starting to look more and more like their traditionally pedal-powered cousins. They come in most styles, including urban, mountain, city/folding and the debated road bikes.

When looking at pedal powered and an e-bike side by side, it’s easy to see some resemblance between the two. Start looking a little closer, and a number of differences become more noticeable.

The electric bike is just like a normal bike, where you can pedal, but has an additional battery pack and through an integrated motor, can assist you in pedalling. There are also options for a throttle styled e-bike, which is controlled more like a motor bike and pedalling is optional. The motors are usually very quiet and can assist up to

45 km/h.

In most cases, pedelec motors are fitted to the crank area (where the pedals attach) of an e-bike frame and offer electrical assistance relative to the amount of power being exerted by a rider.

On a majority of the motor systems, they will typically be programmed with three - five levels of assistance. The tech that goes into an e-bike is quite straightforward, with controller, battery and motor all seamlessly integrated into the design. E-bikes will come with an onscreen display showing speed, level of assistance and battery life. Battery life differs from bike to bike, but in some cases on the lowest assist setting, some companies claim to have a battery life of 100 km.

Who are e-bikes for? They are for anyone from a novice to a pro rider, but I can see this will greatly help people who would enjoy a long ride but may not be at a fitness level for traditional biking. It should definitely be considered for daily commutes to work and because of the ease of the ride, there is no need for the change of outfit when you get to work.

Lastly, this will be my final tech review for now, and I would like to thank anyone who has read any of the reviews for the past year.

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CA S CA D E P O O L

&

S P A

CENTRE

Cascade Pool & Spa Centre has the largest display of spas and pool equipment in Port Macquarie. See for yourself at the all-new showroom, 5-7/99 Hastings River Drive, opposite the Settlers Inn.

O ADAM JAMES, LEAD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

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ffering specialist pool and spa If your pool or spa is in need of a check-up, servicing locally since 1989, the contact Cascade Pool & Spa Centre today for house Cascade team has more than 40 calls, pool testing or servicing. years of accumulated experience in The new showroom is open Monday to Friday pool testing and maintenance. The from 8:30am to 5:00pm and on Saturdays from highly trained staff and 8:30am to 1pm. Call in and take pool technicians always a look for yourself - it’s HUGE and give their best to exceed is devoted to improving lifestyle clients’ expectations. and wellness by providing spas Aside from pool testing and swim spas that offer superior WHAT A RELIEF, to ensure the safety of hydrotherapy and exercise AT LAST SOMEONE swimmers, Cascade also systems.

THAT KNOWS WHAT carries an extensive range TESTIMONIAL: RHONDA THEY ARE DOING of pool chemicals and SYKES ARE HONEST AND accessories from brands After suffering for over two RELIABLE. such as Just Spa, Pool Pro years trying to fix a spa problem and Davey, plus they carry with another incompetent chlorinators, pumps, filters, company, I found Brad at cleaners and even toys for Cascade. What a relief; at last pools and spas. someone that knows what they Being the local Just Spa, Pool Pro and Davey are doing are honest and reliable. Adam fixed our Master Dealers for the Mid North Coast, you can be problem; the spa is back up and running at last. assured of expert servicing and advice every time.

Will not go anywhere else and will spread the word.

THANKS FOR MAKING US WINNERS! You can’t win an award for Outstanding Customer Service without having outstanding customers!

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efore the Laing+Simmons Annual Awards held in Sydney last month, Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie was already the most awarded office in the history of the Laing+Simmons network.

Now following the awards night, the local team has further cemented its place at the top; although Principal Chris Koch says, “Awards aren’t really what we’re all about, but when our industry’s leaders and peers see the number of happy customers we’ve worked with and awards us the Top Gong in four major categories, we feel pretty chuffed.”

Chris says that Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie continues to go from strength to strength because of one clear and perhaps obvious reason: an uncompromising approach that always puts the customer first.

“Of all the honours our team received, the one we are most proud of is the Gold Award for Outstanding Customer Service. We’ve won this award now for six years in a row, and achieving this depends on every single member of our team committing to making the customer the top priority. This is what separates us from others in the marketplace,” Chris says. Confirming the best way to lead is by example, Chris himself was awarded Gold for Outstanding

Customer Service as an individual. high achievers, being awarded Silver for Excellence The team won Gold for the Highest Number of in Property Management.

Transactions in the Laing+Simmons group, incredibly In all, Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie returned having held the top spot for this particular award from the annual awards in Sydney with nothing less for eighteen of the last nineteen years, while than twenty two awards.

Chris Koch, Damian King and Rohan Lisle were all “We are truly humbled to have been recognised recognised in the Top Ten agents across the network. in so many categories, with the efforts of Sam Barlow was named Runner-Up Rookie our support staff right through to our Of The Year, a particularly outstanding salespeople acknowledged on achievement after less than twelve the night,” Chris says. “It really Of all the months in the competitive real is testimony to everyone’s honours our estate industry. Georgina Lentz was commitment to our ‘customer the one team received, accorded the Bronze Award for first’ mantra.” oud we are most pr Outstanding Sales Assistant.

“In addition to our refusal d ar of is the G old Aw Also on the night, Kelly Koch to compromise on service, we ng di for Outstan ” e. was honoured with Gold for have been a major player in ic rv Se er Custom Excellence in Marketing, and Silver the Port Macquarie real estate for Excellence in Digital Marketing, industry for many years, because with Louise Doig the recipient of Silver we know the area, we know the for Outstanding Office Manager, and in people and we know how to get recognition of their commitment to the local area results. We also have that local experience with sponsorship of many local charities, community and understanding required to recognise and groups and sporting associations, Laing+Simmons adapt to what’s happening in the market at any Port Macquarie was presented the Bronze Award for given time,” Chris says. “This puts us in an excellent Community Achievement. Additionally, the property position to continue to deliver great outcomes for management division made it into the ranks of the our clients.”

“

Expert Advice. Proven Marketing Strategies. Exemplary Service.

6583 7733 | lsre.com.au/portmacquarie

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focus_contributor

JULIE HO FROM PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE

landcare. update Three are Free for New Gardeners WE ARE GIVING FREE NATIVE PLANTS TO WELCOME NEW HOME BUYERS TO OUR COMMUNITY.

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hrough your estate agents you can get a certificate, bring it to our Landcare Community Nursery and claim your gift: three native plants to start building your garden.

Most will give you colourful flowers, like

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Native Hibiscus, Wattles, and Flame Trees. It’s a myth that Australian plants look dull!

The nursery has many lovely “natives”, from ground covers to trees. All settings from beachside to rainforest are catered for, and the seedlings come with care instructions.

Local native plants are the easiest way to garden because they are adapted to the local

climate. They usually need less water and fertiliser, especially if you use mulch.

Small shrubs like Kangaroo Apple or Palm Lily are popular. They have bright flowers, and pretty fruits that birds love.

Tufting plants that thrive here are Crinum Lily, with splendid white flowers; Mat Rush (Lomandra) with sweet scented flowers in spring; and Flax Lily (Dianella) with blue blossoms and fruits.

Popular ground covers are pink flowering Bower Vine, yellow flowering Guinea Flower and vibrant purple False Sarsaparilla (Hardenbergia).

Many gardeners find Lillypilly bushes make great hedges to give privacy. There are several kinds, all with dark green glossy leaves, pretty flowers and colourful fruits that help the birds get through winter. They are human bush tucker too.

If your new home already has a native tree, you’ll have shade and shelter from heat and wind. Summers here are long and hot.

But if you want to add a tree to your garden, consider a Swamp Mahogany. It’s a small eucalypt with a compact crown, and koalas dote on its big dark leaves.

If you prefer a fire-retardant rainforest tree, we have many local ones to choose from. Where space is limited, a native palm such as Bangalow, which has shallow roots,

is ideal.

A native garden will cope with our weather while holding your soil. Often there’s heavy rain at the start of the year, yet weather can be dry in the cool months.

In the year ending July 2019, our rainfall was down to only 790 mm, about half the annual average. This hint of climate change is another reason to choose native plants, which evolved to thrive here.

There’s more helpful information on our website at www.landcareportmac.com.au The Plant Profiles button will get you pictures and descriptions of the native plants at our nursery.

The Master Weed Manual button helps you identify weeds that are “escaped” garden plants. That’s how Lantana got started!

It shows the “introduced” garden plants to avoid. Some are pretty but poisonous, like Night-scented Jasmine, Glory Lily and Cotoneaster.

Then when you’re ready, your safe new garden can start with a visit to the Community Nursery, open Mondays from 9am to noon. It’s in NPWS Depot at the end of Blackbutt Road, so when you arrive there, please check in at their front office before proceeding to the nursery.

Julie Ho.

hemRENTALS In recent times you may have seen more and more HEM leasing signs popping up around town. Now two and a half years old, HEM are freshening up their Property Management department with the launch of “HEM RENTALS”. We catch up with the team to find out more.

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ell us a bit more about the HEM Rentals story. HEM Rentals is something we are hugely proud of. It has taken us two and a half years to build a strong team and structure that we are totally happy with, but we now have an extremely well-oiled machine that is exceeding our initial expectations. When we set out, our goal was to change the way property management is done and provide a new level of service that works for both landlords and tenants. We wanted to avoid the usual complaints from landlords that they only hear from their real estate agent when there is a drama. So we have put together a passionate team who focus on personal service, regular communication and at the core, treat others the way they would like to be treated themselves.

The recent take over of Hudson in February has injected a wealth of added experience, and our brand-new office in William Street not only makes us easy to find, but offers a welcoming environment for clients to pop in and meet with us. The refresh of our brand is recognition of the

importance we put on our rental team and that we are passionate about what we do.

We have put together a Everyone talks about their passionate team who focus unique selling points, but on personal service, regular what is it about HEM Rentals communication and at the that sets you apart? For us core, treat others the it’s about our team culture and landlords' bottom way they would like to philosophy. It’s not simply about line? It’s like anything be treated themselves. finding a tenant and collecting in life; you get what rent. It is about creating long you pay for. You term relationships with our wouldn’t go to the clients and going the extra mile. cheapest accountant Our dedicated and highly skilled team don’t just or surgeon and expect to get the best result, and see it as a job; they take ownership and pride in it is the same in real estate. Whilst others try to what they do and focus on the people behind lure you in with special deals or low rates, we the tasks they are asked to perform. By getting offer a simple, straightforward and cost-effective this right, our clients know we actually do care standard fee that allows our team to effectively and are doing everything we can to look after manage a property. Our low property-totheir property effectively. We take the stress property manager ratio means we can deliver away from owning an investment property and a more personal, one-on-one service in which this truly sets us apart. we look after a home with the same care as if Owning a rental property is an investment. it were our own. The result is that we have the How does your team work for the lowest vacancy rates, low rent arrears and we

can offer more regular routine inspections and can take the time to make sure you get the best prices on any maintenance required. Ultimately, this produces greater long-term returns on your investment.

What is next for HEM Rentals? We will continue to listen to landlords and tenants, tweaking our service and introducing new ways in which we can meet their needs. Our goal is not necessarily to be the biggest Property Management team, but we definitely do want to be setting the new standard. We really would love to hear from any new investors or current landlords out there that are perhaps thinking of a change and to be given the opportunity to show how our new way of doing things and more customer focused approach works.

cost effective maintenance Property Management that puts the focus on you.

simple fees without hidden costs

regular communication

personal one-on-one service

low vacancy rates

low rent arrears Happy tenants + Happy landlords

To find out about the new era in property management, contact HEM RENTALS today and invest HAPPY EVER MORE!

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So, you want to become a helicopter pilot?

Greenpatch Organic Seeds

Flight training now in Port Macquarie Whether you’re a curious beginner or want a career as a pilot, we’ll teach you everything you need to take flight, all in the stunning beach-side surrounds of ‘Port’.

Introductory Flights

Private Licence

Experience a flight, learn the basics, handle the controls!

No experience needed. Brilliant gift.

All the lessons,hours and accreditations you need to pilot a chopper for personal use.

Commercial Licence Get your career flying with the training, accreditations and ratings to be a commercial pilot.

Training | Scenic flights | Tours | Charter

|

Aerial photography

Give us a call on 0487 771 200, email info@portmacquariehelicopters.com.au or fly over to portmacquariehelicopters.com.au/training Ask about our great-value packages including training, accommodation deals and exams. Easy access to Port Mac airport on Qantas or Virgin.

CASA.TAAOC.0622

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It’s time to think about your spring vegetable gardens.

Greenpatch Organic Seeds plant nursery and seed range is extensive, to say the least. With seasonal vegetable seedling punnets available year round to complement our ever expanding perennial plant range, we are a must see for your spring garden.

Greenpatch has a big range of seedlings available, including tomatoes, zucchini, cucumber, lettuce, spinach, coriander, kale and much more!

Getting into the garden now with your first batch of seedlings then consecutive follow on plantings four - six weeks apart provides a continual harvest to the kitchen. September through to October is the best time to get all your annuals established, before the summer heat arrives.

We also have an extensive range of perennial plants available, including herbs, edibles, flowering cottage, succulents and fruiting plants.

Join us for our FREE Open Day Sunday 13th October 2019 - 10am - 2pm - see where we grow over 200 varieties of seeds and 500 varieties of nursery plants propagated on site. Take advantage of over 70 years’ horticultural experience on the day. Self guided tour. An excellent experience, plus an opportunity to take a rest and enjoy the gardens we have developed. Itinerary to be announced.

Big Garden FURNITURE

Big Garden Furniture is a local, family owned and operated business situated in Woolgoolga. Gareth and Lisa are recognised as market leaders in the outdoor furniture industry. FOCUS wanted to know more …

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hat is Big Garden Furniture? Big Garden Furniture is a small family operated business in Woolgoolga that builds solid timber high quality furniture and structures using locally sourced hardwoods. The business has been in operation since 1996 and owned by Gareth and Lisa Owen since 2008.

pretty hard on us sometimes!

How has your business evolved since it began? Well … Big Garden Furniture doesn’t really speak for our current capabilities; however, the name and logo is so well known on the East Coast, we have just kept it because BGF is who we are.

We are known for our high-quality products, that’s backed up by the exceptional service we offer with each project. We now offer a full turnkey service, from concept through to installation, where before, we just supplied what people wanted - and we always go the extra mile to exceed our customers’ expectations.

What are the trends you have seen over the years? We have seen the trends go full circle since we started in 2008; however, there’s always the common denominator in Blackbutt.

Blackbutt still manages to keep that ageless appeal; whether it’s for an outdoor setting or elegant dining chairs, it complements all colours and has a fresh look, even We now offer a full 10 years down the track. turnkey service, from The biggest trend at the concept through to moment is wall hung installation, where before, furniture; vanities and TV we just supplied what people entertainment units are wanted - and we always go still in vogue, with the soft the extra mile to exceed our close and push to open customers’ expectations. mechanisms the norm with drawers and doors.

Tell us about the orders you receive and how your wife, Lisa, is involved in your projects?

Business from our local region has increased three-fold over the past year, mainly due to our online and magazine presence. Our new website has just started to show a positive return, as it now showcases our capabilities beyond the “outdoor furniture” umbrella. We’ve also been seeing enquiries as far north as Darwin, west to Perth, south to Melbourne, with Sydney and Brisbane/ Gold Coast bringing the most enquires.

Lisa is heavily involved with the colour concepts in the soft furnishings that we do in house and is also in charge of quality control; if it doesn’t pass her scrutiny, its comes back to be rectified - she’s

What are your greatest achievements? We’ve a few achievement milestones over the years, though designing, building and installing a 4.0m x 4.0m outdoor lounge on a fifth storey penthouse on the South Bank in Brisbane last year was a major one. The furniture had to designed to be dismantled and fit in to a small service elevator, then transported up four flights of stairs to the outdoor platform that overlooked the river. The finished product was nothing short of spectacular, and the customers were extremely happy - or should we say “totally stoked” with their lounge suite. It features heavily on our website, advertising and stationery.

We also won a contract to design and build custom furniture for the recently opened Howard Smith Wharfs in Brisbane last year, which is a feather in our cap, because the furniture had never been seen before and we had to do a twopack paint finish, which was new to us. I think Lisa was over it when she had to sew for a solid month to make all the soft furnishings.

Thanks Gareth.

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PURPOSE-BUILT & RIGHT NEXT DOOR Within weeks of the business’ tenth anniversary, the team at McGrath Port Macquarie moved into its brand new purpose-designed office, located right next door to the original premises, opposite Growers Market, at 149 Gordon Street.

Larger, even more impressive and presenting with state-of-the-art facilities, the offices set a new benchmark for the local industry, fully complementing the brand’s commitment to excellence and providing a perfect platform, skilfully designed to enable McGrath’s highly-trained professionals to maximise their premium results-based services.

Principal, Todd Bates, harboured the dream and the dream is now the reality, but projects of such magnitude call for the pooling of so many skills, so many ideas and so much cooperation from a wide variety of sources.

As Todd gratefully acknowledges; “Fortunately, the skill sets and trade professionals in Port Macquarie are up there with the very best anywhere and the people themselves are second-to-none. On behalf of the McGrath team and from myself personally, I want to use this space to give heartfelt thanks to a number of key players; local firms who provided us with outstanding service, literally going out of their way to meet trying deadlines, yet delivering absolute quality at all times:

“Johnson Family Homes were responsible for the fitout and they were a pleasure to deal with. Thank you to Steve, Krisann and team.

“Macquarie Signs and Tinting – great work, delivered on time.

“Designing Divas – Michelle is always a delight to work with and her eye for detail is remarkable.

“Crusher’s Plastering – Thanks a million, Crusher; absolute perfection as always.

“Customline Joinery Wauchope – Josh, thank you so much for your valuable help.

“MF Render & Texture – Mitch Fowler created our unique feature wall and it’s perfect.

“Designer Living Kitchens – Superb job, precisely as ordered and delivered on time. Thank you so much.

“Integer IT – Due to oversights by a major telco provider, our relocation brought with it a host of telephony and data issues but, thanks to the crew at Integer, measures were put into place to minimise inconvenience and maintain efficiency.

“Silk Trees and Plants/Quality Artificial Plants (Hastings River Drive) – Daniel, thank you for your skilful contribution; the plants look amazing.

“John Hutchison Electrical – Sam Hutchison, we all

McGrath Estate Agents

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6589 3777

149 Gordon Street Port Macquarie 2444

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042 031 8305

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appreciated your excellent work and your endless cooperation.

“Rocket Electrical Contractors – Ross, like some of the others, you solved quite a number of problems for us along the way.

“Carpet Court – Many thanks for your help and for your professional consideration, even outside normal business hours.

“ColorTile/Tiles with Style – We like your style and thank you so much. We chose well.

“Dales Furniture Warehouse – Good prices, great products, prompt and reliable; thank you.

“Farrawell Glass and Aluminium – Your work was impeccable. Thank you so much.

“To anybody or to any business looking for services such as those I’ve mentioned, I totally recommend these people. I couldn’t have been happier with their work or their accommodating customer service and it makes me so very proud to be a part of our local community.”

To anyone interested; clients and friends, business partners or those just passing by, McGrath extends a warm invitation for you to visit to its new offices, to meet the friendly team and to appreciate the exciting reality of a ten-year dream.

“THE NEW OFFICES FULLY COMPLEMENT MCGRATH’S COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE”

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