Greater Port Macquarie Focus i167

Hello Pistachio

October 2019// 2019//issue 167

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

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Welcome to the October issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

Y

es ... we interviewed a cat.

We’ve always maintained that stories in FOCUS would always be positive, they would be about local people, doing amazing things in their community, about business people, local heroes and the like. So how is it that we have come to interview a cat called Pistachio?

The rise of social media has made way for Instagram pages that amass thousands and sometimes millions of followers and fans. They make regular people appear to be celebrities, they let us into your lives as it happens, and make you accessible to everyone (if you are not a private account) ... and now animals have their own pages too.

You may remember back to when we interviewed Frankie the Labradoodle - who’s

enjoying entertaining her 64,800 fans!

“Hello Pistachio” is another one of these "social" celebrities, with 5,881 fans on Instagram - serving up regular excerpts from his life around the local area - he describes himself as an "Attention Sponge, Sitting Enthusiast, Forster Dad and Dare Devil", among other things.

You’ll even receive talk back from Pistachio if you send him a message on his Insta page!

Maybe there is something to learn about personal branding and how to get social reach from our domestic furry friends?

Read up on Pistachio on page 6!

We STOLE HER VIBE! Vanessa Lawrence is gracing our front cover this month, as the face of the Port Cup and spring fashion.

WHAT’S ON 02 6581 8888

I

glasshouse.org.au

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,Port Macquarie NSW 2444

ON VIEW: 28 SEPTEMBER – 24 NOVEMBER What compels a maker to create?

How does the mind of a maker work?

AN AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL TOURING EXHIBITION

ON VIEW: 5 OCTOBER – 17 NOVEMBER

Follow Glasshouse:

We chose Vanessa as she epitomises everything fashion that is happening in the area at present. After the successful launch 12 months ago of The Style Vibe by Vanessa Jane, she has now launched Steal my Vibe - a local designer dress hire service! We love Vanessa’s passion for fashion and ability to make any woman comfortable and able to find the perfect outfit for any occasion. Well done, Ness, on all your achievements.

We have some local fashion ideas thanks to Heidi Beau, Art House Industries, Steal my Vibe and What the Frock Designs on page 42. Our talented photographer Gavin Moroney and model Claire Huckstepp (hair by Plum Studio) together with the amazing scenery at Abundance Garden Centre are captured in this editorial shoot. Thank you to all involved!

OBSESSED TO MAKE

Festival

A young Reg Saunders surrounded by his mates of the 2/7th Battalion, AIF, in Queensland in 1943 (detail). 057894, image courtesy of the Australian War Memorial

A day of activities for all ages.

Visions of Australia

Saturday 26 October, 10am - 8pm

ANTHONY CALLEA SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER, 8PM

Program Launch THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER, 4.30PM Visit www.glasshouse.org.au to find out more.

Principal Partner of the Education @ Glasshouse Program

Join this ARIA Award winner, and one of Australia’s finest voices, for an intimate concert experience: Unplugged & Unfiltered.

Audiences will be captivated

by Anthony’s extraordinary voice and infectious personality. He will be joined on stage by piano, guitar and vocals in an intimate setting, performing songs from his 7 albums and more.

10AM - 11AM SPROUTS Kids aged 4-9 & their carers.

10AM - 2PM DESIGN EMERGENCY FOR KIDS Kids aged 8-12 years.

11AM - 1PM DESIGNERS OBSESSED

Join exhibiting artists as they share their practice and the importance of making in their lives.

2PM - 3PM MAKING MEANING: DR SARAH RICE

Sarah will reveal her creative process in writing creatively about art. This is a participatory talk.

3PM - 8PM MAKERS MARKET

Join local makers who will be showcasing their skills and selling their wares inside the foyers of the Glasshouse!

www.glasshouse.org.au Bookings essential Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

contents Issue 167 - October 2019

focusinterviews

8

feature a special

BUSINESS & CAREERS

Toni Wright.

66

October, Australia’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, provides an opportunity for us all to focus on breast cancer and its impact on those affected by the disease in our community.

20

Obsessed: Compelled to make.

careers

The Australian Design Centre (ADC) presents Obsessed: Compelled to Make at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery until November 24.

36

the Usual

Suspects

12. WHAT’S ON for October

Fon Davis.

22. EAT local restaurants 29. OUT TO LUNCH with Susie Boswell

Fon Davis is a wizard with miniatures and visual effects, and he's also one of the finalists in this year's Manhattan Short Film Festival, with his short film At the End of the World ...

31. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye 33. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri 45. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 64. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell 64. TOURISM with Janette Hyde

65

Tacking Point SLSC Nippers.

We're heading into the warmer weather now ... which means more fun in the surf and on the beach!

If you’re looking for a way to encourage your kids to be active, while teaching them how to not only to be water-safe but also to value community involvement, Nippers should definitely be on your agenda.

4 Greater Port Macquarie focus

67. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon 68. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS with Michael Mowle 94. LANDCARE with Julie Ho

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

Port Macquarie Art & Craft Centre Inc

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Y E A R

C E L E B R AT I O N

his November, Port Macquarie Art & Craft Centre will celebrate 45 years since its formation and the opening of the new building at Thrumster Village in 1974.

Building cost was a total of $1,500, with most of the work completed by members and their families.

In 1981, the centre moved to its current location in Gordon Street. The centre has continued

to grow in the past 38 years, with many varied groups doing handmade works and forming lifelong friendships.

Current groups include: lapidary, silverwork, pottery, leatherwork, weaving, woodwork, spinning, knitting and crochet, sculpture, various art groups and portraiture.

The public are invited to join us on Saturday 2nd November for a sale and a display of work, and to possibly become a new member.

PORT MACQUARIE

canoe club

Maroro Outrigger

New Paddlers Wanted To Grow Our Paddling Family & Join In Outrigger Success

P

ort Macquarie outriggers are seeking to welcome new members as they enjoy paddling success in the 2019/20 season.

With many medals to their credit last summer, the Maroro Club will be hoping to add to its paddling members when it kicks off a new recruitment drive at Westport Park next month.

President Harry Fay said the club would be running introductory paddling sessions Sunday mornings from Sunday, October 6.

“The first three sessions are free and open to anyone who is interested in finding out more about outrigger paddling and our club,” Fay said.

“We will be leaving from the Westport boat ramp at 7:30am each week. No experience is required, and there is no need to bring anything other than a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes and a towel.

“Our sport is a really great way to keep

fit, compete alongside your team mates and enjoy the unique experience of our coastline, estuary and its amazing marine life. ”And during competition time, we travel as a club to compete at events from Mollymook on the South Coast to Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, and we make a lot of great memories on these trips.”

Fay said the club is extremely grateful for the support it has received to stage the upcoming "Come n Try" sessions by supplying much needed safety equipment.

“We were very fortunate to receive a Department of Social Services Volunteers Grant to help cover the cost of training coaches and buying new life vests, UHF radios, rechargeable torches and paddles,” he said.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the introductory paddling sessions is encouraged to email Gianna Douglas gianna.douglas11@gmail.com Greater Port Macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

The proof is out there - watching cats do adorable things is actually good for you. This month FOCUS chats with local kitty "Pistachio", whose day to day life is all about adventure and exploring our region one paw at a time.

hello Pistachio

T

ell us a little about yourself?

I’m Pistachio, a six year old domestic shorthair cat. I was a tiny, sick, stray kitten on the streets of Sydney and was taken to Blacktown Animal Holding Facility. My human saw my pound picture, where I looked so miserable and cranky and she fell in love. I had a wonderful foster mum for a few months while overcoming cat flu and once I was healthy, I came to my new home in Port Macquarie. I love spending my days insisting I have never, ever once been fed in my entire life and sometimes, although I’m actually an indoor cat, I find time in that busy schedule to explore the outside world.

You currently have 5,800 followers on Instagram. How do you feel about being an up and coming star?

Mostly humbled that so many people are interested in my life and adventures, and then a healthy sprinkling of knowing I’m worth it.

People aren't used to seeing a cat on a lead, let alone been taken for a walk.

How do you feel about all the attention you get when out in public?

Most humans are super receptive, excited

6 Greater Port Macquarie focus

beaches and parks locally, and my favourite place changes all the time. At the I’M ALWAYS KEEN moment it is a tie between FOR A PAT, SO IF YOU Shark Beach and Rainbow EVER SEE ME OUT Beach in Bonny Hills. I love AND ABOUT, FEEL getting my paws in the FREE TO COME UP sand and rolling around in AND SAY HI. the sun. They’re both great little beaches with lots of and love seeing me rocks to climb over and out and about. There’s jump from. Rainbow Beach often a whisper has some great little rock pools too - well and a double take as I wander past, and occasionally I hear, “Is that a cat?” Hopefully worth a visit, even for a human I guess.

We see you love to swim as well; that’s it will become more commonplace and soon not something a cat usually likes to do, there will be more cats than dogs on walks, is it? and then more cats than humans and … I’ve As long as no one sees me do the “doggy said too much. paddle”, I’m still on brand!

I’m always keen for a pat, so if you ever Do you have any siblings see me out and about, feel free to come up and if so, who's top dog? and say hi.

I live with six dogs and How did you feel the first time your three cats and regular foster mum put the harness and lead on you? siblings. There’s Bandicoot, The first time wasn’t so graceful, and I’m Crash and Franklyn, who are glad there were no witnesses to my brush all small mixed breed dogs with gravity and paralysis. I was patient and then Reba, a Kelpie cross with her; we persevered, and I warmed up Cattle Dog, Peach, a Kelpie to wearing one. Apparently, going outside mix, and Bilson, a greyhound. without it was non-negotiable. It does take I have three cat brothers time to get used to, so if you’re considering Pasteur, Cashew and Benatar. exploring with your human, then demand There’s no top dog, as much (use those Puss in Boots kitty eyes) to start as there is just chaos and then with short bursts of harness time only. Also, bedtime. don’t laugh too much when we falls down, After a big day, how do because we have feelings too. you like to relax?

With all these lovely walks throughout I love a seven hour nap in the region, where is your favourite place the sun, endless attention, and why? the sound of a can opening I’m so lucky to have so many stunning

on repeat and chin scratches. I’m a cat - I’m always relaxing.

You are a rescue cat and obviously have gone to a very loving home. What advice would you give to anyone who is thinking of getting a cat?

We as a species are beautiful creatures, with so much to offer humankind. We will always surprise you with how affectionate, hilarious and adventurous we can be. Find a cat with a killer personality and don’t overlook the weird or plain looking ones, because we are the best ones. As with any new pet, please be patient and understand that most of the time we haven’t a clue what you’re saying.

What’s your Instagram handle for those who want to check your adventures out?

To keep up with the life of Pistachio, you can follow along at @hellopistachio

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 7

focusinterview.

October, Australia’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, provides an opportunity for us all to focus on breast cancer and its impact on those affected by the disease in our community.

TONI WRIGHT WAS DIAGNOSED FOR THE SECOND TIME AT THE END OF 2018, ALL BEFORE TURNING 45 AND IS SHARING HER STORY TO HELP BRING AWARENESS - especially for younger women in our community - and hopes to inspire positivity, despite the cards you may be dealt.

Toni

WRIGHT

8 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

T

ell us a little about yourself.

My name is Toni. I'm a local here, and I have been proud to call Port Macquarie home for the last 10 and a half years. I emigrated in January 2009 from Basingstoke, Hampshire, UK with my husband, Chris and our then 17 year old son Zac. We instantly loved Port Macquarie and the beautiful lifestyle it has to offer. I have had my hairdressing business at Gossip Hair Studio on Horton Street for the last seven years and work with a fantastic team of ladies, who I'm proud to call my friends.

Toni, take us back to the beginning of your cancer journey; where did it begin?

My cancer "journey" began back in 2012, when I was just 38. I noticed a change in my breast and was going to the doctor for something else and thought I'd mention it.

The doctor examined my left breast and asked me to get a mammogram. When I couldn't get an appointment for a couple of weeks, the doctor phoned the clinic herself and got me an appointment the next day. That is when I started to get worried.

The mammogram and ultrasound appointment led to a core biopsy and a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer.

Numerous tests, including CT scans, bone scans, brain and full-body MRIs were to follow, to establish if the cancer had spread to other parts of my body. Fortunately, it was local to my left breast, with only a minute amount in one lymph node.

Lumpectomy surgery, four rounds of chemotherapy, six weeks of daily radiation and five years of hormone therapy was to follow; the aim - to hit cancer where it hurts, to get rid of this thing and hope for the best!

When you're a young cancer patient, the medical advice is to give you the works in terms of treatment. Shocked is definitely an understatement; how could this be happening to me? I'd only been in Australia starting our new life for a couple of years, with no extended family around me, a few friends that I'd met since we'd been here, but we didn't know enough people to have a big support network - so it was hard.

After your first diagnosis and breast cancer treatment, what emotions did you experience, and how did you mentally get through it all?

The first diagnosis throws you into an unfamiliar world - a new world of treatments, doctors, specialists, medical terminology, hospital appointments, invasive tests, medications, side effects, hair loss (one of the worst days of my life) along with financial worries, and the hardest things to hit you are the stress and emotions.

I was generally a happy person (or so I thought) and I was not prepared for how much chemotherapy changed me mentally.

My whole thought process had been dragged to a place of despair, dread, fear, foreboding doom, and I was really struggling to cope

with life at all. and lay crying on the kitchen floor. After a While going through active treatment, I still few days of letting all my nearest and dearest worked; being a self-employed hairdresser, it know I was fighting for my life again at the was vital for me to be able to earn a living. age of 44, I was emotionally drained.

The treatment stage for me was very much The process the second time around is a "head down, bum up" time; I had a list of the same as before: invasive tests, back on treatments that I had to endure, so I did. medication, referrals etc. I've now been in But after active treatment finishes and this "cancer world" for just over six years you're on your own back out in the world, and have a better understanding of what's that is the hardest time. I spent five years coming, how to go about getting things done amending my diet by eliminating processed and who to contact for different things. I'm foods and sugar, as well as reducing alcohol familiar with the medical hoops and who I consumption, exercising, reducing any want to be my specialists; I had no clue who chemicals in my home or what I put in my anyone was the first time. mouth or on my skin, I was referred to a but I was still very breast surgeon in Sydney depressed. at Westmead, and he To the world, you and his team have been put a smile on your great. I was booked in face and you carry for an auxiliary clearance on, but mentally I surgery (lymph node Finding breast cancer early was still struggling, removal) in February provides the best chance and in November 2019. Unfortunately, the of surviving the disease.

2017 I sought pathology found that the Remember, you don’t need professional help with cancer was located in to be an expert or use a a psychologist. My breast tissue and not the special technique to check internal chatter was at lymph nodes. your breasts. its most cynical, and I My next treatment Changes to look for: couldn't understand recommendation was to A new lump or lumpiness, the point of life any have a left mastectomy especially if it's only in one more or know what but without a shadow of breast. my purpose was a doubt, I knew I needed something that had them to take both A change in the size or never even been a breasts. So, I was looking shape of your breast. problem before, but down the barrel of my A change to the nipple, such when you spend next surgery, which was a as crusting, ulcer, redness or months and months bilateral mastectomy with inversion. undergoing gruelling immediate reconstruction A nipple discharge that treatment to keep to tissue expanders. occurs without squeezing. yourself alive, it Tissue expanders A change in the skin of your becomes hard to know stretch the breast skin breast, such as redness or why. over a period of time dimpling.

In 2018 you were when they inject saline diagnosed again into the expanders, to An unusual pain that doesn't with breast cancer. ensure the skin is able go away.

How did your second to accept implants; this Most changes aren’t due diagnosis differ from was a very uncomfortable to breast cancer, but it’s your first, and how four months while living important to see your doctor was it picked up? with these. My final without delay if you notice In October 2018, surgery this year was any of these changes. my worst fears were in July, when I had the canceraustralia.gov.au realised when I found exchange from expanders a lump under my arm. to implants. This is in When you've had no way to be confused cancer once already, with a "boob job", but I you are paranoid about any unusual lump, welcome my new "foobs" into my life. bump or pain being another cancer; it plagues Unfortunately, more surgeries are planned, your mind continuously. I phoned and made ovary and fallopian tube removal, because an appointment with my oncologist, she sent both my cancers were fed by Estrogen, and me for a mammogram and ultrasound, which also some fat grafting from my legs or tummy led to a core biopsy. into my breasts to smooth out the rippled skin The day my oncologist phoned me with which is left after surgery and radiation. the pathology results is etched in my mind.

Can you share any great ideas for the Thursday 1st November at 5:35pm. She asked family and friends going through the me if my husband was with me and asked to breast cancer journey, that may be be put on loudspeaker (I knew then); she said, helpful?

"I'm so sorry, but it's positive”. My mind was Everyone's cancer experience is so unique; black, and I couldn't breathe. no two cancers are the same, no two After we hung up with her, I broke down treatment plans are the same and of course,

Being Breast Aware

no two people are the same, but I know that I needed help and I tried to deal with the emotional fallout on my own - and it took me to a very dark place. Don't be afraid to share, be grateful for the small and previously insignificant things, laugh as much as you can, and never be ashamed to ask for help.

Being dealt cards that no one can ever expect can give you a very different perspective on life. What plans and goals are you are focused on now?

My second diagnosis has been a very different experience for me. The first time I was wondering what I did; what had I done to cause this? But since then, I know my body is fit and healthy and it isn't anything I've done. Put very simply, it is just an overproduction of cells that my immune system couldn't break down. If only we all knew the reasons for this, then the world would be cancer-free.

I believe that this cancer is trying to tell me something, and I wasn't listening the first time! It was time to take charge of my mind, not just my body. I've been practising mindfulness, gratitude and meditation.

After my double mastectomy surgery in April, I felt an overpowering need to do something; I didn't know what or how I would go about finding it. Six weeks after my mastectomy, I started back at yoga, hoping it would help with my shoulder function and strength. When leaving this class, I felt amazing, and over the next few weeks it became very apparent to me that this is just the challenge I needed - so I signed up to study to become a yoga instructor.

The impact this has had on me is profound.

Surrounding myself with like-minded, positive people, being able to calm mind and chatter from taking over my thoughts and focus on the here and now is so important.

I don't know what the future may hold, like any of us, but with a different mindset, I feel confident that I will be able to deal with life events much better than before.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

When you are literally in the fight of your life for the second time in your life, you soon know who your friends are. The support, love and kindness I have been shown has been overwhelming and has certainly helped me through what have been some very dark days and challenging recoveries. I have been supported with flowers, cards, messages, phone calls, gifts, outings for lunch or even to the supermarket, when I wasn't able to drive.

My supporters have not only been my friends here in Australia, but also my family and friends back in the UK and my very loyal and understanding clients, who have ensured that I have a business to come back to and who have changed appointments or gone without getting their hair done until my return back to the salon. I cannot thank each and everyone of you for the care and consideration you have shown me; I am truly blessed to have you all in my life. Thank you.

Thanks Toni.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

C A M P

Q U A L I T Y

Giggle

Camp Quality gives kids facing cancer the chance to be kids again, with services and programmes designed to help change the cancer story: in hospital, at home, at school or away from it all. The Turpie/Scotts are a local family who were introduced to the programme four years ago, and the support that Camp Quality gave to this family was invaluable.

L:R Dylan Scott, Ashton Scott, Suzanne Turpie, Caleb Scott, Rob Turpie, Blake Turpie, Jae Turpie

C

an you tell us about your family and how you became involved with Camp Quality?

We are a big family with Rob and me. We've been together for about 10 years now. Rob has two kids - Blake (21) and Jae (19). I have three boys, Dylan (17), Ashton (15) and Caleb (13) and we live in Port Macquarie.

In 2015, when Caleb was nine years old, he was diagnosed with brain cancer. We were flown to Sydney for emergency surgery, followed by radiation and then chemotherapy.

It was at Sydney Children's Hospital that we were introduced to Camp Quality and all that it does.

CALEB HAS ATTENDED What Camp Quality programmes and THE KIDS’ CAMP, services have you accessed over the years?

AND TOGETHER AS A was invaluable. She was our constant We were first introduced to Caleb's FAMILY WE'VE BEEN person by our side every single day, play therapist, Kylie, at Sydney's offering us so much love and support. She ABLE TO SEEK RESPITE Children's Hospital at Randwick. She provided coping techniques for the medical AT THEIR RETREAT AT was a true ray of sunshine for us and procedures he faced and play opportunities SALAMANDER BAY. supported us through some of our to distract him and ensure his continued toughest days. development. She did what she could to We've since been so fortunate to continually bring a smile to Caleb's face attend Family Camps as a "family"; Caleb during some of the darkest hours and has attended the Kids’ Camp, and together as a family we've provided us with so much comfort. been able to seek respite at their Retreat at Salamander Bay. Camp Quality for us is such a positive experience. To know Caleb participates in the Beads of Courage, where every bead that there are so many people, including many volunteers and on his necklace commemorates a medical procedure. community members, choosing to make a difference in lives like What does the support you have received from Camp ours truly touches your heart. They are selfless people who truly Quality mean to your family? do make a difference.

The support we received from Kylie, Caleb's play therapist, Thanks Suzanne.

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focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

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O C T O B E R

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BRING IT ON

the Musical Auditions Do you love drama at school? Would you love to be in a big musical production at the Glasshouse? We are looking for male actors aged 12 years and above, keen to perform in Bring it On - The Musical in August 2020. More info at www.pmperformingarts.com When October 16, 2019.

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WALCHA MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

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Roll up, Roll Up!

CIRCUS WORKSHOP

Bring the kids for some circus treats, balloon sculpting and circus sticker fun!

When Monday, September 30 - Friday October 4, 10am - 2pm daily in front of Big W. Where Settlement City Shopping Centre, Park Street, Port Macquarie.

MUMS, BUBS AND KIDS Market

Offering a range of stalls targeted towards parents, kids and babies.

As well as a range of commercial vendors, the market also offers pre-loved items at bargain prices.

Set in the child friendly space out the back of Hibbard Sports Club, enjoy browsing the stalls, while the kids play in the park!

When Sunday 3rd November - 9am - 1pm.

Where Hibbard Sports Club, 52 Boundary Street, Port Macquarie.

Info 0431 855 382 portmacquariemarket@gmail.com

The Walcha Mountain Festival is a fabulous two-day festival held annually during the month of October in the beautiful town of Walcha, part of the New England high country.

When Saturday 19th October to Sunday 20th October.

For further details www.walchamountainfestival.org

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20th Running of the Beechwood

BILLYCART CLASSIC

Market stalls and amusement rides from 9am.

When Sunday, October 27, 9am - 4pm. Main race 11am followed by the kids' race. Beechwood Road will be closed to all traffic from 11am 'til 12:30pm from the Beechwood hall to 453 Pappinbarra Road for the running of this race.

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MELBOURNE CUP

SCHOOL HOLIDAY STEM Workshops

EUREKA EXPLORERS ...

Join us for our exciting school holiday activities in STEM - including coding, robotic racers, aquatic adventures and more!

Daily sessions from 1pm to 4pm - ages 8 - 12.

When September 30 to October 11.

Contact SMS 0455 331 010.

Register online www.eurekaexplorers.com.au/register

Experience at Panthers

Panthers Lunch Gala is a Melbourne Cup experience that rivals being there on the track. Catch all the excitement of Australia’s greatest race, whilst enjoying a delicious two course food and beverage package, fashions on the field and a local fashion runway, hosted by Natalie Barr!

When Tuesday, November 5, 12pm start.

Cost Members $100; guests $110.

Tickets available from reception only (02) 6580 2300 Panthers Port Macquarie.

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With a love of playing to live audiences, Leesa and Julz have been successfully gigging nationally and internationally for the past 13 years. October brings them back home to play at the Wingham Akoostik Festival, and FOCUS sat down with Leesa for a chat.

Y

ou have been gigging overseas and here in Australia for 13 years.

Where did your love of music and songwriting come from?

Both Julz and I have grown up surrounded by music, and it’s all we’ve ever really wanted to do. We met each other in 2004 and just started jamming and hanging out, and we’ve been going strong ever since.

How did your band come together? Did you know each other beforehand?

We actually met through mutual friends. Tracy was Julz’s best friend in high school and was playing in a band that I was in and introduced me to Julz. Julz had been living in London for a few years, and it was when she came back home that we started hanging out and playing music together.

What is it about touring and playing to a live audience that you love?

I love the energetic connection between artists and audiences. It’s a pretty special thing to be able to express emotions with absolute openness and to share that with a group of people. We still get really excited about touring, because we always approach it as another new adventure and we try to have new experiences all the time.

Can you share with us a little about the inspiration for your lyrics.

Inspiration comes from so many different places and experiences. I read a lot, so I often get ideas from

that. We actively search out live music and art all around the world, which can kick your creativity into a whole new gear - and sometimes I have songs come to me in dreams, which I desperately try to remember as soon as I wake up!

What would be one of your favourite songs to play at the moment?

We’ve been touring in duo mode for the past two months, and I’ve really enjoyed playing a song called Through The Windmill - a song that was mostly written by Julz from our On The Boundaries album. On the album it has lots of layered sounds and big sounding production, so it’s really fun to break it down and perform it as an acoustic duo. We really rock it out as much as possible.

You're playing at the Wingham Akoostik Music Festival this October. What are you looking forward to for this specific event?

We’ve been in Europe and America for the past two months, so right now I’m really looking forward to getting home and playing to our home crowd.

We’ll be spending the next few months touring all over Australia to celebrate the launch of a new

track, Take A Look Over, so I’m excited about playing that song and also several new tracks that we’re currently working in to the Hussy Hicks live show.

Have you got any other festivals on your bucket list that you want to play at?

Absolutely! We’re pretty lucky that we’ve had the chance to play some excellent festivals around the world, and festival weekends are pretty much my favourite thing! We’d love to get to Canada to play some festivals. We have a couple of Australian touring friends who rave about the scene over there, so that’s definitely on the bucket list.

Where can we hear your music or catch up with what the band's up to?

You can keep up with us via social media Facebook, Instagram, Twitter @hussyhicks, plus you can follow us on Spotify or Apple Music and jump on our website www.hussyhicks.com to check out all our tour dates and sign up to the Hussy Hicks email list.

Thanks Leesa.

IT’S A PRETTY SPECIAL THING TO BE ABLE TO EXPRESS EMOTIONS WITH ABSOLUTE OPENNESS AND TO SHARE THAT WITH A GROUP OF PEOPLE.

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Recently being awarded the Mid North Coast Senior Volunteer of the Year award for his volunteer work with Outback Links, Geoffrey Bond lends his skills to those doing it just a bit tough in our rural areas …

Geoffrey

Bond i Geoffrey. It's been around five years since we last chatted! How have you been ... and what's been keeping you busy during this time?

Yes, Jo, it’s five years since we last chatted, and during that time I seem to have still been busy with various projects for the Frontier Services Outback Links programme, as well as with travel to our children and their families, based in Darwin, Adelaide and Mt Gambier.

My wife Roz, who as you may recall is a retired Uniting Church minister and I have had a couple of three month stints on Norfolk Island, serving the church there.

I even managed an Outback Links placement on the island, as well as doing some volunteering with their Forestry Dept and Parks and Wildlife Service.

You've recently been named the Mid North Coast Senior Volunteer of the Year for your work with Frontier Services' Outback Links programme. How did you feel when you were told of the award?

I was advised that I had been nominated for this award and had been invited to the ceremony here in Port, and that in itself was my first surprise, but when my name was called as the Mid North Coast Senior Volunteer of the Year, I was literally gobsmacked.

I felt sure that there must have been heaps of other volunteers more worthy of the award than I was.

How many placements have you experienced with Outback Links this year ... and what types of assistance did you provide?

This year has been a bit quiet for me, due to some unforeseen circumstances health-wise, so to date I have only done the one placement. This was with another volunteer from Port, Alan Edgar, a retired builder and carpenter by trade.

We were on a remote property in southern Queensland, between Moonie and Cecil Plains, some 700 km from home. We were there to install an ensuite and to build a wardrobe in the main bedroom.

14 Greater Port Macquarie focus

The owners, Don and Olive, a couple in their late sixties and still working this drought-stressed cattle station, only had a toilet and shower in a separate building close to the house, but down several steps.

Don is still recovering from a recent stroke and finding the existing facilities very difficult, getting in and out of the bath, which is in the house, and negotiating the steps down to the toilet, particularly at night. Finding tradespeople who are prepared to come out to remote properties like this is akin to finding hen's teeth! We were able to get a local back hoe operator to dig the hole for the septic tank and to lift the ensuite on to the metre-high studs which he had also installed for us,but the rest of the work we were able to manage with both Olive and Don helping where they could.

Other small jobs also came along during the two weeks we were there, like helping Don put out hay for the cattle, rigging up a temporary water supply for the homestead from one of the rapidly drying dams, chopping wood for the slow combustion stove (which Olive usually does) and doing a few fencing repairs.

You did your first Outback Links placement in 2008, on a sheep and cattle station in the Channel Country of Southwest Queensland. Eleven years is a long time to be a volunteer with the same organisation ... so what is it that keeps you so motivated?

The answer to that is fairly simple, Jo. There are lots of families in remote parts of this country who are doing it tough - and not only in times of drought like now.

If as a volunteer I can spend a couple of weeks giving them a helping hand, then that is the very least I can and should be doing.

I have met many great Australians during my time with Outback Links, made some good long term friends, and I know that what I am doing is greatly appreciated.

As a regional volunteer award winner, you'll be heading to Sydney for the concluding State Gala ceremony on December 5. This is a special date to you for another reason though too, isn't it?

Yes, by sheer coincidence, on December 5th Roz and I will

be celebrating our 60th wedding anniversary - perhaps a little differently to what we had imagined!

Why would you encourage others to give some of their time and volunteer?

As I have said, there are families out there doing it tough, particularly while this drought continues.

As a volunteer you know that you can be a real help, both physically and psychologically.

You don't necessarily have to be a tradie, or have experience with farm animals, although such skills are a big plus. Teachers, nurses, cooks, housekeepers, gardeners, carers, listeners, general hands, keen house painters are just a few skills which are in constant demand.

On one occasion, as a former accountant, I audited several years' accounts for the treasurer of the Isolated Children's and Parent's Association, which suggests that everyone has skills which can be employed with Outback Links.

What are your plans for the rest of this year ... are there any more outback placements planned for you?

Yes, I am booked for a placement on a 70,000 acre property out near Cunnamulla in western Queensland, where an elderly widow, running sheep with the help of just one station hand, is battling the drought and wild dogs; she desperately needs help with some fencing - even though the property is 1,000 km from Port!

What's the best way to find out more about Frontier Services and Outback Links?

Very simple, really. Go online to frontierservices.org/volunteer and complete your expression of interest, and one of the Outback Links team will get in touch with you.

Alternatively, give Frontier Services a call on 1300 787 247. There is also a registration form on the same website for families on the land facing difficulties who would like to seek temporary, volunteer assistance from Frontiers Services.

Any questions, please give them a call to have a chat.

Thanks Geoff.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

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Hastings

Woodworkers Guild Inc.

T

A N N UA L E X H I B I T I O N A N D S A L E

he Hastings Woodworkers Guild will be holding their annual exhibition and sale at Port Macquarie’s CWA Centre, 11 Horton Street (near the Town Green) on October 4th and 5th.

The exhibition is titled Woodworkers by the Sea, and will feature many beautiful, quality pieces made by members of the Guild. Some items of woodwork will be for sale, so here’s your chance to source a unique Christmas gift item or two!

Entry to the event is free, with opening hours Friday 4th October - 9am - 5pm, and Saturday

5th October 9am - 2pm.

The sale is a major fundraiser for the Guild, which regularly makes donations or provide items they’ve made to charity. Charities they’ve assisted in the past include: Guide Dogs Australia, Gimme-Five-For-Kids, Cancer Council, CWA of NSW, Port Macquarie Oncology Unit, Camp Quality and Hastings Valley Toy Library.

The Guild has been established since 1994, and always welcomes new members to join their ranks! For more info about the Hastings Woodworkers Guild, please visit: www.hastingswoodworkers.com.au

Frontiers Of

MODERN ASTRONOMY A Special Fundraising Event for Port Macquarie Astronomical Association, with Associate Professor John O’Byrne from Sydney University as special guest and speaker for the evening.

H

ave you ever wanted to know about how we detect exoplanets or black holes, and why studying these phenomenon gives us insight into how our universe is evolving?

Come along to hear one of Australia's most recognised astronomers, John O'Byrne give an interesting talk about exoplanets, observations of merging black holes and modern astrophotonics instrumentation.

Guests will have the opportunity to view various sky objects with a number of telescopes (weather permitting) and displays of science experiments, models and projects set up by local high school students.

There will be live music entertainment and much more ...

Brief Biography of John O’Byrne Associate Professor John O'Byrne is an astronomer in the Sydney Institute for Astronomy at the University of Sydney, and Secretary

of the Astronomical Society of Australia (ASA), the society of professional astronomers in Australia.

He is also an Associate Dean in the Faculty of Science, responsible (but not alone!) for the quality of the student experience across science.

His current interests centre on the rapidly expanding field of Astrophotonics - using optical fibres to enhance observations of faint astronomical objects such as distant galaxies.

Where: St Columba Anglican School Auditorium, 3 Iona Avenue, Port Macquarie.

When Saturday 2nd November, 6 pm - 10pm.

Suitable for ages 12 and over.

Entry Adults $30, students (aged 12 - 18) $15. pmobs.org.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 15

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M A R G R E T M E A G H E R - E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R , A U S T R A L I A N C E N T R E F O R A R T S A N D H E A LT H

new generation

C R E AT I V E LY I N S P I R I N G

a

doctors

of

Melwin Nelapati, Julianne Weatherley (UNSW RCS Port Macquarie Campus Services Co-ordinator), Associate Professor, Dr Ray Hodgson (Director of Medical Studies, UNSW RCS, Port Macquarie), Tamara Lennon, Jackson Blyth, Brent Whittaker, Jean Littlewood.

As a professional group in Australia, DOCTORS ARE DEEMED TO HAVE THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF INTEREST IN THE ARTS. Lawyers come a close second, but doctors hold the number one spot, according to medical publisher, Australian Doctor.

W

ithin the field of arts and health, there is a specialist area of study called Medical Humanities, a term which denotes an interdisciplinary field of medicine that includes the humanities (philosophy, religion, history, ethics), social sciences (psychology, sociology, anthropology, health geography) and the arts (literature, theatre, film, visual art, music) and their application to medical education and practice.

In the UK, US and Australia, medical humanities training is focused on assisting doctors to develop strong diagnostic and communications skills, as well as providing doctors with lifestyle balance and resilience to manage the frequently stressful aspects of their profession. In rural and regional areas, this can be exacerbated by geographic isolation.

As a strong proponent of arts and health, it has been exciting to see UNSW Rural Clinical School in Port Macquarie bring the arts directly on to campus through the commission of a Hello Koalas sculpture, Dr Stu Dent.

UNSW’s Port Macquarie campus services co-ordinator Julianne Weatherly said it was “pretty special for UNSW Rural Clinical School to have its own Hello Koalas sculpture, and a great way to bring awareness to both the training of undergraduate medical students in rural areas, and Port Macquarie”.

“The koala is a strong rural symbol, so this is a wonderful opportunity to let people know that you can get a world-class medical education doing exactly the same degree as you would in the city, but with the lifestyle benefits of living in the country.”

Since 2000, the Rural Clinical School has been the key for UNSW to redress the imbalance in the proportion of urban and rural students 16 Greater Port Macquarie focus

undertaking medicine.

73% of current UNSW Rural Clinical School students have indicated their intent to practice in a rural or regional setting, which is great news for rural communities.

“In Port Macquarie, we have so many amazing doctors who give their time to help educate the next generation of doctors, many of whom have completed their studies rurally and returned to practice here,” Julianne said.

Artist Pauline Roods is responsible for creating many of the character-based Hello Koalas sculptures, including Mack the Surf Lifesaver and Ranger Riley, roaming ambassador for threatened species in NSW National Parks.

“I wanted Dr Stu Dent to fit into a lecture room alongside other student doctors and seem like he or she could actually stand up and walk alongside them,” Pauline said.

Dr Stu Dent is not identified as either male or female, but Pauline has ensured the koala looks bright eyed but with a calm expression on its face, befitting a doctor.

The traditional doctor’s lab coat is worn over the doctor’s scrubs, with joggers on the back paws, and a 3D stethoscope around the neck.

On the back of the lab coat, Pauline has created a class graduation photo in which any would-be doctor can picture themselves.

This image also identifies Dr Lesley Forster, Associate Dean Rural Health and Head of the UNSW Rural Clinical School, who has led the school since 2009. Under her guidance, it has become the only G08 university running the full medical program in a rural/regional location.

By leaving the graduating students’ faces blank, but including people of varying heights, build, skin and hair colour, Pauline reflects the possibilities ahead for everyone.

She has also encompassed the UNSW Crest,

Dr Stu Dent in the Clinical Skills Laboratory (left to right) Jackson Blyth, Jean Littlewood, Melwin Nelapati and Brent Whittaker.

the Rural Clinical School’s name and each of its campuses across NSW at Port Macquarie, Albury/ Wodonga, Coffs Harbour, Griffith and Wagga Wagga.

Students were closely involved in the design process, from debating Dr Stu Dent’s choice of socks to concocting an intriguing name.

Their excitement was evident at the sculpture’s unveiling. “They went back to their childhoods and really played along with the character, rather than seeing a statue,” said Pauline.

“That’s the beauty of the Hello Koalas, which appeal to all ages. Each has its own story and people remember them.

“It’s more than being aesthetically pleasing. It’s about exciting people’s imagination and keeping the fantasy alive … bringing everyone down that rabbit hole and having a visit with Alice.”

And there is a personal link between the UNSW Rural Clinical School and koalas, with the school having been home to “a wonderful mother koala for the past 12 years”, who only recently died.

It is from photos of this koala that Pauline took

some of the characteristics for Dr Stu Dent.

That, in turn, is a reminder of why the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail was created - to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our koalas and our environment.

Dr Stu Dent is one of 24 Hello Koalas sculptures participating in an exhibition at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney from 4th October to 30th November to promote wildlife conservation.

In a pre-event post on Facebook during September, social media reach exceeded 400,000 people, with over 17,000 people registering to come and see the Hello Koalas!

In December, Dr Stu Dent will resume residence at UNSW Rural Clinical School, Shared Health Research and Education Centre (SHREC), 20 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie.

More details: https://www.hellokoalas.com/ and https://rcs.med.unsw.edu.au/ rcs-port-macquarie-campus Thanks to writer Alison Houston for collaborating on this article.

BEN HUSK PORT MACQUARIE JAGUAR LAND ROVER Ben Husk has spent the last six years in the motor industry, and the last three and a half years as Warranty Manager for the family owned John Oxley Motors business. Since early 2018, Ben has joined the team at John Oxley Land Rover and Jaguar as the Service Manager; his role sees him oversee all warranty repairs and general servicing.

Ben was recognised as the Regional and National Service Advisor of the year for Jaguar Land Rover - a prestigious award that places Ben first in Australia.

These awards recognise the high standard of customer service and excellence and are judged on a number of merits and feedback from customers.

Ben is travelling to the United Kingdom to the worldwide Jaguar Land Rover Awards as the Australian Service Advisor representative for our region to celebrate his achievements.

While in Birmingham, Ben hopes to be taking part in a tour of the Land Rover factory, to see first hand how these impressive vehicles are made, and will bring that knowledge back with him to Port Macquarie - further enhancing what John Oxley Land Rover can offer customers.

Looking ahead - Ben is excited about the new Land Rover Defender, an iconic car which has been out of manufacturing since 2016 and will make a new release for 2020. The new model will represent 70 years of innovation and improvement, honouring the vehicle’s history for rugged solidity, while thoroughly remaining a Defender for the 21st Century.

Congratulations, Ben, on your outstanding contribution to John Oxley Jaguar and Land Rover Port Macquarie.

PORT MACQUARIE JAGUAR LAND ROVER 13 0 H A S T INGS RI V E R DRI V E , P OR T M AC QUA RIE www.portmacquarie.jaguar.com.au www.portmacquarie.landrover.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 17

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ONE OF AUSTR ALIA’S MOST LOVED ARTISTS, AMY SHARK IS BRINGING HER ARIA AWARD WINNING DEBUT ALBUM “LOVE MONSTER” TO ALL OF HER FANS IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA. IN JUST OVER TWO YEARS SHE HAS GONE FROM MOVING 82 TICKETS IN HER HOME TOWN OF BRISBANE TO SELLING OUT ARENA FILLED SHOWS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY.

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bought a nice house.

It just shows that if you work really hard and put the time in and put music out that you’re proud of, everything can kind of turn around.

Your powerhouse single, I Said Hi, was a song for those in the industry who said you'd never make it.

What would you say to those people now?

Laughs … You know, if you'd asked me that even three years ago, I probably would have said something really nasty and sly, just to put a bit more salt in the wound, but now I think I’ve really mellowed out - I'm not the bitch that I used to be.

I think I’m at peace with it, and that’s a really mature way to look at it; I put that song out, and I think that's all I really needed to do. The power of song is just freedom of speech. I don't think I need to do any more. Those people who didn't believe in me and were actually super against what I was doing and went out of their way not to help me, I think they’re suffering enough.

I'm a huge fan! Our office has gone to mush here, ow with six Aria awards under her belt, and I’m sure you’ve met many big time celebrities. including Album of the Year, Best Pop What's been your biggest fan girl moment?

Release and Best Female Artist, to name a I’ve been such a big fan of Blink 182 for so long! I've few, Amy has proved that hard work and borrowed so many punk melodies and ideas, even to this perseverance certainly can pay off. day, as that is what trained me to write songs. One day I Your career has literally exploded over got a message from Mark Hoppus saying next time you’re the past two years in both Australia and the US. in LA, let's have coffee … I remember walking into this reEarly on you performed on the Jimmy Fallon and The ally boozy café in LA, and I walked over to Mark. He stood Late Late Show with James Corden (who obviously up and was super tall with a big handsome voice, just like have ridiculous audience numbers) - was that a I remember; everyone was looking at us, and it was so pinch yourself moment? Did you ever dream that crazy. He was just such a beautiful man! We were talking this could be happening? about Blink, and I was telling him about the studio I was No, absolutely not. I had well and truly called it quits. in that day, and he was like, “Oh yeah, we recorded a bit I'm not really a gypsy who lights candles and does Yoga. of Enema of the State there”. I had to say to him, “I'm I’m a realist, and I had quit so much that it was just weird so sorry; I’ve met lots of people and I can usually keep it how it all happened, and how quickly; it was like the together, but I'm having trouble right world wouldn’t let me not do this. now. I’m normally a lot cooler than Then before I knew it, I was playing this; I’m so grateful that you’re here, on James Corden. That was so early and I’m just having a second ...” and on, that I didn't really even have time totally outed myself. I was close to I’M REALLY AWARE OF to take it all in. It was just like: I’ve tears.

WHERE FANS ARE. WHEN gotta do this, and I’ve got to do it You'll be touring and performing I DID THE BIG NATIONAL well. your breakout debut album, Love TOUR, I WAS SUPER AWARE As much as I was ready for it, as I’d Monster on your Regional AustraOF WHO HAD TRAVELLED had so many years in training leading lian Tour from October. What made TO COME TO THE BIG up to what could have been, it was you decide to tour regionally?

CITIES. ALSO ONLINE, AS crazy that it did happen. I feel like I It's always been something I wanted MUCH AS I DON’T HAVE A was ready to do it by then, so it feels to do; it was just a case of finding the PRESENCE, I’M READING good. best time in my schedule. I'm really THE COMMENTS ...

How does it feel to play at huge aware of where fans are. When I did sold out shows all over the the big national tour, I was super world? aware of who had travelled to come It feels great! Better than playing to to the big cities. Also online, as much as I don't have a four people. I still worry that the tours won’t sell out, and presence, I’m reading the comments. I just spent a couple I'm still petrified that people aren't going to come and be of years really honing in on that and the second we got interested to come. These are big rooms that I’m playing the team together, I knew I needed to do this before the at now. I'm a punish to myself. My whole team keep saysecond phase happens and I’m busy again. I want to learn ing, “Amy, you need to RELAX”. I'm forever telling people more about and see more of our country anyway, so I'm it's too big of a place, but I trust my whole team and they really excited - I think it's going to be really special. I've know what it's doing and know my fan base, so I'm just had so much support from media and radio for this tour enjoying it as much as possible. Of course, when I go on and fans, so it feels right. stage, that's the most enjoyable bit.

What's next for you? Are you currently working on With this very public success, what has changed the new music? most for you in the past couple of years?

So many things! I'm always working; I don't stop. I’m So many things, but they're probably just the little always thinking a good year ahead and trying to be very things. It was different at the start; I’m finding people well prepared. I don't want to give out too much, but it's actually know what my face looks like now, so anywhere going to be very exciting, and I’m looking forward to it.

I go, I have to be on alert. Things are great, though; I just Thanks Amy.

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What’s playing on your phone? A crime podcast.

Favourite food? Spaghetti bolognese, usually with a side of avocado. Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.

Favourite travel destination? Maui. Really good if you like pina coladas.

Catch Amy Shark at C.ex Group Coffs. When Thursday 17th October. Time 6:45pm. Cost $59.90.

Amy will be joined by special guests Sly Withers & Eleanor Jacks.

Greater GreaterPort PortMacquarie Macquariefocus focus 19

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THE AUSTRALIAN DESIGN CENTRE (ADC) PRESENTS OBSESSED: COMPELLED TO MAKE AT THE GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY UNTIL NOVEMBER 24.

Compelled OBSESSED:

R

epresenting the diverse works of 14 Australian artists, the exhibition aims to showcase not only exquisite works, but the inspirations, trials and tribulations behind the pieces the artists create. Vipoo Srivilasa creates magic with his ceramic work, and he’s just one of the artist’s whose work will be on display …

Hi Vip. You’re a native of Thailand - so what was it that brought you to Australia?

I came here to study my Masters degree, which I did in Hobart. I’ve now been here for about 22 years!

You studied a Bachelor of Arts (ceramics) at the Rangsit University in Bangkok, prior to moving to Australia … so did you know fairly early on that art would be your career focus?

When I studied art, I wasn’t thinking about making it a career. I studied ceramics, because

20 Greater Port Macquarie focus

in high school I made fashion jewellery from air dried clay.

It sold really, really well … but the problem with that was because it was air dried, it didn’t last very long. I wanted to find another material that lasted longer, and ceramic came to mind …

Once I tried my hand with clay, I was hooked - and I didn’t look back! But, I didn’t think I’d be an artist; I just loved the material. This all started around 25 years ago, and back then, I didn’t even know that being an artist could be an occupation!

Your work with ceramics is so incredibly detailed. How long would you normally spend on a piece?

I’ve been asked this a lot … and my answer is

always, “Twenty years”!

To me, what I can achieve now in such a short time … it really took me 20 years to achieve that skill!

People might think that it only took me three days to make a piece, but there a lot of years behind being able to achieve the piece in that timeframe.

How do you come up with the ideas for your work?

I work in series, which have the same idea, or the same concept for what caught my attention at that time. The work that is on show at the Glasshouse is to do with patience, because when I started this series, I was addicted to Facebook, the online world and online gaming. I lost my patience - I just couldn’t do anything for a long time, because I was always on my phone or my computer, wanting to stay connected.

To present such labour intensive, detailed

work, was such a change from “quickly done/ quickly do” … I needed more attention span, so my work had to slowly change and evolve.

I also worked other materials into the pieces; porcelain is such a high-end material, but adding something like a pom-pom - which is massproduced - there’s such a great contrast between materials. A pom-pom also adds a softness to the piece; whereas, porcelain is hard and cold.

What’s your artistic process? When you come up with a theme or an idea, do you sketch out your ideas first - or do you get straight into working with the raw materials?

That’s a good question - I don’t think I’ve been asked this often! The basic idea often comes when I’m already making work, but I do a lot of research - Google Images is often my best friend! But, the good ideas often come after the research …

Every morning, I may spend around half an hour trying to sketch what I want to make, but that’s just a starting point. But when I start working on other pieces, new ideas just start popping up! This happens to me quite a lot … and when this happens, I’ll stop working and

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sketch the ideas in my head. I think all the data, research and images I’ve observed slowly come together in my head while I’m working.

When I’m working, it’s very quiet and I’m by myself, so it allows me time to process what I’ve seen and what I’ve read - and it all comes together.

All artists need to deal with frustration at times too … sometimes work doesn’t go as planned, or doesn’t turn out the way you like. How do you deal with this - especially if you need to go back to the “drawing board”?

Ha ha … very poorly! I read somewhere in an article that people who work with ceramics and clay are those who can deal the best with failure.

Even though I’ve worked with ceramics for over 20 years, I still have work that explodes in the kiln! Sometimes I simply forget to put a pinhole in the work … without a pinhole, the air inside a piece can simply explode! It’s such a simple thing, but so easy to forget.

Failure happens all the time in ceramics, and this has taught me how to deal with it. I can’t cry about failure for too long - I just need to start working on a new piece straight away; otherwise, things go from bad to worse.

By making a new piece, it gets my mind out of the sad/disappointed mode … and often the second piece turns out better than the first one!

That’s a great, positive way to look at things!

Yes, and the funny thing is, while the second piece is often better than the first one, the third piece is always really bad! With the second piece, it gives you the chance to work on it again and develop your ideas … but by the third piece,

Working with others you’re often tired of it, and allowed me to let go it’s not so good ha ha!

FAILURE HAPPENS ALL THE of my own creative How much does your TIME IN CERAMICS, AND Thai heritage influence process, and trust others THIS HAS TAUGHT ME HOW what you create? to help me with this TO DEAL WITH IT. I CAN’T Because I was born in process. This helped my CRY ABOUT FAILURE FOR Thailand, it’s just something work grow in different TOO LONG - I JUST NEED TO that’s in me. I didn’t ways I didn’t expect.

START WORKING ON A NEW want to make work that For example, working PIECE STRAIGHT AWAY; looked really Thai … but with people at the MCG OTHERWISE, THINGS GO I think most artists’ work … The MCG has a lot FROM BAD TO WORSE. is influenced by their of trophy collections childhood. I didn’t set that people don’t know out to make either Thai about, and asking or Australian work, but people to view the because of my heritage, and because I live in trophies, asking them why the trophies were Australia, I think they both came together. important, and having them draw their own Sometimes when I show work in Australia, ideas - this inspired my own work. people, say, “This looks very Thai”, but when Working as an artist can be extremely isolating I show the same piece in Thailand, people say, at times (which is probably why we love social “This looks very Australian”! media so much!)

You’ve been involved with teaching and You’ve done a lot of travelling, as your workshops too. In particular, you were ceramic works have been presented announced as the 2018 National Sports in galleries in China, Taiwan, the USA, Museum (NSM) Basil Sellers Creative Arts England, the Philippines - as well as Fellowship recipient and as a part of this Australia. Does travel inspire you - and are programme, you ran public workshops, there places you haven’t visited yet that where participants were encouraged to you’d like to see? imagine a trophy they would like to give There are so many places I want to go! One their sporting fans or heroes. What did you place I’d love to visit that I haven’t been to yet enjoy most about this experience? is India. I feel I would love to observe Indian As an artist, I work alone in the studio for culture, because it’s highly decorative and over such long periods of time - and there’s usually the top, which I think would fit with my work only and hour or so of socialising at gallery really well. openings. I found working with other people in I love travelling around Asia - I feel quite at the community to be very rewarding, because I home and I’m happy to travel alone, but in could have a real connection with others.

Europe, I prefer to travel with some friends …

In Europe, a lot of people can speak English which can make things a lot easier - whereas in Asia, I can’t speak the language in Indonesia, for example - but maybe this just makes it more of an adventure.

While your work’s on display in Port Macquarie as a part of the Obsessed: Compelled to Make exhibition, what else will you be working on?

A couple of big things are coming up. I’m listed for the Whitegold Ceramic Awards in the UK; I’ll need to visit the St Austell area, meet lots of people, and come up with a project that’s specific to the area.

I also have a big solo show in Bangkok in November … so I think that’s enough for me for the rest of this year!

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

My Instagram account is the best way for people to connect with me: @vipooart if they’d like to chat! My website is vipoo.com which is a great way to view more of my work.

Thanks Vip. Thank you for some very interesting questions!

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Photos featuring Vipoo courtesy of Angus Lee Forbes.

See Obsessed: Compelled to Make at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from 28th September - 24th November.

Visit: glasshouse.org.au for further details.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 21

Taste the delicacies from Abundance Garden Centre & CafĂŠ 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Grilled Halloumi Stack

Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant Drift is a place we have created with you in mind …

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

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.

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

Strawberry and Cream Sponge Cake

The Kove Kitchen at Panthers Our strawberries and cream sponge cake is guaranteed to light up your eyes and tempt your tastebuds! It features layers of light sponge, velvety cream, strawberry mouse, strawberry jam and white chocolate, the perfect palette of sweetness.

The Kove café features an assortment of freshly made in-house sweets, sandwiches and salads. Whether you are looking for a healthy snack or a sweet treat, tempt yourself with our decadent spread of goodies!

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 23

24 Greater Port Macquarie focus

GLASSHOUSE

REGIONAL GALLERY

The biennial Mid North Coast showcase exhibition is

BACK IN 2020!

Christmas Gift Fair.

Yes, it's on again! The Christmas Gift Fair is the 'best fair on the coast' according to customers. Most stallholders are back by high demand, but there are some new stallholders for customers to see. It always attracts many people, such is the popularity of this event.

All funds raised are directed to Endeavour Clubhouse, the local Hastings mental health recovery and retraining centre.

Don't miss this chance to do all of your Christmas shopping early!

If you would like to be part of this showcase of regional talent, please apply online at www.glasshouse.org.au/ NE2020

We recommend customers arrive early for parking, with all of your friends in one car, as parking can be difficult. Better still, take the bus!

ARTIST SUBMISSIONS

NOW OPEN

glasshouse.org.au/NE2020 02 6581 8888

Digital Marketing Partner

Greater Port Macquarie focus 25

26 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Performer and West End Musical Star Peter Cousens AM and renowned flautist Jane Rutter will share the Glasshouse stage for a special evening concert in November …

H Evening STARS

Jane Rutter and Peter Cousens

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE presents

Evening Stars

i Peter. How did you and Jane first meet?

We were brought together by a producer in 1999, who was wanting to promote a concert at the Sydney Opera House.

We did three concerts together in the Concert Hall, so that’s where we met.

We’ve been friends ever since!

How was this new show developed?

We’ve worked a lot together since the beginning, but we haven’t done a concert like this before.

We’ve performed in parts of Sydney or Melbourne, or done one or two concerts, but this time it’s a regional tour with more concerts. We wanted to come up with a concept that combined both our repertoires, and I think with this particular concert, we’ve combined this more than we ever have. In the past, we’ve performed our separate career favourites, and then we’ve come together to do some especially arranged flute and voice pieces. This time we work more as a double act … It’s much more about two different types of musical elements coming together, and

it’s actually really sweet! Musically, it’s very compelling.

This show has been described as an “intimate and witty take on all things romantic”. The music you’ll be performing is romantic … but where does the “witty” part come in?

It’s in the style, and also from some of the songs! For instance, there are a couple of Victorian era songs, and they have a kind of witty play on romance from a different period. The way Jane and I talk about the music also has a kind of pithy wit … Jane does a witty perhaps a bit risqué - commentary about some of the French songs too!

Peter, you’re the Artistic Director of the Talent Development Project (TDP), a programme that provides mentoring for youth who wish to establish careers in the entertainment industry. What do you find rewarding about working with young people?

Their courage, for one, and their talent. The TDP identifies exceptional talent in government high school and works with them over a year ... TDP has been around for 27 years, and I took

over as AD two and a half years ago. I did some research about who had been through the programme, and discovered that around 80 per cent of participants have a career and can pay their rent through some form of music …

You’ll also be working with youth at the Glasshouse, as you and Jane are offering masterclasses. What are you hoping to share with participants?

Primarily, what it is to perform a piece of music … how you need to find purpose and meaning with the music and find a connection with it. I’d like to share how songs can be authentically expressed and to share who you are.

Performing music can make you very vulnerable and nervous, so helping to develop self-confidence and self-belief is very important as well …

Thanks Peter.

See Jane Rutter and Peter Cousens at the Glasshouse on November 8, 7:30pm.

Masterclasses for students in Years 5 and 6 and Years 7 - 12 will run on November 8 at 11:30am.

Visit glasshouse.org.au for more details.

An evening of elegance, guaranteed to make your heart sing!

Jane Rutter and Peter Cousens

Friday 8 November, 7.30pm West End musical star, Peter Cousens, and legendary flutist Jane Rutter (Chevalière des Arts et Lettres), join forces to bring you a magical night of musical romance. Enjoy the best-loved songs from Peter’s starring roles in West Side Story, Camelot, Showboat, Aspects of Love, Phantom of the Opera, and Lés Miserables and delightful romantic pieces from Jane’s 23 solo albums.

Book now 02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,

Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Greater Port Macquarie focus 27

28 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

ADAM BUTTON The recent bushfires - and summer hailstorms, and floods (remember them?) - inevitably incline our minds to insurance cover. Susie chats with a local expert about a commodity even its own industry describes as “a grudge purchase”.

A

ccording to a graph by Budget Direct Insurance, Port Macquarie was Australia’s leading hotspot (ex the N.T.) for hailstorms in the 2017-18 season. Surprising. Yet the graph indicates too that in all but one period since 2013 we were right up there near the top nationwide among all hail-prone areas covered by the insurer.

When a hailstorm hit Bunnings car park in February this year a fellow shopper had had an SMS hail warning from Budget. I didn’t get one from my insurer, NRMA. That same month an almighty storm savaged some of Australia’s biggest and once trusted companies: the report of the Hayne Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry shamed the big banks, whose practices largely occupied the commission’s limited timeframe and mandate. Still, some breathtaking revelations and insight into the very complex insurance industry emerged. For example, the commission examined an executive of Suncorp (which it heard issues insurance via AAI under 13 brands including AAMI, Apia, GIO, Terri Scheer, Vero, and Shannons home insurance). It’s essential to read the full head-spinning context of proceedings to appreciate the circumstances elicited by counsel Rowena Orr QC, and witness defences, but just two vignettes (where there was no dispute that the parties were properly insured): The insurer secured two rebuild quotes for a home wiped out by bushfire. It chooses the lower quote, Suncorp

testified. Its cash settlement offer: $499,000.

The owners’ own quote: $659,000. The insurer’s second quote revealed - eventually - to the client: $862,000. Then: a Hunter Valley couple with two special needs kids had their house undermined by 440mm of rain in 24 hours in April 2015. By September last, three and a half years on, they were still in temporary accommodation after a horror claim history that ended, via lawyers, with the dispute resolution body now known as AFCA. The original cash settlement offer: $30,000 (sic).

AFCA found for them for $744,000. Hayne’s report reveals a truism: you don’t know your insurance’s effectiveness until you claim. It exposed the costs, time, stress, disruption and discombobulation you could then suffer in negotiations complicated by delays, denials or dispute. (And remember the saga exposed in the Julia Roberts film Erin Brockovich). But it indicates too, perhaps, the value of retaining an insurance broker as your agent. Think of just some regular insurance needs: home, vehicle, health, liability, income, travel, strata, landlord, farm, equipment, even pet insurance! Think of dilatory, unintelligible call centres, confusing verbal quotes, comparing inclusions/exclusions, juggling the wisdom of various excess levels ...

Port Macquarie has a number of locallybased insurance broking houses specialising in recommending policies fit for purpose. Adam Button is a partner with David Bailey in one, Eagle Insurance, with offices in Port, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and Newcastle, dealing in general insurance predominantly for commercial clients - business, farms - but also

for domestic clients. “You insure for something you hope doesn’t happen,” Button observes.

But: “The whole concept of insurance is, if something does happen, to ensure you don’t suffer as badly as you would otherwise. You still suffer if something goes wrong, but the broker’s job’s to step in and sort it out for you.” Typically, “a client will come to see us.

We’ll have a chat; we need to understand their needs and risks. We look at their [requirements] and within maybe an hour we’ll have seven quotes for them. For that client to deal with seven different insurance companies to get the same information is going to take a long time. You do your insurance once a year: we’re doing everyone’s insurance hundreds of times a day, and handling claims all through the year. Pricing’s important to everybody but so is the advice you get on how to set up your insurance. My job’s to talk to a client so you know what cover’s available, the cost, what you can do to reduce that cost, and then make an informed decision.

“A lot of clients have a [single annual renewal] date for all their various policies,” Button says. How good, having just finalised the burglary and fire coverage, not to find a new bill arriving next month for the car renewal, and again later for other premiums!

Add the security of knowing you’re covered, forget about it for 12 months, with the broker reminding you then too. And leaving a claim up to the broker, instead of taking on a possibly time-consuming, frustrating challenge personally. But would a broker persist, work as hard for me in a claim as I would myself?

“Harder! We understand the ins and outs.

We understand the policy wording.” Such documents are long and complex; most of us merely skim them. “We make sure everything goes the way it should. We work for the client, not the insurance company. You can be [given the] runaround. We make sure insurers pay claims in accordance with their obligations.

“We’re paid a commission by insurers for placing the business and a fee by the client.

It’s generally a nominal fee; we might charge a business $100-$200.” Is broker insurance more expensive than setting up your own policies directly? “It can be, but a lot of insurers have smartened up to that and offer products comparable to the direct market.” Eagle’s initial evaluation is obligation free: “We do a lot of work up front.” An assessment and recommendations are prepared. “If a client doesn’t go ahead, that’s the way it is.” Where a client’s price-sensitive, Button looks for ways to reduce the cost without diluting the cover.

“We can, if the client’s very concerned on price, provide that cheaper cover. But: we also explain the differences, and let the client make the decision.” At the same time, he cautions: “Cost isn’t everything. Insurance is like a parachute.

“When you need it, you don’t care what it costs. You just want it to work.” · News re Port’s traffic congestion previously featured in Out To Lunch: It’s been announced the Lake Road-Oxley Highway roundabout will be upgraded, to traffic lights.

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 29

Miss Nellie’s Café Summer is almost here!

Summer is almost here! It is mango and pineapple season again.

Everywhere you look, there are pineapples in all shapes and sizes. At the Bellingen markets last weekend, they were stacked up, row upon row. The aroma was just delicious.

Mangoes! What can I say! They are on again, coming from the Northern Territory at present; soon we will move down to Queensland stock. As usual, we will all be in for a great treat and heaps of feasting.

You will still be able to buy “Aussie” navel oranges and mandarins for a short time; they will soon be finished towards the end of October. Stone fruit will be in the shop soon, so keep checking.

Over to the vegetables.”Aussie” asparagus is now in plentiful supply, but only for a short time, so make sure you come in soon and stock up. Local zucchini will soon be available, and we will also have plenty of beaut fancy lettuce from Beechwood, together with Lebanese cucumbers from Coffs Harbour and tomatoes from Ricardoes - should make those summer salads so yummy.

Our lovely Som from Bago has some great fresh herbs, such as top quality mint, chives and lemongrass, and many more.

Be sure to visit soon. Ken.

30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Life is short; lick the spoon! Better still, head to Miss Nellie’s for a homemade treat and see why this hip, hinterland café is one of the most popular hidden treasures of the Hastings! Nestled in the village of Kendall, where the beaches meet the lush scenic valleys of the Camden Haven, Miss Nellie’s is a modern yet classic hub for all. Defying the country café trend, the decor and vibe is modern with a retro twist, and guests are greeted with a friendly smile and welcoming atmosphere.

Enjoy a relaxing coffee, homemade cake, dessert or selection from Miss Nellie’s scone flavours. Bring family and friends to indulge in the freshly prepared light menu, including a generous gluten-free offering. For those wishing to spoil themselves with a little decadence, Miss Nellie’s offers a delectable high tea service (bookings essential).

All meals are freshly prepared using the best of the Hastings local produce, while Miss Nellie herself bakes every sweet treat on the menu! Make the most of the fine weather and dine alfresco-style in the outdoor garden area - your well-behaved furry best friends are also welcome!

Just four minutes drive from the Kew turnoff on the Pacific Highway, Miss Nellie’s truly offers a taste of home! While you’re there, why not browse the shelves and take home some local goodies and gourmet gifts.

Miss Nellie’s is open six days a week (closed Wednesdays) from 8am to 3pm. Child and pet friendly. Lunch bookings recommended. Ph: 6559 0085 or email info@missnellies.com.au

focus_contributor

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

The Student Heart Project Red & Blue Ball

The Student Heart Project Red & Blue Ball

Jessie & Zak’s Engagement at Moore Brewing Co.

The Student Heart Project Red & Blue Ball

Dean & Dustin from Little Ripples with John & Alex Cassegrain

The Student Heart Project Red & Blue Ball

It’s been muchos locos of late! I have spent much of this month masquerading as a tourist in my own town, shacking up in a beautiful little beach house with the family as a result of a rather inconvenient and disastrous unnatural “water feature” that appeared unannounced in our lounge room causing all sorts of two storey flooding and chaos.

L

ooking on the bright side of life … Things have been far from dull, and we are now undergoing a forced renovation and EXTREME cull and cleanout - Marie Kondo and The Block eat your heart out! It’s addictively cathartic to sort, chuck, gift and sell through 11 years of life! So as I sit at as stranger’s beautiful dining table, knee deep in project plans, grant applications, and colour samples and ponder my new floor coverings … I allow the ever so slight delight of racing season to creep into my consciousness! It’s a fabulous time of year - friends, fab food and of course, FASHION! Having missed Port Cup last year trekking through the jungle in Thailand, I am looking forward to hitting the turf for Port’s annual Spring Fling. Fashions on the Field will be hotly contested this year, and I am looking forward to a stellar show from the ladies, gents and couples on the course.

Congrats to gorgeous couple Jessie Myers of Project Goddess and Zak Alyward, who celebrated their engagement with 80 friends and family at Moore Brewing Co. Guests enjoyed grazing tables and delicious dishes from Stefan at Char Bar Catering, with tunes from Billy Hart. Guests included Courtney Haynes of CSU, Jessie’s PMPA colleagues and fellow dancers Vanessa Harper and hubby Mitchell,

Janelle and Lucian Catana, Francesca 0’Donnell, Lauran Ivy, Angela Jamieson, Ryan and Emily Jacobs, Samuel Adams, Natasha Nikolevski, Josh Alyward, Jasmine Grant, Mitchell Dick, Joe Preston, Rick Alyward, Dean Holmes and Nathan Grant, to name just a few of the crew on hand to celebrate. Wishing you all the best, Jessie and Zak! Congrats to the dedicated event team of The Student Heart Project for their latest Red & Blue Ball, who glammed up with their gorgeous guests in their best crimson and blue hues to dance the night away for defibrillators. Over 300 guests, including university students, academic and medical staff and paramedics celebrated for a fab cause with dinner, dancing, photo booths, fab prizes and fun. The Student Heart Project has placed 17 defibrillators in the Port Macquarie-Hastings and surrounding areas, thanks to the generous support and sponsorship of the Port Macquarie-Hastings community!

All the happy snaps were captured by Chris at Meraki, with lots of cheeky fun had by all!

Yes please to cheese! Cheese has been a little bit of theme on the Port Macquarie scene of late, with the fab team at Hastings Coop led by Allan Gordon and Tim Walker turning on the treats for an afternoon of fine fromage from The Providores, brews from Hops & Tails and fine drops from Cassegrain Wines. Shadows of Blue cheese is literally to die for with a glass of

sparkling Cassegrain Blanc de Blanc - a huge thanks to a wonderful CO-OP and Co crew fantastic way to end a busy Friday on campus!

Love local produce!

The team at Rydges continued the festival of cheese with their annual High Cheese on The Hastings - fifty lucky guests enjoyed an afternoon on the water with a delicious array of brie, blue, camembert and cheese-alicious inspired canapes paired with Angove wines.

Guests, including Monique Suitor, Tracey Putland-Gay, Belinda Hogan and Ika Mitchell sat back and soaked up the Saturdays feels with tunes from Simon Gudgeon.

The Cassegrain team collaborated with startup wine company and social enterprise Little Ripples, crafting an evening of fine wine and food to raise money for wells in Africa in the hope of shedding some light and positively impacting communities abroad. Little Ripples’ CEO Dustin Leonard teamed up with Alex and John Cassegrain and Chef Peter Cutfliffe of Bills Fishhouse to present a wonderful night, attended by the Hon Malinda Pavey, Hon Pat Conaghan and Roy Wilkinson of Akubra to name but a few of special guests. The Charity Gala / Product Launch ensured 75 guests enjoyed Little Ripples wines paired with decadent courses, with the event raising over $12k for the charity. Congrats to the collective team on a fantastic night and to the local

community who supported the auction.

It’s a beautiful baby bonanza, with some of our most special people bringing new little ones into the world. Congrats to Kelly and Jeff Cowan of FOCUS on the arrival of little Rosie-Mae Cowan - just the most gorgeous little cherub to big brothers Sonny and Finn. Graphic designer Dylan Gaul and gorgeous wife Jenna of Port Macquarie Orthodontics welcomed beautiful little Lilly Clarinda to the Gaul clan big sister Scarlett is absolutely besotted with her new BFF! Last but not least, the Zen master of Peak Coffee, Kenny Seno-o and stunning wife Jo welcomed Kaito Thomas into the world, delivered at home in Shelley Beach by Kenny and the paramedics! Surely a triple espresso was needed after that amazing effort! Kaito means “Across the Ocean” in Japanese, which is a perfect namesake for a surfer’s son and beautiful calm, ocean loving family. Cuteness overload, and baby snuggles on repeat!

With that, I’m off to prepare for the perfectly glam fest of events that is set to be this year’s racing season … One event to watch is the new Derby Day afternoon installation at Zebu on Saturday 2nd November from 1 - 5pm. I will certainly be there with bells on! Locked in for canapés, grazing tables and gratuitous fashion and fun! Giddy up indeed! ‘til next month, Kate.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 31

focusinterview.

Imagine … a stylish picnic that comes to you, and you don’t even have to lift a finger! KELLY SHIPWAY EXPLAINS THE CONCEPT BEHIND HUDDLE & GRAZE - a unique business that can help make your special event one to remember!

Huddle

H

ow did the concept for Huddle & Graze come about?

Huddle & Graze came about after my little family and I moved back to Port Macquarie from Newcastle, and I wanted to bring something new and different to Port that wasn’t around! There are so many amazing locations in our area - and what a better way to enjoy them, than sitting around with your best friends and/or loved ones and indulging in an amazing picnic spread. AND ... the best part is that you don’t need to do a thing but turn up, relax and enjoy!

The idea of a picnic that comes to you is simply amazing! What items can you provide?

H&G can come to your house, or we can set up in some amazing locations of your choice around the area.

We do everything on the day, including setup and pack down, and making sure the place is left spotless. Our picnics include beautiful rugs, cushions, low picnic/pallet tables, a delicious grazing table, which is catered by Kaylee at Caramels in Cathie for myself to arrange on the day.

Or if you are a DIY person, we have lots of beautiful furniture and props for hire, so you can pick up a few of our items that will add that bit extra to your event.

What types of food and beverage options do you specialise in?

Our most popular package is our Grazing Table, which includes but is not limited to beautiful cheeses, dips, a variety of gourmet biscuits, seasonal fruits, decadent chocolates and sweets.

We are guided by our client and can work with them to make a picnic/grazing style event to suit any occasion or time of day.

Apart from obvious special occasions such as weddings and hens' functions, what other types of events do you find yourself catering and styling for … and can you also accommodate a couple

32 Greater Port Macquarie focus

We have done a whole array of different occasions, and

who’d just like an intimate though this takes more time to nothing is too big or picnic on the beach? plan and lots of work behind the small. I personally love We have done a whole array of scenes, it is definitely worth it in arranging breakfast different occasions, and nothing the end! sunrise picnics and also is too big or small. I personally As we're heading into "party" couple picnics, whether it love arranging breakfast sunrise season, what's some advice be for a special occasion or just picnics and also couple picnics, you can give someone who a casual chill time at the beach. whether it be for a special occawants to plan an awesome sion or just a casual chill time at function? the beach.

Hosting a good party or We also hosted a Ladies Long "huddle" is almost all about Lunch in May starting at Long Point Vineyard and preparation. finishing at Cassegrain Wines, which was a such a fun That's where we can help, whether just picking up a day, and we can’t wait for next year’s - to make it even few of our gorgeous decor/styling items to make your bigger and better! atmosphere perfect to letting me style and cater your What is your business' unique point or points of event. difference?

What's the best way to contact you?

I think what sets Huddle & Graze apart is that we try The best way to contact us for more information is to to make every picnic and occasion we do different and email us at huddleandgraze@hotmail.com unique, so that no picnic or event we do are ever the Thanks Kelly. same! It’s all about the special little details, and even Interview: Jo Robinson.

focus_contributor

LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

R

IN THE KITCHEN

ecent preoccupations with all things home renovation have brought into the forefront of mind all the ways in which we can utilise our living and working spaces.

The very essence of this concept is, of course, having a bit of a think about pinpointing where we happen to spend the lion's share of our time and ensuring that space is both as functional and practical as it could be, as well as being a pleasant space to while away the hours.

In this day and age, that room in many housing configurations is the humble kitchen.

Indeed, no longer anywhere near so humble are modern day kitchens as their predecessors of earlier decades.

No more box like rooms shoved into windowless corners, where one (sadly mostly the lady of the house) toiled endlessly and invisibly.

preparation of a meal in itself within the context of our increasingly hectic and demanding lifestyles can become an opportunity to interact with those around us, with the simple act of chopping and cooking becoming a catalyst for human connection.

The kitchen itself can go so far as to transform into a theatre - where flames and sizzling pans, tossing and glinting knives can become an enthralling spectacle for onlookers, or a reel of kitchen nightmares where things go spectacularly wrong and pizza inevitably gets ordered!

No more cramped quarters, inefficient storage space and ugly surfaces - kitchens have now

emerged from their ugly duckling infancies into a thing of beauty, as well as being an expression of craftsmanship of those who built them and reflecting the individuality of their owners.

No more cramped quarters, inefficient storage space and ugly surfaces - kitchens have now emerged from their ugly duckling infancies into a thing of beauty, as well as being an expression of craftsmanship of those who built them and reflecting the individuality of their owners.

Often the focal point of a home, the new kitchen reflects so many changes within society as a whole when it comes to the way we interact with family and friends - the much more relaxed and informal approach we have adopted to entertaining, the uptake of domestic culinary roles by a wider selection of household members (aka Dad can cook now!)

It also says as much about how we like to prepare and enjoy food itself now. Indeed, the

This aspect of today’s kitchen cannot be seen more clearly than in the realm of the open plan kitchens prevalent in many fine restaurants, some with bird’s eye views possible from tables, some with "chef tables", where it is possible to dine amongst the very epicentre of the show, some at the very least where the action is visible upon strategically placed screens.

All of the above goes to show that when it comes to kitchens, both of the domestic and commercial variety - we collectively acknowledge that their role within our daily lives is a big one, and the spaces we choose to create them are increasingly the pride of our homes. As a good friend said to me recently, "The kitchen is a place in the house where memories are made, whist the living room is where we contemplate them".

Think about it; what other room in the house has witnessed so many emotions, had such a great social life and been where you expended so much of your precious energy? Best to put some thought, some love and some dollars into it, I say …

Cheers, and happy dining!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 33

34 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Lindie Kolver

There’s no doubt travel broadens your horizons, opening up a whole range of new experiences, sights, and providing the chance to increase your knowledge.

E

cuador is a major exporter of bananas, has one of the highest capital cities in the world, but is also home to 1,659 confirmed species of birds - the latter being why local photographer Lindie Kolver travelled there! Lindie’s arrived home with some absolutely amazing photos, and she’s shared some of them with us …

Hi Lindie. You've recently arrived back from a trip to Ecuador! Why did you choose this destination to visit?

Ecuador, which is rich in bio-diversity, is also home to 132 hummingbird species alone (there are 305 in the world) and 300 species of mammals. The avifauna in Ecuador has 1,659 confirmed species.

I am a birder (bird-watcher) and naturally Ecuador, ranking fifth in the world on bird count, has always been on the bucket list.

In a country with the highest density of bird species per acre on Earth, it’s easy to get “beak on eye”!

How long were you away for ... and what parts of the country did you see?

We spent 17 days in Ecuador (not enough!) and visited mostly the northern regions situated two or three hours from Quito and flew to the Amazon for four nights as well.

A new community lodge has started up there, and we chose that over the more “well -known” lodges. It was a great experience!

We visited Tandayapa Valley, the Mindo area, Papallacta and the Amazon rainforest.

Tell us a bit about the birdlife you observed ... what were some of the standout sightings?

Ecuador has a number of birds on the “100 birds to see in your lifetime” list.

The incredibly beautiful Cock on the Rock and the almost bizarre looking Swordbill Hummingbird, Black-faced Ibis, Chestnutmandibled Toucan, Long-Wattled Umbrella Bird, Booted Racket-Tail Hummingbird - and don’t forget the Trogons and most beautiful Crested Quetzal!

The Andean Condor appears on the Ecuadorian Flag, and we were lucky to see 14 of these magnificent creatures riding the thermals on a ridge just above us.

What do you feel is most special about Ecuador's wildlife/birdlife in particular, compared to other places you've visited?

The Toucans and Toucanettes are beautiful, and the Hoatzin (Stinkbird), a primitive-looking bird, can be found in the north-eastern part of the Amazon jungle.

The Barbets, Waxwings and Mot-Mots are colourful and relatively easy to track down.

In short: birding in Ecuador gives you bang for your buck. There are quite a number of endemics, and birding in the tropics is very rewarding.

Armadillos, sloths, the rare Andean Spectacled Bear, monkeys, tamarins and marmosets, deer, ant-eaters, peccaries, agoutis, Andean Fox and otters would be some of the wildlife which can be observed.

Often being such tiny, fast-moving creatures, I can't imagine birds are the easiest subjects to work with! What photographic equipment and skills are needed to capture images of birds successfully?

Good gear helps a lot, and a nice fast

lens (300+) with an aperture of 1.8 - 2.8 will greatly contribute to your success. Fast shutter-speeds are an absolute must (I shoot Nikon D750 and Sony A7III with a Nikkor 300 mm Prime plus 1.4 converter and a Sony 100 – 400 mm lens). The hummingbirds are fast and quick. One must be prepared to burst/rapidshoot at least 50 or more frames to obtain reasonable results.

Patience (make sure you pack your total supply!) ... it’s a game of hurry up and wait.

On another note ... How did you find the cuisine and hospitality in Ecuador?

Amazing! The food is wholesome and prepared with loving care. I’ve NEVER tasted better fruit juices, freshly squeezed/juiced for every meal ... pineapple, papaya, guava, passionfruit and mango ... rich and thick and yummy!

Lunch and supper would typically consist of soup (always a potato-base), meat and fresh steamed vegetables and a small helping of fruit salad or dessert.

The people are friendly and helpful and they speak English, or if they don’t, they quickly find someone who does.

What's something you observed/ experienced about Ecuador that surprised you?

It’s the only country in the world that is named after a geological feature. The country is named after the Equator, which runs through it. It also has one of the highest official capital cities in the world, 2,850 m above sea level.

It’s the biggest exporter of roses and bananas (30%) in the world and makes the Panama hat.

It’s been voted the best country for ex-pats for the last five years running - quality of life, cost of living and personal finance the biggest contributing factors.

Why would you encourage others to visit this country?

Ecuador is rich in biodiversity, has extraordinary wildlife-filled islands (The Galapagos), captivating culture and beautiful landscapes.

Banõs is the adventure-capital of Ecuador, and Cotopaxi Volcano is active and has erupted as recently as 2015!

It’s a small country with good infrastructure, and therefore it’s easy to see and do things in a relatively short time. It is still under the radar, and that is what makes the country more pleasurable to visit.

Anything else about your trip you'd like to mention?

Our guide was Javier Zurita, one of the best bird guides and bird photographers I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. Contact him on info@javierzuritaphotography.com and have him tailor-make a photo-safari for you.

He’d take us out at night to go frog-hunting and to do macro-photography, and his set-up of lights and triggers made beautiful images possible.

Where are you planning to jet off to next on your travels?

We’re leaving for the States at the end of the month. Destination: Vegas, Canyon-lands and a few days in San Francisco.

Next year we go to Africa in February and Costa Rica with Javier Zurita in November.

Thanks Lindie.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 35

focusinterview.

Fon Davis is a wizard with miniatures and visual effects, and he's also one of the finalists in this year's Manhattan Short Film Festival, with "At the End of the World " - a short romantic film he directed.

"Manhattan Short" will screen at the Glasshouse on October 5th.

H

i Fon. Many people dream of a career in film, working with visual effects. How/when did you get your first big break in the industry?

I actually just wanted "in" to the industry in any position. My long term goal was in VFX and miniatures, but my first try out was as a set builder, as I had done carpentry and remodelled houses in San Francisco. I went off to all these scenery companies and said, "I’m a carpenter; I can do carpentry for you", and they all asked me for a portfolio. I didn't have a portfolio, because I’d never gone to school for any of this stuff; I’d just grown up making a lot of things on my own.

So, I ended up going home and photographing a bunch of weird things that I had built, like an armoured suit and furniture that looked like stone, and then put together a sort of makeshift portfolio. I went back to these places with my portfolio, and one of them gave me a shot based on that.

To this day, I photograph everything religiously, because I’m terrified I don't have enough photographs of my work. What's funny is when I went in for my interview at my dream job, which was at Industrial Light and Magic, the guy interviewing me didn't even get

36 Greater Port Macquarie focus

a chance to look at my portfolio. So, the job that I wanted the most, I didn't even get to use my portfolio! It was the easiest interview of my life.

Tell us a little about the company you founded - Fonco. Where is it based ... and what does it specialise in?

Fonco is actually a full production studio.

We operate with an à la carte business model, meaning clients can come to us with a production and we fill in whatever blanks they need filled in. We have a full art department, we do pre production and development and design work. Then we have shops that build sets, props, miniatures and special effects rigs, and this includes really unusual, complex tasks.

We have a costume area in the building, two stages, a main stage and an insert stage. We also have a performance capture volume; the team share the space with fight choreographer/ fight trainers.

We have an outdoor shooting space with standing sets, as well as pop up sets, and we have a makeup room, production offices - a little bit of everything!

We have a post production company in the building also and a CG company. We’ve developed these really strategic partnerships and try to rent spaces in the building to companies that we can really work with and

I RARELY SHOW THAT LEVEL OF EXCITEMENT OR EMOTION ON SET, BUT FOR SOME REASON, THAT SHOT JUST REALLY SENT ME OVER. I WENT AROUND THE ENTIRE SET SHAKING EVERYONE'S HAND, CONGRATULATING THEM ON THE BEST FIREBALL I HAD EVER SEEN IN 25 YEARS.

feed off each other. It's like a community.

That's something I’ve learned throughout my career; community is probably the most important thing, not just in business, but as a human.

The list of films you've worked on is impressive ... Star Wars IV, Matrix, Terminator, Jurassic Park, Guardians of the Galaxy, and so many others! What's a favourite moment or two you can share about things that have happened behind the scenes while working on these large scale productions?

Oh boy! The first one that comes to mind is when we were shooting Guardians of the Galaxy. It's a pyro shot scene in the movie where Rocket gets one of the bad guy's vehicles, gets in the spacecraft and flies it directly through two other ships. The ship is a really bulletproof vehicle, and there was one shot where he was flying through a ship towards camera and we were shooting the pyro explosion for that over in Newville Studios.

We had a model of the spacecraft on cables

and dropped it towards the camera that was sitting on the ground pointing up, and then while it ran down the cable, the pyro guy set off two gasoline bombs to create the fire ball. When the ship came through it, the gasoline stuck to it and kind of licked off the side of the ship.

We shoot with high speed, and we see it happen very quickly, but that's not what you see on the camera. When we watched playback for that shot at normal speed, it's like a slow motion effect - and it was the coolest fireball I had ever seen in my life. It was a combination of just a beautiful fireball and shooting directly up at it, that added the dynamic nature of the explosion. It was just an amazing shot.

I rarely show that level of excitement or emotion on set, but for some reason that shot just really sent me over. I went around the entire set shaking everyone's hand, congratulating them on the best fireball that I had ever seen in 25 years.

Directing is an entirely different aspect of the film industry, yet this is the role you've

focusinterview.

AT T H E E N D O F T H E W O R L D

challenged yourself with on the recent short film, At the End of the World. What led you to take on this project?

I had some colleagues and friends I had known for a number of years who live in Arizona. They are a pair of writers who had been writing this movie and hiring local people in Phoenix to make these movies, but they were never satisfied with the quality of the movies.

Because they knew me and the quality of my work well, they asked me if I would direct and produce the movie at my studio.

I was really flattered that they would ask me to do this, and for me, it was an incredible opportunity, because my whole career has been based on horror and science fiction with action and explosions, and they came to me with this script, which was a love story.

It was the first narrative that I had ever directed. I had only ever done music videos and commercials, so this was a really big deal for me and an opportunity to prove that I can do it.

Without giving too much away, what can you share with us about the plot of the film?

The setting is kind of like World War Four. It's about this woman who has detached herself emotionally from men, because her job is to send men off to war. She doesn't allow herself to fall in love. You learn about her throughout the story. She dreams about love like a lot of

people, and you see her slowly open up as she meets this gentleman. They develop a deep relationship just running across from each other daily in front of this old VR shop that has a TV screen in it. It's basically about the sweetness of love and how love can blossom even in the most darkest of places.

At the End of the World is one of the "Final Ten" films that have been selected for the Manhattan Short Film Festival. How did you feel when you found out your film had made the cut?

It's been an emotional rollercoaster, because it took a long time to make the movie. Post production, of course, gets really slow for us, and I really wanted it to be perfect. Like I said, it was my one opportunity; it's either going to be my first or last love story that I direct.

So, when it hit the festival circuit, I didn’t know what to expect. When you work on a project like this, you get very close to it - and it means a lot to me.

I really did tap into IT WAS THE FIRST my experiences with NARRATIVE THAT I romantic relationships HAD EVER DIRECTED. I and my life and really HAD ONLY EVER DONE pushed all that emotion MUSIC VIDEOS AND into the movie. To see it COMMERCIALS, SO gain momentum and be THIS WAS A REALLY appreciated in that way

- I don't know if I even have words for that yet.

I didn't want to do a love story, unless I could make people cry! That's my inspiration. When I think of really powerful love stories, they make me cry. The feeling of accomplishment and the fact I have completed BIG DEAL FOR ME, AND something artistic at this AN OPPORTUNITY TO level that I am getting PROVE THAT I CAN DO IT. noticed for is really more than I’ve dreamed of.

No doubt you have plenty of exciting projects planned for the future, but what's next on the agenda for you ... Any details you can share with us?

There's definitely a lot going on: a television show, there's an interactive show we're working on, and three feature films coming out that we've worked on. There is always a lot of really fun things that we do - the most recent being wacky videos for the NERDIST, which was a Godzilla promo. We made the

AT T H E E N D O F T H E W O R L D

Godzilla foot crush things with a 70 tonne hydraulic press. One of those videos went viral, and over two million people watched the video.

Thanks Fon. At The End of the World (USA) is a finalist in the Manhattan Short Film Festival.

Audiences in over 300 cities spanning six continents unite for one reason … to judge the finalists in the 22nd Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival!

The finalists hail from countries across the globe and will represent the best short films in the world - testimony to the enduring vibrancy and creativity of short film festivals.

Best Film and Best Actor awards will be determined by ballots cast by the audiences.

By virtue of their selection by MANHATTAN SHORT, each short film is automatically Oscarqualified.

This film festival is a true "one of a kind".

Which of the short films will be "the best"?

That’s up to the worldwide audience to decide - including you! Voting forms at the event.

Call (02) 6581 8888 to buy tickets.

5th October - 7:30pm at the Glasshouse Port Macquarie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 37

ArtHouse Industries Sunset Parade, Port Macquarie Hair by Plum Studio.

(Model, Claire H. wears her own shoes and makeup)

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Evelina Kemp hair & beauty Evelina Kemp hair and beauty is renowned for over 15 years of service building strong teams from newcomers of highly skilled hairdressers and beauticians who want to build their lives in Port Macquarie. This newly assembled team is ready to take on any challenges in varying aspects of the hair and beauty business. With overwhelming combined experience, nothing is too hard.

Deanne, our Western Sydney girl, now a true Port Macquarian, loves upstyling - but is more than confident in all areas of hairdressing. Dee has had the pleasure of working with some Australian based celebrities, such as Renee Sommerfield, Natalie Sole, Stephen Khalil and Amy Taylor, among others.

Sydney based and trained Lisa has worked in

leading salons in Sydney and Newcastle and also overseas in Banff, Canada. She has dedicated many years to advance cutting and colour training with Toni and Guy and Dario Conroneo courses.

Peachface Beauty and Makeup is now open insalon and operated by Grace, a Port Macquarie local qualified beauty therapist. Skincare is her craft, and one which she carries out in a most delicate fashion. Be it a bespoke facial or makeup for your special occasion, Grace will leave you feeling your most gorgeous self, inside and out.

Offering facials, massage, waxing/tinting, eyelash enhancements, makeup, hand/foot treatments Grace has you covered from brows to toes. Drop by for a free skin diagnosis and education on how to take care of your skin type.

Fashions on the Field Join FOCUS for all the fun and fashion at this year’s Port Macquarie Cup Carnival on Friday October 11th.

The 10th annual FOCUS Fashions on the Field will attract the best dressed on the course for the event - featuring Best Dressed Couple, Most Elegant Lady, Best Dressed Gent, Best Millinery and Young Racegoer.

There are over $5,000 worth of prizes to be won, thanks to our sponsors of the categories including - Settlement City Shopping Centre, Cassegrain Wines, George and Matilda Eyecare,

Plum Studio and Evelina Kemp hair and beauty.

For locals who wish to partake in the Fashions on the Field event, they need to be at the race course and spotted by our team, who will be scanning the crowd and the corporate area from noon.

Spectators can join the fun of the fashions from 2:30pm on the main stage inside the corporate area.

Top tips from our fashion judges this year are “Go Bold, be striking and keep it simple”.

See you there!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 39

40 Greater Port Macquarie focus

SUNSATIONAL Eye Protection SUNGLASSES NOW FOR SIGHT IN THE FUTURE

By Selwyn Peake

In a country where the sun’s UV rays are especially strong, it is so important to protect your most precious sense - your sight, from these harmful rays.

UV exposure can cause skin cancer, Cataract and Pterygium as well as being linked to diseases such as Macular Degeneration.

There is a lot more to prescription and plano sunglasses than meets the eye and it is important to be aware that not all sunglasses will provide equal protection from UV radiation.

George & Matilda Eyecare can customise sunglasses to suit your individual needs, providing the best

possible vision and complete eye protection. They offer a wide range of designer brands, as well as specialty sunglass brands like Maui Jim. Your Maui Jim sunglasses are manufactured to the latest International standard for UV protection of 400nm wavelength filter giving 100% block to UV. When choosing quality sunglasses with polarised lenses, Maui Jim is a great choice. They provide the 100% UV protection to 400nm as well as advanced lens design for crisp glare free vision. Maui Jim always provide a warranty like no other and offer a

fast and reliable repair service if you happen to break them.

At George & Matilda Eyecare there is no better time to treat yourself to a new pair of Maui Jims with their “Love them or return them offer” which allows customers to try any pair of Maui Jim prescription sunglasses risk-free for 60 days. If you don’t love them you can return them for a full refund (terms & conditions apply see in store for details).

Head into one of our local practices to find out more today!

‘ Love Them or Return Them ’ POLARIZEDPLUS2® SUNGLASSES

Try Maui Jim prescription sunglasses Risk-Free for 60 days. If you don’t love them, return them for a full refund.

PORT MACQUARIE 95 William St. Ph 6583 7333 PORT MACQUARIE 29 Horton St. Ph 6584 3948 WAUCHOPE 6 Bransdon St. Ph 6585 2393 georgeandmatilda.com.au

Terms and conditions apply, see in-store for details.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 41

focusfashions.

SPRING FASHION, RACE AND FORMAL WEAR IS MAKING ITS WAY INTO THE RETAIL STORES AROUND TOWN. Steal My Vibe

ArtHouse Industries

@stealmyvibe

Sunset Parade, Port Macquarie

abundance FASHION in

What the Frock Designs

What the Frock Designs

Settlement City and Peach Tree Walk Arcade

Settlement City and Peach Tree Walk Arcade

Shot on location with thanks to Abundance Garden Centre and Café, Rawdon Island.

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Heidi Beau Settlement City Shopping Centre.

Hair by Plum Studio.

(Model, Claire H. wears her own shoes and makeup)

44 Greater Port Macquarie focus

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

October 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

You are gifted at manifesting. If you acknowledge yourself with gratitude when you manifest, your ability will grow enormously. Try doing a wishing ceremony in nature. Think of what you want, feel its excitement, then let it go with gratitude, as if you have it already.

Clear Quartz amplifies our gifts.

Feeling suspended should dissipate soon.

Reflect on the last six months and heal any undigested emotions. Try listing everything you wish to release and burn it on the full moon. Your higher self does not want your future to have to deal with your past.

Aquamarine releases negativity from our entire being.

You are currently clearing out anything that prevents your success. Old friends may move on, for new ones to fill their place. Now is a good time to clear out negativity from your mind, body and heart. This will attract kindred souls to you.

Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You will be likely to step into new circumstances soon. Don’t allow delays to dissuade you; instead, use your gift of inner sight, and visualise your outcome. From there, keep sight of the passion for what you are pursuing.

Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

You are a wise old soul and hold great knowledge within; don’t be afraid to share it - you are a natural-born teacher. To avoid spending too much time in your own head, spend more time in nature. (Great discipline for being in the now!)

Lapis Lazuli is the stone of wisdom.

When you’re feeling out of sorts, try sitting listening to the sounds of the ocean. With each wave in, allow each emotion to engulf you, and then see it completely wash out to sea when the wave recedes. Ten minutes of this kind of “Scorpio” therapy is very powerful.

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

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Now is great timing to fulfil a dream that you have held for a long time or from a long time ago. List everything needed to complete the project, and take action. If you keep focused on the outcome and stay connected to your nurturer, you will not be able to fail.

Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

Time for movement and change. Set some fresh goals, then you can start with beliefs and attitudes and clear out the old to make way for the new. Be aware of your thoughts, and only entertain uplifting ones. Laugh at your fears and become the answers to them.

Pyrite will bring back courage.

Don’t be too serious.! You are the life of the party and when you are feeling down, everyone will feel it. Your fears engulf you when your thoughts become critical of yourself. Prank, play, laugh, lighten up and BE the difference.

Turquoise boosts our self-confidence and esteem.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Adventure and surprises are likely to fill your thoughts and heart. Find something stimulating to learn about, and its opportunity will be likely to cross your path on your adventures. Discovery of new talents can be anticipated, bringing a feeling of fulfilling destiny or fate.

Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness

You have been so focused on other people’s traumas, that you began to lose yourself.

Spending time in nature will earth you and ground you, where you naturally feel more content within. It is time for you now, so spoil yourself with some “time-out” time.

Clear quartz amplifies strength.

You’re likely to have some big changes with career soon that could be blessings in disguise. Avoid slipping into fear or selfdoubt; stay connected to your ability to see opportunity just waiting to be accessed and enjoy your success.

Carnelian is a terrific stone for focus and productivity.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 45

INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

ROCK LEGENDS DRAGON SATURDAY NIGHT

(FOR 4 DAY TICKET HOLDERS)

FRIDAY & SATURDAY AT PEDDERS RALLY CENTRAL

RALLY GUIDE 1

FREE RALLY SHOW

PRIOR TO DESTINATION NSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE ON THURSDAY

NEW DESTINATION NSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE WITH IMPROVED VIEWING TO GET EVEN CLOSER TO THE ACTION!

46 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Photo Caption: Swans Crossing Nature Playground, Kerewong State Forest.

Spring has sprung!

Winter is over, and warmer days herald the start of spring. What better time to visit your local State Forest? With around two million hectares of NSW State Forests, you’re spoiled for choice. Check out your local State Forest-based mountain bike club and take in an adrenalinpumping ride, picnic by a stream, camp out under the stars, or simply take a leisurely forest drive. The natural environment takes centre stage in spring, with an abundance of unique Australian flora and fauna emerging in bursts of colour and activity. You can bring your car, caravan or campervan, you can pitch a tent, explore forest roads on trail bike, horse-back, or 4WD and bring your dog too - yes, that’s right, dogs are welcome in NSW State Forests.

on forest experiences. Alternatively, you can

A range of information is available to help plan your next visit, including a free mobile phone app called “VisitForests”, which provides online and downloadable maps, photos and information

State Forests are a “must-see” destination in your

pick up a regional Forest Map at local Visitor Information Centres in NSW, or contact Forestry Corporation online to purchase a copy. Visitors are also encouraged to share their experience via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter via #visitnswforests. The @visitnswforests Facebook page offers ideas on where to go, plus the latest safety advice, while the Visit NSW State Forests YouTube channel features some great videos to inspire your holiday plans.

With so many forest-based visitor areas statewide, with a mix of visitor facilities such as picnic tables, BBQs, fireplaces, shelters, toilets, lookouts, walking tracks and easy-access carparks, NSW travels. @visitnswforests #visitnswforests www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit

Façade Escape Room - New game coming soon Escape room games are great for anyone who likes a mental challenge – families on holiday, groups of friends, birthday parties, date night, and workplace teams. One of the benefits of escape rooms is that since it’s not physically strenuous, it’s great for all ages from “tweens” on up, and accessible to a wide range of players.

Façade Escape Rooms is a great place for corporate events, so don’t forget about this fun activity for your office Christmas party!

During the school holidays and coming up toward summer, bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends.

We’re excited to announce that we will be expanding in the coming months, by adding two new and completely original games! These will be located in Peachtree Walk Shop 13B, right next door to our current games, so you won’t have to find a new location. We’re hoping to start building works in the next few weeks and

aim to have the first of the two new games, Camp Catastrophe, ready in time for the summer holidays. With a bit of luck, it might even be ready for Christmas parties! Then as soon as Camp Catastrophe is launched, we’ll get to work on the fourth game.

CAMP CATASTROPHE You’ve been camping in a beautiful spot, miles from anywhere. You’re totally relaxed and having a wonderful time enjoying nature! But now there’s a major storm coming and you need to get back to civilisation before it hits. It’s due in an hour, and …uh-oh… where did your car keys go?!

Estimated difficulty index: 4 out of 5 (it’s intents!)

GAME FOUR Stay tuned… the theme will be “Alchemist”…

Estimated difficulty index: 4 out of 5.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 47

new

Ecco SMART for travel NOW IN STORE

Take on the spring weather with Ecco’s versatile and stylish range of new season smart casual shoes in a variety of shades and styles.

The highly regarded brand is renowned for its quality finishes in soft leather and fashionable styles. All of Ecco’s footwear offers superior all day comfort, perfect for your daily travel needs.

Some tips for packing shoes for your next holiday are as follows: choose shoes that can be worn with a few different outfits, choose comfortable, breathable footwear for walking, check the local forecast before you head out exploring, and make sure your walking shoes are slip resistant and water proof.

Ecco’s comfort fibre system embedded into

Norfolk Island is a diminutive island jewel within the South Pacific, on the same latitude as Byron Bay. The island is 8km long and 5km wide. The climate is subtropical. The daytime temperature rarely exceeds 28°C in summer and rarely falls below 17°C in winter.

Norfolk boasts beautiful sandy beaches, and a picturesque National Park with a variety of walking tracks..

Uncover Norfolk’s rich and colourful history. Meander through the World Heritage Listed Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Site (KAVHA). Explore the ruins, cemetary, museums and enjoy the island’s natural environment.

So much to see, so much to do. Enjoy the plethora of tours and activities on offer or simply kick back, relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the good earth!

7 night holiday packages

from

$1169

Specialising exclusively in Lord Howe Island & Norfolk Island 102 Horton St, Port Macquarie 6583 1955 - 7 days (call centre) Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm & Saturday, 9am - 12pm oxleytravel.com.au @oxleytravel

48 Greater Port Macquarie focus

every shoe produced will ensure your feet stay cool and fresh for maximum comfort throughout the whole day. There are some great sneakers in the range. Ecco also carries great all-round sandals, perfect for strolling the streets or lazing by the pool, with secondskin leather lining for extra comfort.

Loafers or flats are also a great option for the savvy traveller. They are both lightweight and supremely comfortable and can work for both casual or dressy occasions. Ecco has you covered with their range at Colonial Cobbler.

Come in store to try on some of the new season smart casuals from Ecco and experience the comfort and versatility. You’re bound to find your new favourites - now in store at Colonial Cobbler.

Feels like freedom Free school holiday fun is here

Roll up, Roll Up! Circus Workshop Monday September 30 - Friday October 4 10am - 2pm daily in front of Big W Bring the kids for some Circus treats, balloon sculpting and Circus Sticker Fun!

Engage your Senses Workshop Tuesday October 8 - Friday October 11 10am - 2pm daily in front of Big W Loads of activities for everyone!

Feel, smell, touch and more.

*Limited spots available per day, bookings not required. See Settlementcity.com for details.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 49

focusinterview.

ROVING-EYE P H O T O G R A P H Y Heading: Roving-Eye Photography – Behind the Lens.

Pics: In folder on Drive with story.

Subheading: Alex McNaught is an adventurer … qualified to operate a plane, jet ski, boat, car and motorcycle, he’s well placed to capture some beautiful shots from unique perspectives … and the fact that he doesn’t mind a bit of rock scrambling and getting wet doesn’t

Alex McNaught is an adventurer … qualified to operate a plane, jet ski, boat, car and motorcycle, he’s well placed to capture some beautiful shots from unique perspectives … and the fact that he doesn’t mind a bit of rock scrambling and getting wet doesn’t hurt his chances of shooting amazing imagery either! Alex currently has an exhibition of his work at Masterpiece Framing and Gallery in Port Macquarie …

H

i Alex. What's your association with the Greater Port Macquarie area?

None, before I moved here in mid 2017 for a complete

life reboot.

I did not know anyone and was happy to start from scratch in a town large enough to provide options and also right in the middle of my favourite stretch of coastline and climate.

You appear to have a bit of an adventurous spirit! I understand you developed an interest in photography while you were on your first trip overseas. Where did you travel to on this trip, and what was it that inspired you to pick up a camera?

I definitely love an adventure! I first picked up a camera when I was 16 and accompanying my parents on an overseas study trip to the US, then the UK. It was a film camera bought especially for the once-in-a-lifetime trip and I had to learn it very fast, since no second chances or digital preview 50 Greater Port Macquarie focus

or delete existed! to print.

I’ve been published in the What have been some It’s a fundamental state rescue magazine many of the biggest lessons lesson I very much keep times with my articles you've learned about in mind in the digital era; and photography and photography since work hard with what I’ve been in a privileged those early days? you’ve got, and steady position to take That as long as improvement and more thousands of images, and your camera is “good winning shots will come highlights of that have enough”, by FAR the your way. been used to showcase biggest factor in getting As a volunteer boat the volunteer effort in different shots to love and crew member and channels, online and in print. remember is to put in the jet ski operator with effort.

Marine Rescue and also Sure, luck can play a a qualified pilot, you part, and you can capitalise on that, but time must have some amazing opportunities to and effort bring the most consistent results in take photos and videos from both the air the long term. and the sea. What have been some of the The more times you get up early, walk the favourite moments you've captured from extra mile, wait the extra hour, the more you tip these perspectives? things in your favour to get the light and the One of my recent favourite shots combining opportunity to make it a shot worth taking ... sea and air was using the drone to get the and remember, in the film days you were very perfect timing and perspective of one of our much needing to make the most of it, since it rescue vessels towing another boat in the had limited roll size and each roll cost real dollars Hastings River.

It summed up what the rescue work is like, and it showed it in such an identifiable setting and perfect lighting all in one scene - and I couldn’t have scripted a better shot.

I’ve been published in the state rescue magazine many times with my articles and photography and I’ve been in a privileged position to take thousands of images, and highlights of that have been used to showcase the volunteer effort in different channels, online and in print.

You've had quite a lot of your work published and aired on television too.

What's it feel like to have your work acknowledged in this way?

For a while there I was a freelance operator and when alerted to anything newsworthy, had to drop everything and get on to the scene and upload footage from on site. I have had my clips air on multiple networks.

I felt like a bit of an “ambulance chaser”, but there’s just no other way to get the coverage needed; no-one was going to tell you what to do - you have to be proactive.

focusinterview.

One of the most memorable was covering a plane crash here at Port Macquarie, and I had to follow emergency vehicles who also were not sure of exactly where to look. I ended up in the trackless swamp near the airport and got a lot of worthy footage shown across the networks.

Your photographs of local landmarks are amazing! Where are some of your favourite places to shoot locally (and why)?

Thank you! There are so many!

I’ve explored all the nooks and crannies along the beaches, since rock scrambling is one of my favourite forms of exercise, but I keep returning to Tacking Point Lighthouse, because it is an easily identifiable landmark and I’ve caught it and the surrounds in so many moods from the ground and in the air.

I have captured surf and lightning and all else happening around it, but the lighthouse remains the one unchanging constant throughout all those images.

There's currently an exhibition of your work being held at Masterpiece Framing

bracing the tripod and By nature I am well inclined to and Gallery in protecting the camera, so take on activities that have risks, Port Macquarie. When I could get the tide and but also have the right does this exhibition time of day and wave mindset to manage them close ... and can you movement all together and prepare thoroughly tell us a little about the for a representative beach and to be adaptable to a types of work you have shot I had in mind. dynamic environment, on display?

Putting the effort in like such as in the air and on the water.

The exhibition runs this, and using a different for two months from the camera technique for beginning of September, each, means there is to the end of October. something for all tastes to I had set about creating a whole new set of view and select from. distinctive images of the local area just for this The product finishes range from canvas to exhibition that had not been printed or shown framed print to an aluminium panel and cover before. all formats from panorama to rectangular and in I also deliberately set about making it a very different sizes and price points, so there should diverse portfolio, needing everything from be something for every taste and budget! getting up at 3am for the Milky Way to be in You're also a regular stallholder at the a certain position, and in another month using Foreshore Markets. What do you most the full moon and going rock scrambling to get enjoy about sharing your work in this into my pre-selected spot for the lighthouse environment? and waves lit only by the light of the moon, One thing unique about being at the markets, through to standing thigh deep in surging waves as opposed to having the same images on my website, is that I get immediate feedback and reaction from passersby.

Even though they may not buy, I get to see what attracts attention and stops them in their tracks, what they feel is good enough to point out to friends next to them, and how long they might linger and take a closer look.

To me, that is invaluable, since I can track how I’m going in the “appeals” stakes and if the situation that caught my eye in the first place and made into a printed product is also an image that appeals to others, perhaps they might ultimately be a buyer.

I get regular compliments, which is incredibly

gratifying, and even though they may not be a buyer, it tells me that I am hitting close to the mark for them - since they didn’t have to stop or drop in, let alone come and give me a compliment.

I also have those who have bought several over the past year and they like to come back and see what is new, so I must be doing something right there!

What are your future plans ... any new photographic or travel projects in the pipeline?

Yes! A LOT! As I am licensed and qualified to operate a plane, jet ski, boat, car and motorcycle (and drone to come) I will take full advantage of them all progressively from next year, to get me into some very remote locations using the latest camera technology and to come back and share what I hope to be unique, amazing and beautiful sights from around Australia.

It will take significant investment, both in the multiple equipment needed but also in additional specialised training and preparation, but I believe it will be well worth it.

By nature I am well inclined to take on activities that have risks, but also have the right mindset to manage them and prepare thoroughly and to be adaptable to a dynamic environment, such as in the air and on the water.

I am also able to absorb technology, since I also have a software development business involved in high-tech and with the incredible explosion of camera technologies in recent years, and the channels to share them, I am well positioned to weave the logistical with the technical with the artistic, to get me to and from the locations I have in mind with “the shot in the bag” to share on a wide scale.

Where can we find out more about you/ contact you?

Email hello@Roving-Eye.com, call 0413 483 159, Instagram “RovingEyeDotCom”, Facebook “Roving-Eye.com Photography” browse the online gallery at www.Roving-Eye.com or get in touch and make an appointment to view the home gallery!

Thanks Alex.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 51

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

WITH JANE KWON FROM OPSM

OPSM OPTOMETRIST

JANE Kwon's

favourite Eye Health Questions

Did you know that 90 percent of Australians say that sight is their most valued sense? Is it yours? We chat to Jane Kwon from OPSM Port Macquarie Settlement City about the most common questions she gets asked about eye-health.

WEARING GLASSES WEAKENS EYESIGHT: computer screen can damage your vision is it true that wearing glasses can make long term? my eyes worse?

There is NO EVIDENCE to suggest that FALSE: wearing glasses will not make computers will permanently damage your your eyesight worse. Prescription eyeglasses eyes. However, staring at close distance for that are used to correct eye conditions will prolonged periods of time can cause eyestrain not weaken the eyes any more than they or make existing eye conditions worse. will permanently solve HEADACHE FROM these vision problems.

NEW PRESCRIPTION: However, deteriorating I recently got a new eyesight is a common prescription for side effect of old age. my glasses. Why A correct prescription READING IN DIM have I been getting should provide clear LIGHT: is it true that headaches when I wear and comfortable vision, reading in dim light them? and if headaches persist can harm your vision?

Your eyes need some after a few days, then it Can you suggest the time to adjust to the is advisable to return to best light for reading? new lenses.

A correct your optometrist ...

FALSE: reading in dim prescription should light will not damage provide clear and your eyes. However, comfortable vision, and it is likely to cause the if headaches persist after annoying symptoms of eyestrain, such as sore a few days, then it is advisable to return to eyes, headaches and tiredness. your optometrist to ensure that both the COMPUTER SCREEN DAMAGE: is it prescription is correct and the spectacles have true that spending all day staring at a been dispensed correctly.

52 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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

R.U.M.

unwanted R E T U R N

medicines not the drink

D

o you know what to do will we. We don’t want to be taking in with medicines you don’t medicines through our food and water. want anymore?

There is also a risk of medicines being taken The RUM project is a way for by children from the garbage, that can lead medicines that are either out of to poisoning. date or not needed anymore to be disposed Can I still take a medicine if it is out of of safely. Community Pharmacies have RUM date? bins that all returned If you take a medicine medicines are placed in that is out of date, there to for safe destruction. are two likely outcomes.

This means that any The first is that nothing medicines you have will happen, as the mediMedicines that end that you don’t want cine has lost its effectiveup in landfill or our anymore should be ness through breaking waterways can be returned to a down into another form ingested by our sea life. pharmacy, where they and will not work. The There are measurable will be disposed of into second is more dangerous, amounts of medicines in the RUM bin. The bins as the medicine may have Sydney Harbour! are collected when full started to breakdown into and incinerated. a dangerous form, which Sharps and blood could be harmful. For testing strips can not be these reasons, you should taken to a pharmacy for disposal. never take an out of date medicine and you Why can’t I flush unwanted medicines, or should check the expiry dates on medicines in throw them in the bin? your cupboard, so that you can take any that Medicines that end up in landfill or our are out of date to a pharmacy to be disposed waterways can be ingested by our sea life. of.

There are measurable amounts of medicines healthfulwisdom.com in Sydney Harbour! Our sea life will be Shannon Lawrence. adversely affected by this, and ultimately so B Pharm (Hons) MPS AACPA

Use it or lose it

D O N ’ T M I S S O U T O N Y O U R FA M I LY ’ S P R I VAT E H E A LT H F U N D S B E N E F I T S I N 2 0 1 9

A

re your family’s private health funds about to expire for 2019?

What should you do?

If you have not had a dental check-up within the last six months, it is a great idea With the end of the to book one now. Don’t wait until the end year fast approaching, of the year, as that’s the "silly season" and your family’s private health you may find it difficult to find appointments insurance and dental benefits may be about and there will be limited time to schedule to expire. Most major health funds within any required treatment before your benefit Australia provide runs out. We recommend benefits from the 1st patients know what their of January through health fund benefits entitle until the 31st of them to; schedule a checkIF YOU OR YOUR December. And up in plenty of time to FAMILY HAVE NOT any dental benefits reschedule for any further CLAIMED YOUR that have not been treatment.

DENTAL BENEFITS claimed before the If you’re looking for FROM YOUR end of the year may a dental practice, why PRIVATE HEALTH expire, as health not consider the team at INSURANCE IN fund benefits do Sundial Dental? We have 2019, YOU MAY not rollover into the four locations, a team BE MISSING OUT following year and of caring professionals ON VALUABLE cannot be saved up. and advanced dental What does this mean for you and your family?

BENEFITS.

If you or your family have not claimed your dental benefits from your private health insurance in 2019, you may be missing out on valuable benefits.

This may mean that next year, if you need extra work, you could be left without coverage through your health insurance and be out of pocket even more.

technology to look after you and your family’s dental health. Take action now and call Sundial Dental on 6583 3533 (Port Macquarie) or 6585 2015 (Wauchope) to get on top of your dental health before your families health benefits run out in 2019.

For further information about our team and our services, visit our website: www.sundialdental.com.au

Visit OPSM today OPSM Port Macquarie Settlement City Ph: 6583 4271

OPSM Port Macquarie Clarence St Ph: 6583 1377

OPSM Wauchope Ph: 6585 2755

OPSM Kempsey Ph: 6562 5886

OPSM Laurieton Ph: 6559 9007

OPSM Taree Ph: 6552 2391

*When you purchase two complete pairs (frame and lenses) of prescription glasses or prescription sunglasses. Excludes Chanel. Terms and conditions apply. See in-store for details. Offer ends 31/12/19.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 53

54 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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Jules injured his shoulder in an accident 25 years ago. He suffered limited mobility and severe pain. Weekly physiotherapy treatments were not improving his medical diagnosis of shoulder tendinitis. Jules had resigned himself to a life of pain.

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

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

M A N Y M OR E PAT I E N T S ’ FEED BACKS AVAILABLE O N R EQ U EST

Think outside of the box to take back control of your health!

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

Tactile Therapist Accredited Practitioner • International Association of HealthCare Practitioners Australian Traditional Medicine Society • The Medical Register of Australia

Phone 1300 877 011 • 0414 332 037

Master Degree Uni (Warsaw), Dip MFR, Dip Ref, Dip RM, Cert FSM (USA), Cert LDT (USA), Government Cert IV Tactile Therapies

ABN: 73 718 575 340

23 Serene Circuit, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Greater Port Macquarie focus 53

focus_contributor

focusinterview.

DON MACKENZIE

rosie's Wheels

community S E R V I C E

An Occupational Therapist's primary goal is to enable people to participate in the activities of everyday life, whether that is at home, school, work, or in the community. Port Macquarie Therapist Annette Holley has spent the past few years reviving her creative side developing a children’s book loosely based on local Rosie Attard and her experience. Rosie, who attended Wauchope High School, had a spinal cord injury after a motor vehicle accident seven years ago. Rosie now works in the childcare industry at Wauchope and is completing further study. We chat with Annette about the process of creating Rosie’s Wheels.

C

an you share the motivation behind creating your new children's book, Rosie’s Wheels?

I’ve worked collaboratively with people with a variety of disabilities for a lot of years. Writing happy real stories for kids has been a long term goal.

Rosie's Wheels combines my interest and experience.

Reading with children is an important and powerful way of connecting. It’s a great way of starting and sharing conversations about all aspects of life. The idea for Rosie’s Wheels grew as I watched the interactions and education of preschool kids with Rosie. Kids have an insatiable curiosity, and every day in the classroom Rosie is teaching and sharing with kids her real life experiences, and that is going to shape how they respond and interact with people who are in a wheelchair their whole life.

Rosie’s Wheels was created with the aim of being in libraries, schools and in the homes of people with and without disabilities.

With your motivation to share the story, how did the creative journey begin?

I’ve had little notes and story ideas floating around the house for a long time. I was spurred on by the engagement my two children showed when we read many, many books together. The words for the story are simple and relatable for children and their parents.

Participating in the Hastings Council Art Smart programme last year really helped kick the project to the next stage. I started painting lessons and spent time refining and developing the book.

How do you believe the book's presence can educate and bring awareness to our

56 Greater Port Macquarie focus

younger generation?

There are not a lot of children’s books available where the main character has a disability. In Rosie’s Wheels, Rosie goes from a baby with wheels on her pram to a grown up with a car. It explores other wheels in her world, including the wheels on her chair. It positively presents Rosie moving forward after an unanticipated accident.

If we can teach children about diversity, including disabilities, and help them have greater empathy and an understanding of what it might mean to be in a wheelchair, they will carry the information into their future, helping with positive societal changes.

What has been the highlight of this journey so far?

The real Rosie is an absolute gem of a human. She is fun and quirky and makes the world a better place. It has been great sharing the creative process with Rosie.

I’ve also enjoyed reviving a long dormant interest in art, drawing and painting and through that, connecting with other creative people.

You are launching Rosie’s Wheels in November. Where and when is this happening?

Rosie’s Wheels is going to be launched at the Wauchope Community Arts Hall on Saturday 16th November. We will be there from 4:30pm.

How can we get our hands on the book?

There will be copies donated to the local libraries. Rosieswheels@gmail.com is the email address, and there is a Rosie’s Wheels page on Facebook.

I will also be at local markets toward the end of the year.

Thanks Annette.

St Agnes’ Parish Community Services has a long history of working in partnership with local services and organisations.

W

orking in the community presents a variety of complexities, from safety in the field, to clinical governance, and transport.

Community Services draws on the expertise of our partners to deliver best practice and high quality care tailored to the individual.

Partnerships are about working efficiently with others, so the person we are supporting gets the right care at the right time.

The Family Support Network provides groupwork or one-to-one support for children (aged 0 - 12 years) and families through programmes such as Triple P (Positive Parenting Program), Intergenerational Playgroups, Stepping Stones and Tuning into Kids. These programmes build resilience through early intervention with children, parents and communities. The Family Support Network partners closely with our local family and community service providers to support families to have positive relationships and secure attachments.

The Youth Hub works with local mental health organisations to provide improved support for young people aged 12 - 24 years.

Many young people ask our youth workers for extra support around their mental health, particularly regarding their friendships, housing and homelessness or online bullying. The Youth Hub provides showers and laundry facilities in co-operation with partners that provide food vouchers, clothing or crisis accommodation.

Centacare NDIS disability services work closely with people up to 64 years old. For example, Centacare works with Sailability Port Macquarie to ensure NDIS participants can safely take to the water, often for the first time in their lives.

Sailability volunteers work side-by-side with our support workers to assist people in getting the most out of their sailing experience.

The Home Care team support people, aged over 65 years, who receive a Home Care Package. The Home Care team engages particularly with the primary and allied health network of practitioners. For example, physiotherapy is a critical service for senior Australians, and our team makes sure the service is tailored to what the person needs to keep them living at home, longer and healthier.

Community transport and Vital Living are also key partners to help us deliver services for our clients.

Live life, your way Personal care and help around the house Access to social and community activities Parental skills and child behavioural support Improved mobility and access

C (02) all on 658 1 to s ee 6800 we how ca hel n p

Centacare services the Mid North Coast with locations in Port Macquarie and Kempsey providing: Disability services for individuals and families Home Care Packages Family and parental support Therapy and Allied Health services

REGISTERED NDIS provider no. 29709979

Follow us:

Centacare Mid North Coast

@CentacareMNC

@CentacareMNC

Greater Port Macquarie focus 79

focus_interview

Lord Street Podiatry gets set for Foot Health Week

P ORT SMILE S DENTA L

DENTAL GOALS Now open in Bonny Hills We advise our patients that complex problems can be solved with quite simple methods. Sometimes it takes time, dedication and monitoring. That’s why Port Smiles helps you follow all the steps to reach your dental goals, together.

T

ell us about some common at Port Smiles take that extra step and get dental problems amongst to the cause. This allows our patients to get active Australians. The biggest comprehensive and personalised treatment issue currently in Australia is options that give the best outcome. With most the level of hidden sugars in general and complex dental services offered in our foods/drinks. Clever marketing and vague house, our patients don’t get shuffled from one nutritional facts can make it very confusing for person/place to the next, allowing them to feel active Australians to determine what is good at ease with every visit. for adult or maturing teeth. We always suggest What sets you apart as a team? Our mantra that if in doubt, ask our friendly team, before it is to provide personalised, professional and becomes a problem. gentle dental care to all What are some tips our patients, regardless of for maintaining good what is needed. Whether oral health? The best it is for a regular general tip is ... regularity.

Port Smiles looks at the Regularly brush twice a check-up and clean, or bigger picture. It is common day, floss at least once complex treatments such as to deal with one tooth at a daily, drink water (and smile makeovers and dental time, but the team at Port keep sugary drinks/ implants, the mantra above Smiles take that extra step foods to a minimum) is what we always stick and get to the cause. and most importantly, by. We invest in the latest have your teeth technology, to provide the checked and cleaned best quality of care. The every six months. If friendly dentists and staff at something is picked up Port Smiles always put the care of our patients early, it's usually inexpensive to rectify and most first and are excited with the results we achieve importantly, there's no unexpected pain! together. Our patients love what we do, our With a large range of services available, mannerisms and how they are the number one how can Port Smiles Dental help? Port priority all the time! We hope to keep it that Smiles looks at the bigger picture. It is common to deal with one tooth at a time, but the team

58 Greater Port Macquarie focus

way.

Lord Street Podiatry is celebrating Australia’s Foot Health Week between October 14th and 20th. This is an annual campaign by Australian Podiatry Association Ltd promoting the importance of the health of our feet in all areas of life.

Now is the time to stand up for your foot health and check in with Lord Street Podiatry, the foot health experts, to ensure your feet are contributing positively to your overall health and wellbeing.

The highly experienced and friendly staff at LSP can assist you with a variety of foot health issues, including general podiatry care, orthotics, diabetic care, paediatrics, mobilisation and bio-mechanical assessments, paraffin wax bath and touch therapy massage, heel pain, ingrown toenail surgery, lower limb dry needling, Keryflex nail restoration and

home visit and nursing home podiatry services.

LSP is also renowned for their supremely comfortable stocked footwear, from ranges Frankie 4, Revere and Archies thongs. Once you’ve tried these stylish and podiatrist approved ranges of casual footwear, you will not look back. Call in to LSP and experience the difference today. Your feet will love you for it! Latest styles from Frankie 4 "Mim" have just landed.

As we head into the summer months and holidays ahead, we definitely want our feet to look the part with sparkling toenails. Now is the time to book into LSP for Keryflex - an immediate toenail restoration system giving you beautiful nails in just 20 minutes. No need for short term pedicures.

Call the practice on 6583 9880 to book your next appointment.

focusinterview.

PORT MACQUARIE

CLUB

H

i Warren. How long have you been President of the Port Macquarie Swimming Cub? I became involved in the Port Macquarie Swimming Club when I moved to the area in 2005. I have been a committee member since 2006, Treasurer from 2009 - ‘12 and President since May 2012.

At this year's AGM, you were also voted in as President of Swimming North Coast congratulations! What's involved with this role?

Swimming North Coast covers an area from Stroud in the south to Tweed Heads in the north. My role, along with the other members of the management committee, is to promote the participation and the sport of swimming on the North Coast and also to be responsible for the leadership and administration of Swimming North Coast.

What's your personal background with swimming?

I grew up in Warialda in Northwest NSW, where swimming was the major summer sport.

One of the local businessmen built a small pool, which was used by the community until the olympic pool was opened in 1968.

Even though the season only ran from October to the end of March, we had weekly club nights and attended carnivals, much the same as we do now, without the technology.

It’s dry, the weather is heating up, but there’s a way to stay cool this summer … and what’s more, it comes with social benefits!

Warren Phillips is not only President of the Port Macquarie Swimming Club, but also the President of Swimming North Coast, so he has a great understanding of what’s involved with being a member of your local swimming club. Warren explains that it’s easy to become a member!

Our club had 10 training sessions a week, coached by Bill Kennedy, a keen parent, and squad fees were $1 per week.

What were some of the highlights for the Port Macquarie Swimming Cub over the past year?

Last season we had near record numbers of swimmers compete at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre the Country and State Championships run by Swimming NSW, with some excellent results being achieved.

We also had a strong team attend Swimming Australia National Age Championships in Adelaide, which was very pleasing, as these are our future leaders within in club.

We have also been successful with our expression of interest to host Division 1 of the Swimming North Coast Area Championships on the 23rd and 24th November; this is the only meet where all area clubs meet at the same carnival throughout the season.

Swimming season is about to kick off!

What are some upcoming events for the club?

We start the season off with a two-day qualifying carnival on the 5th and 6th October, which is very well attended by local and visiting clubs, as it is the first carnival of the season and a great opportunity to gauge how their preparation for the upcoming season is progressing.

Swimming club then starts on Wednesday 16th October. After that, the club will be able

help at club nights, carnivals and also with to attend swim meets every week up to the getting their swimmers to and from daily end of March 2020, with the highlights being training sessions.

Swimming North Coast Area Championships, In this day and age, our club is also very Swimming NSW Country Regional, Country and grateful to our major sponsors. They are State Meets and Swimming Australia National McDonald’s Port Macquarie, Age Meet.

Integer IT Pty Ltd, Laing Why would you and Simmons, BJ Crowley encourage people to Plumbing, Men@Work, become involved with THE PORT Caltex, Ipco Cleaners, their local swimming MACQUARIE Cascade Pools and Spas, clubs?

SWIMMING CLUB Spanline Picton Bros, and The Port Macquarie CATERS FOR Hanks Optometrists.

Swimming Club caters SWIMMERS OF ALL Where can we find out for swimmers of all ABILITIES AND AGES, more info? abilities and ages, as AS LONG AS THEY For further information long as they are able to ARE ABLE TO SWIM regarding the swimming swim 15 m or further.

15 M OR FURTHER. club, you can contact Swimming club is a fun me, Warren Phillips, on environment where the 0414 781 565; our race swimmers are competing secretary Naomi Rankine against their own times at pmscracesecretary@gmail.com or our club each week. registrar Chris Howe, pmscregistrar@gmail.com The times are recorded throughout the year.

The Port Macquarie Swimming Club Facebook Competitive swimmers also swim at club nights, site is https://www.facebook.com/PMQSC2444/ as well as the many weekly swim meets, with Alternatively, the Port Macquarie Swimming the aim of gaining qualifying times for Area, Club meets Wednesdays from 5:45pm at the Country, State and National Championships. olympic pool in Gordon Street from the 16th Whom would you like to thank for supportOctober 2019. Any interested swimmer is more ing swimming at a local level? than welcome to come along and try.

As with many sporting clubs, we would not Thanks Warren. be able to able to operate without the help Interview: Jo Robinson. of all our volunteers. Our qualified Technical Thanks also to Judith Rumbel, for assistance Officials are required at all qualifying carnivals with compiling the interview material.

- and importantly, our many parent volunteers Greater Port Macquarie focus 59

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If symptoms persist talk to your healthcare professional. This medicine may not be right for you. Read the warnings before purchase. Retail quantities only. Limits apply. 6 or less. The pharmacist reserves the right to not supply contrary to our professional and ethical obligation. †The save prices listed are calculated from the suppliers RRP (Recommended Retail Price) at the time of preparation and where no such price exists is the retail price found at competing retailers. Due to discount policy we may not have sold at RRP. ►The save price advertised is off our EDLP (Everyday Low Price) at the time of printing. All products may not be available from all Chemist Warehouse stores. ^Free Gifts subject to availability while stocks last. Free Gift is an in-store promotion and may not always be available online.

We beat everyone’s prices! At Chemist Warehouse if you find a cheaper price on the exact same item at another Australian Retail store, we will match it and give you 10% off the difference. (Excludes ‘online only’ offers). Exact same item means exact same product, with 54 Greater the same packaging andPort whereMacquarie the product onfocus offer at the other retail store is not clearance or run out stock. All products subject to manufacturer’s availability. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

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focusinterview.

Terri

HALL

The lovely Terri Hall has been writing the Star Guide for FOCUS for 12 years.

TERRI THRIVES ON BEING ABLE TO HELP PEOPLE, WHICH SHE DOES NOT ONLY THROUGH THE STAR GUIDE, BUT THROUGH PERSONAL READINGS IN BOTH PORT MACQUARIE AND KEMPSEY AREAS. Here, she explains what it’s like to experience clairvoyance …

terri hall i Terri. How old were you when you first realised you could tap into your clairvoyant abilities (and do you remember how and when this first occurred?)

Coming from spiritually gifted families (both parents), clairvoyance wasn’t seen as weird - just the norm.

I’ve always seen Spirit- and first played with a friend with séance and a ouija board at the age of 12 and even though I didn’t take it seriously at the time, things did come true.

I again played with a pendulum to predict baby genders in my late teens, but really took it to a whole new level when I was 32 and began doing professional readings.

When you're doing a reading for people, what helps you connect with them most? Do you need to hold their hand - or touch an object that belongs to them?

When I’m doing readings, I connect with our Spirit Guides to pass messages on.

I would use psychometry (holding objects) if my client was guarded or sceptic, as this helps me feel them clearer. I will experience their emotions, thought patterns and views, so it helps give me insight into them so I can better reach them.

Does your clairvoyant ability extend to your own life? For example, can you give us an example of something you foresaw that came true?

Yes. A beautiful experience is I dreamt of one of my children before he was born and the last thing he said to me was, “I’ll see you soon”. He smiled, then was gone. A few months later, the smiley boy was born looking exactly like he did in my dream.

How did you become interested in Astrology?

I first became interested in Astrology when a lovely friend (Tracy Martin) introduced me to the wonder of it 21 years ago. It’s a fascinating topic because the more you learn, you the more you realise there is so much more to learn.

Do you feel Astrology is more about recognising our individual personality traits, or studying the movement of the stars and planets to help foretell future events?

Astrology can be both. Where the planets were situated at the time of your first breath determines your personality traits and characteristics.

As the planets come closer to Earth, their qualities are amplified in us, which stimulate certain aspects of our lives.

Taking into account our personality traits, planetary timing can either be advantageous or detrimental to us, and we can use

I first became interested in astrology for predicting opportunity to do the Astrology when a lovely friend when certain events Star Guide for FOCUS. (Tracy Martin) introduced me are likely to occur.

I love how Spirit to the wonder of it 21 years Your life purpose works wonders, and I’m ago. It’s a fascinating must be so grateful for the positive topic because the more rewarding, but how feedback I’m given. you learn, you the more do you deal with the I enjoy helping you realise there is so flip side ... constantly people, and I feel I can much more to learn. feeling and perhaps reach a lot of people not being able to simultaneously with "switch off" and empowering messages relax easily? thanks to FOCUS. I love what I do; it is very rewarding to see You're expanding your practice into Spirit at work with our higher selves.

Kempsey, which is exciting news! Where I have never felt out of control with my can we contact you/book a reading in both Port Mac and Kempsey areas? spirituality, and I only ever access the spirit My mobile is 0424 818 343 OR in realm by choice.

Kempsey bookings can be made at Mystic As far as constantly feeling and not being Dreams 6562 2705 and in Port Macquarie able to switch off, I was shown long ago bookings can be made at Rainbow’s Edge that everything that happens is perfect, 6583 4731. because it happens. When you practice this Many people are doing it a bit tough analogy, you don’t get caught up in it, and in 2019 - contending with drought, Spirit shows us the positive outcomes. financial stress, uncertainty. What's a I am looked after by my beautiful Spirit message you'd like to share with our Guides (I don’t have to experience the pain readers as we approach 2020? or suffering) so I can look after my clients.

We are the masters of our own destiny; To relax, I love spending time in the even our hardest challenges make us better garden or just chilling. within ourselves. Stay connected to your You've been writing the Star Guide for gratitude for the simple things in life, and FOCUS for around 12 years now. What you will find joy. has this process meant to you - and how Thanks Terri. has it helped you grow/develop?

Interview: Jo Robinson.

I have been very blessed to have the Greater Port Macquarie focus 61

focusinterview.

Dyslexia Awareness M I D N O R T H C O A ST

One in five children struggle to learn to read in our schools every day. Dyslexia Mid North Coast aims to support children, parents and teachers, increase awareness and share information on issues involving dyslexia.

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ocal school teacher Debbie Muir is a Dyslexia Specialist who received a scholarship via Dyslexia Mid North Coast in 2017 to attend the Institute for Multisensory Structured Language Education.

Having recently graduated from her training, Debbie now shares her knowledge through the MSL programme with children, parents and teachers in our community.

You have recently graduated as a Dyslexia Specialist through the Institute for Multisensory Structured Language Education.

What made you want to complete this programme?

Having grown up with a disabled brother, I was always trying to teach him to spell and read as a child. Through teaching, I discovered a major need for the implementation of phonics in our classrooms. Students were entering high school with limited skills in decoding unknown words and poor knowledge of the spelling of commonly used words. I had wanted to do this course for a while, but couldn’t afford it as a busy mum of four children. The opportunity arose to apply for the scholarship, so I went for it and got it!

How has your career changed since graduating from the programme?

Completing this course has changed my world!

I have been fortunate enough to have been employed at St Columba Anglican School, where my skills and knowledge are valued and used on a daily basis. I have been able to implement the MSL course into our school across Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2. The results have been amazing! Our young students are reading and spelling well beyond their age, due to the structured approach that MSL offers.

I am also working with older students before school, who have been diagnosed with Dyslexia, 62 Greater Port Macquarie focus

teaching them the skills they need to read and dents' reading levels have improved since using write at grade level. It’s wonderful to watch their the MSL approach. confidence and self-esteem grow from learning It’s not just an approach for Dyslexic students; something so simple and easy to apply to the this approach benefits EVERY student! I thought classroom learning environment.

I knew a lot about spelling until I did this course.

Specialising in the education for people with It doesn’t just teach spelling patterns; it teaches Dyslexia, can you share the reasons why we spell some of the ways you words the way we do. implement this into a People think the English daily school regime? language is the most chalI’m currently teaching lenging, but it’s actually If your child is diagnosed Year 2. We have spelling incredibly simple once you with Dyslexia, it is not the groups every day at the know the reasons why same time. During this end of the world - they certain sounds go together time, we revise the sound and when to use them. can still learn to read. pack that MSL offers.

The whole language And once they begin reading, This involves using several approach that is they will just require more senses to recall the sounds currently used in schools time than a typical reader.

- visual, auditory and kinteaches our children to aesthetic. We then use a guess unfamiliar words. technique of finger spellIt is now proven that it ing words that relate to doesn’t work. Our young the spelling rule we are learning for the week. adults are leaving school as poor readers and I have created slide shows for all the rules that spellers. To offer an approach that is the complete any class within the school can use. The students opposite to whole language and witness it workfinger spell the words and clap the syllables. After ing … makes me very proud to be a part of the this process, we then "encode". This involves MSL team. hearing the word in a sentence, saying the word, Can you share some advice on how best finger spelling the sounds they hear, and then to help children at home who may have writing what they hear. It’s a structured approach Dyslexia? to learning spelling rules, and the students reIf you have a child that you are concerned spond incredibly well to the routine and process. about - maybe they aren’t remembering the I also use the MSL approach in small groups sounds of the alphabet, maybe they struggle to during our literacy groups and one-on-one for an read - get them assessed as early as possible.

Early intervention is the key! Don’t wait until they intensive session with a struggling reader. are in Year 3, when their self-esteem is destroyed What are the benefits for children, and they hate going to school. Children can be parents and teachers in having a specialised assessed as early as Kindergarten and Year 1. programme for Dyslexia run through our If your child is diagnosed with Dyslexia, it is schools? not the end of the world - they can still learn to The benefits are incredible. I’ve had staff at St read. And once they begin reading, they will just Columba's comment on how quickly their stu-

require more time than a typical reader. With the help of MSL, every child can learn to read and become successful in life.

What’s next for you as a Dyslexia Specialist?

Great question! My dream would be to see MSL introduced in all schools across Australia and taught to all our pre-teachers at universities.

Many schools around the country have taken off with it, and I’d love to be the person that leads the way to seeing the Mid North Coast on the map for MSL. Thanks Debbie.

• Dyslexia is the most common learning difficulty • 1 in 5 children struggle to learn to read and spell • Dyslexia is not linked to intelligence.

• Dyslexia is not a problem with vision or seeing letters backwards.

• Dyslexia runs in families.

• People with Dyslexia can learn to read with evidence based instruction.

• Early identification and early intervention is key.

Join us at these locations to support the one in five children who struggle to learn to read, write and spell.

15th Oct - The Glasshouse from 7pm; 15th-19th Oct - Port Macquarie Town Square; 25th Oct - Tacking Point Lighthouse from 7pm; 25th - 27th Oct - The Westport Club. https://www.facebook.com/ events/735091773599887/

focusinterview.

NATIONAL CARERS WEEK

A CARER Anne said, "Full-time care was required for my baby boy shortly after birth. Patrick is now in his 40s and still needs many hours of support each day - as a carer, you really are on duty 24/7."

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eing a carer is often not a There are over 2.7 million family and friend choice; life circumstances put carers in Australia providing 36 million hours you there, and what keeps you of care and support every week to a family going is knowing that the care member or friend who has a disability, mental you give illness, drug and/or alcoyour loved hol dependency, chronic one is making a big differcondition, terminal ence to their wellbeing. illness, or who is frail.

"We care for our loved The replacement value ones every single day with of that unpaid care is ANYONE AT ANY TIME little or no respite, no over $1.1 billion per CAN BECOME A CARER: work cover or superannuweek.

NATIONAL CARERS ation, and our role is not National Carers Week WEEK WILL RUN FROM recognised to the extent is an opportunity to eduSUNDAY, OCTOBER it should be. cate and raise awareness "My life has been among all Australians 13 TO SATURDAY, greatly influenced by about the diversity of OCTOBER 19 THIS YEAR. my son, Patrick; he has carers and their caring taught me humility, roles. compassion, patience, Carers, who are most through the need to gain likely to be included in better services and recognition for people with decision making and support planning when a disability." accessing services for the people they care National Carers Week, an initiative of Carers for, are less likely to be asked about their own Australia, is about recognising and celebratneeds. ing the outstanding contribution that unpaid Events and activities are held for carers carers make to our nation. during National Carers Week. Tell yourstory on This year, National Carers Week will run from the website - visit the Why We Care page. See Sunday, October 13 to Saturday, October 19. carersweek.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 63

focus_contributor

focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

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

tourism UPDATE

Joie de vivre: life’s pleasures

T

hree massive fish tanks cover a tall wall, metres high - a mesmerising kinetic backdrop to the hotel’s wide reception desks.

The tanks house an energetic tableau of many bright-coloured tropical species darting among green aquarium plants, flashing their tails, soaring, diving. It’s a motif for this waterside resting place, unlike the city’s other, monolithic, asphalt-bound hotels: right off I know I’m in for something special.

Earlier, a spectacular entrance: sweeping up the circular driveway to the porte-cochere, greeted by liveried staff holding my car door, swiftly taking my luggage and wishing me Bonjour! Bonjour?

This is Sydney! Surely it should be “Good afternoon”?

Non. Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, the city’s newest-built, five-star, outstanding 35-storey hotel, just two years old this month and part of the elite worldwide French Sofitel chain, continues its international tradition of acknowledging guests with a charming Gallic welcome. And so it is throughout: not force-fed French culture but just deft incidental touches of elan. Staff step back at elevators with hint of a bow and a Bonsoir; a magnificent scenic bar with abundant, true, Champagnes; lush Lanvin toiletries; its signature restaurant Atelier. For travellers keen to spoil themselves the ambience lifts a regular hotel stay into an “experience” when visiting Sydney for a show, event, romantic interlude, celebration, family gathering: beyond merely a hotel room, bed and sustenance ... a “destination” in itself.

As the maxim goes, it’s all about location, location, location. Sofitel, on the edge of Darling Harbour, is at the centre of Sydney’s biggest concentration of restaurants, cafes and attractions: numerous dining options, bars and ice-cream bars in the adjacent Harbourside Centre; more options a promenade around the harbour edge at Cockle Bay Wharf (a “chocolate” cafe!) and next-along King Street Wharf; again more venues in outstanding Barangaroo, with its parklands; many featuring fresh Sydney seafood at indoor-outdoors spots on the water. More choices: close by in Pyrmont; at popular Chinatown a short stroll away; even picnicking waterside. Nearby: the Capitol Theatre, Broadway musical Frozen arriving next July.

Within Sofitel, Atelier’s helmed by executive chef

64 Greater Port Macquarie focus

SO MUCH IS HAPPENING THIS MONTH IN OUR REGION.

Eric Costille, credentialled on the French Riviera at Cannes, through French culinary schools, to international Michelin-star roles. Chef de Cuisine Jordan Hajek’s passion peaked at his most recent post, Copenhagen’s Noma, four times world’s best restaurant. The menu offers traditional dishes from the regions of France and contemporary takes appealing to Aussie palates, like the Marseille-inspired deconstructed bouillabaisse above (and children’s menus, and in-room dining). Meats are from (coincidentally, my former boucherie) Woollahra’s renowned Victor Churchill. Sofitel hums through from elegant ground-floor cocktail bar Esprit Noir to its infinity-edge pool and bar, Le Rivage, open to glorious harbour views. Children enjoy the hotel’s evening ritual, the “Lighting of the Candles” and many youngsters’ preoccupations close by, Cook’s replica barque Endeavour moored at the Maritime Museum (current exhibition: William Bligh), and Sydney Aquarium. Saturday afternoon high tea for kids (for parents: bubbles), with gift bags, is themed around Australian children’s book character Claris, the Chicest Mouse in Paris - chocolate fountain with marshmallows, pink lemonade, choux pastries, creamy profiteroles, raspberry macaroons on porcelain plates, strawberries, choc-coated madeleines, mini churros, mini sausage rolls, and plus. From $35.

The entire eastern “wall” of my lavish Level 30 room is sheer curtain glass offering a spellbinding vista of Barangaroo’s lofty towers, all the activity on the shores, tour boats and ferries plying about. The backdrop is the everfascinating profile of the city’s grand buildings, their glittering forest of fairy-like lights coming alive as the sun surrenders at dusk. My deep freestanding bathtub is sheer indulgence, set in a luxurious bathroom. It’s 20m from the hotel to the International Convention Centre, Sydney’s premier event complex, and ideal walking distance to CBD shopping. Light Rail’s adjacent too. Sofitel has a superb gift/clothing shop with unusual quality items at excellent prices, worth a trip there in itself.

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aunch day of TwoTripleFour Restaurant on 6th October at Cassegrain Winery from 10am.

Bills Fishhouse and Bar is very proud to be opening their second venture. On the launch day there will be over 30 market stalls, jumping castles and also a taste of the food which will form part of the delicious menu.

Cassegrain Winery are very proud to be able to showcase Twotriplefour Restaurant and know it will be warmly supported by the community.

Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard is holding an Open Day on 19th October from 9:30am. It is being held as part of National Garden Week; the Douglas Vale Gardens will be at their best. Popular entertainer Trevor Knight, who is one of Australia’s finest country/folk entertainers, will be performing at 11:30am and 1:45pm.

The 71st Annual Camden Haven Show at the Kendall Showground is happening on the 19th and 20th October, and it all starts from 9am on both days. A bumper programme with all the usual activities has been organised and even includes an animal petting zoo and a pie eating competition.

Do you have any spare time? Why not visit the Port Macquarie Hastings Volunteer Expo, 22nd October - Port Macquarie Panthers, 10am - 2pm. There's always an opportunity to help community organisations.

Interested in Astronomy? Then this is the event for you - Port Macquarie Astronomical Association will be presenting on 2nd November an evening of stargazing, live music, food stalls, science displays and a very interesting talk by Assoc.

Professor John O’Byrne.

Stoney Aqua Park has re-opened for the spring/summer season. They have currently installed new exciting aqua park items from the USA. They have a great season planned for all.

It has been a long time in the works, but Port Macquarie will finally have its own homegrown airline, Eastern Air Services.

Eastern Air Services has been approved to fly a passenger service transporting locals from Port Macquarie to world-heritage listed

Lord Howe Island - a journey that takes a little over an hour.

Lord Howe Island is a magnet for tourists enticed by its sandy, unspoilt beaches, subtropical forests and native wildlife. It showcases some of the world's rarest and most spectacular wildlife. The majestic island is the remains of a nearly seven-million-yearold extinct volcano.

Improvements to the Coastal Walk - along with the new signage, the walk will undergo upgrades to the section from Salty Crew Kiosk to Rocky Beach. Work has commenced and will be completed by December.

According to Trip Advisor, the walk continues to rate as one of our region’s most visited attractions.

The Greater Port Macquarie region was well represented at NSW Business Chamber 2019 Regional Awards held recently at Sails Resort.

Businesses now advancing to the State Awards in November from our region are: Cassegrain Wines - Excellence in Export.

Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail - Excellence in Innovation.

Port Chamber of Commerce - Local Chamber of the Year.

Outstanding Young Employee - Kayla Fuller, Touchwood Flowers.

Excellence in Small Business - Wauchope Country Club.

Start Up Superstar - First State Allstars.

Outstanding Employer of Choice - MBC Recruitment.

Cassegrain Wines - Regional Business of the Year.

We welcome two new members to Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association this month: • Cooeee Sista’s Art Workshops - presents local Aboriginal artist Debbs Robinson in 2.5 fun filled hours that will share culture, delight and fascinate, educating adults and children alike.

• Here and Now Publications - produce a free tourist map for the Greater Port Macquarie area. The maps are distributed to many local businesses, as well as to the local Visitor Information Centres.

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

focusinterview.

nippers

NIPPERS TACKING POINT SLSC

We're heading into the warmer weather now ... which means more fun in the surf and on the beach! If you’re looking for a way to encourage your kids to be active, while teaching them how to not only to be water-safe but also to value community involvement, Nippers should definitely be on your agenda. andra Slattery, Chairperson Junior Activities Committee and Steve Manning, Deputy Chairperson Junior Activities Committee from Tacking Point Surf Lifesaving Club explain how you and your family can benefit from being a part of their club’s Nipper programme …

When does Tacking Point Surf Lifesaving Club's Nippers Programme kick off for the upcoming season?

Our first day of the season is Sunday 13th October and we go through to 15th March 2020, with a three-week break over Christmas.

What age groups can Nippers cater for?

Nippers at Tacking Point is open to children aged five - 13 years, so our age groups are U6s through to U14s.

Under 11s, 12s, 13s and 14s undertake training towards becoming qualified Surf Life Savers, including obtaining their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) and ultimately, their Bronze Medallion.

What is the overall aim of Nippers?

The primary aim of our Nippers programme at Tacking Point is to train young lifesavers of the future.

This means ensuring that our Nippers have the decision-making skills to appropriately assess the safety of various aquatic environments for the rest of their lives.

Additional outcomes of the programme include developing leadership and teamwork skills, knowing how to interact safely with the ocean, learning CPR and first aid, understanding

the importance of leading an active and healthy lifestyle, and pride in volunteering for the local community.

200 metres, with varying time limits depending At Tacking Point SLSC, we welcome children on their age group. of all abilities, skill level and background. For Most Nippers achieve the required us, it’s not all about proficiency with practice, competition - it’s about determination and lots of beach safety, building encouragement from their confidence and having parents, age managers lots of fun! and peers. Even if a child IMPORTANTLY, NIPPERS How well do you need isn’t proficient, they’re still IS NOT ABOUT TEACHING to be able to swim welcome to participate KIDS TO SWIM; WE before joining Nippers? in Nippers on a Sunday INSTEAD FOCUS ON The safety of our morning, albeit with SURVIVAL AND RESCUE Nippers is our number certain water restrictions SKILLS THAT ARE SO one priority. So while each for their safety.

VALUABLE TO CHILDREN Nipper doesn’t need to be What are some of the WHEN ENJOYING TIME a champion swimmer, we activities/skills Nippers AT THE BEACH. encourage all the kids to learn as a part of your practice their swimming club? outside of the Nippers Nippers learn many programme, whether it be swimming lessons, valuable lifesaving skills throughout the swim squad training at Port Macquarie town programme, including surf awareness, how to pool, or even in their own pool. perform a surf rescue, first aid, CPR, decisionImportantly, Nippers is not about teaching making, problem solving, leadership and kids to swim; we instead focus on survival and teamwork. These skills stay with them for life rescue skills that are so valuable to children and are highly valued and regarded by society in when enjoying time at the beach. general.

To ensure each Nipper has the skills to Our Nippers also participate in lots of fun participate safely in the ocean, they’re asked to activities throughout the season, including derby complete a pool proficiency swim. For U6s and days with other local surf clubs, our Christmas U7s, this involves a basic “glide and float”, to party, Port Macquarie Street Christmas Parade, assess whether they’re comfortable in the water. branch carnivals, social BBQ days, and much For U8s, it’s a 50-metre swim with no time limit. more.

For U9s and up, the proficiency swim moves to Where and when do Nippers regularly meet

for sessions?

Tacking Point Nippers is held at beautiful Lighthouse Beach each Sunday morning from 8:30 - 10:30am (October - March).

How can Nippers' families also get involved with the club?

As with all programmes involving young people, it’s the parents and carers who make it a success, so we welcome as many family members as possible to join in. A helping hand with beach set-up and pack-up or Nipper activities on the beach ensures Sunday mornings run smoothly for everyone.

Many of our parents obtain their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) and Bronze Medallion qualifications, so they can provide support and encouragement in the water with their kids. We need enough Water Safety Crew for our water events to go ahead; plus, the kids love having their mum or dad out there with them.

There are lots of other opportunities for families to get involved with Nippers and the surf club in general, including as age managers, age manager assistants or carnival officials, as well as helping out with the uniform shop, fundraising, social activities, and more.

Where can we find out further info?

Visit www.tpslsc.com.au or contact Sandra Slattery on 0419 379 534 or via jac@tpslsc.com.au Thanks guys.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

focus feature

careers

64 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focus_contributor.

Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

Carlie McWilliams

BUSINESS MINDS

L I N K E D

C

arlie, you are Chief Executive Officer of Linked Community Services for the Hastings, Macleay and Port Stephens regions. Can you tell us a little bit about your background and what led you to take this role?

Relocating to Port Macquarie for family reasons presented an opportunity to use my transferable skills across an organisation that had a sound platform and appetite for service development and growth. Having led large teams across a diverse range of programmes within the community services sector and a significantly large geographical footprint in the Northern Territory, I believe that I have brought a strong combination of innovation, resilience, restoration and diversification attributes, complementing the dynamic leadership team within Linked Community Services - formally Hasting Macleay Community Transport.

With service delivery, managerial and executive experience across many facets of community services deliverables, I am extremely familiar of the knowledge, resources and commitment required throughout all stages of delivering meaningful community focused supports.

Linked Community Services has unmeasurable growth potential, thus inciting my enthusiasm and desire to shape the infant organisation into a sustainable, community focused and industry leader.

Linked Community Services is the new

brand name for what most people in the Hastings region would know as Hastings Macleay Community Transport. Can you tell us a little bit about why the organisation now has a new name?

Hastings Macleay Community Transport have provided flexible attentive transport options for over 35 years; however, community needs, service delivery methods and funding arrangements have changed, thus presenting a need for business variation for sustainability and preservation.

Through the identification of industry threats, which have seen many local service providers close and/or seek amalgamation opportunities, I am leading my team through the aforementioned changes, providing a structured, planned and methodical approach to an actual opportunity, rather than attempt to manage foreseeable threats.

Continuing to provide the community with quality transport services, the new branding has expanded the scope for service offerings, mitigating the pigeonhole effect of a single affiliation with transport services.

Moving with government and legislative changes, Linked Community Services have already undergone growth through amalgamation, whilst broadening services offerings to include aged care and disability specific services.

What have you learnt about leadership in your career?

Over many years within the community services environment, my leadership style

CO M M U N I T Y

S E R V I C E S

Surrounding myself with a diverse, skilled and committed leadership team reduces my need to be everywhere, overseeing everything, at all times.

has both grown and strengthened, now focusing specifically on Linked Community Services' strategic direction, workplace culture and service reputation.

Surrounding myself with a diverse, skilled and committed leadership team reduces my need to be everywhere, overseeing everything, at all times. The qualities, knowledge and capabilities that I have engaged within the Linked Community Services leadership team has provided me with the time and confidence to meet the expectations of my role, providing my team the empowerment and autonomy to do theirs.

What is the most rewarding part about your role as CEO of Linked Community Services?

Building on the existing frameworks, creating positive change management structures and broadening the scope of service offerings across the communities in which we geographically cover has presented innovative opportunities for business development and sustainability.

Whilst growth and service diversification results are aesthetically pleasing, knowing that the Linked Community Services team are working responsively to community gaps, providing culturally appropriate services and are demonstrating a thorough commitment to the continuous development of our organisation provides a significant degree of overall job satisfaction.

Being a leader of a team which values respect for clients, community and culture, with a robust hands on commitment from not only staff, but volunteers and the board, is a reward within itself.

What can you foresee as some of the challenges that you will need to tackle in the near future within your industry?

There is a degree of unrest across all community service providers, these specific to funding models, service sustainability, potential price deregulation and actionable recommendations from both the Aged Care and Disability Royal Commissions.

Whilst welcomed and clearly understood, all changes, no matter the size, present further financial impacts on an already fragile service delivery environment.

And finally, if you could invite three businesspeople to lunch, who would they be, and why would you invite them?

Inspired by innovation, passion and endless opportunity; Richard Branson - “If somebody offers you an opportunity but you are unsure you can do it, say yes - then learn to do it later!”

Mark Bouris - “The dream is free. The hustle is sold separately!"

Inrda Nooyi - “I’m brutally honest. I always look at things from their point of view, as well as mine. And, I know when to walk away.”

Thanks for your time, Carlie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 67

focus_contributor

MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Elevate YOUR WordPress

Skills

wordcamp port macquarie

Minding your The role of Governments in spending on infrastructure to stimulate the economy is critical when private investment slows and economic growth is constrained.

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ith relatively low Lake Road remains a morning peak hour car growth for the past park and should also be a State and Council year and a housing priority project. Part of this road reserve is market still in recovery located over National Parks land, so it is likely mode, now is the that Ministerial intervention will be required time for the Council to break through bureaucratic obsfucation and State Government to activate an array of and delays. Chamber encourages our Council infrastructure projects that have been in the and State Member to work towards a sensible planning pipeline for long periods. outcome, to enable this project to proceed.

The largest of these is the Ocean Drive The final dual lane alignment is dictated by duplication, which received $50m funding existing connections and physical constraints, from State at the March so the identification State Election and by of additional land all reports, is now fully acquisition or boundary designed. The General adjustments and concept Lake Road remains a morning Manager of Council has design can proceed peak hour car park and should also recently written to State without the need for be a State and Council priority Government requesting protracted investigations. project. Part of this road that RMS deliver the The allocation of reserve is located over project. It is now State Government National Parks land, so it incumbent upon those funding and significant is likely that Ministerial responsible to agree on developer contributions intervention will be required a delivery mechanism in recent years has put to break through bureaucratic without delay and let PMHC in a very sound obsfucation and delays. tenders for construction financial position to as soon as possible. undertake these major The much needed works. Such large sums upgrade to Boundary of public monies must Street to provide a satisfactory access to the be expended on critical infrastructure to newly upgraded airport terminal has been a enable the private sector to grow and operate topic of discussion between Chamber and businesses efficiently. An added benefit is that Council for the past two years. Whilst the when major projects are undertaken, it creates contentious Orbital Road has caused a major employment and investment stimulus for the distraction and delayed Boundary Street companies and their suppliers engaged to Upgrade, the recent Notice of Motion to complete the work. borrow funds for this project is a welcome step The above mentioned significant and much forward by Council. With sufficient financial needed infrastructure projects if undertaken resources at its disposal, Council can and in the short term would generate investment should now proceed with a full detailed design opportunities and a boost to local industry. Port of Boundary Street. Council appears to have Macquarie Chamber of Commerce is looking to multiple options available to fund this project, Council and State Government representatives and it must expedite all necessary planning and and officers to move ahead quickly with design with the ultimate goal of delivery in the these local projects and in doing so, provide a next financial year. stimulus to business and industry.

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CALLING ALL BUSINESS OWNERS, BLOGGERS, WEBSITE BUILDERS, IT PROFESSIONALS AND HOBBYISTS ALIKE; in fact, anyone who uses WordPress - mark your calendar for October 5th and 6th to attend the first WordCamp Port Macquarie!

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his conference is the best the public at such an incredibly low price due value opportunity to learn to support from sponsors and volunteers. The more about both WordPress organisers of WordCamp Port Macquarie come and business and network from five different local businesses who believe with many business owners in collaboration, rather than competition. They and IT folks. Tickets are only see this as an opportunity to give back, said co$55 and include entry on both days, learning organisers Jake Jackson and Luke Bennett. from 20 speakers, lunch and morning tea both Many tickets have been sold to people from days with barista-made coffee, too much cool interstate, who look forward to exploring the free stuff to mention, and a ton of fun at the beautiful Port Macquarie area while they are afterparty event. here.

WordCamps are for Robey Lawrence hopes people of all skill level, that WordCamp Port from, "I’ve never even Macquarie will become an This inclusive event logged in to WordPress annual event. can only be offered to before", right up to, "I “This event provides the public at such an can build a plugin in my technical support and incredibly low price due sleep". Topics may include encouragement to web to support from sponsors Blogging, Business, developers and business and volunteers.

Copywriting, Community, owners alike, and helps Design, Development, ‘raise the tide’ of technical Marketing, e-Commerce, skills and community in the SEO and/or Workflows. local areas,” Robey said.

Robey Lawrence, Lead Organiser, said after Mel Lawrence sums up the WordCamp attending a WordCamp you will come away experience by saying that attending with a fantastic support network of new friends WordCamps helped her feel comfortable and and connections and lots of learning. welcomed around like-minded people.

“The first WordCamp I attended was “It is such a fun and encouraging invaluable to me when I was starting my environment. We are creating an event to help own business. I have since been to more others feel welcome, meet new people and WordCamps and thought it would be a learn great thing," Mel said. fantastic event to bring to my home town of To learn more, buy a ticket or even sponsor Port Macquarie,” Robey said. this event, go to https://2019.portmacquarie.

This inclusive event can only be offered to wordcamp.org

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 three time recipient of the Executive Dean's Award, Shari Armanno is a shining example that you can change your destiny at any moment with courage and determination. Having completed Year 10 and moved straight into the hairdressing trade, followed by a career in the fast paced banking world, this dedicated and driven single mother of one is proving that it is never too late to pursue your dream career. Shari is now four years into her journey at Charles Sturt University and is achieving new academic heights following her passion to become a psychologist.

W I T H S H A R I A R M A N N O Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)

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ongratulations on completing your Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology)! As you embark on honours study can you tell us about your journey to commencing study at Charles Sturt?

Thanks Kate! Sure. I always wanted to go to university, and from Year 10 I knew I wanted to pursue psychology. Being offered a hairdressing apprenticeship in Year 11, I did the maths and by the time I was 20, I would be qualified and have a way to earn money to put myself through university after completion, so I took it!

However, not long after I finished my apprenticeship, I was offered a great role at one of the big four banks, where I worked my way up to home lending manager. Life was busy and fast paced, having had time off to have my

daughter in amongst this too; before I knew it, the years flew by.

It was not until I turned 27 that it dawned on me that if I didn’t start studying soon, it may never happen! By the following year in 2015, I found myself leaving full-time work to finally pursue the ambition to become a psychologist!

Having no ATAR but completing Year 10 studies and a trade, you applied through the Mature Age Student programme - can you explain how that process worked for you?

Upon having an appointment with Charles Sturt, I found out that my ATAR equivalent score was not high enough to get me directly into Bachelor of Psychology, but I could enter into the Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) – a three year accredited psychology course.

To progress it meant I had to keep my grade point average (GPA) high enough to be able to transfer over into the Bachelor of Psychology after completing my Bachelor of Social Science.

Wanting to have a Masters or PhD option on the table, I knew I couldn’t just make it into psychology, but I had to make it into the honours program, therefore this meant keeping a distinction average across all my core subjects.

Years of hard work and no social life… hahaha, I am now completing my Bachelor of Psychology (Honours). So even if your pathway into uni is not a direct one, there is always a way!

Congratulations on earning three Executive Dean's Awards - can you explain what

these awards mean to you?

Thank you! Getting these awards meant that I was on the right track to reaching my study goal and getting into honours. Considering the criteria to get the awards was to receive distinctions or high distinctions across all your subjects, aiming for these awards motivated me to maintain my marks even more.

How important is flexible study, a support network both at home and at university for you as single mother of one to beautiful Tilly?

Flexible study has been crucial. In most of my degree, juggling work, uni, and motherhood as a single parent, I would not have been able to do it if the programme at Charles Sturt was not as flexible. I have been able to change study loads as life has changed over the years and do extra over summer to make up time. I have been so fortunate to not only have a supportive family come to my rescue when times get tough, but have had fantastic lecturers and fellow students who have always been there to support me and to push me to be my best! This has been so motivating to have people behind you who believe in you.

Why are you so passionate about psychology?

There is so much about psychology that I am passionate about. I am always wanting to learn more about the mind, how we learn, why we behave the way we do, why some people develop certain disorders but not others and

how the environment interacts with our biology to change the very structure of our brains - it absolutely fascinates me. Always wanting to be in a career that I can help others, when these passions linked together, I knew there was no other career pathway for me.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone currently considering mature age study and a career change?

Do it! Life’s too short to spend your life doing something you’re not fulfilled doing.

Finally - passion, sacrifice and dedication underpin your success in your studies you are setting an incredible example for your daughter. How important is passing this legacy of chasing your dreams on to Tilly?

It’s so important! My parents always told me I could do anything I put my mind to, which is exactly what I now tell my daughter. I want to inspire Tilly to be authentic, brave and to unapologetically chase her dreams. We all have the power to live the lives we are meant to live; we just have to be bold enough to make that decision!

Thanks so much Shari.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 69

The BEST BITS FOR BUSINESS from Xerocon Sandra Magann and the team of Xero specialists from SeaChange were among 3,000 cloud accounting leaders who attended Xerocon in Brisbane last month.

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ere they share the "need-toknows" from their deep dive into the latest accounting solutions helping small businesses succeed.

Cash flow is still king. But how to get paid on time, every time?

The latest stats show half of new businesses fail in the first five years. Cash flow is the leading cause of failure. Knowing that you have money in the bank to pay your bills and staff every month is critical to running a healthy business.

The answer is Auto Pay - a clever solution that helps your customers skip the boring job of paying bills. Auto Pay allows you to set up recurring card payments for repeat invoices.

Giving your customers more ways to pay makes it even easier for them to do business with you,

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and saves time and hassle for everyone.

Xero’s new partnerships with payment processors Stripe and GoCardless will make it easier for small businesses to get paid faster.

Xero data shows that small businesses who enable a payment service such as Paypal, Stripe or GoGardless on their Xero invoices are paid up to 15 days faster than those without any payment services attached. Spend less time chasing payments, and more time doing what you love.

Stepping up Cyber Security is a must-do.

As more business processes move online and more data is stored in the cloud, it makes sense to step up security to protect your information and your money.

We all want an online accounting platform we can trust. Xero’s robust security management

includes two-step authentication, data encryption, network protection and security monitoring.

There are steps we can all take to increase our online safety, like using complex passwords, never sharing logins, keeping anti-virus up-todate and remaining vigilant against phishing emails and cybercrime.

Even in the age of advanced technology, it’s all about people.

As technology takes over many processes, it is the human element that sets businesses apart.

Genuine customer service that makes life easier for customers and clients will win out in the end.

Customer insights will drive the success of small businesses, by allowing us to tailor solutions to meet their needs. The insights you can glean from Xero go far beyond profit and loss and

forecasting, to help you better understand your customers and respond to and even predict their needs.

Time to act on Single Touch Payroll.

Single Touch Payroll (STP) requires employers to report salaries and wages, PAYG withholding and superannuation to the ATO each time they pay their employees. Changes came into effect on 1st July, with an extension granted to 30 September. Those deadlines have passed, and small businesses must act now.

SeaChange Accounting Solutions can help make the switch simple and get your business STP compliant quickly. As a registered Tax Agent, we’re in the best position to help you.

Call us today on 1300 425 943 and mention this article to get a special discounted rate for your STP solution.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 69

focusinterview.

Willing &Able AT WILLING AND ABLE, OUR MISSION 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. WE ARE WIDELY RECOGNISED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND HAVE SEVERAL VIBRANT BUSINESSES IN THE HASTINGS AREA.

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ith more than 35 supported employees at Willing and Able, people are individually placed in work most suited to their physical and intellectual strengths and personal preferences.

Vikki Thompson has been working with us for 15 years. Willing and Able was Vikki’s first job when she was just 16 years of age. She has seen lots of changes at the Foundation over the years and has spent time working in the Commercial Laundry, the Coffee Bar, Assembly and Packaging, the Op Shop and even the wood working section.

These days you will find Vikki down at our Renovation and Recycle Warehouse in Jambali Road, taking on yet another new challenge with us.

Vikki has been instrumental in setting up our new Return and Earn Facility, and she takes recycling very seriously.

“It is something we can all do, it helps the environment, it can make you some money and if you bring your cans and bottles to Willing and Able, it can help us create more jobs for adults with intellectual disabilities,”

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VIKKI THOMPSON Team member at Willing and Able Foundation in Port Macquarie.

she says.

The Return and Earn facility has been up and running since July this year at our Renovation and Recycling Warehouse, 20 Jambali Road, PMQ, and the number of bottles and cans coming in are starting to grow.

We are asking the community to bring in their eligible bottles and cans for a 10 cent refund. We count them for you and give you the money - no mess, no fuss.

You can shop for a bargain while you wait, or you can drop them in and pick up your money later if that suits you better.

Vikki manages the Return and Earn desk four days per week, and you will be guaranteed of a friendly greeting and cheeky smile. Great with numbers, she will have you sorted out and cashed up in no time.

We are not asking the community to donate the cans and bottles that they bring in; we are set up and ready to pay for them.

For every item that is recycled through our facility, Willing and Able earn 3 cents, so we just need the numbers to keep growing.

Willing & Able has many successful businesses which generate revenue and provide employment for supported

employees just like Vikki and Matt 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?

Bring in your cans and bottles for a 10 cent refund OR donate them.

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.

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.

A little bit about Vikki.

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

I really like working at Willing and Able I must; I have stayed here so long.

The best thing about working here is all the friends that I have made and keep making.

I met my partner, Matt here; he also works for Willing and Able. We are engaged and planning to get married, so I better say that is the best thing.

I also like that I am earning my own money.

What do you do when you are not working?

I have lots of hobbies; I really enjoy cooking and am learning to knit.

I am part of a ten pin bowling team, and I like all types of craft.

I enjoy spending time with my partner, Matt and generally keep pretty busy.

UNITE G R OW W I T H C E R TA I N T Y

Offering invaluable advice for all your finances, Unite Advisory have rebranded from a local, familiar name, 360 Financial Advantage, incorporating the acquisition of Kerry Albert & Co. The same friendly team, with a fresh new name. Importantly, they have the same dedicated service, to help you grow with certainty. Chrissy Jones spoke with Victoria Studley about this exciting time.

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ictoria, firstly, how did the name change and rebrand come about; how will it benefit your clients?

Over the past 18 months, our leadership team has changed and been reinvigorated. The business has re-stated what we stand for, our values as a team and the goals we want to achieve together. This is the perfect time for the rebrand and shows our clients and community that our commitment to them remains strong.

We are “united in their financial journey”. We want our clients to feel at ease with our people first service approach. Customers feel confident because of our honesty, selflessness, expert advice and business approach; this offers them peace of mind.

Unite Advisory prides itself as an active mem-

ber of the three communities in which we have office locations. We wanted the name and brand to be synonymous to our giving back to the community; we notched up record donations just shy of $40,000 in 2018.

The firm has an impressive client and community service record. This is a healthy sign of the vibrancy and commitment of a team now unified.

What services does Unite Advisory offer?

Our team is passionate about solving problems to support clients’ financial success, in a timely and reliable manner. We like to work with our client to provide more than just number crunching.

We offer accounting, taxation and business advice, ranging from individual tax returns, tax planning advice and structuring to audits,

From left to right: Hilary Acheson, Victoria Studley, Sharon Miles. deceased estates, debt management, business valuations, bookkeeping and payroll.

Also, we provide lending and leasing options via our brokerage division, along with self-managed super funds.

Our expert financial planning team prides itself on offering the clients options in wealth creation, wealth protection and distribution.

Having the benefit of highly qualified staff who have been working in their respective field for many years, some with the business for over 20 years locally, Unite Advisory offers all of the above via a timely and reliable service.

Who would be your ideal client?

People who want to plan for their future and organise their business finances. We are all planning in some way for a better future; we are here to support clients do this. Our holistic

approach and range of services mean that we are able to help and advise clients throughout their life journey.

Unite Advisory are found in three separate locations on the Mid North Coast; where are they?

Core services are offered in each of our locations: Coffs Harbour, Macksville and Port Macquarie.

Three locations with one united front!

Coffs Harbour 133 West High St | Ph: 6651 5999 Macksville 7 Cooper St | Ph: 6568 2300 Port Macquarie Level 1, 147 Gordon St | Ph: 6583 5377

Greater Port Macquarie focus 73

Leading law firm opens M I D

N O R T H

C O A S T

OFFICE

Leading regional NSW health, medical negligence and elder law firm, Catherine Henry Lawyers, has opened a Mid North Coast office.

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he office, at Hooke Chambers in Victoria Street, Taree, is headed by Mid North Coast born and raised solicitor Erin Woodard. Ms Woodward joined the firm as a senior associate earlier this year.

Ms Woodward said the Furness inquiry relating to disgraced gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Emil Gayed, who practiced in the area, had again shone a spotlight on medical negligence issues experienced by local people. She said the Aged Care Royal Commission is also shining a spotlight on poor aged care providers.

“We want to better help people and their families on the Mid North Coast to seek answers, to seek justice and compensation from rogue doctors as well as health care providers and aged care facilities who provide sub-standard care,” Ms Woodward said.

“We fight passionately for our clients but also provide other resources and referrals for support because we understand our clients have experienced significant trauma,” she said.

“Our team is predominantly female, and we find that many women prefer to have a female lawyer represent them, particularly

for women’s health law issues.”

“In the many cases we are currently running for victims of rogue doctors, such as Dr Gayed, we always take the time to listen and appreciate the impacts on our clients.”

She said that the firm’s in-house clinical nurse consultant means her team can quickly get to the crux of a legal issue and determine if there is a case with which to proceed.

Catherine Henry Lawyers’ principal, Catherine Henry, said many people living in regional NSW are reluctant to make complaints or to seek answers or justice from health professionals for fear of “rocking the boat”.

“Local people and local solicitors may be reluctant to take on local doctors because of close connections,” Ms Henry said.

“We take on those cases because litigation helps hold health

professionals to account and forces changes to health care practices, so mistakes do not happen to another person or family,” she said.

Ms Woodward has lived and worked on the Mid North Coast as a personal injury lawyer for more than 10 years. She is a Law Society of NSW accredited specialist in personal injury law. Ms Henry has decades of experience in health and medical law, working on many high-profile cases, particularly in relation to women’s health.

Catherine Henry Lawyers is the only firm headquartered in Northern NSW and one of only two firms based outside of Sydney to make the prestigious Doyle’s list of NSW’s top 16 medical negligence plaintiff lawyers. It also has offices in Newcastle and Sydney.

Visit www.catherinehenrylawyers.com.au

Our specialist health law team: • has decades of medical negligence experience • includes Doyle’s Guide recommended lawyers • includes an accredited specialist in personal injury law who is based in our new Taree office • has a 100% success rate in health and medical negligence cases taken on • includes inhouse nursing personnel • is the leading health law team in regional NSW.

Call 1800 874 949 info@catherinehenrylawyers.com.au

catherinehenrylawyers.com.au

Health & Medical | Family & Relationships | Wills & Estates | Elder Law Sydney, Newcastle and Taree

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focus_contributor

SUE REID

novaskill

GARY Robinson

As acting senior officer at Novaskill Port Macquarie, Gary enjoys helping people to achieve their training goals ...

Choosing where to spend your retirement years is an important decision. At Catholic Care of the Aged (CCA), we make that transition as seamless as possible.

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e recently launched a when a resident nominates a friend who might “Friends to Neighbours” be interested in moving into one of our villages. program, to add to the If that friend moves into either St Agnes Village multitude of ways we bring or Lourdes Villages, the resident receives a $250 together community and gift card. lifestyle, removing the stress from the move to While residents obviously benefit from the retirement living. dollar value of the gift card, Often when faced with our main focus is to make the decision to move, a the transition to retirement common concern is losing living less stressful and more We not only encourage contact with friendship familiar. No doubt it also this, but we take it a step groups, but this doesn't helps new people moving have to be an issue. After into our villages if one of further and invite residents moving to Lourdes Village their friends recommend St to convert their friends into or St Agnes Village, our Agnes or Lourdes as great neighbours through a new residents continue to places to live. Moving into program, which CCA has maintain contact with a community with your recently launched. friends, whether it might friends already close by; be invitations to stay or what more could you ask taking part in a variety of for? activities we have on offer.

“Friends to Neighbours” We not only encourage this, but we take it a is yet another way that CCA can continue to step further and invite residents to convert their bring together community and lifestyle. friends into neighbours through a new program, More information about the program can be which CCA has recently launched. found at: www.ccacares.org.au or call Donnelly House on (02) 5525 3600.

Our “Friends to Neighbours” program works

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i Gary. Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Novaskill.

I am married with three grown boys, I reside in the Lakewood in the Camden Haven, where we have lived for 22 years. I have been in the training industry for around 20 years, and during that time have worked from Maroochydore in the north to Wagga Wagga in the south and out as far as Mudgee.

My role at Novaskill started as a casual trainer back in July 2018 within the warehousing and hospitality areas. I have since grown from full-time trainer/assessor to lead trainer in business to my current position, where I am acting senior officer for our local branch in Port Macquarie. This position has me looking after the daily running of the branch, but also trying to fit in my training role, where I look after business, retail, hospitality, warehousing and food safety.

How long has Novaskill been servicing the area?

Novaskill has been in the Port Macquarie area since 2003. It started out as a Group Training Organisation (GTO) and over the years has grown predominately into a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with GTO as a part of the organisation.

What is it about your role that keeps you coming back each day?

Excitement; it is that every day is different, and I like to set myself a challenge to make a difference in someone’s life, whether

they are students attending class or a team member doing a project. To see the smile on somebody’s face when they are finished or achieve a milestone is a real buzz.

Tell us about the different options on offer Novaskill?

At Novaskill we offer a wide range of services and options. The most popular courses are Individual Support (Cert. III, IV, Diploma), Business (Cert. III, IV, Diploma), Warehousing (Cert II, III) and Hospitality (Cert II, III, IV). We also cover Horticulture (Cert II), Retail (Cert. II, III, IV) Construction (Cert II) and Food Safety.

We run courses as full classroom-based training, as well as self-paced, including Traineeships and Apprenticeships.

How has Novaskill grown over the past two years, and what can we expect in the future?

Having only been with the organisation for a little over 12 months, I can only comment on what I have seen since arriving. The biggest change is the move from our Short Street office to the new location at 2/40 Gordon Street; we believe that the bigger exposure has helped us as a local office grow in a positive way.

We are a small, very close team, with almost everybody having less than 12 months service, that are all about growing the business together. It is a place where no-one is scared to get their hands dirty to help each other. We can see the results on the board by the team taking ownership and in fact, take it hard when we do not reach our allotted targets.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 75

Hastings Secondary College PATHWAYS FOR SENIOR SUCCESS

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HASTINGS SECONDARY COLLEGE PROVIDES QUALITY ADVICE AND GUIDANCE TO STUDENTS THROUGH A COMPREHENSIVE, SUPPORTIVE SUBJECT SELECTION PROCESS FOR STUDENTS, IN THEIR JOURNEY TOWARDS THE HIGHER SCHOOL CERTIFICATE.

tudents have the unique opportunity to make selections from one of the most comprehensive offerings of senior subjects available in any NSW school. Students can choose from the combined courses of study offered by both Westport and Port Macquarie Campuses, including industry-standard vocational education training courses, delivered in state of the art Trade Training Centres.

Hastings Secondary College provides our students the opportunity to engage in a broad, rigorous curriculum to suit individual needs and interests that support their future aspirations.

Hastings Secondary College is committed to knowing and growing every child and building a culture of students learning together and supporting and encouraging each other to do their best. We are committed to academic excellence and the development of the whole child.

The College Careers Advisers deliver a comprehensive program to students from Year 7 to Year 12 and provide individualised careers transition planning to every senior student. These programs include: classroom-based and online activities, work experience, excursions and individual counselling. They assist students and their families at subject selection time, provide advice on TAFE, university, and other training courses, scholarships, job applications, resume writing and traineeships and apprenticeships.

We speak to Careers Advisers Sally Shaw and Mark White on the Pathways for Senior Success.

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Can you tell us about the different pathways to senior success at Hastings Secondary College?

Under one college, our students can choose a Platinum Pathway (targeted academic program for those wishing to excel in their ATAR), an ATAR Pathway (students wanting access to university, college or TAFE), a FLEX Pathway (students who are still not sure what career pathway they want), Industry-Based Training - IBT (specifically for students who are looking to enter the workforce with both HSC and Vocational qualifications), and finally our FT2E - Fast Track to Employment (designed specifically for students who will benefit from intensive support to build employability skills and workplace literacies).

What partnerships does Hastings Secondary College have with employers and community?

The Port Macquarie-Hastings area is leading the way as a regional hub for employment.

Hastings Secondary College prides itself on the partnerships it has forged with local and national employers. Students at the college engage in weekly work placements in a wide variety of settings and receive outstanding expert training from industry professionals.

Our engagement with the local community is paramount for student learning, and our students regularly participate with programs provided by voluntary organisations including Rotary and Lions Clubs, Legacy, CWA, Rural Fire Brigade, Coastal Warriors, NSW State Emergency Services, Salvation Army,

headspace, Hastings Valley Community of Schools, Mid North Coast Local Health, Mid Coast Training, NSW Police, Service Clubs, Church groups, Chamber of Commerce, Players Theatre, Port Macquarie Tourism Association, Arts Council, RSPCA, Port Macquarie Astronomical Association and the Koala Hospital.

What links does Hastings Secondary College have with tertiary educators?

Hastings Secondary College maintains strong partnerships with our local regional tertiary educators, including: Charles Sturt University, University of Newcastle, Southern Cross University and University of New England. These institutions support our students from Year 7 through to Year 12 with world class programs designed to enhance student engagement and prepare students for success post school. Senior students also have access to universities throughout the whole of Australia when attending careers expos, university campus tours, guest speakers and participation in academic access programs.

Hastings Secondary College continues our strong relationship with TAFE NSW via the very successful EVET program. Students in the senior years of school have access to a wide array of Vocational and Educational Training courses delivered by TAFE campuses locally and throughout NSW. What are your best tips for senior students?

Looking after yourself - it is essential that students look after themselves both physically

and mentally during their senior years. This usually means getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising and finding a balance between studies and other activities.

Application to study - stay up to date with your ongoing course work and assessments, check key dates, summarise course notes as you go, test yourself regularly on course work, work with others in study groups and seek help from teacher and advisers.

Strive to develop the following employability skills: Good communication, motivation and initiative, leadership, reliability/dependability, following instructions, team work, patience, adaptability, emotional control and resilience.

You can build your employability skills through participation in: • part-time work • unpaid work and volunteering • sport and other hobbies • community or other group activities Make the most of every opportunity - Hastings Secondary College provides students with an amazing array of programs, activities, excursions, training courses, leadership opportunities etc. Students are encouraged to attend all of the opportunities offered to develop life-long skills.

Keep your options open - there is never just one path to success. Have more than one plan or end goal - seek advice from your parents, friends, teachers and Careers Advisers. They are here to support you on this journey.

ONE COLLEGE

MANY OPPORTUNITIES

Hastings Secondary College Port Macquarie Campus 29 Owen St, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 1844 Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus 6 Findlay Ave, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 6400 Greater Port Macquarie focus 77

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focusinterview.

Lullaby first steps

D R .

H

i Marie. Last month you created Lullaby, The First Steps. Can you explain the main motivation behind this?

About 18 months ago a young relation, who had just had twins, came to visit me. She commented that she was looking forward to me singing to her babies, so I asked what she sang already. Her response was, "Oh, I don’t sing!" The babies were exposed to plenty of other music played through the phone, but not a parent singing voice. I have been teaching choirs for over twenty years, so this response got me thinking. Was singing to babies important, and if so, had there been a change in our society, so that that was happening less?

I was in the middle of writing up my Ph.D thesis at the time, so was in research mode, and as a bit of a sideline, started reading up about lullabies. It was a revelation. I had no idea until then how important they were, and what an impact they had on parent/child bonding, emotional state and even language development. I asked around friends and family who were midwives and community nurses, and sure enough, the trend away from singing to babies was a real one.

You have created a podcast to help people sing lullabies. What is that about?

The podcast is called Lullaby: The First Steps and it is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and is also linked to my website https://www. lullabythefirststeps.com/ A new episode drops each fortnight, and I take the listener gently through the steps of learning a new lullaby. I start with the latest thing I’ve found out about why lullabies are important and then we get on to the business of singing together. It’s like we are sitting in the lounge over a cup of tea while having a chat and a sing, really. It helps people get over their fear of singing, gives them ideas what to sing and also adds to

M A R I E

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Local school teacher Dr. Marie van Gend has been teaching science and music to the community for over two decades.

IT WAS HER PASSION FOR CHOIR THAT LED HER TO PURSUE A PH.D IN MUSIC AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE AND WHILST COMPLETING HER THESIS, SIDELINE RESEARCH LED HER DOWN THE PATH OF LULLABIES. Born then was Lullaby, The First Steps. Marie's goal is to help reconnect with this slowly disappearing tradition by helping us understand the benefits for parents and their babies. their understanding of why it’s good for them and their baby.

Funnily enough, the podcast seems to have gone well beyond people singing to their babies, and people tell me they are using it to just learn to sing. Some of my past students even listen to it to go to sleep, and one person plays it to their dog to calm it down! I have had gorgeous videos and recordings of people singing what they have learned, and it is such a joyful thing to hear.

For anyone who may be uncertain, please explain what a lullaby is.

A lullaby is any song that is sung in a gentle way for the purpose of soothing a baby. It could be a Bon Jovi ballad, a theme from a commercial or a classical lullaby you remember from your childhood. The song is less important than the way it is sung (and its intention). Usually these are quite simple melodies with lots of repetition.

Why do you believe that this tradition has been slowly disappearing?

I think there are four reasons. Firstly, we live in a society where fewer people sing in their family setting as they grow up, so singing is not something that is seen as normal. It is done in a formal setting like a choir, or if you are really good then you are called a "singer" (and that is now a competitive sport). People can be self conscious, feel judged and awkward and not good enough.

Secondly, with the lessening involvement of other generations in parenting, people have lost touch with their "kin" songs (the songs that the family has traditionally sung to babies) and they may not know where to start.

Thirdly, people don’t realise that their voice is the most important thing for their babies, and think they can replace that just as well with a recording. It is not the same thing.

The fourth reason is time. We live in a world where we are constantly having to be busy and achieve things. Singing to a baby takes time, and people can feel that it saves time to leave them with a recording, so they can get on and do

something more productive.

Research tells us a lot about the effects of talking to our babies. Can you share some of the benefits of singing lullabies?

When babies are born, their main sense is auditory (hearing). The world they are born into is a single massive noise, and they use the one familiar sound (their mother’s voice) to start to make sense of that noise. They have a greater response to their mother’s singing voice than her spoken voice, and there have been many studies that have shown that singing to a baby enhances the bond between baby and parent, settles both the parent's and baby’s emotional states and communicates information.

Controlled studies have found that regular lullaby singing results in better quality sleep and shorter crying phases. There is also a strong link between singing to babies and their development of language skills. Mothers suffering from postnatal depression have been found to experience positive changes in mood after singing to their babies.

It is also something that is being more and more encouraged in neonatal intensive care units, as it has positive impacts on both the parents and baby and has even been found to help the baby cope with some of the uncomfortable procedures they have to go through. The most important factor is it is a familiar voice that is singing, not a recording.

The other really cool thing is that older kids in the family also show a really positive response to hearing a parent singing to their baby brother or sister. It represents calm, security and routine - and you may find that they will start singing lullabies themselves (and that has the added benefit of your children seeing singing as a normal part of life).

Do you have any advice for new parents, grandparents or carers on singing lullabies?

Start before your baby is born! They can hear you after they are four months in utero, and that

is where they learn to recognise your voice. It’s a good time for the dads or partners to also sing to the inside-baby, as that means there are two (or more) familiar voices when they come into the world. Just start it and find your way. Start with humming and then test yourself with a bit of a song. It doesn’t matter if you sing in tune or what words you use - your baby won’t know! They are just delighted to hear you making a noise.

You’ll find as you get more confident that your body starts responding as you sing and you get a bit of rocking happening - and then you will feel that incredible connection which is uniquely associated with singing to your baby. Grandparents, midwives, care-givers - the more the merrier!

Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations within our local region and beyond?

Since I launched the podcast at the end of August, there have been a whole lot of exciting opportunities for collaboration and research. I am currently in discussion with the University of Newcastle to develop a research project, and I have connected with a group who are working towards establishing a Lullaby Project in maternity wards across the country. There has been a lot of media interest and the podcast is going really well, with some wonderful feedback, so it seems to be filling a need.

For anyone who would like to get in contact with you, please share the best way to do so ...

To access the podcast, go to https://podcasts. apple.com/au/podcast/lullaby-the-first-stepspodcast/id1477003536 or https://open.spotify. com/show/52fJ6KUXdyENBj36TbAxb9. Please subscribe if you enjoy it, as it really helps us get it out there.

We have a Facebook page for discussions and sharing ideas as well: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/2692668317686669/?ref=bookmarks or you can contact me at mvangend@me.com Thanks Marie.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 79

Newman College CELEBRATING

forty years

F

rom humble beginnings, with a first year enrolment of less than 40 students, to become the largest Year 11 and 12 College in the Lismore Diocese, Newman College is now a leader in Vocational Education and Training (VET) - a skills-based pathway with a focus on employability skills to transition students to work and further study.

Newman College is hosting a special event to celebrate its 40 year milestone at the College on Friday 25 October, for all of those with a connection to Newman or who are interested in the Newman story (and what a story it is!).

“The collective 40th Anniversary of a College that has changed the face of senior schooling - 30 years as St Joseph’s Vocational College and 10 years as Newman Senior Technical College - is most certainly something to celebrate.”

It was the vision of the late Father Leo Donnelly, over forty years ago, to create an alternative educational pathway for students who were not necessarily catered for by traditional educational pathways; a pathway open to all young people in our region. That vision laid the foundation for Newman College, which has stayed true to its purpose and today enjoys strong connections with its community.

Newman College Principal Mark Nunan said; “On the 23 January 2019 we lost this visionary, our founder, our inspiration, our friend, but we will never lose sight of his mission, vision and purpose and honour him for giving our community such a wonderful example of caring for the needs of the entire community.”

“As with any journey, and as the timeline suggests, there are always twists and turns along the way but the outcomes have always remained strongly focused on the needs of the community.”

Building careers through work-based skills and training, Newman College provides opportunity for students to gain hundreds of hours of on-thejob training, nationally recognised qualifications, an early start into apprenticeships and traineeships and direct access to potential employers, all whilst completing the Higher School Certificate.

Newman College is recognised as the best performing VET school in Australia at the National WorldSkills Competitions and champions the achievements of young people whose measure of success goes beyond a state based ATAR. Just this month, one of the College’s Year 12 students, Arcadia Meldrum, was announced as the NSW School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year at the prestigious NSW Training Awards.

True to the vision of an alternative pathway, in 1979, 38 students enrolled at the College, but only six were still enrolled at the end of the year.

32 students had left for full-time employment, some of whom were students with disabilities. It was an outstanding success.

1979

1983

1987

1994

2001

2006

St Agnes’ Parish creates St Joseph’s Vocational College with 38 students, Sr Marie Boland as Principal.

Construction begins on the computer room, built as an on-the-job trade project, with students carrying out the work.

School Fund-raiser, win a laser!

Official Opening of the Marian Hospitality Training Centre and VOCOL Technical Training Centre on Acacia Ave by Bishop Sattherwaite.

125 students enrolled.

Became one of the first of 25 ATCs around Australia.

Known as The Australian Technical College - Port Macquarie VOCOL Campus.

The trade workshop is located in Hastings River Drive and nontrade classes taught in a temporary building behind St Joseph’s Primary School in Warlters Street.

Tom Quinn’s final year as Campus Principal.

Start of offering courses to non-school based students.

WorldSkills Nationals in Adelaide, finalists in Construction and Metal & Engineering.

Installation of 12 APPLE LC475 machines!

The Australian Technical College - Manning Valley Campus commences in Taree with Jim Dempsey as Campus Manager.

College Industry Board created.

1980

1986

1988

1999

2002

2007

St Joseph’s Vocational College and it’s 47 students move to new premises in Hay Street, Port Macquarie.

110 students enrolled in the Vocational College.

John McQueen commenced as Campus Principal.

School Uniform was introduced! Spray painting booth installed.

Australian Traineeship Scheme - Clerical Training Program commenced with 8 trainees initially.

Tom Moriarty commenced as Campus Principal in 2000.

Adam Spencer commenced as Campus Principal, refurbished VOCOL Skills Centre officially opened, by Mark Vaile MP.

250 Students, move to Boundary Street site, official Opening by Prime Minister John Howard.

The first adults course commenced. The beginning of many community training programs.

Jim O’Brien commenced as Coordinating Principal.

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Runner up - National VET in Schools Excellence Award.

Today nearly a third of Newman’s students complete their HSC while undertaking a School-based Apprenticeship or Traineeship and still a number of students leave school during this two year period to take up full-time employment. These statistics are a testament to the very positive outcomes achieved by Newman students.

Principal Mark Nunan said, ”As our College namesake, the soon to be canonised, Cardinal John Henry Newman once said, ‘why do we educate except to prepare for the world!’”

“Forty years is a significant milestone and we’re excited to celebrate it with our extensive community of students, families, employers, staff and friends and to thank them for their unfailing support and commitment to our development of pertinent vocational education”.

“The College alumni from Newman, The Australian Technical College PMQ, and St Joseph’s Vocational College or VOCOL, as it was known, contribute enormously to our local and the broader community”.

Some former students are now employers who take on workplacement students or employ the College’s Schoolbased Apprentices and Trainees; some are Newman Board members; and, some are now parents of Newman students themselves.

“Our former students are the strongest advocates for our College as they have a direct understanding of the training provided and the student experience and expectations. They truly appreciate the contribution skilled young people can make in our community.”

In November, Newman College staff and students will also take part in a day of celebration to mark the 40th anniversary and the birthday of their visionary founder, the late Father Donnelly.

“Our staff and students should be proud of the College’s history, which is one of innovation and one that has become a model, particularly in this current climate of skills shortage, leading the way for the future of education and training,” Mr Nunan said.

“Thank you to all who have contributed to the foundation, development and growth of a facility which has obviously had a significant positive impact on our community. We couldn’t achieve such great outcomes for students without our incredible network of industry, community and hard-working professional staff.”

“We look forward to reminiscing about our past, enthusing about our future and keeping the vision alive, at our 40 Year Celebration night on Friday 25 October.

We hope you can join us.”

For more information visit www.newman.nsw.edu.au/40years

2008

2012

2019

Opening of VOCOL Early Education and Business Training Centre in refurbished interior of the Marian Centre.

Stephen Pares commenced as Principal.

Mark Nunan commenced as Principal with 385 students.

Tom Moriarty won North Coast VET Teacher of the Year, Newman won North Coast VET in Schools Excellence Award.

Newman celebrates 40 years and John Henry Institute - Newman Plus commences full-time Apprentice Training on Newman College site.

Due to a change in Government and funding, certain courses had to be conducted off-site including Retail, Business and Exploring Early Childhood.

PLEASE JOIN US

g n i t a r b e Cel years Alumni, ex-staff, volunteers, employers and anyone who would like to help celebrate our collective achievements, are invited to our 40th Anniversary Celebration.

Reflect on our College’s unique history through the ‘Whispering Walls’ display and reminisce with friends whilst your taste buds are tantalized by our “Food Project” experience.

FRIDAY, 25th OCTOBER 2019 7PM - 11PM | DRESS COCKTAIL | TICKETS $20 NEWMAN COLLEGE 60 BOUNDARY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE All tickets include gourmet finger food, a complimentary drink and entertainment. Drinks available for purchase on the night. (an over 18’s event) RSVP & ticket purchase by 21st October 2019 via www.newman.nsw.edu.au/40years or via the College front office 6580 3800 | newman@lism.catholic.edu.au

2009

2017

ATC is renamed as Newman Senior Technical College. ATC, Manning Valley closes. All courses are now delivered on the one site again, VOCOL Early Education and Business Training Centre is closed. Launching of the refurbished XLCR, Newman’s floating classroom.

The new Training Cafe and Kitchen (The Food Project) and the refurbished General Learning and Administration areas are officially opened by Luke Hartsuyker MP.

* snapshots from Newman College Timeline

Greater Port Macquarie focus 81

Eureka Explorers Welcome!

Eureka Explorers is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) school holiday workshop initiative suitable for children in primary school Years 3 to 6, 2019.

Our workshops run at authentic local locations where science takes place. Children are inspired being one with nature and having fun with hands-on age appropriate activities at our creative environments.

We encourage young minds to learn through genuine scientific enquiry, so they can make sense of the world around them.

Eureka Explorers workshops include all materials, safety gear and healthy allergy free snacks for each child.

All staff are trained in first aid, and all adults are Working with Children certified. The high ratio of staff to children at our workshops delivers on our commitment to quality care.

We look forward to meeting your child at your next session with us!

WEEK 2

WEEK 1

Petriea Skitek.

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Designed by Nature: Bee Business

Lab Kids Special: Spring into Chemistry Senses

Lab Kids: pH High Tea Party

Designed

by Nature: Bee Business

Invention Friday Series: Oil Disaster Environmental Engineering

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Public Holiday

Lab Kids Special: Spring into Chemistry Senses

Lab Kids: Hairdressing Chemisty 101

Designed

by Nature: Aquatic Adventurers

Invention Friday Series: Oil Disaster Environmental Engineering

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Women business leaders in Port Macquarie Thursday 10th October, 7:30am to 10am.

free networking breakfast seminar is brought to you by Service NSW, who make it easier for small businesses to find government information.

This is a great opportunity to hear from inspiring women who have transformed their idea into a thriving business. From floristry to the creative arts, you will hear directly from entrepreneurs about their journey and the challenges they faced when getting going and growing.

A facilitated panel discussion will be led by multi award winning Kristal Kinsela-Christie, who is the owner and managing director of Indigenous Professional Services (IPS). Kristal is a proud Aboriginal role model, a descendant of both the Jawoyn and Wiradjuri nations, with more than 16 years of experience in education and training, organisational and workforce development, and supplier diversity working

across Government, Corporate and Not-forProfit sectors.

Joining Kristal in the panel discussion is Ashley Sargeson, owner of Touchwood Flowers. Ashley at the age of 18, and having never had a job before, took a huge risk and purchased Touchwood Flowers in 2015. Just two short years later, she won both the Women in Business and Young Entrepreneur Awards in 2017. She has worked hard to build a strong reputation, establish customer confidence and launch an online shop. Ashley will share her experience and how she remained flexible and adaptable in an evolving environment.

We will also be talking to Stacey Morgan, who is the owner and principal of Port Macquarie Performing Arts. Stacey is the winner of the Mid North Coast Business Award for Young Entrepreneur (three years running) and Outstanding Business Leader, locally winning the Embracing Technology Award

and Excellence in Innovation (twice). Stacey has proven what it takes to make a successful business and will be sharing her expertise on how to differentiate your business in a crowded market.

On stage we will also be hearing from Kayley Riddle, who is the owner and director of People Engine, who work with businesses to align their people engine with their strategy everyday to improve performance and profit. Not only is she a business owner, Kayley is also proudly the Vice President of the Hastings Business Women’s Network, who are committed to

empowering, educating and encouraging women in the area.

After the panel discussion you will have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, whilst accessing a range of government agencies who can help actualise your small business dreams. Government providers will include event hosts Service NSW, as well as Training Services NSW, and the ATO, just to name a few. www.businessmonth.nsw.gov.au/ event/ahead-of-the-rest-women-businessleaders-in-port-macquarie

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Thought about being a Meet the three men from MSS who volunteer their time here locally ... and find out why they enjoy it so much.

W

John Rennes

hy did you decide to become a volunteer?

I became a MSS volunteer after retirement from teaching.

I needed a reason to get out of the house, get more involved with the local community, and the staff were most welcoming.

What was the process for you to start volunteering?

This involved a short interview and the usual documentation. At first I helped on daily excursions and later became a driver. This enabled me to get to know our clients better and work to a weekly timetable.

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Ross Cutrupi

hy did you decide to become a volunteer?

I had a bit of time on my hands at the time and had seen just what MSS were doing for the elderly. I simply thought it was something I could do that is absolutely useful and rather than sitting around wondering what I could do for the day - it was right there in front of me! Plus, my partner was working there and I could see the joy she was getting out of her day to day job; I just had to try it.

What was the process for you to start volunteering?

That was very simple; just a hand in the air and yes, I am available, and I started doing a couple of outings. I saw how much the clients of MSS appreciated the help offered to them, the joy they got from the social days out, the way they got to meet others their own age and the difference it was making to their lives ...

From there, I offered to do a couple transports for the clients and simply got a real satisfaction out of talking with them and listening to their stories and experiences.

85 Greater Port Macquarie focus

How has volunteering made a difference in your life?

Felt like a good use of my time, which still allowed me time for myself to attend exercise classes, walk the dogs and join a couple of ukulele clubs.

If someone was thinking about volunteering, what would you say to them?

The advice I would give prospective volunteers is give it a go. You can work your own hours; the staff are very friendly and accommodating.

You may grow old yourself one day, so it’s a comfort to know you will still be able to access the help you need, make new friends and avoid social isolation.

I then got involved with doing more transports, as I saw how much the clients appreciate every little thing you do for them - several of these were a regular weekly thing and for some, several times a week. You can't help but befriend them with the time you spend with them. It just became part of my life.

How has volunteering made a difference in your life?

It certainly helped me appreciate my own mobility and not to take it for granted. We often joked with the clients that one day we will be in the bus as passengers with them.

If someone was thinking about volunteering, what would you say to them?

To someone who is thinking about volunteering with the aged, I would most definitely say, "Go for it". You're not just making a difference in their lives, but you're getting to mix with new people from all walks of life and turning your spare time into something useful.

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Ross Radford

hy did you decide to First you volunteer, then Police checks and doing become a volunteer? appropriate courses that are applicable to the Over ten years ago I retired type of service you give. from the NSW Police Force, Most of the charity organisations have suffering from a number of procedures to handle their clients, and none are injuries and PTSD. The number of years in the the same. front line finally took its toll, and I was referred You could be asked to assist an elderly person to a psychologist and psychiatrist. During my and learn how and what to say to them. I sessions, the treating doctor suggested I keep suppose this comes easy for me, having been myself active and volunteer to give something in the Police Force for 27 years; you have to be back to the community. able to talk the talk and get on with helping I started out volunteering with our local everyone.

Wheels on Meals organisation. I was at my How has volunteering made a difference in local golf club one day, your life? talking to a mate, and I really enjoy my time he suggested I look into helping the elderly people the Manning Support to go about their daily Services. What a good chores. It is a real pleasure Many other clients I move that was; that was seeing them smiling and have met along the ten years ago, and I'm getting about, even if it way either doing the still going strong. is only for an hour or so shopping, doctors I have regular clients - having a coffee, talking appointments or just and have been with one and generally helping them having a chat have been husband and wife the get a piece of quality in my highlights of being a whole time. their lives. They all deserve volunteer for me.

They are not clients this, and it is my pleasure to me; they are friends, in being able to help in any and its gives me so much way I can. pleasure sitting around If someone was thinking chatting about anything and everything. They about volunteering, what would you say to are from Wales and have been happily married them? for over 60 years. They talk about the war years If anyone wants to volunteer in any way, when they were young, how they met and fell I would recommend you go and do it. in love, travelling to Australia to start their new Volunteering is giving back to the community, lives with their young family and their retirement and it’s a rewarding experience for anyone who to Port Macquarie. does so. Go on - give it a go; you'll love it.

Many other clients I have met along the way; either doing the shopping, doctor's For more information, contact MSS appointments or just having a chat have been in Port Macquarie. my highlights of being a volunteer for me.

Ph: 6551 1800.

What was the process for you to start Address: 60 Home Street, Port Macquarie. volunteering?

Website: www.mssinc.org.au The process into becoming a volunteer is easy.

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EVERY second two people in the world celebrate their 60th birthday, and whether that’s in your yoga class, your workplace or your retirement village, the stats soon add up because according to the UN, almost 700 million people are now in this group.

T

he good news is we’re reaching an advanced age in greater numbers and in better health than ever before.

By 2030, just a bit over 10 years’ time, there will be 1.4 billion of us reaching this milestone, making over 15 per cent of the world’s population 60 or older.

The UN states that The International Day for Older Persons celebrates the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and continues to promote “the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by older persons”.

Human rights lie at the core of all efforts in this regard, with the UN International Plan of Action on Ageing addressing many of the issues.

Like independence - older persons should have the opportunity to work or to have access to other income-generating opportunities.

They should also be able to have a say in determining when and at what pace their withdrawal

from the labour force takes place, plus access to appropriate educational and training programs if they desire.

On participation - older persons should remain integrated in society, participate actively in the formulation and implementation of policies that directly affect their wellbeing and share their knowledge and skills with younger generations.

About care - they should have access to social and legal services to enhance their autonomy, protection and care and be able to enjoy human nights and fundamental freedoms when residing in any shelter, care or treatment facility, including full respect for their dignity, beliefs, needs and privacy and for the right to make decisions about their care and the quality of their lives.

Dignity - older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of abuse, treated fairly regardless of age, gender, racial or ethnic background, disability or other status, and be valued independently of their economic contribution.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 87

Port Macquarie CBD

Medical Centre

Private Hospital

Location, Location, Location Retire the easy way, with $10,000* to help you move. Simply settle before 20 December 2019 to be eligible.

Nestled within a vibrant community of like-minded people, a Stockland village in Port Macquarie could be just what you’re looking for. We have the perfect one, two or three-bedroom homes to suit your needs – whatever they may be.

Chat with our Sales Professional Ally O’Shea on 1800 72 71 70 or visit stocklandretire.com.au/nsw to find out more.

Bellevue Gardens Retirement Village 1 Parker Street, Port Macquarie

Lincoln Gardens Retirement Village 23 Marian Drive, Port Macquarie

• Only 1.3km to CBD • Right next door to Medical Centre and Port Macquarie Private Hospital • Indoor heated swimming pool • 24-hour personal care assistants on site • Serviced apartments available • Pet-friendly village

• Modern village with beautiful gardens throughout • Friendly and contended community • Ground level villas with no stairs • Close proximity to hospital, shopping centre and medical precinct • Pet-friendly village

Parklands Retirement Village Cnr Central Road & Hindman Street, Port Macquarie • Two-bedroom villas and one-bedroom serviced apartments available • Indoor heated pool & spa • Bowling green available for residents • Friendly village community and staff • Pet-friendly village

*Terms and conditions apply. Call 1800 72 71 70 to find out more.

Retirement 88 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Freecall 1800 72 71 70 stocklandretire.com.au/nsw

Wauchope Funerals Last month there was a national day of action that is called Dying to Know Day. It is all about encouraging Australians not to wait to talk about death. There are usually events organised around this time to discuss a whole range of issues around end of life decision making, but you don’t need a national day, or an event, to start the discussion. You can pop in and talk to us about it any day of the week.

It’s traditionally been considered a taboo topic, never to be discussed over dinner or drinks or between friends and family. But research has shown that community-led conversations about end of life care, death and loss can build compassion, understanding, and a readiness to respond in a pragmatic and positive way when

it occurs.Did you know? Australians are not dying the way they want to; 75% of us want to die at home, but less than 20% do. 75% of the community have not had end-of-life discussions with their loved ones and less than 10% die with an advance care plan; however, 60% of us think we don’t talk about death enough.

The conversation doesn’t cost you anything; you can discuss options, pre-arrange your funeral without paying a cent, prepay your funeral arrangements, or arrange a funeral bond to cover expenses. All these options mean you are selecting exactly the service you would want. So drop in, or ring for an appointment, to talk about your options and what end of life services are available.

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Grange AGED CARE

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ARE. COMFORT. RESPECT. DIGNITY. At Australian Unity’s Sienna Grange Aged Care, staff make these pillars the foundation and focus of everything they do.

Combining superior security and comfort with the highest quality health services, everything you need is on offer to make Sienna Grange your home.

Located in the beautiful coastal town of Port Macquarie, this brand new architecturally superb residence is perfect for those who value their independence and love wide open spaces and fresh seaside air.

With 68 private rooms, each residence at Sienna Grange is designed to provide comfort and fully support your lifestyle.

Purpose-built to enhance mobility, the rooms provide the ultimate in privacy and modernity, while still allowing you to add your own personal touches with pictures, keepsakes, and mementos of a life fully lived.

Regardless of your increasing care needs as time goes on, your room will always be yours, allowing you to truly feel at home.

It’s all part of what Australian Unity calls “Better Together”.

The “Better Together” ethos guides the way Australian Unity provides support and service to all its residents.

Margaret Adams, Australian Unity General Manager, Port Macquarie, Independent & Assisted Living, says involving residents in deciding how they receive care and support lies at the heart of Better Together.

“The Better Together model is all about the residents’ choice,” Margaret says. “To live how they choose to; we work very closely with the residents. They’re very much involved in how their care is provided.

“What we’ve found is people really relate to that, particularly with the Baby Boomers coming through. These are people who are very used to making decisions, they know what they want, they’ve worked hard, and now they want to have a say.”

THE FACILITIES The spaces at Sienna Grange are designed to maximise the feel of your own home. Each floor is separated into wings, which act as households, to make sure residents feel a complete

sense of familiarity and security.

Each household has dining and quiet spaces, as well as a common Keeping active is important too, and Sienna social lounge. In addition, there are The spaces at Sienna Grange offers a wide range of activities secure outdoor and garden settings Grange are designed to designed to enhance your wellbeing and that are within easy reach of all maximise the feel of your maximise your independence. rooms. own home.

Each floor Whether it’s a trip away or just a stroll through Other amenities include a is separated into wings the gardens, Sienna Grange’s professional staff barbecue area, hairdressing salon, a which act as households, is there to help residents navigate and make the café, a movie room, a craft room, a to make sure residents most of all the services and facilities. library, and a gymnasium. feel a complete sense of And it’s not only the big things that get Lorraine Calder, Australian familiarity and security. attention.

Unity General Manager, Places, It’s the attention to detail on all the little Independent & Assisted Living, says things too. the design model for Sienna Grange Residents’ wellbeing, individuality, and sense is based on a community feel that of belonging are of the highest priorities. makes each resident feel like the entire facility was their own With an atmosphere of respect, reliability, and reassurance, home. staff maximise residents’ independence, while ensuring they “We did research into trying to provide a model that isn’t feel valued and listened to. clinical,” Lorraine says. “Having looked at several models, we An important aspect of this is what Australian Unity calls decided on a household model that was different to any other “Ageing in Place”, a care model that ensures residents will established model. always stay in their own rooms, regardless of the level of care “Better Together is a model where there are no staff bases required. and the household presents as belonging to the residents, as Whether it’s respite care or permanent care, Sienna Grange opposed to a clinical space.” delivers the right care when it matters most.

Sienna Grange was created with light and airy spaces that “Whereas before there used to be two levels of care, low residents want to share with others, and residents feel much level and high level care,” Margaret says, “We don’t do that more comfortable with the flexibility this model provides. now.

We have Ageing In Place; we don’t move residents from “The model is person-centred,” Lorraine says. “It’s meant their rooms we simply support them whatever their needs may to give dignity and choice to the residents, to enable them. be.

Research has shown the household model is a big improvement “If someone does need to go to hospital for medical on the clinical model.” treatment, we’re always of the opinion they should come back NUTRITION AND ACTIVITIES home as soon as they possibly can. Our residents genuinely It’s not just the facilities that are state-of-the-art. appreciate that.

It’s those little touches that I think really make Sienna Grange recognises the importance of healthy nutrition a difference.” and is centred on wellbeing combined with fresh, seasonal, and For more information, or to book a tour of Sienna made-to-order meals.

Grange, please call Heather Downing, Admissions Each wing of Sienna Grange comes equipped with a wellstocked pantry of fresh produce and a beautiful kitchen area for Manager, on 1300 290 598. Or, for sales enquiries, please contact Gillian Evans, Sales Manager, on 1300 290 598. residents to make full use of on a daily basis.

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WITH DEBBIE SOMMERS

Many of Port Macquarie’s historic sites and early built heritage no longer survive. Most of our early buildings were poorly constructed and left to decay at the close of the penal establishment, fire razed some structures to the ground, whilst modern development and indifference at times to the value of cultural heritage resulted in the loss of others.

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new brochure and app are making headstones. The burying ground includes the it easier to access historic sites graves of convicts, soldiers and children. within the CBD area for both locals Across Clarence Street is the Focus Apartments and visitors. The brochure provides building, once the site of Port Macquarie’s first a map and short guide to over 20 commandant’s residence. Imagine the large sites, whilst the free app enables visitors to take a single storey residence with wide verandahs walk back in time and imagine what life was like and magnificent coast and hinterland views and in the early settlement, with an audio guide and how it might have looked today. Moving along historic images.

School Street and past Port Macquarie Public You can start your journey anywhere on the School, imagine the military enclosure which map provided. We recommend starting at the once occupied the site. The enclosure comprised Landing Place, now town wharf at the end of a guard house, quarters for officers, houses Horton Street, where for married soldiers and a Captain Francis Allman, military post office. together with 40 soldiers The suggested tour and 60 prisoners, landed includes a visit to St As you venture east from three ships to begin Thomas’ Church, Port towards the Hastings establishing the new Macquarie’s oldest River entrance, you will Port Macquarie penal surviving building and learn about the Lumber settlement as a place for town landmark, with Yard, and the work of secondary offenders. its associated buildings those employed there, Other locations featured which included the then including carpenters include the Royal Hotel, dispensary and surgeon’s and blacksmiths. and the Commissariat, or residence. Then on to the Government Store, and quaint Wesleyan Church, Granary, now the site the first Methodist church of the Police Station. The store, built between on the North Coast and to the remains of the 1823 and 1825, was a two storey brick building overseers’ cottages on the lower floor of the surrounded by a cobbled courtyard and high Glasshouse building. brick wall. It purchased and supplied goods for Why not pick up a brochure from the Port government use, including food, provisions and Macquarie Museum or Glasshouse Information clothing for convicts.

Centre, or download the app at izi.TRAVEL- Port As you venture east towards the Hastings Macquarie Heritage Walk and start exploring River entrance, you will learn about the Lumber Port Macquarie’s historic sites and heritage for Yard, and the work of those employed there, yourself. We suggest ending your tour with a visit including carpenters and blacksmiths. Moving up to the Port Macquarie Museum, where you can the headland to Allman Hill is Port Macquarie’s discover more of Port Macquarie’s unique history. first burying ground, with its surviving vaults and Entry on the first Sunday of each month is free.

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JULIE HO FROM PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE

landcare. update Swap ‘til you drop AUSTR ALIA’S SOUTHERN HALF HAS JUST ENDURED ITS DRIEST JANUARY-TO-AUGUST PERIOD ON RECORD.

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et, here and now we have a glorious spring display of wildflowers in coastal heath. Native plants are so amazing!

Pink boronias and bright yellow pea flower bushes light up the bush.

Many shrubs have starry white blossoms. On

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the ground are flannel flowers, orchids, even early Christmas Bells.

No wonder customers at the community nursery ask if we stock wildflowers like these.

Well, our nursery doesn’t focus on heath species, but we do have beautiful, easy-togrow coastal plants for gardens. And, we are swapping them for your weeds each Monday

morning!

It’s easy: come to the community nursery with photos of the weeds you removed, and we will give you “native” seedlings in exchange. With many different species to choose from, you’re sure to find a substitute you like.

Seaside natives are a good choice, as they tolerate salt, wind, and infertile soils. Coast Wattle, Coast Banksia and Coast Boobyalla bushes all have bright flowers. Red Olive Plum (Elaeodendron) is a tough seaside tree with beautiful fruits.

They all grow quickly in your garden and they need less water and fertiliser, especially if you use mulch to protect the soil from wind and heat.

This is important, because dry conditions and high temperatures are going to continue for the rest of the year, forecasters say. There may also be more of the winds that are stealing soil moisture.

So, if Landcare can help with your garden, visit our nursery in the NPWS depot at the end of Blackbutt Road on Mondays between 9am and noon.

We have trees, ground covers, shrubs, rainforest plants, seaside plants, and lots in between - see Plant Profiles on www.landcareportmac.com.au Each gardener can have three without charge, and extras cost $1.50 each (cash only). We ask you please to bring your own bag to carry them home.

The challenging conditions gardeners face are likely to continue, and the reasons are complex.

Firstly, average temperatures have risen by one degree due to climate change. That doesn’t sound like much, but it means hot weather is more frequent, starts earlier and is more intense.

Recent dry conditions are driven by coolerthan-average waters in the Indian Ocean; this is termed a positive Indian Ocean Dipole. The Bureau of Meteorology says IOD is currently the main influence on Australia’s climate, as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) remains neutral.

“All climate models surveyed by the Bureau indicate the positive IOD is likely to continue for the southern hemisphere spring. Typically, a positive IOD brings below average winter-spring rainfall to southern and central Australia, above average daytime temperatures for the southern two-thirds of Australia, and an increased fire risk in the southeast.” http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/enso/ It’s been windier than normal, with more dry air from the interior of our continent.

This can happen when the westerly winds that surround Antarctica reach further north, due to warming in the stratosphere over Antarctica.

Julie Ho.

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Prickly princess and the Pixies.

Author Kay Morrison and illustrator Elizabeth Kent have combined their talents to produce a beautiful children’s book, "The Prickly Princess and the Pixies".

The book will be launched at Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard on October 19, along with a colouring in competition and a special treasure hunt!

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Kay Morrison

i Kay. What's your association with the Greater Port Macquarie area?

We moved to Port Macquarie just over three years ago. We had relocated to Stuarts Point from the Southern Highlands area, when we decided to try a sea change

in 2008.

Our decision to come to Port Macquarie was influenced by the availability of good hospitals, an airport and an excellent choice of consumer facilities.

Upon our arrival to Port, we decided to join some volunteer organisations and pursue our interests. My husband and I both became volunteers at Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard, and we also joined the Port Macquarie Lions. I became a member of Port Macquarie Toastmasters, Quota and Port Macquarie Writers Inc. How did you come up with the idea to write a children's book - had it always been a dream of yours?

I had at one point in my career been a teacher librarian and had always had a love of children's literature. I had written and directed many plays for both adults and children in the past, as well as short stories and poems, which were published in local anthologies.

When my friend, Liz, approached me about us doing a book together, I jumped at the opportunity. I had always wanted to write a story for children, but I guess I had never decided the time was right, until now.

Tell us a little about the plot of The Prickly Princess and the Pixies (without giving away the ending!)

The Prickly Princess and the Pixies tells the story of a unique Australian insect who finds herself in a new environment. It is her search for love and acceptance that makes this story so poignant.

Liz brings to life, through her beautiful illustrations, the amazing local flora and fauna of our Mid North Coast rainforest. This book is a combination of fantasy and fiction

and provides a challenge for children to use their visual skills to locate the giant prickly stick insect in its various hiding places throughout the book.

What age readers do you feel the book most is most suited to?

This book is suitable for children from ages two to 12.

Even teenagers and adults would find enjoyment from reading it.

How did the collaboration with illustrator Elizabeth Kent come about?

Liz and I have been friends since we moved to Stuarts Point when we were involved in the reformation of the Stuarts Point Players. I wrote the story and suggested the page numbers, and she complemented it with her wonderful illustrations.

Where can we purchase copies of the book, or find out further info?

We are having our book launch at the Garden Party Open Day at Douglas Vale Historic Homestead and Vineyard on Saturday 19th October. This is being held in conjunction with National Gardening Week, which runs from 13th until 19th October.

This year the theme for National Gardening Week is “Children in Gardens”. We thought that our story was very applicable to this theme, and we have conducted a colouring in competition where we have invited all the local primary schools to participate. The winners will be awarded on the day at 12:15pm, and all finalist entries will be on display.

We are also running a treasure hunt to find the giant prickly stick insect, and all children who complete the hunt will receive a prize.

Books cost $12 and can also be purchased by contacting Elizabeth Kent at iannliz@live.com.au Thanks Kay. Interviews: Jo Robinson.

Elizabeth Kent

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hat part of the North Coast do you call home?

I call Grassy Head Way area home.

What’s a little of your background as an artist/illustrator?

I think I’ve done everything - pottery, photography, oil painting, murals, watercolour, millinery, hairdressing. I’ve always been creative!

I think I was inspired by my father; he was a photographer. I learnt from him to see the beauty in everything … The way the light at different times of the day affect the colour in a photo, or the way a drop of water glistens on a leaf after rain … To capture a special moment.

When I was young, I was always drawing. I first started painting with oil paints, then my sister showed me watercolour; I loved it - I found it so easy.

I have done a lot of travelling around Australia, and it was easy to take my water paints with me.

How did you create the illustrations for The Prickly Princess and the Pixies? Were they completed digitally or on paper, and what media did you use?

When I illustrated our book, I took photos of the plants in my garden and was lucky enough to have taken a photo of the Giant Prickly Stick Insect. I also have pixie figurines in my garden.

I then did watercolour paintings - with a bit of imagination - from my photos.

What did you most enjoy about the creative process for this book?

To create each page was quite a challenge. We were aiming to entertain children around five years old, so the painting had to say the words. I loved that my paintings were telling a story and were not just another picture to put on the wall.

Thanks Liz. Greater Port Macquarie focus 95

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I

t takes many architectural design elements combined together to deliver a home that is sophisticated yet synthesises a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere, October FOCUS Home of the Month is that plus much more. Chrissy Jones has the pleasure of presenting 74 The Anchorage, Port Macquarie, an exceptional example of timeless, luxurious coastal Hamptons, built to perfection by Shipway Constructions and designed by James Collins of Collins W Collins in close consultation with Trailea Stewart of Trailea Designs and Interiors.

Standing proud in its surrounds, the executive

residence is Hamptons inspired and leaves nothing to the imagination when it comes to detail. From its immaculate formal gardens, water views, shingle style roof tiles, custom built internal staircase and extensively fitted out kitchen to the salt water glass pebbled pool, covered alfresco entertaining area and five large size bedrooms all with water views, it is everybody’s dream home.

Features abound inside and out. The exterior has a detailed roof line and Juliet style balconies whilst the interior boasts decorative fret work, internal wall panelling and 9ft ceilings; a white picket fence completes the picture. Catering for the water sport enthusiast, the home has easy

access to the rear of the property to its own boat ramp and jetty. All is secured by custom made electronic gates with intercom entry and security cameras cover the entire property.

Step inside, take a breath and be in awe of the large scale symmetry of the clean horizontal lines, unique timber panelling accents, highend luxury finishes and be illuminated by an abundance of natural light.

You are instantly welcomed with a warm and inviting ambience from the tasteful accent lighting that embraces and compliments the immediate charm of the home. In true Hamptons style, the handcrafted stairwell is a standout with detailed white posts and handrails.

A chef inspired deluxe kitchen, from Designer Living Kitchens, has a four-metre island, 40mm stone bench-tops with under cabinet lighting and wainscot cabinetry fronts, it is a delight.

Top quality appliances have been incorporated including a Llve double oven and range hood, Asko dishwasher, teppanyaki grill, deep fryer and six gas hot plates; all combine expertly to create a cooks haven.

The home also boasts timber flooring and travertine tiles from Colortile on the ground floor and quality wool carpet throughout on the upper level. Individually controlled ducted air-conditioning and Hunter Pacific fans add to the comfort.

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Designed to encompass indoor-outdoor living at its finest, you can sit back and relax in the alfresco and absorb the expansive waterfront views across the tranquil inlet to the river, mountains and beyond - all poolside. A Smeg BBQ with range hood and Fisher and Paykel bar fridge have been incorporated into the outdoor kitchen adding to the amenities on offer.

The luxurious saltwater pool, that features glass pebble tiles and a translucent balustrade surround, is inviting and presents an ideal spot to laze away the day basking in the sun. As dusk sets in, be captivated by the shining beacon of the lighthouse and the night lights of the Port Macquarie Town Centre. The tranquil sound of the lapping waves of the nearby waterway complete the senses.

Cleverly laid out for adaptability, the home consists of five spacious bedrooms, with four boasting water views and two with their own

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private terrace, three bathrooms and offers duallevel living with both private intimate zones and laid back coastal living spaces for both relaxation and entertaining family and friends.

The master bedroom encompasses an extensive two-way water view, ensuite with bathtub and stand-alone walk-in double shower, dual wainscoting vanities and mirrored cabinetry walk-in closet.

The coastal colours, muted blues and soft-toned timbers, gentle, enveloping upholstery, touches of texture and a focus on solid architectural features, portrays a kind of moneyed nonchalance.

This Hamptons style home is the ultimate expression of breezy, casual seaside living. It is a truly magnificent home that revisits the luxury of family living that stands out from its neighbours.

FROM THE OWNER - TRAILEA DESIGNS AND INTERIORS

Passionate and with a clear vision to design an elegant relaxed Coastal Hampton home, mastermind creator Trailea Stewart from ”Trailea Design and Interiors”, engaged the expertise of PMQ Building Company "Shipway Constructions" and Building Designers "Collins W Collins" “I knew it was going to be the attention to detail that would make this home extraordinary”, says Trailea.

“I wanted to design a luxurious Hampton home that immediately felt calm and reflected a classic, timeless and homely feel. Indoor/outdoor entertaining was a key element where family and friends could gather and create wonderful memories”.

I was confident that the combined experience and creativity of Shipway and Collins W Collins

was the right choice to implement my design".

FROM THE BUILDER - SHIPWAY CONSTRUCTIONS About This Project The quality of this Hampton’s inspired home stands out on one of Port Macquarie’s beautiful waterways. Lapped external cladding, natural stonework, traditional tiled roof and the colour palette draw your eye from the street. Further detail in the white gables and entrance portico, balustrades, picket fences and custom made gates all lend themselves to the traditional Hampton’s Style.

Not only is the interior styled to perfection, the character of the home is brought out in the richly toned timber floors, Shaker style cabinetry and elegant woodwork. French style glass doors

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• connect the rooms and detailed panelling in the formal entry all add to its charm.

The owners of this stunning home were exceedingly happy with their finished home and we are delighted to be able to showcase it.

Who are Shipway Constructions?

We're a proud local company providing quality professional building services to Port Macquarie and the greater Mid North Coast region. Our main goal is to give our clients what they should be getting: A custom home that fully reflects their personality and helps them to create the lifestyle they dream of.

This is why we focus on your journey to ensure the best outcome. We will listen carefully to your ideas and be by your side all the way through design to completion, working together to achieve your dream home!

Our team of highly skilled and qualified carpenters and tradespeople take great personal pride in the quality of each and every project.

We appreciate how important it is to get it right, because we're not just building a home, we're building a lifestyle!

What do you specialise in?

At Shipway Constructions we specialise in

Custom Designed Homes. We also love to transform and revitalise existing homes, with an extension or renovation.

We understand the journey from concept to keys may be daunting or confusing, with building plans, contracts, council applications and a seemingly endless list of decisions.

At Shipway, we walk beside you every step of the way, liaising closely with your Building Designer or Architect, plus providing invaluable advice and support relating to all aspects of your project.

FROM THE DESIGNER - COLLINS W COLLINS James Collins of Collins W Collins worked closely with Trailea Stewart of Trailea Designs and Interiors to create this magnificent Hamptons inspired luxury home overlooking the Hastings River that encapsulates the vast water views from as many rooms in the home as possible. The home needed to cater for large social gatherings with an open plan kitchen leading to a large alfresco area that captures winter sun and can be closed from the southerly wind all whilst maintaining everyday privacy for the owners.

Other needs and wants: • Utilise natural light in living areas

• •

External, safe play areas for children that can be secure from the street Access from the street to the water for boat and water sport vehicles Style, Storage and Size were imperative within this design!

Design Solution from Collins W Collins This Hamptons inspired home was created to ensure the clients brief of Style, Storage and Size was met by incorporating extensive glazing, feature pieces such as decorative ceilings, crafted wall panelling, timber floors and impressive finishes throughout. A large modern, well equipped kitchen encompassing a panoramic water view leads to a north facing sitting room which takes advantage of the elements in the cooler months.

A ‘bigger than normal’ garage with drive through access gives the owners not only additional storage but also access from the street to the boat ramp, jetty and water for their boat and any other water sports crafts whilst a secure, private front courtyard was established to enable safe children's activities.

A climate controlled alfresco area has been positioned adjacent to the feature glass pebble pool which is enhanced by the formal landscaping. Having the home with a second

storey not only compliments this Hamptons inspired home, but also allows the occupants to capitalise on the vast waters views from as many vantage points as possible.

Award Winner - 2018 BDAA Design Awards This magnificent home landed James and the Collins W Collins team a top gong at the 2018 Building Designers Association of Australia National Awards night, taking home the award for New residential Buildings 351-450sqm

ABOUT COLLINS W COLLINS We are a family owned-operated Building Design Firm established in 2003, offering a wide range of building design and ancillary services for the Port Macquarie-Hastings, Greater Taree and Great Lakes regions.

Directors (and brothers), Derek and James, have a passion for building design and have been the well-deserving recipients of multiple Design Awards from BDAA, TIDA, HIA, MBA and more.

WHY USE A BUILDING DESIGNER? Value for money, design experience to maximize development potential AND a guiding hand through the design and approval process.

Contact Collins W Collins to take your first step in designing your own masterpiece.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 99

Corrine Cunningham Corrine is associated with the award winning Elders Lifestyle group and joined the team in 2017. Corrine is recognised for her high-quality service and dedication to her clients. Working above and beyond the call of duty is just second nature for Corrine as she is devoted to achieving exceptional results.

Corrine has a unique understanding of the wants and needs of out of area buyers, with the enthusiasm, dedication and expertise to ensure she is the ideal choice to fulfil your real estate needs.

A polished approach to client services as well as refined organisational skills, Corrine understands that every property and situation is unique in its own right and delivers genuine empathy with a down to earth, client focused approach.

The service Corrine provides as well as her negotiation skills and clients trust ensures that whether selling a multi-million dollar home or an entry-level apartment, the property is always presented the best in its class and achieves an outstanding result.

With countless record sales to her credit, Corrine continues to raise the benchmark in her pursuit for outstanding results.

Corrine’s dedication to achieving the best results for her clients not only continually exceeds expectations but often surpasses street sale records, auction results and client expectations.

Corrine's impressive achievements include 5th Ranking agent for NSW, Elite Salesperson for 2018 and Marketing Award 1st in NSW and 1st Nationally. Accomplishing stand out results, Corrine's property sales from January this year to current are $33,436,000.

Backed by highly regarded REINSW Auctioneer of the year & Elders Lifestyle group founder, David Gray, the success of Elders auctions can be contributed to David’s expertise in auctioneering combined with the credentials and dedication of the awardwinning Elders team.

TESTIMONIAL Trailea Stewart - Vendor “Corrine was a first-class professional during the process of selling our home. Knowledgeable, caring and respectful, Corrine's dedication to achieving an outstanding result for us was exceptional. The marketing strategy that she implemented for 74 The Anchorage generated over 100 enquiries, resulting in strong buyer inquiry and ensured a winning outcome. We sincerely thank Corrine for her passion, tenacity and hard work. I would encourage anyone wanting to sell their home to contact Corrine.”

Corrine Cunningham Licensed Real Estate Agent & Stock & Station - Elders Real Estate Port Macquarie

Mobile: 0409 468 773 | Phone: 02 6584 1199 corrine.cunningham@eldersrealestate.com.au facebook.com/corrinerealestateagent 70 100Greater GreaterPort PortMacquarie Macquariefocus focus

E XC E E D I N G E X P E C TAT I O N S

TRAILEA

DESIG NS & INTERIORS

Trailea Stewart - Phone: 0414 802 171

Sharon Rathbone - Phone: 0421 407 520 Greater GreaterPort PortMacquarie Macquariefocus focus101 71

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FEATURE PROFILE

Adrian ROBERTSON M C R

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B U I L D I N G

i Adrian. Thanks for speaking to us about your award winning, commercial building company MCR Building. As a Master Builders Association member with over 130 years' combined construction experience in commercial, retail, education, sports facilities and aged care construction, tell us about what drives you in business ...

To be successful in business today, both Melanie and I are highly motivated, and it is this that impacts on every aspect of our daily business and private life. In our view, to be successful requires one to have passion, integrity and honesty, in all aspects of the business. We also both realise that we cannot be expert at all aspects within the construction industry ourselves, which leads us to understand the importance of the team we surround ourselves with.

At MCR Building, our mission is Exceeding Expectations. Both Melanie and I set out in the business to deliver high quality construction projects that exceed our clients’ expectations in the quality of the project finishes, in their experience in working with MCR, and in delivering projects within budget.

You recently appointed a General Manager; can you tell us about him?

We decided that we wanted to grow and expand the company and in order for us to do that, we appointed a new General Manager, Steven Meechan, who has been involved with some of the larger Queensland building companies, such as General Manager for Matrix Homes and 50 Plus, as well as General Manager for MJH Multi, part of the MJH Group here in NSW. In the short time since his coming over to 102 Greater Port Macquarie focus

the business, we have focused on resetting the company in many areas, from systems and processes to educating and empowering our staff to undertake what is required to be done by them within their projects to succeed. We have focused on developing an ethos which gives the team the accountability and responsibility to deliver the best for our clients - to motivate by getting them to embrace their projects.

What are some of the recent completed projects throughout the region we would know, and what are some currently underway?

MCR Building have completed many projects within our region, including works at some of our local schools, Taree TAFE, St Clare’s High School, Coastal Brewing Company, Taree Auto Group and many others. We are also working throughout the Mid North Coast on other projects, including Department of Justice and Social and Community Housing Projects. Our project locations currently span from the Hunter region, Mid North and North Coast regions.

We have also recently signed a contract awarding MCR Building as sole building company to construct the new local development at Tallwoods Golf and Country Club. This will consist of a high-level, award winning over 50s golfing lifestyle resort and community facilities, along with hotel accommodation and conferencing facilities.

Tell us about the areas of expertise the skilled construction team can offer clients?

MCR has many levels of expertise within the construction industry, from apprentices and trades through to our General Manager having a master’s degree and being a Fellow of the Australian institute of building (FAIB).

Our staff are professionally trained and qualified in the discipline necessary for the

success of the business. We currently employ a range of staff, including project managers, contract administrators, site managers and foreman, accounts and maintenance manager.

Our skilled team provide the following services: • Construct only projects • Design and construct • Project management • Contracts administration • Cost plus contracts • Facilities maintenance and management You are also a proud business sponsor of many sporting and school-based initiatives around the region. Why is this important to you professionally?

MCR are proud to work on projects that will deliver first class infrastructure to our region. In turn, we understand the importance of giving back to our community.

MCR Building do this either by giving time and/or financial support to a number of local sporting clubs, including Wingham Kart Club, Forster Surf Life Saving Club, Sporties Tuncurry Netball Club and Riding for the Disabled, where we sponsor two horses.

Quality construction and project management is key to your business model. Tell us how your business continues to be at the forefront of research and development, including its level of expertise, software, Council compliance etc.?

MCR are also ISO accredited for Workplace Health and Safety and for Quality. In order to maintain our international standard accreditation, MCR undergo an annual review of our systems, policies, procedures and processes. We must remain up to date and reflect current best practice standards in all we do. MCR recently obtained approval for the government pre-qualification scheme for

construction to the value of $10M. The company boasts high staff retention, with a significant percentage of staff over 50 years of age, as well as a strong focus on apprentice development and trade accreditations. How does employee development and retaining highly qualified staff in their fields increase the ability of the company?

MCR recognises the value that a diverse teams brings to the morale of a workplace, as well as the benefits to the delivery of projects.

Melanie is an active member of the Master Builders Women in Construction special interest group, and we are proud that the team at MCR is made up of 45% women.

This is significant in construction, which has an average of around 11%.

We currently have three cadets who are studying at the University of Newcastle and feel it’s important to nurture and create our own home grown professionals. Our apprentices and cadets are the future of the industry and are mentored and supervised by our senior, highly knowledgeable staff.

What is your vision going forward for MCR Building, and what areas of development are in the works?

MCR Building will continue to do what we do best - deliver high quality construction projects that exceed our clients' expectations.

We are excited about the upcoming works at Tallwoods Golf and Country Club and whilst it is at the master planning process phase, it is something we look forward to working on around mid 2020.

Additionally, we have recently opened an office in Newcastle. This is due to the recent expansion in projects in the Hunter region.

We are also planning for our third ISO accreditation in Environmental Management.

Thanks Adrian.

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Newton Blinds With mortgage lending proving difficult at the moment - what better time to renovate and update your existing home?

Those of us who had considered moving in order to upgrade may now be re-assessing our options - spending a smaller amount to update our current home will make us appreciate home more and make us happy to stay, but also means that should the time come, the house is very presentable and ready for sale.

Changing your existing window coverings can give your home a complete overhaul - updating to *Modern roller blinds with day/ night options *Plantation shutters *Panelglides *Venetians *Verticals *Viewlines *Roman Blinds will transform your home both inside and out.

It may be your outdoor area in need of some TLC - we are an authorised Ziptrak retailer - and also offer *Aluminium Shutters *Café Blinds *Auto Awnings *Folding Arm

104 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Awnings - all of which will allow you to open up to the warmth when you want it and protect from the cold as required and also offer protection from wind and rain or excessive heat.

Are your awnings looking a bit tired?

Did you know we can supply and install new awning fabrics if your awning mechanisms are still working fine - it may be your canvas is mouldy or the fabric has torn over time or just in need of a fresh new colour scheme; this option is much more affordable than a whole new awning and gives the outside of your home the renewed look you’re hoping for.

Whatever you may have in mind to update and refresh your home, we have all the answers, plus lots more - give us a call to arrange a free measure and quote: 0419 277 651, email: sales@newtonblinds.com.au or find us at www.newtonblinds.com.au or on Facebook.

Port Macquarie Bathroom Renovation Specialist Nothing "lifts" a house more than a modern, luxury, designer bathroom. If yours is looking a bit tired or doesn’t quite meet your needs, the good news is - you can fix it. Done right, it not only improves your own quality of life, it significantly increases the value of your home.

At Pacific Designer Bathrooms, each project is unique, because each customer’s needs are different. Regardless of your budget, we’ll work with you to customise your bathroom just the way you want it, not the “standard” way everybody does it.

That’s not to say we won’t offer you some useful advice. Patrick’s experience is invaluable

when it comes to optimising the balance between design and function, so the space is properly utilised. He personally does the layout design and product selection with you, to guarantee the ideal end result.

With Patrick’s knowledge and expertise, plus the skills of our hand-picked, fully qualified contractors, projects from small alterations to complete layout redesigns are delivered at the highest quality in the industry. Our reputation depends on it.

Superior quality designer bathrooms - with the wow factor.

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RENOVATING

RENOVATING an investment property is often considered a foolproof plan guaranteed to boost rental return.

T

he truth is, it's not always as straightforward as it seems and when you're dealing with an unstable market, the financial gains of renovating can be outweighed by the loss

priority list, but after property prices fell, the rental market swiftly followed.

Property managers found it hard to fill the vacant properties on their list, especially older properties.

"In order to remain competitive or in equity. appealing, the older properties were including These are some of the mistakes I made when lawn mowing, free rent offers, upgrading renovating my investment property, and what I appliances," said Erceg. learnt from the process.

3. Living in the property 1. Ignoring market Living in the property trends while I was renovating As an owner of an caused extended investment property for timeframes and loss of IN ORDER TO REMAIN more than a decade, I felt rental income.

COMPETITIVE OR I was in a safe position to My top tips? Pay for APPEALING, THE OLDER renovate. However, my storage, plan to cut PROPERTIES WERE lack of market research construction times, INCLUDING LAWN before I took to the schedule delivery of MOWING, FREE RENT sledgehammer hit my hip materials and stay on top OFFERS, UPGRADING pocket hard. of trades, so timeframes APPLIANCES ...

At the time, prices don't blow out. in Perth were about to 4. Overcapitalising plummet, and over the Smart renovators following 18 months recognise when cheap vacant properties alternatives can be used dominated the market. to cut costs, while still offering added value to Verse Property Group director Steve Erceg tenants. said some investors were forced to sell.

In my case, stonebenchtops and engineered "With declining rent and property values, timber floorboards were a poor decision for some owners didn't have the money or luxury the target demographic. to wait out a recovery," he said.

Alternative materials would have drastically I'd heard the mining boom was slowing reduced my costs and provided a similar finish. and the construction industry struggling, However, while the renovation chewed up but I assumed it wouldn't impact established a large sum, Erceg said renovated properties properties. rent better than unrenovated homes in a tough And yet years later, the market has still not market. recovered and it's tipped to be a slow burn.

"With the lower rent values, tenants have 2. Not watching the rental market greater choice and ... the right to be fussy in Monitoring the rental market wasn't on my their property selection," said Erceg.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 105

focusinterview.

Rob & Dylan Smith

H

i guys. What’s your connection with both the Greater Port Macquarie and New England areas?

Rob: I was born in Inverell, and our family moved to Port Macquarie with my job in 1997.

Our three boys were raised at Elsmore in the Inverell district. Due to a doctors' strike, Dylan was born in Armidale on Valentine's Day in 1988.

Dylan: I was born in Armidale, but grew up at Elsmore, just outside of Inverell. Our family lived in Elsmore until I was close to 10 years old, and then we moved to Port Macquarie with Dad’s work. I have always felt a strong connection with the New England area and regularly came up to go hunting and fishing after we moved. I eventually decided I wanted to move back, and I did so in December of 2018.

You've combined your talents to write, record and release your first song together a single called Big Water. How did you come up with the idea to work on this project?

Rob: Around a campfire in 2018, Dylan said, "We should write some country songs together". I had never written a song but, as a retiree, I have time to learn and I was keen. I knew we'd want to write a high energy song for Dylan's guitar work and, as it turned out, a song about a powerful natural phenomenon like the Macintyre River in flood was a natural fit.

Dylan and I learned guitar from Bernie Killen in Inverell, but Dylan has gone on to leave me in the dust as a player. I'm a strummer; Dylan's a musician. I'm confident with words, wrote the lyrics and purchased a MIDI keyboard to improvise the bones of a melody on my 106 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Father and son Rob and Dylan Smith respectively call Port Macquarie and Armidale their homes, but both have a strong connection with the Inverell area. Their memories of and friendship with 88-year old Elsmore farmer Ray Mepham and his remarkable relationship with the mighty Macintyre River sparked a desire to pen a song … hence, The Falconeers’ first single, “Big River”, was born … fish propagation are, his role as a riverwatcher computer. I emailed the raw materials to Dylan, inspired our song. and he breathed life into them with his guitars For many years, Ray kept an eye on the and drum programming. When I listened to the Macintyre River and warned Inverell when major rough MP3 file that he sent back, I thought, floods were imminent. Big Water documents the "Wow - this could be something!" floods of 1955 and 1976. Ray observed an RAAF Dylan: We’d sung together around campfires Lincoln bomber surveying the Macintyre valley and a few other places, but never for any in the 1955 flood, and serious projects. From that just had to feature my middle-teen years, in Big Water. The 1976 well into adulthood, my flood was the fallout from favourite style of music Ray’s love and devotion to the Tropical Cyclone Alan. to listen to and play was Australian bush is something Dylan: Ray is a true salt heavy metal. Dad always to aspire to. People from of the earth gentleman. had an appreciation, the country have an He has been very good to but didn’t participate. appreciation for rivers our family over the years, When I was at university and wildlife in a way that and we love spending in Newcastle, I formed a people from the city might have time at his property. death metal band and did a hard time understanding.

Ray’s love and devotion a lot of the music writing/ to the Australian bush is arranging and developed something to aspire to. a familiarity with the People from the country software required to have an appreciation for write and record music. rivers and wildlife in a way that people from Having said that, Dad and I have always loved the city might have a hard time understanding. country music, and we both love the Aussie We thought, what better way to show Ray how bush, so when we were tossing around ideas to write a song, it made sense to focus on a subject much we think of him than writing a song about him? that we were both passionate about.

You launched the song on community radio What can you tell us about the subject of back in July. What's the feedback been like the song - Elsmore farmer Ray Mepham? so far?

Rob: After Dylan suggested we collaborate, it Rob: Inverell has embraced our song, but it is occurred to me that our first ever song could be yet to be widely played on air because we have about our dear friend, whom I had met when only just completed the tasks to register it with I wrote for fishing magazines in the 1980s. In APRA and upload to digital media distributors.

1970, Ray was the first person to breed Murray As was engineering the audio mix for Big Water, Cod in captivity, after the pioneering work learning how to publish a song online was a of the NSW fisheries biologist Dr John Lake. challenge.

As impressive as Ray's contributions to native

Dylan: I’m only new to the community I’m currently living in, but people at work think it’s great. Many of them didn’t know I was a musician, so it’s nice to show people a different side of me. By far though, the best response has been from the Inverell community - especially people who know Ray. He is admired by everyone who knows him.

Where can we listen to and purchase/ download the single?

Rob: The official music video can be found on YouTube by searching for The Falconeers channel, which also contains 10 other videos that tell the backstory of the song and how we wrote, recorded and produced it as a family DIY project and with the help of musician friends, singer/songwriter Michael O'Sullivan and violinist Maria Ryan.

The audio is available on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube, Amazon and other platforms, and we are distributing it to radio stations now.

Dylan: I think we will write plenty more songs in the future, but we are a bit burned out from this project. I found the writing and arranging of the music very easy, but the amount of work Dad put into the video is incredible.

We have tossed a few ideas and subjects around over the last couple of months, and I’d like to work on some new songs in the New Year. While the feel of the songs may be different, they’ll be more of what people have come to expect of us - stuff about Aussies.

Thanks guys.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

3/90 Horton Street, Port Macquarie 02 6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au

MORE THAN GOOD PEOPLE 107 Greater Port Macquarie focus

At HEM, we like to treat everyone the way we like to be treated ourselves. In two short years, our innovative, client focused approach has seen HEM quickly grow into one of Port Macquarie’s best performing and most loved real estate brands. Our close-knit team of experienced, highly skilled property professionals share a dedication to a set of guiding principles where client service is ranked above all else. Striving to raise the bar and deliver a stress-free journey to sold, we surround ourselves with everything that is great - great people, great marketing,great technology, great ideas.

But above all, it is great results that sets us apart. At HEM, we achieve maximum results for our clients by never forgetting that the difference is in the details. So if it’s more than the average you’re seeking, make sure you contact us.

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