Issuu

Julia Jacklin

December 2019// 2019//issue 169

2 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson jo@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Chrissy Jones JP chrissy@focusmag.com.au

Welcome to the December issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

SALES EXECUTIVE Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

SALES SUPPORT Claire Dunkley claire@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Phiranno Chuon phi@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Cristian Campano cristian@focusmag.com.au

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

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of printing, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as 'Interview or Contributor' are non-sponsored content. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 62128786005. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2005-2019 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation. FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

WHAT’S ON

02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts,Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Opening hours Monday to Friday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: 9:00am - 4:00pm Closed Christmas Day

Follow Glasshouse:

It's those final few weeks, where the pressure is turned on high to make it to the end of another year in one piece. If you're like us, then you might be feeling a bit emotionally drained and tired after what has been a chaotic few weeks let alone a full on year being in business! Our teams across all our publications have battled our way through two weddings, the birth of two babies, the loss of a dear team member to cancer, and the destruction of drought and fires on our doorsteps (literally), never ending deadlines, the need to constantly be better at what we do and to be a good community member. Fifty-two editions of FOCUS publications, more than 1,000 local stories and about 5,000 advertisements ... Phew! The good news is that with only a few weeks to go, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel

ences being a part of this wonderful organisation for such an extended period of time. It was also perfect timing to chat with photographer Kathy McMillan, who specialises in capturing your feathered, furry or scaly friends in portraits that will become treasured mementos. Kathy also organises Christmas photo sessions for your fur-friends! GRAPHIC DESIGNER: we're looking for an experienced Graphic Designer to join our team! Enquiries can be sent to info@focusmag.com.au Good wishes for the holiday season. Whether you intend to stay in our beautiful part of the world or venture off regionally or further afield, please stay safe, enjoy some sun and family time - and we will see you in 2020!

NLY

O HT

- sunny days, ocean swims, walks on the beach, and time spent with friends and family, recharging and getting ready for 2020! Starting off the festive season, we'll be heading down to our favourite little festival - FOTSUN - for an epic lineup of bands and artists. Some of the crew, headed up by Festival Director Simon Luke (Unicorn) feature on our front cover, and we've interviewed them on page 18. Plus, you can also read about headliner Julia Jacklin and notable artist Baker Boy in this edition. A huge thanks to Gavin Moroney, our Coffs Harbour based photographer, who's been making the trip down here to capture these front covers for us! In this edition we also meet Andrew Tulloch, a local hero who's been with the Rural Fire Service for 40 years this month. Andy shares his experi-

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MEET OUR LOCAL ARTISTS: KERRY WHEELDON SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER, 11am - 3pm Free

JACK FLASH & FRIENDS EAST COAST SUMMER TOUR

SATURDAY 28 DECEMBER, 8pm Join Australian acts Cheryl and The Wisemen and Ezra Lee Trio, in a new event trilogy for Port Macquarie. Enjoy full sets of live music and a dance troupe - this concert will be a holiday must-see! Special group prices available.

BERIC HENDERSON SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER, 11am - 3pm Free

RHIANNON SIMMONDS 6 DECEMBER, 5.30pm - 7.30pm Fun Felt badges

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this Christmas!

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Design your own monoprint tote bag Single $25*, Member $20* *transcation fees may apply

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One cocktail included. Must be 18 years or older

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

contents Issue 169 - December 2019

focusinterviews

Andrew Tulloch.

feature a special

CHRISTMAS

In 1979, a young and spritely 19 year old Andrew Tulloch signed up at his local fire brigade to dedicate his time and efforts to help protect our communities in a time of need. Fast forward to today, Andy holds the highest title honoured as a volunteer RFS member, Group Captain, overseeing five brigades within the Mid Coast District...

THE

Baker Boy.

One of Australia’s brightest rising stars, Danzal Baker oozes energy and positivity, while expressing culture through song and dance with his artistry. Professionally known as Baker Boy, Danzal is a gifted Indigenous Australian rapper and dancer who performs his hit hip hop songs while incorporating both English and his first language, Yolngu Matha.

the Usual

Suspects

12. WHAT’S ON for December 22. EAT local restaurants

Class Act.

31. SOCIAL SCENE with Kate Wood-Foye

CLASS ACT is an exhibition representing the combined work of 17 talented artists, which you’ll be able to see at Longpoint Vineyard and Gallery throughout December and January...

37. PALATE PLEASURES with Lou Perri 71. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 76. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS with Michael Mowle 78. TOURISM with Janette Hyde

79. TRAVEL THE WORLD with Susie Boswell 82. BUSINESS MINDS with Jane Hillsdon 99. LANDCARE with Julie Ho

Kathy McMillan.

Whether furry, feathered or scaly, photographer Kathy McMillan is able to capture animals and their humans’ relationships in the most beautiful way through the eye of her camera. Kathy loves working with animals and enjoys creating beautiful portraits of them that become treasured family memories …

4 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

Australian singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin has released TWO STUDIO ALBUMS, "DON'T LET THE KIDS WIN" AND "CRUSHING", along with 10 singles.

acklin's musical style has been described as indie folk, indie pop and alternative country. Her songs connect with the audience on an intimate level and leave you feeling as though you’re standing right in the room as she lays her heart out. You are currently on a world tour that has already sold out in some areas. What is it about playing to a live audience that you love? It’s my favourite part of this whole thing. It’s where I feel like it all pays off. Just seeing people react and enjoy something from my brain is pretty life affirming. This current international tour includes major achievements for me, like selling out Warsaw in New York (1,000 capacity) and the Forum in London (2,300 capacity). Your music has been described as indie folk/pop and alternative country. Where did your love of music and songwriting come from? My dad's CD collection, probably. Blondie, Bjork, The Cure. And from books and life. I don’t really know; I just love singing and connecting with people. Music is a good mix of the two. Your songs are regulars to triple j. How do you feel when your music is played on the airwaves? Not sure! I don’t really get to listen to the radio that much! I’m always on tour, so I’ve never really heard my own song on the radio. It makes my mum happy though. Good to know the songs have their own lives. Crushing encapsulates lyrics that are very intimate and raw and truly take us through the

6 Greater Port Macquarie focus

depths of your personal life. Can you share a my band. little about how these lyrics manifested on the If you could have dinner with three people, dead album. or alive who would they be and why? Well, I think the album speaks for itself, really. I tried Right now it would be Leonard Cohen, my grandma to be direct and not twist and Kristen Wiig. things too much into metaWhat's next for you in 2020? phors. I wanted to make sure I'm playing my first headline I wasn’t confusing anyone shows in Australia/NZ since the with what I wanted to say. album tour in March 2019. I will I’M ALWAYS ON TOUR, When you're creatively headline the Enmore Theatre in SO I’VE NEVER REALLY writing, do you prefer Sydney with Kevin Morby supportHEARD MY OWN SONG to have set times or stay ing, which is a venue we have been ON THE RADIO. IT spontaneous? working towards headlining since MAKES MY MUM I don’t have a system. I the beginning. I’m also playing at HAPPY THOUGH. don’t know anyone who the Melbourne Zoo supported by GOOD TO KNOW THE does. I just write most days Weyes Blood, the Tivoli in Brisbane SONGS HAVE THEIR when I feel like it and pray alongside Aldous Harding and AnOWN LIVES. to the skies that it turns into gie McMahon, Perth and Adelaide something good! Most of the headline shows with Carla Geneve, time it doesn’t. and headline slots at Panama FestiYou are playing at Port val and Grampians Music Festival. Macquarie's Festival of the Sun in December. Is After the Australian shows in March, there are zero this your first time visiting the region? What are plans. It will have been such an intense 18 months you looking forward to most? since launching the record campaign, and I will just I’ve been there before, but not for music - so that’s have a big sleep! going to be nice. I’m going to be fresh off the plane Thanks Julia. from cold Europe, so it’s going to be nice to be back home with my friends, all sweating as one. What can we expect from your Festival of the Catch Julia Jacklin at FOTSUN on the Sun show? 12th -14th of December. Me enthusiastically singing songs that I wrote with

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focusinterview.

eCaNomy Now you can attend a festival and do good for the environment at the same time! Meegan Stephens, President of our local Coastal Warriors crew explains the big plans for used cans at the upcoming FOTSUN event …

i Meegs. Most locals are familiar with the great work of our Coastal Warriors group, but what have the crew been up to lately? We’ve been busy in and out of local schools providing education and raising awareness with the kids. We have also been getting organised for FOTSUN 2019, and running our monthly clean ups. The Coastal Warriors team will be on site at FOTSUN this year, with a special project called "eCANomy". What is this - and how will it work? It’s a great initiative that we are excited to be working on with FOTSUN in 2019. We will have a main exchange centre inside the festival and a few smaller stations scattered around the festival. At these smaller stations we will chat with festival goers and encourage them to use the eCANomy. Festival goers will fill their hessian sack with used cans and bring them to us to recycle in exchange for items of their choice. We had a great response from local businesses, who generously donated. A few examples of items available include stubby coolers, reusable bags,

8 Greater Port Macquarie focus

vouchers for local shops, and reused. This should food and coffee vouchers, also ensure a smoother Festival goers will fill their hessian and yoga sessions, just to clean up after the festival sack with used cans and bring them name a few. and encourage the festival to us to recycle in exchange for How much support goers to be more engaged items of their choice. A few have you received to with their waste and what examples of items available date from potential happens to it after they include stubby coolers, reusable FOTSUN vendors and finish with it. bags, vouchers for local shops, festival organisers? The main idea is to ensure food and coffee vouchers, and yoga Everyone involved cans are recycled responsibly sessions ... has been great to work and effectively and by with. This community is having great incentives for always enthusiastic and the festival goers, we are supportive. FOTSUN has certain they will utilise the so many great waste initiatives, and we were program. stoked to be asked to work on the eCANomy Where can we find out further info, both with them. The festival market vendors have about eCANomy and Coastal Warriors in been very supportive, offering vouchers that can general?" be exchanged for cans, which is awesome! We are contactable via our social media What are you hoping to achieve with on Facebook and Instagram, and our eCANomy? website: coastalwarriorsmnc.org.au We hope to collect and recycle upwards of We have monthly clean ups around our 25,000 cans. Instead of sending many of these community on the first Saturday of every month cans to landfill, we hope this initiative helps us between 8 - 11am. Our next clean up is our recycle responsibly as many cans as possible. annual “butt blitz” on Town Green on December After the festival is over, a company from Coffs 7th, 2019. Harbour Recycling Centre will travel down to Thanks Meegs. collect the cans and take them to be recycled Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

In 1979, a young and spritely 19 year old Andrew Tulloch signed up at his local fire brigade to dedicate his time and efforts to help protect our communities in a time of need. Fast forward to today, Andy holds the highest title honoured as a volunteer RFS member, Group Captain, overseeing five brigades within the Mid Coast District. This December marks a major milestone, as we celebrate this amazing man and his 40 years of service to the RFS.

ANDREW

TULLOCH Group Captain within the Mid Coast District

10 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview. focusinterview

40 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE RURAL FIRE SERVICE

i Andy. Please tell us a little about yourself, family and your connection to the Camden Haven area. My wife Niki, our three children and I left the Northern Beaches of Sydney in 2000 and travelled for a year in an old caravan around Australia. The children did Distance Education whilst on the road, and they still speak often of our trip; It cemented our family. After completing our trip, we took a detour off the highway at Kew, whilst on our way to South West Rocks. We have been going to South West Rocks since the 1970s, and we ended up settling in Lake Cathie, January 2001. I currently own and operate a skip bin business, RED-e Bins, in the local area, which can be hard to juggle with such major fire activity in the area. I really appreciate the understanding and compassion that my customers have shown. Niki works at Port Macquarie Base Hospital. Our eldest daughter, Stephanie and her husband Tim have moved up from Sydney in the last three years with their son, Banjo. Niki and I are pretty happy about that. This month, you celebrate 40 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Rural Fire Service. That is an amazing achievement! Tell us how you became involved with the RFS all those years ago. I joined what was then called the Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade in December 1979 at the age of 19. There were major fires in Sydney at that time, so I went to my local brigade, being Ku-Ring-Gai, to see if they needed some help. I had to write down my name, address and next of kin. That was all. I had some overalls and boots with me and had to pay a $5 deposit on a helmet. With that, they told me to jump on the back of a truck (it was literally the back of the truck) and off we went. There was no formal training back in those days. Can you share what your position is within the Volunteer RFS and how you got there? Since 2012, I have held the position of Group Captain within the Mid Coast District. I currently

look after and help manage five brigades in the Cathie on 17th November really brought our whole district, as well as being a member of the District community together and showed how strong we Senior Management Team. can all be in a crisis. In October this year, I led a Strike Team to help Lake Cathie Brigade do an annual Santa run, with with the fires at Glen Innes and Grafton. The sirens blaring, delivering lollies around our local landscape around these areas is desperately dry and streets. barren. One of my favourite memories was when our The experience I have had, such as the 1980s fires brigade made a specific stop at a home. A father and the destructive 1994 fires, led me down the carried out his very sick boy in his arms and seeing pathway of various positions within the RFS over the joy on the boy's face at Santa on the fire the years in Ku-Ring-Gai and Lake Cathie Brigades, brigade truck visiting his house is something I will including President, Deputy Captain, Senior Deputy always remember. My eyes just welled up with tears Captain and Captain. of happiness. I can imagine you've been on quite a journey You were not only out fighting these recent throughout those 40 years, fires; your property was including the most recent also under attack. I can bushfires right here in imagine that was a difficult our own backyards. There balance between service to would be a lot of negative community and defending A father carried out stories, but could you share your own property. his very sick boy in his a few of your most positive My wife and son-in-law arms, and seeing the ones? defended our property at Lake joy on the boy's face During these recent fires, Cathie, whilst I was coordinating at Santa on the ďŹ re I have had the pleasure of brigades at other fires in our brigade truck visiting working side by side with a lot area. They had the support of his house is something of other agencies, including the brigades and water bombing I will always remember. Fire & Rescue NSW, National helicopters. I was on the radio Parks and Wildlife, Forestry throughout that time and knew Commission, as well as RFS what stage our property was brigades from NSW and at. We were very fortunate and interstate. grateful, and we thank those My philosophy is that it doesn't matter what crews on the ground and above for being there. badge you wear on your sleeve, this a team effort, What do you love most about volunteering this is a family, and we have people and property to your time and energy to this amazing group? protect. The men and women from these services The satisfaction in giving to and protecting the have not only endured physical exhaustion, but the community is enormous. emotional toll on them can also be enormous. To The camaraderie and the solid friendships I have see the destruction, properties destroyed and not made throughout my time in the RFS is an added being able to defend some of them plays heavily bonus. on their minds. Thankfully, the RFS has a Critical For anyone who would like to volunteer with Incident Support Service dedicated to help. the RFS, where do they begin? The generosity shown by the local community Anyone wishing to join the RFS should either has been amazing. It has been so overwhelming contact their local brigade or the Fire Control to see such support, and it really installs your Centre on 1300 MIDCOAST (1300 643262). faith in humanity. The gathering we had in Lake Thanks Andy. Greater Port Macquarie focus 11

focus_What’s On Greater Port Macquarie

D E C E M B E R

2020 LUSC

The Westport Club’s

Get ready to fish, with some major prizes up for grabs! Great fun for the whole family, with over $3,500 in prizes, including a junior section and lucky angler prizes. There will also be a BBQ available on the Sunday from noon.

More Info https://www.laurietonclub.com.au/familyfishing-bonanza.html | 65599110

CHRISTMAS UNDER THE STARS

FAMILY FISHING BONANZA

When Competition commences Friday 3rd January. Weigh in on Sunday 6th January. Register by noon Saturday 4th January (late entries will not be accepted).

2 0 1 9

No Regrets: THE EDITH

PIAF STORY

Bring a picnic blanket or fold-up chair and settle in for a great night out with family and friends singing Christmas carols and enjoying the festivities of this wonderful community event. Starring Tania Kernaghan. When Sunday 15th December; entertainment starts at 6pm. Where Westport Park, Port Macquarie. Cost $2 entry fee supporting Salvation Army Christmas Hamper Appeal. For more information visit thewestportclub.com.au

No Regrets: The Edith Piaf Story, an intriguing musical performance journey of Parisian artist Edith Piaf. Delivered in French and English, this spellbinding and romantic show eloquently weaves a tale of passion, tragedy and triumph and is a must see for lovers of all things French and "Little Sparrow" fans. Where Glasshouse, Port Macquarie. When Friday 6th December, 8:30pm. Tickets www.glasshouse.org.au

Rydges Port Macquarie celebrates

FREE Members

YOGA @ PANTHERS

Held by Grace; beginners to advanced. Everyone is welcome! BYO Yoga Mat | Members FREE | Guests $2. When Every Thursday @ 10:30am. Where Panthers, Port Macquarie.

12 Greater Port Macquarie focus

CHRISTMAS CAROLS Traditional Christmas carols at Sovereign Hills on the community green, presented by Grace Church. There will be BBQ, bouncy castles, face painting, cupcakes, donuts, and bands. Donations received will go to the drought appeal, as well as the RFS. When Saturday 14th December, 5:30pm - 8pm. Where Chancelllors Dr, Reserve opposite the Town Centre.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT COACHELLA

Ignite 2020 with feel-good festival vibes, as Rydges Port Macquarie transforms into Coachella - a carefree music festival wth live entertainment, four hour beverage package, cocktails, canapés and grazing stations. Dress: festival. When December 31st, 7pm. Where Rydges, Port Macquarie. Cost $49 PP. Tickets https://www.123tix.com.au/events/rydgespmq

Christmas in Wonderland

Family Fun Day

Wish Tree

Gift Wrapping

Sat 14 December 10am – 2pm

Monday 2 to Saturday 21 December

Monday 9 to Tuesday 24 December

Santa’s elves will be busy providing entertainment for all ages, from face painting and DIY Christmas decorations to Christmas Cake tasting from our friends at Baker’s Delight.

Located in front of Big W for gifts to be donated to children who are less fortunate.

The Salvation Army team will be back in front of Big W to beautifully wrap your gift in return for gold coin donations.

Santa Photography Hours Sunday 1 Dec Monday 2 Dec Tuesday 3 Dec Wednesday 4 Dec Thursday 5 Dec Friday 6 Dec Saturday 7 Dec Sunday 8 Dec Monday 9 Dec Tuesday 10 Dec Wednesday 11 Dec Thursday 12 Dec Friday 13 Dec Saturday 14 Dec Sunday 15 Dec Monday 16 Dec Tuesday 17 Dec Wednesday 18 Dec Thursday 19 Dec Friday 20 Dec

10:00am – 4:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm 10:00am – 7:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 4:00pm 9:00am – 4:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 8:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 4:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 8:00pm 9:00am – 8:00pm

Extended Trading Hours Saturday 21 Dec Sunday 22 Dec Monday 23 Dec Tuesday 24 Dec Wednesday 25 Dec

9:00am – 6:00pm 9:00am – 6:00pm 8:00am – 5:00pm 8:00am – 5:00pm CLOSED

Santa Paws Book your Christmas Pet Photography session via Facebook or visit Centre Management. Monday 2 Dec 4:30pm – 7:30pm Monday 9 Dec 4:30pm – 7:30pm Monday 16 Dec 4:30pm – 7:30pm

Sensory Santa Book your quiet time with Santa via Facebook or visit Centre Management. Sunday 1 Dec

Saturday 14 Dec Sunday 15 Dec Monday 16 Dec Tuesday 17 Dec Wednesday 18 Dec Thursday 19 Dec Friday 20 Dec Saturday 21 Dec Sunday 22 Dec Monday 23 Dec Tuesday 24 Dec Wednesday 25 Dec Thursday 26 Dec

9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5.30pm 9:00am – 5.30pm 9:00am – 5.30pm 9:00am – 8:00pm 9:00am – 8:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 6:00pm 9:00am – 6:00pm CLOSED 9:00am – 5:00pm

Not all stores have extended trading hours. Check www.settlementcity.com for details.

8:00am – 10:00am

Greater Port Macquarie focus 13

Christmas

Hastings Choristers

C ONC E RT

O C E A N

PADDLING

HASTINGS CHORISTERS BRING THE GLORIOUS MUSIC OF MESSIAH TO THE MID NORTH COAST.

astings Choristers' Christmas concert is eagerly anticipated by the local community each year, because it is a celebration of the true meaning of Christmas. The concert provides an oasis of peace and joy in the midst of the hectic lead-up to Christmas. The 2019 Christmas Concert is no exception. Following requests from many in the community, this year the choir is performing the choruses from Handel’s much-loved Messiah. This exquisite sacred music never fails to move and excite audiences, particularly when they stand and participate in the rousing Hallelujah Chorus, made famous to Australian audiences via the annual Carols By Candlelight Concert. The Port Macquarie concert is being held on Sunday afternoon, 15th December at 2pm in St Agnes Church, Hay Street, Port Macquarie. The audience is invited to come along and sing your hearts out along with the Choristers and really get into the Christmas spirit. Don’t forget your cymbals! The renowned organist Heather Moen-Boyd will be the accompanist for the concert, playing the wonderful organ that was installed in St Agnes Church to celebrate the church’s 75th anniversary. Heather Moen-Boyd’s talent, combined with the glorious Messiah choruses sung by Hastings Choristers choir, promise to

14 Greater Port Macquarie focus

provide a spectacular concert. Hastings Choristers are being joined by choristers from the Manning Valley to give another performance of Messiah on Saturday 14th December at Manning United Church, Albert St, Taree. The concert will commence at 2pm. This performance reflects the spirit of cooperation and community spirit between choirs on the Mid North Coast, with choristers coming together to celebrate the glory of song. The Messiah concerts will be conducted by Hastings Choristers Musical Director Robyn Ryan OAM. Robyn’s reputation for excellence inspires the choir to reach the highest standards; so much so, that an audience member was overheard to say at the end of the Christmas concert two years ago: "At last I feel like Christmas is here. This wonderful singing made me feel like I was back home in England, listening to Kings College Choir." If you want to experience the magic of Christmas and be transported by inspirational singing, come along to the Messiah concert on Sunday 15th December at 2pm in St Agnes Church, Hay Street, Port Macquarie. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for school students. They can be purchased beforehand at the Glasshouse Box Office, or at the door on the afternoon of the concert. For patrons’ comfort, St Agnes Church is airconditioned.

Have you ever thought about paddling with the dolphins or watching the migrating whales close up from your own kayak? Are you short on time and want to be able to just go down to the water, get your kayak and go for a paddle? Then you may want to join Kayaktivity in Port Macquarie.

ayaktivity runs a storage Marina with direct access to the water shed and paddling group and sheds to store your kayak/ocean ski. for interested kayakers We currently have a few spots left in the wanting to ease into the shed and are always looking for interested ocean kayaking scene or paddlers. The cost is $37 per month for 24/7 those experienced paddlers access to the marina and the storage shed who want to exercise with others keen on - no more carting your kayak on the top of the sport. In contrast to the traditional sea your car and struggling to carry it down to a kayaks, these kayaks boat ramp. are sleek and fast craft Kayaktivity is completely designed for both not-for-profit - the beginners and advanced costs are covered by the If you are interested, but paddlers wanting to monthly fee. worried that it might not explore the rivers and Whilst everyone has be for you, we can happily ocean surrounding individual 24/7 access arrange for a test ski and Port Macquarie. The and people paddle some lessons to get you watercraft (called "ocean when it suits them, we started. Then if you are skis") are generally 6 m also have group paddle interested, we can help long, weigh 10 - 12 kg, times - Tuesdays and you select an ocean ski to and come in a range of Thursdays at 4:30pm suit your skill level. widths based on your and Saturday mornings ability. at 8am. If you are interested, but You can enjoy a paddle worried that it might in the river or ocean with not be for you, we can happily arrange for a others that share the same love of the water test ski and some lessons to get you started. along with a fun and sometimes adrenaline Then if you are interested, we can help you filled cardio workout. select an ocean ski to suit your skill level. If you are searching for a great core and We have a cross-section of experienced and cardio workout without the strain on the novice paddlers, both male and female, and knees and feet, come and check us out. we would love to welcome you to our shed. If you are interested in more information, What do we offer? please call Stephen Johnson on 0415 778 073. We have two berths at the Port Macquarie

Greater Port Macquarie focus 15

Butte r

FACTORY

BLUES

Blues in the Mid North Coast has found a home, and it’s called the Old Butter Factory in Telegraph Point.

ike a juke joint hidden somewhere within the cotton fields of Mississippi, the Old Butter Factory has been playing host to regular monthly Blues events, which have been met with great enthusiasm. So much so, that the event organisers have decided to put on “Butter Factory Blues”, featuring some of Australia’s leading practitioners, including legendary Kevin Borich, roots wiz Claude Hay and the undeniably talented Minnie Marks. There will be a swag of local talent, plus a buskers' stage, so expect back to back

M Y F F I E

entertainment all afternoon, commencing at 1pm on Saturday 21st December 2019. A courtesy bus, food vans and a fully licensed bar should see you through nicely, all for around $60. Tix are available from: https://www.trybooking.com/book/ sessions?eid=567967

C O A D Y

Myffie Coady is a local multi award winning artist who has recently moved back to Port Macquarie after spending eight years in the country. Over the last five years Myffie has been awarded 13 art prizes, including two Grand Champion art prizes last year.

assionate about the beauty of nature and wildlife, birds and animals feature in many of her artworks. Myffie’s animals come to life through their eyes, conveying almost human like personalities and characteristics. “My art is often described as emotional and energetic. I guess that’s me. I’m strongly influenced by my heart and my emotions. My experience and feelings about the subject determine what, whether and how it’s painted! “I like to experiment with different techniques

16 Greater Port Macquarie focus

to create artworks that showcase the beauty and diversity of nature. I am happiest when I know that my art is resulting in others having an emotional reaction to what I’ve painted or drawn. If a particular landscape or maybe something in an animal’s eyes has touched the viewer’s heart, then my art has achieved its purpose - to share my love of our natural world.“ Myffie will be holding an exhibition entitled JOURNEY in Gladstone at the Macleay Village Community Art Gallery, from 1st January to 12th January inclusive.

BRONWYN

HAFEY

Bronwyn Hafey explains how our local Rotary clubs are helping to support the valuable work of LIFELINE in our community.

i Bronwyn. How long have you been a Rotarian, and what club are you a member of? I am not an official Rotary member, but I have a long association with Rotary as a granddaughter, daughter, wife and mother of Rotary members. Our home Rotary Club is Laurieton, where both my husband Phillip (District Governor) and son Nicholas are members. This year, Rotary’s DG Partner’s project is LIFELINE. Firstly - what are “DG Partnerships”, and how do they work? Almost every country in the world has Rotary clubs; however, Australia is unique in regard to the Partner’s Project. The District Governor’s wife, husband or partner can choose a specific project which they believe their district’s clubs will value. They share this project with each of the clubs as they visit and request their financial support to achieve the aims of the project. I chose LIFELINE to support my husband’s focus for the year - Strengthening Local Communities - as I wanted my project to support and strengthen individuals, families and communities in our district and be available to everyone, whatever their age, anywhere, any time of the day or night. How many Rotary Clubs are involved with helping to support LIFELINE this year? District 9650 consists of 56 clubs, from Lightning Ridge down to Coonabarabran in the West and Woolgoolga to Forster on the coast - around 45,000 square kilometres. In visiting all the clubs, I have received incredible support for my project; in fact, a number of clubs had cheques waiting for me. Other clubs are planning and implementing a range of fundraising initiatives, including film nights, concerts, book sales, golf days, theme dinners, and fun runs. The drought has had a huge impact on

many rural communities this year. Was this one of the reasons for choosing LIFELINE as an organisation to assist? Yes, our rural families are known for their resilience, but this prolonged drought has really put this to the test. This includes not only those on the land, but also those in the community at large. We have met with those who once enjoyed a thriving business who now rely on charity to survive. So, this was indeed a huge influence on my choice, as I know that LIFELINE is committed to responding to community need, and provide a full range of resources, information and support - including specific strategies for our drought affected families, and those recovering from the devastating fires. How are you hoping funds raised will actually assist LIFELINE? The funds raised will be used for two vital aspects to support and strengthen community members in our district: Scholarships for additional 24 hour telephone crisis support personnel, so that those in crisis will have their calls answered as quickly as possible - and hopefully not wait in a queue. Provide the opportunity for community members throughout our district (9650), especially in drought affected areas, to attend Community Based Training and Follow up Support, implemented by LIFELINE personnel. I like to think of it as Responsive Training, which will provide the participants with the skills to really LISTEN, respond and support their family, friends and community members appropriately. Where can community members make a donation? Donations can be made by direct deposit to: Account Name: Rotary International D9650 DG Partner’s Project. BSB: 932-000 Account No: 500143137. Thanks Bronwyn. Greater Port Macquarie focus 17

focusinterview.

SIMON LUXTON JESSICA COBOURNE

MATT DOBSON

SIMON LUKE

There are just so many people both locally and from out of town who make FOTSUN what it is today.

saw them at FOTSUN?" Taylor can't wait for

We have a massive team, many of whom were with us from day one. From JJ to Snacks, Cookie Joe to Vegan Joe; from Rosie to Biff and to the festival fairy, Russell. Just so many legends to mention! We all can’t wait to have our festival family reunion here in Port Macquarie. There is no doubt that a huge part of FOTSUN is the people who run the event and the awesome punters who attend the event, creating one of the funniest, laid back festival vibes in Australia - so massive love to every single one of them ... yeeew!

What makes Port Macquarie such a

Thanks Simon. See you there!

co.creative.

RACHEL STEPHAN Hi, I am Rachel, artist and owner of HER.ART. I moved to Port Paradise seven years ago and never left; this is home now. Recently I opened up a kids' space for children to be wild and creatively free, called HER.ART SPACE - future FOTSUN artists in the making, perhaps? What is your role within FOTSUN? Art curator and installation artist. How long have you been involved with the festival? This is my seventh year attending, third year being involved.

FOTSUN evolved from the desire to attempt something that the younger people of Port Macquarie would embrace ... SOMETHING THAT WOULD PUT OUR REGION ON THE MAP AND MAKE US AS YOUNGER PEOPLE PROUD TO BE LIVING IN PORT MACQUARIE. Sixteen years on, and Festival Director Simon Luke says it is the people who make it such a great event.

Hey Simon. Sold out again! You must be really excited for this year's event? Yes, we are really stoked to sell out again this year! With so much going on, it’s really great to see our annual Fotsunners coming back to Port Macquarie for their annual weekend adventure! In your opinion, what makes Port Macquarie’s home grown festival, FOTSUN so special? As one of the very few remaining independent Aussie owned festivals in NSW, we are really proud to be locally owned and operated and calling Port Macquarie home. Our focus for 16 years has always been to ensure we put our beautiful town on the map, and we think we have well and truly achieved that. FOTSUN is unique in a way that you can only really appreciate by attending and experiencing this amazing little world we have created. It's grown to be a significant event on

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sure. great place to host Festival of the Sun? Positioned right in the centre of town, next to the skatepark and beach! It's one of the best boutique festival setups I've seen, and we've seen a few! See you in store soon!

JESSICA COBOURN My name is Jessica Cobourn. I'm the director of operations and creative services at Jessica. I've had some strong family connections to Port

RACHEL STEPHAN

IMON LUKE

Trophy Eyes; they will put on a good show for

the PMQ calendar. How many artists and performers do you have this year? FOTSUN has 2,500 visitors from outside of the region for an average of three days, around 500 locals, up to 250 musicians and visual artists and over 200 crew. You introduced some improved wastes initiatives recently. Talk us through how that has evolved, what you do, and who's involved locally? FOTSUN last year was the first festival to ban single use plastic onsite, including no plastic water bottles backstage. We launched a programme called the eCANomy and with patron support, we recycled 22,000 cans and 2 tonnes of cardboard. Over the past 10 years, FOTSUN has reduced our landfill by 67%. This year the recipients of our eCANomy programme will be Coastal Warriors, who will be manning our eCANomy depo on site, where punters can swap cans for a range of product vouchers. You have a great team behind you working on the event; we meet just some of them in this edition. I bet there are a few more you'd like to acknowledge?

Who is your favourite artist on this year's lineup, and who are you looking forward to seeing? Favourite artist: that's a cruel question - pass? Who am I looking forward to seeing: Arno Faraji has such a great vibe; I can't wait to see him live and have a little boogie.

Macquarie since I was a small child and now am lucky enough to call it my home; it is an inspiring and natural wonderland that I cherish. What is your role within FOTSUN? My role for FOTSUN is to perform with and direct my crew of incredible entertainers, bringing some extra magic to the FOTSUN crowds through interactive fun and wonderment. I’m also responsible for a gang of TRASH PIXIES, a roving leave no trace education team and last but definitely not least, I will be creating a very special and super secret garden space! Shhhh! How long have you been involved with the festival? This is my second year being involved with the festival, and it’s such a great honour to be a part of it! The crew are just legendary; I feel so lucky and grateful. Who is your favourite artist on this year's

MATT DOBSON

lineup, and who are you looking forward

Hey! I'm Matt, and my partner, Taylor and I run a clothing store in town called Pretty Rad Store. Being locals ourselves and growing up in the area, we wanted to create something unique that people could come check out and shop at, instead of having to buy online.

year's FOTSUN has me spoilt for choice! But if I

What is your role within FOTSUN? Pretty Rad Store is a major sponsor of the event, and we have been for some time now! We love getting behind local projects that not only bring thousands of visitors to the town every year, but also keep live music alive. Festivals and fashion go hand in hand, so it's a no-brainer for us. How long have you been involved with the festival? This year will be our fourth year, which is super exciting - as it's our biggest one yet! We are bringing one of our favourite brands on board this year, and they will be hosting a really cool activation inside the festival. Follow our Instagram story over the weekend for all things FOTSUN! Who is your favourite artist on this year's lineup, and who are you looking forward to seeing? There are so many good acts, but a stand out for me will be Lime Cordiale; those guys are making big waves, and I bet in a few years people will still say, "Can you believe we

to seeing? I absolutely love music, and this have to say, I definitely won’t wanna miss Julia Jacklin - I just adore her style, Baker Boy, Boo Seeka and Tired Lion! Yeah ... nah, I couldn’t just pick one!

SIMON LUXTON Hi, I’m Sigh. I’ve lived in Port for the past seven years, after escaping the dull climate of Tasmania on holiday and decided to stay. What is your role within FOTSUN? I’m the art monkey, and I help with the design and theme of the festival each year. How long have you been involved with the festival? I’ve been involved with FOTSUN since the beginning of 2015. Who is your favourite artist on this year's lineup, and who are you looking forward to seeing? I’m very much looking forward to chucking a mosh during Trophy Eyes. What makes Port Macquarie such a great place to host Festival of the Sun? Port Macquarie is great, because it has a breakwall to stop the tide from washing people’s tents away while they are dancing.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 19

focusinterview.

Vana Ford and Kerry Wheeldon have been friends for many years, and both have a shared passion for art and nature. It was only natural they’d pool their skills to produce some fabulous artworks together - and you can see the results in the exhibition "Threaded Earth", at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery.

i Kerry and Vana. How do you both know each other ... and why did you decide to hold an exhibition together? We met many years ago and have maintained the friendship since. We share similar philosophies. We are of similar age; we listened to the same music, read the same books. We have known since our teenage years (didn’t Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell tell us?) of the need to be aware of and care for our environment. Vana has been making beads from polymer clay for some time, and she wanted to make porcelain beads. So, she asked me (Kerry) for some lessons. From those lessons, we started collaborating, with Vana making the beads and me firing them in my kiln. Towards the end of 2018, Vana suggested we apply to exhibit at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, so we did! What's the concept behind Threaded Earth? Because of our shared philosophies and awareness of our environment, we decided to weave our creative thoughts and techniques together and produce Threaded Earth. We are both creative souls with a love of nature. We understand that many people like to display natural, handmade items in their homes and workplaces. We wanted to create some beautiful things for them. We took from the Earth for our work. Kerry made porcelain vessels, which she wove on to with grasses and prunings from her garden. I (Vana) used natural materials (cotton, clay and silk) and plant based dyes to create textiles and jewellery in different colours. After the recent horrific

20 Greater Port Macquarie focus

bushfires, we are pleased to have preserved some of We have really enjoyed working together, sharing the diversity of nature’s beauty in this exhibition. ideas and knowledge, to produce pieces of which Please describe one or two of the pieces you're we are really happy and proud. Threaded Earth has presenting in the exhibition ... strengthened our relationship on both a personal Kerry: With all of my pieces, I have wheel thrown and professional level. We plan to continue the ceramic bases of different sizes and shapes, into collaboration in the future. which I have drilled holes Where can we see other around the rim before firing. examples of your art? Some are unglazed and Kerry: I have just been part of polished, while others are Small Works at Sunset, at Sunset glazed. WE UNDERSTAND Gallery and Framing in Port I have been collecting and THAT MANY PEOPLE Macquarie. At the moment, if you drying grasses and garden LIKE TO DISPLAY would like to see my work you prunings over the last year are welcome to visit my home NATURAL, HANDMADE or so. From these materials I studio near Wauchope. I can be ITEMS IN THEIR HOMES have woven onto the bases contacted on 0421 951 562. AND WORKPLACES. WE to form lidded boxes, vases, Vana: This year I have exhibited WANTED TO CREATE platters and bowls. at Macleay Valley Community SOME BEAUTIFUL Vana: I wanted to weave Gallery in Gladstone, at Timeless THINGS FOR THEM. with strips of silk, so I went Textiles in Newcastle and at to Bali and Java, where I did Sunset Gallery. I keep a small short residencies at Threads display at Sunset Gallery and at of Life and Erni Batik Berkah Lesteri to colour my Café Chance and Collectors in North Haven. Most silks with indigo, mahoni and jalawe. These three of my work is online, Facebook, Instagram and via dyes then formed the basis for all my works in the website. My website is: www.vasnasdesigns.com.au exhibition. The three matt board weavings are the Thanks Kerry and Vana. Interview: Jo Robinson. best examples of this. I also dyed ribbons and threads to use in the embroidered pieces. We created our fabulous collaborative light pendants by combining See Threaded Earth at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery Kerry’s plant weavings: vines from the bush and red from November 23rd - January 12th. hot poker leaves, and Vana’s silk strips: indigo and Meet artist Kerry Wheeldon: 7th December, 11am. jalawe. Masterclass with Vana Ford: January 11th, 9:30am How much have you enjoyed working on this (bookings essential). Cost: $55. exhibition together?

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Financial Planning | Investment Advice | Superannuation Greater Port Macquarie focus 21

Glacier 51 toothfish from The Stunned Mullet. 22 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Peach, Prosciutto & Bocconcini Salad

Crispy Skin Barramundi Fillet with Cauliﬂower Leek Mash

The Kove Kitchen at Panthers

Drift Bar.Café.Restaurant

A colourful dish that is sure to tempt your tastebuds, delve into the Kove’s new Peach, Prosciutto and Bocconcini salad. Enjoy charred peaches artistically placed between rosettes of prosciutto nestled on a bed of rocket and bocconcini, drizzled with flavours of honey, basil and lemon vinaigrette.

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

This dish pairs perfectly with the Squealing Pig Marlborough Pinot Gris for the perfect summer delight. The new Kove menu features a range of fresh, flavoursome style eats, including Fattoush and Pita Salad, Hoi Sin Combination Noodle, New York Beef Strip and more!

HEAD SOUS CHEF TOBY BARNES

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 on 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. With Christmas and the holiday period almost upon us, Drift is the place to be this festive season! Book your table today!

HEAD CHEF ANDY WHITEHEAD

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

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

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

Greater Port Macquarie focus 23

Whalebone Wharf Established in 1971, the Whalebone Wharf is Port Macquarie’s iconic waterfront dining destination. Nestled over the banks of the Hastings River, our world class establishment boasts outstanding cuisine and expansive water views unsurpassed in the region. Lunch is served from noon, with dinner from 5:30pm. The Whalebone Wharf is Port Macquarie’s premier venue catering for all occasions. Our fully licensed bar provides a place to enjoy a relaxed beverage. If you're looking for a boutique, stylish waterfront venue for your wedding or next special function, you have come to the right place. For more intimate gatherings, our VIP dining area offers an exquisite waterfront space for small functions or meetings. Or, spoil

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your significant other with our exclusive packages, including a luxurious arrival by seaplane. Serving fresh seafood and modern fusion cuisine, award winning executive chef Peter Ridland and his team pride themselves on an exceptional high standard of flavour, freshness and quality. Choose fresh lobsters from the tank, share a magnificent seafood platter or dine on a juicy steak - the choice is yours. “Our mission is to source the region’s best seafood by partnering with like-minded suppliers. We aim to showcase these ingredients by preparing them carefully and serving them simply. Our selection of produce flows down to everything we offer; we support and use local farmers and suppliers.“ - Peter Ridland, Executive Chef

Little Shack Since its opening in April it has been non stop for the crew down at little shack and its no surprise why - they have arguably one of the best water views in Port Macquarie, directly overlooking the Hastings River. Nestled on the edge of the Town Green, at the start of the break wall, Little Shack offers up the views with the food, snacks and coffee of equal epicness. First up they lay claim to having the worlds best brekky tacos’s - and we’ll vouch for them and say THEY ARE! Two lightly toasted tacos, scrammy eggs, bacon, avo smash and a dazzle of spicy mayo! Wash it down with a Will & Co coffee and your morning is set.

The menu will always be short and sharp but they us the best possible ingredients that they can find locally and with a healthy spin. If it’s not taco’s you’re after then try a BOWL! There’s Chicken and Avo, Bellingen Smoke Salmon and the Popular POKE bowl to name a few. Little Shack is open rain, hail or shine, and they lurv the shine… with summer just around the corner there are exciting developments awaiting the Little Shack! So stay tuned. Serving you Will & Co's finest until 4pm. Follow them for more! #littleshackportmac facebook.com/littleshackportmac/

Greater Port Macquarie focus 25

Macquarie Waters Boutique Hotel Wow, what a year 2019 has been! We were ecstatic to win the accommodation category at the Greater Port Macquarie Business awards, to be awarded Silver at the North Coast Regional Tourism Awards and bring home Bronze from the NSW State Tourism Awards last month. We are so proud to be the most awarded hotel in Port Macquarie for 2019! Our staff are the backbone of our business, and without them we would not have achieved all the accolades we have! Our guests come from all walks of life and all have their own story; our team do their best to anticipate our guests' needs and expectations from the moment they walk up to the desk. We go out of our way to ensure

26 Greater Port Macquarie focus

that each and every guest feels special and like they are a part of the MW family during their stay. We have received guest feedback this year that says that we are the most welcoming, friendly and supportive team they have ever come across. We offer friendly service, free undercover secure carpark, outdoor heated pool and ocean view hot tub on the roof with BBQ facilities. In the pool area we have a projector that plays movies; we call it our "Dive in Theatre" that guests can request during their stay. If you book direct over the phone or on our website, you also receive a late check out and a bottle of Cassegrain wine on arrival. MW is the place to stay in Port Macquarie.

The Woop Woop Cup Itâ€™s on again - the annual Woop Woop grabs donated by the local businesses. Cup, proudly brought to you by Parking is available at the course, but we Wauchope Jockey Club. recommend a taxi. Join us again this year for There will be a full TAB tote another exciting and friendly and bookmakers on course The Jockey Club invite day of racing. The day will with canteen and bar facilities, all the lads and lasses once again see a five card race as well as lots of undercover to dress in their best, as the Fashions program, with the feature race seating. on the Field will being run over 1,800 m. Each year this race day gets take place in the There will be plenty on for the bigger and bigger and is a great afternoon, with young ones, so make a day of it opportunity to unwind after a some great prizes and bring the family. massive Christmas Day. up for grabs donated First race will commence at The Jockey Club invite all the by the local businesses. lads and lasses to dress in 12pm. their best, as the Fashions on See you there. the Field will take place in the Wauchope Race Course afternoon, with some great prizes up for Beechwood Rd, Wauchope.

DEMOSTRATOR AND PLATE CLEARANCE OFFERS ON NOW EXPERIENCE A NEW LEXUS â€” this holiday season, with exceptional offers across a selected range of vehicles. Visit Lexus of Port Macquarie before December 31.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 27

focusinterview.

One of Australia’s brightest rising stars, Danzal Baker OOZES ENERGY AND POSITIVITY, WHILE EXPRESSING CULTURE THROUGH SONG AND DANCE WITH HIS ARTISTRY. Professionally known as Baker Boy, Danzal is a gifted Indigenous Australian rapper and dancer who performs his hit hip hop songs while incorporating both English and his first language, Yolngu Matha.

s 2017’s winner of triple j Unearthed, he has since attracted national attention and has gone on to receive outstanding accolades. At just 23 years of age, Baker Boy has certainly made his mark here in Australia. Hi Danzal. I will just point out a few awards first ... Best New Talent and Film Clip, Male Artist of the Year (twice), Young Australian of the Year, Aria Award Nominee ... It must be a great feeling to achieve so many accolades? It's all very humbling; I didn't expect any of this to happen so quickly. It wasn't very long ago that Cloud 9 was uploaded to triple j Unearthed, so everything has happened really fast. Your shows not only sound amazing, but they are just as visually exciting; there must be a tonne of preparation! How involved are you in the design work for this, or do you work with a set manager? That's right, a lot of rehearsal and a hard working team that helps me pull it together. You can expect something new and exciting for the FOTS set! Talk me through your pre-show preparations, before you get on stage. We vibe, relax, blast some music and make sure we're looking fresh. Before walking on stage I huddle up with the band and my dancers, get hyped and then walk out. You can certainly dance, and your shows are so energetic. Where does your dance background come from? 28 Greater Port Macquarie focus

My dad and uncles brought come. The whole show was just hip hop culture to North East You are playing at Port rebuilt, so everyone at Arnhem Land in the '80s, so I Macquarie's Festival of FESTIVAL OF THE always grew up around dancing. the Sun in December. Is SUN CAN EXPECT You can check out some of this your first time visiting TO SEE NEW their dancing in this video the region? What are you DANCE choreography https://www.youtube.com/ looking forward to most? and a couple of new songs in watch?v=EKWUUJiuwlg&t=7s It'll be my first time in Port the set as well. I can't wait. I love seeing the crowds react, Macquarie. I'm so pumped; feeding off our energy. It’s the I've heard it's really beautiful. most exciting thing for me. Of course, I'm looking I love the back and forth forward to checking out between your first language, Yolngu Matha some of the other great acts at FOTS, but I also and English. Between the two, you flow so heard Port Mac has some really great fishing, so effortlessly, but you only learnt English back hoping I can score some free time to squeeze that in 2008. How difficult or easy was it to learn in too! a second language, and what process did you What can we expect from your Festival of the use? Sun show? Flowing between the two kind of comes naturally The whole show was just rebuilt, so everyone at to me. It's a pretty unique thing to be doing in Festival of the Sun can expect to see new dance Australia, so I'm really happy people have reacted choreography and a couple of new songs in the set well to it. Having the crowd sing along in Yolngu as well. I can't wait. Matha is always so surreal! What's next for you in 2020? I learnt English when was in high school and went 2020 is going to bring some big things for me. I'm to the library every day to get better at English. spending a lot of time in the studio in the new year, Practice makes perfect! so definitely some new music will be coming your Being in the spotlight can certainly give lead to way! you being a role model. How do you hope to Thanks Danzal. inspire young Australians? This is really important to me and one of the main reasons I do what I do. I want to bring a positive energy to my shows and lyrics and hope to keep Catch Julia Jacklin at FOTSUN on the inspiring people, young an old, for many years to 12th -14th of December.

1:30pm â€“ 4:30pm

Every Sunday

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS

panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au

Greater Port Macquarie focus 29

30 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focus_contributor

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

Celebrating the past, present and future at the HBWN 20th birthday celebration

Australian Trainee of the Year Arcadia Meldrum with parents Rebecca & Andrew at her recent graduation

Meraki Photography

Jazmin, Scott, Vanessa & Tommy Lawrence

Meraki Photography

Meraki Photography Best Dressed at Melbourne Cup at Rydges Port Macquarie, Jade Wallis and Tommy Jeffs

Melbourne Cup celebrations at Rydges Port Macquarie

I love a good festive celebration! At the risk of being booed by half the population, I have to admit I am not a big fan of some of the American incarnations i.e. Halloween (yikes, I said it! Go on - say it - I’m a party pooper!)

know the kids love it like crazy and Aussies have adopted it as their own, but it’s one American festival I just can’t get into; it’s just not my bag. I do have a whole lot of love for another American tradition - Thanksgiving. Giving thanks is something our whole community is doing at the moment. Our family recently spent a very special afternoon celebrating Thanksgiving with Steve’s American coffee family as guests of the Edwards clan of Peak Coffee at their gorgeous home in the hinterland, wrapping up another huge week of the national roasting competition, Golden Bean. It’s always an epic week for these guys and their families, judging over 1,728 entries, coffee machines and baristas on the go non stop, hosting over 150 coffee companies from all over the country, with Steve on the mic day and night. It was the perfect evening to farewell all the visiting coffee crew from the other side of the globe. As the Americans busied away in the kitchen with the huge window of the Hideaway overlooking Comboyne plateau down to the sea - the rain began to fall … now that is something to be thankful for! Big fat drops of sweet smelling rain. Somewhere between turkey stuffing, homemade cranberry sauce and dark chocolate and pecan pie, traditional green bean casserole (and a cheeky G&T

with a dried cumquat garnish made by Kristine herself) - lightning literally struck right before our eyes. And in moments - as all 20 of us stood on the balcony, a beautiful rainbow appeared in view, with dark clouds on its left full of rain and to the far right a fire began to burn where the lightning had struck. At that moment it made me realise again how precious life is, how extreme our beautiful country can be, and how easily life can be taken away. With the fire reported and sorted - each of the guests shared what they were thankful for. This is one beautiful tradition I look forward to celebrating with these international friends each year. (Oh, and the pies - all three of them: pecan, pumpkin and banoffi - were all delicious!) One hundred guests gathered to celebrate 20 years of the Hastings Business Network at the Westport Club recently, with past, present and current members coming together with a big birthday bash. Founder Kellie Mills travelled to inspire again as the keynote speaker, bringing back some crazy, kooky and inspirational moments from the journey. Past presidents Kellie, Gayle Oxenford, Kelly Lamb joined current president, the fabulous Kelly King to cut the official cake. Guests included Mariane Power, Jen O’Connell of The Posify Group and #high5ahero movement, Sue and Mike Reid, Jo Jones, Lauren Norberry, Michelle

Parker, Skye Pethoe, Barbara and Laurie Smith, Zita Allen, Cicely Sylow, Kirstie Rayner, host Jenny Edmunds, Sue Jogever and Kayley Riddle. A grazing table took centre stage, with tunes by Chill Factor. A funky new logo was revealed to take the organisation into the next 20 years designed by Karina Baker, who jetted in from Melbourne for the event. A fantastic celebration of women connecting since 1999. The Lawrence family have had a fabulous and well deserved winning streak, with Vanessa Lawrence taking out the prestigious Stylist of the Year at The Style Institute Awards in late November - congrats, Ness! Despite being grounded here in Port due to fires and being unable to attend the ceremony in Melbourne and accept her award, Vanessa is over the moon with her win and celebrated with a glass of bubbles at home by the beach! Hubby Scott won Port Macquarie Surf Riders Club Open Men’s Division - congrats Scotty! Beautiful daughter Jazmin Lawrence finished off the weekend by being awarded Club Champion at All Stars Dance for 2019. All were supported in their wins by the gorgeous Tommy Lawrence, who is doing great things in the family building biz. Congrats to the talented Lawrence crew! It seems Port Macquarie is filled with ridiculously talented humans and winners! Another huge congratulations to former

intern and current Rydges crew member, the stunning Arcadia Meldrum, who not only graduated from Newman College but was awarded Trainee of the Year in the Australian Trainee Awards. Arcadia has been part of the Rydges and Sails event team over the last two years and has assisted the team with many special events, including the Masquerade Ball, Melbourne Cup, Ladies in Red and many more. She is completely amazing, super positive, a bright star with ridiculous amounts of potential - cannot wait to see where your exciting journey takes you! I’m feeling it could be to infinity and beyond! Huge love to you and your beautiful family. As we hurtle into Christmas, it almost seems surreal that only weeks ago we were in a haze of smoke and fear waiting for the news of the next fire and how near or far from loved ones. Through the sadness and the destruction, our community has come together like I have never seen it before. We have been galvanised by this terrifying experience, and it was awe inspiring to see everyone go above and beyond to be there for each other. Super thankful for our amazing community and the legendary fire crews that fought for our beautiful region. THANK YOU! x Let's bring on the Christmas break! Greater Port Macquarie focus 31

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Ruby is the girl next door with an endearing downto-earth attitude, armed with Chuck Taylors and vocal cords that could tackle the country’s major festivals. She is super pumped about her regional tour and can’t wait to get amongst it at the Hoey Moey on December 28th. FOCUS caught up with Ruby, to ﬁnd out more ...

Fields

s this your first time visiting Coffs Harbour? What are you most looking forward to? I’ve only visited Coffs on my way through to Byron, but it’s always been a zone I’ve wanted to stay overnight in and suss. So, I guess I’m keen to see the local pubs and park up at the beach for a bit. What can we expect from your Coffs show? As with any show, we always want it to feel fun and personal and a bit inappropriate, so expect some sh*t jokes, a beer soaked floor and something that sounds a bit like a jam in a garage. Where did the inspo for your latest EP, Permanent Hermit come from? Our latest EP, Permanent Hermit is mostly a transition from our first EP (Ya Dad’s Opinion For Dinner) that still has some upbeat songs but introduces a new kind of theme in regards to growing up and starting to have issues with yourself, more than those around you (i.e. parents, school, parties etc.). You do talk about your parents a lot in your lyrics - how do they feel about what you’ve been doing? My parents have always been incredibly supportive of my music and I’m grateful for it, 32 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Understanding your equipment is just as important as playing it if you want to travel around the world with it all. I

THINK IT’S A SUPER INTERESTING PART OF MY CAREER - not to

mention I really enjoy building things with my hands.

as I know many people don’t have that same privilege. Understandably, they were worried about me pursuing music and wanted me to have a backup plan. I didn’t want to listen to anyone at that stage and was so passionate about music, that it created a bit of a rift between us. So sometimes those lyrics can be about the good or bad times - all important parts of the journey. Now we’re all best mates. In an interview with triple j, you talked about building your own guitars and equipment. Why is that important to you?

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Understanding your equipment is just as important as playing it if you want to travel around the world with it all. I think it’s a super interesting part of my career - not to mention I really enjoy building things with my hands. Playing music, you don’t always feel like there’s something tangible to look at that you’ve achieved (other than playing a live show or clocking your “streams” online) so having a guitar I’ve built myself is a constant reminder of what I’m doing and what I will continue to do. Since breaking the top 10 of the 2018 triple j Hottest 100 with your track Dinosaurs, how are you handling the spotlight? The day we broke the Top 10 was insane, and more than anything made me stoked on the family I’ve chosen in my bandmates. It was a reminder of the constant support we’re showered with and the hard work we pour into this project. I think the term “spotlight” is a bit overrated. We’re just four d*ckheads who play music and sometimes people want photos with us, and that is super flattering. Your Splendour in the Grass set was pretty epic. How did you enjoy it? It’s been each of our dreams to play Splendour, as we’ve all been in the previous years and have made countless memories there. We were ecstatic when we found out and immediately started planning interesting aspects for the set, but we mostly kept in mind that we’d have fun surrounding our set too. We all felt really connected to that crowd; we could see faces, and the singalongs were surreal. Do you have any festival survival tips you swear by? Survival tips? I’ve always considered myself a bit of a fezzy mum (it stops there; I’m terrible with kids). Just making sure one of you has a bag with Panadol, bandaids, sanitiser, a portable charger, sunscreen and a list of everyone’s emergency contacts. Personally, I always dress quite practically for festivals, but I do enjoy everyone’s creative approaches - as long as they’re safe in regards to the weather. Blokes off their heads in mankinis at midnight when it’s three degrees is more painful to see than funny.

I THINK THE TERM ‘SPOTLIGHT’ IS A BIT OVERRATED. WE’RE JUST FOUR D*CKHEADS WHO PLAY MUSIC AND SOMETIMES PEOPLE WANT PHOTOS WITH US, AND THAT IS SUPER FLATTERING.

Who inspires you the most? I couldn’t pick one source of inspiration. I take it in from so many circles of people around me from different phases of life. My parents, my band, my friends, the team I work with to keep this dream alive, all the musicians/artists/comedians who have given me ideas. It goes on. Who is currently on your Spotify playlist? I’ve been listening to a lot of Big Thief, The Magnetic Fields and The Shins. They’re all quite chill bands, but I’ve been relaxing the last few weeks and enjoyed their stuff. If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would they be and why? I’d have a dinner party with Carl Barron; he’s my favourite comedian and a miserable b*stard, and it’d just be sick to sit in his presence and talk about more than jokes. Marilyn Manson would be an incredible person to unpack a heap of hot topics with; he’s ridiculously intelligent, creative and super f*ckin’ weird, but I’m into it. Lastly, I reckon Bowie would have to be a fairly extravagant supper attendee. Always hard answering these questions, because the answer constantly changes and you think of something better the next day. What’s next for you in 2020? Hopefully 2020 brings on more of the same. Love, live music and free sh*t. Thanks Ruby Note: Ruby has partnered with PLUS1, so that $1 from every ticket goes to support GO Foundation and their work creating opportunities for Indigenous youth through education.

Catch Ruby Fields at the Hoey Moey on 28th December. Tickets are $29.10 and available from www.oztix.com.au Greater Port Macquarie focus 33

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Act CLASS ACT is an exhibition representing THE COMBINED WORK OF 17 TALENTED ARTISTS, WHICH YOU’LL BE ABLE TO SEE AT LONGPOINT VINEYARD AND GALLERY THROUGHOUT DECEMBER AND JANUARY. Artist and art teacher Jill Cairns shares some details about her students’ work, which encompass a wide range of both media and subject matter …

i Jill. We haven’t chatted for a couple of years … since you were part of the exhibition titled Heartfelt, which was displayed at The Glasshouse Regional Gallery. What’s been keeping you busy since then? Hello Jo; thanks for catching up again. Heartfelt has been a catalyst for many more new adventures with our expanding group. That experience of touring and painting together as a cohesive group has been an inspiration for all of us and developmental for our art practice. The important thing is the creativity and stimulation we gain from painting together and our current exhibition, CLASS ACT, opening on December 5th until January 31st, 2020 at the Longpoint Vineyard, is the result. Last January, we travelled to the Kosciuszko National Parks and surrounds to paint the snowfields in the summer. This subject is in view of a future exhibition, to be announced soon, entitled Snowline to Sandune. We worked en plein air around Dalgetty in the heat and we stayed in a great house together near the Snowy River, where we swam to cool off at the end of the day. The Kosciuszko walk took us to another world which inspired the senses. In November, we stayed together at Hat Head to work in the sandhills towards this contrasting element of our show. One of the highlights of these sessions is critiquing our studies every evening with glass in hand. 34 Greater Port Macquarie focus

I have been involved in many workshops “Food For Thought”. teaching students how to take their I have been a part of group exhibitions drawing and painting skills to a new level in The Macleay Valley Council Gallery at and introducing different mediums with an Gladstone, and I am working towards my first opportunity to free the hand. These workshops solo, entitled, The Big Picture, to be shown in have been conducted from The Glasshouse in February 2020. Port Macquarie, the Hastings Valley Fine Art I have recently conducted, with three other Association Gallery and in Sydney through the local artists, a workshop for H.S.C. students Oatley 101 Art Society. 2020 at the Glasshouse which was sponsored Travelling to Sydney by the H.V.F.A.A. We has given me greater demonstrated our exposure as a tutor and personal techniques artist. It has been great to students from the to meet new artists Hasting’s Secondary My teaching is not to the working in different College to assist them in whole group, unless we have genres, and it has given developing further skills a special day where I will me opportunities to and knowledge in their demonstrate a technique exhibit in competitions. final work. This was a or medium and we all I recently won “Best in very successful event and create together. I teach to Show” at the Oatley 101 undoubtedly will happen the individual, which allows the Annual Art Exhibition again next year. student to choose their subject with a pastel titled Great My personal studio, Art matter and choice of medium. Southern Land. at Innes, is where I love to Competitions keep be. This is a place where I me travelling all year in work as an individual on NSW, and many artists from my group are now my own practice, or the group comes together entering and receiving prizes for their hard in two sessions every Tuesday, where I teach. work. The studio was purpose built to allow my We have a syndicate to deliver and collect up retirement from 2009, to be as productive and down the coast and the Tablelands. and as social as I need. I look out on to my As confidence builds, the joy of sharing your inspirational garden and know that Monsieur work with viewers is so rewarding. Monet did exactly the same. Our Glasshouse has offered many People often say to me, how relaxing opportunities to work towards exhibitions, painting must be. For me, the answer is … such as Northern Exposure, which I am “no”. I feel excitement and utter joy when a currently preparing for and a group exhibition work is really happening, and the banter with with the H.V.F.A.A. next year; the theme will be the group is fabulous!

So, Jo, what’s keeping me busy? Is it an obsession? A need to collaborate with likeminded people? Being part of a family? I think, all of the above! You have quite a large number of art students you work with these days. Where/when do you meet up to work on your art projects together? The size of the studio has determined my class sizes. I comfortably work with ten in each group at 27 The Point Drive in Port Macquarie. We meet every Tuesday, and each group paints for two and a half hours. The morning group arrives an hour earlier, as we share lunch and a catch up on the week. Rule of thumb is, when you complete a work, you bring the wine for the next week. If there is too much cake, it’s frozen for next week. It’s a tough day! What types of art do you teach, and what media do you mostly use yourself? My teaching is not to the whole group, unless we have a special day where I will demonstrate a technique or medium and we all create together. I teach to the individual, which allows the student to choose their subject matter and choice of medium. This way, the artist keeps an individual style, makes choices about the size of work and how they wish to develop. I am the technician that comments on the use of elements and principles of art and any issues that are connected. If they all mimic my work, I have failed. I show skills in how to use oil paints, pastels, inks, charcoal and mixed media. These are all the mediums I use in my personal work, and my experience allows me to pass on my

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knowledge. I enjoy using different mediums, as it keeps the adrenalin moving and different subjects require specific materials. How broad is the range of styles and skills amongst your students? Because my students work individually, the subject range is quite diverse. Daily experiences and travels affect us all. The way we see and think determines the final result. My students have mostly attended for eight years and many had been studying art for years. Their advanced knowledge and interest has created

a very high standard. They are always keen to explore and experiment to take their work to a higher level. an exhibition and perhaps a sale. For some What do you enjoy most about working students, this will be their first exhibition, while with such a diverse range of students? others have been exhibiting and winning prizes The enjoyment comes from seeing how for years. We all bounce off each other and dedicated and brave critique each other’s work, they have become. as well as mine, when Some initial shyness required. This banter is for some has been invaluable to us all and lost and now replaced As there will be 17 artists justifies an artist’s decision by the excitement of exhibiting, each one will making. We are family! present two - four works. The You mentioned that paintings will cover many during December mediums and the subjects and January, you and range from landscape, your students will be seascape and still life, painted presenting an exhibition in traditional to semi-abstract an exhibition at techniques. Longpoint Gallery and Vineyard called CLASS ACT. What’s planned for the opening day/night? We are all looking forward to CLASS ACT. We have an opening on December 8th; however, we have had to call it “invitation only”. The large number of artists and musicians from Glenn Moore’s Concento Wind Ensemble (student band) will join us on the day as well, so, we have booked the venue to cater for our crowd numbers. However, the following weekend, Saturday 14th, 11am - 2pm, I will be there painting with other artists to meet and greet anyone who would like to catch up and chat about the exhibition. We welcome you all! Roughly how many works will be on display … and can you give us a brief rundown on the types of work we can expect to see? As there will be 17 artists exhibiting, each one will present two - four works. The paintings will cover many mediums and the subjects range from landscape, seascape and still life, painted in traditional to semi-abstract techniques. Most of our framing is looked after by Alan and Denise at Masterpiece Framing on Hastings River Drive in Port Macquarie. Thanks to them for looking after us. Will pieces of the art be for sale, and will there be an opportunity to meet any of

the artists? All works will be for sale, as well as cards printed from original artworks - something for everyone! Artists will be on site throughout the exhibition, but in particular on Saturday 14th December, as mentioned above. Where can we find out further info about your art classes and the exhibition? Information about the exhibition is available at the H.V.F.A.A. Gallery, Masterpiece Framing on Hastings River Drive, Longpoint Vineyard and various businesses around Port Macquarie, Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills and Art at Innes. The loyalty of the artists has kept my class full for many years now. Hopefully we can continue creating for a long time yet. Many thanks to you, Jo, for your continual support of the arts and promotion on behalf of Art at Innes, and we wish you and all your readers a very merry Christmas. Thanks Jill. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 35

36 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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LOU PERRI FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

W HER E THER E’S SMOK E…

Recent weeks have seen the inhabitants of our region in a state of hyper vigilance, most of us nervously barricaded indoors, sheltering from the choking smoke as we obsessively check our ﬁre apps and social media and monitor every wind change.

here is indeed nothing like staring down the barrel of a looming natural disaster in the form of catastrophic fire danger to force a huge shift in perspective in an extremely short amount of time. It didn’t take long at all for the humdrum rhythms of daily routines to be abandoned to the backburner (literally) - closed roads, closed schools, closed workplaces, ransacked supermarkets - then followed by bushfire plans and then evacuations took absolute precedent. Events were cancelled, travellers postponed their trips, and the general population buckled down and braced for the worst. Facing questions in real life such as, "If I need to leave, what things are important to take with me", and, "How do I tackle explaining this situation to the kids?" puts all that really matters in life into the absolute foreground. It certainly makes you realise that so many things in life are merely superfluous distractions, and our real-life force comes from the very simple reassurances of what is truly essential - family and friends who are close and safe, a roof over our heads, and food and water availability. That is truly the sum of it … the basic requirements of existence, that when these are under threat our complex, busy lives become very small and our focus narrows to preserving and fighting for these precious few things. It’s

definitely food for thought. proven itself to be so very united through this time and And so it happens that here we are a couple of weeks indeed, there’s nothing better to celebrate than that. later, emerging from the aftermath (still somewhat unNeighbours helping neighbours, lovely people offering easy, not knowing what this summer holds for us). their homes to evacuees, the incredible support for our Suddenly it’s that full on, exubersuperhuman firies, as well as the ant yet stressy part of the year where amazing response to saving our we madly rush around trying to "get koala population … just to name everything done" and "see everya few of the incredible things that Existential crisis or not, life one", trying to stay afloat before the have happened in response to the goes on and with the recent holiday season wave crashes over fires. terrifying threat to our us and floats us to hopefully more As well as being a terrifying time, community in mind, it is even tranquil waters. it’s also been humbling and exhilmore crucial than ever to Existential crisis or not, life goes arating for these reasons. We’re band together as a town and on and with the recent terrifying by no means at the end of it yet, region to preserve the vitality, threat to our community in mind, but it is clear to me that this region beauty and dynamism of Port it is even more crucial than ever to has emerged stronger and more Macquarie. band together as a town and region unified, and can take on further to preserve the vitality, beauty and challenges and then some if we dynamism of Port Macquarie. need to. Constant media coverage of our region of late with With all this in mind - there are so very many reasons regard to fire activity and horrendous air quality won’t be to get out there and support local business as much as doing our holiday destination marketing any favours in you can this the short term. summer - to celebrate the life you are living in the wonYet we have to push forward and stay strong and not derful place you are in, surrounded by the special people give up, rejoicing through the coming festive season that in your world. we are OK - in fact, better than OK. Our community has Cheers to a great festive season !

Greater Port Macquarie focus 37

December is a go for town green inn In true Town Green Inn-style, the restaurant will be celebrating its grand opening with a delicious offer — one lucky local diner will win FREE pizza for a year! Simply enter the draw on their website for your chance to indulge in quality pizzas for an entire year, on the house.

Christmas has come early for hungry lovers of Town Green Inn; Port’s beloved local restaurant is officially reopening with a made-over flavour and facade on Wednesday, December 4! Just in time for the holiday season (and with plenty of the family-friendly items for which the venue was known), Town Green Inn is returning with a new menu and weekly specials guaranteed to remind locals of its role as a go-to for families, friends, and all kinds of feeds.

With the same coastal location, passionate staff and lively atmosphere that Port locals know so well, be sure to head along to celebrate the reopening of Town Green Inn on Wednesday, December 4.

r a e y a r o f A Z Z I P E E R F WIN HEAD TO towngreeninn.com.au TO ENTER T&C’S APPLY

RE-OPENING DECEMBER 4 (02) 6580 7899 | TOWNGREENINN.COM.AU | 8 HORTON STREET, PORT MACQUARIE

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LYN Lugg

Local gem Lyn Lugg is INVOLVED IN MANY ASPECTS OF FUNDRAISING, VOLUNTEERING AND ORGANISATIONS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY, giving her time and energy selflessly. It's people like this who make you smile and give you a greater faith in society.

i Lyn. Tell us a little about yourself, family and your connection to the Port Macquarie region. I have been married to my husband, Grant for 45 years and we have three children: Richard, Tracy and Karina and seven grandchildren: Telitha, Jake, Kristena, Nathaniel, Brianna, Megan and Koby. I’m now retired, but when I started fundraising I was a teacher’s aide with disabled children. I was born in Kempsey, but we lived at Rollands Plains at the time. I have lived at Pembrooke, and Sydney for 12 years, before we moved back home in 1985 to Beechwood. How did you first become involved in organisations and fundraising? Grant and I started fishing, a passion we both had and still have, in state and Australian titles in 1992, and in 1993 we fished our first Australian titles in Port Macquarie. We were picked to go to Geraldton, WA in 1995 to fish in the Australian titles. So, the fundraising began in 1994, as we didn’t have much money. I decided I wanted to go, so I held my first street stall a couple of months later, after arranging with Council to hold the stalls. I was coming home from work and cooking all night and on stall day. We also arranged a decent raffle prize and sold tickets in that as well. It was a hectic time, but we did raise enough money and went to Geraldton. I continued to run many stalls and raffles to take us to Australian fishing titles over the years, to destinations such as Phillip Island in Victoria, Kangaroo Island, Wallaroo in South Australia, Rainbow Beach/ Fraser Island, Caloundra in Queensland and Yamba NSW. I continued to do stalls for Wauchope Primary School, helping my granddaughter and the school choir go to the Opera House. I then started to organise shopping trips to Sydney to raise money so we could take children from the Support Unit at West Port High School to the Gold Coast for a

holiday. They loved that, and they auction, which was held on 12th I’m happy with all the fundraising had a great time. October. In total we sold 155 books I have been involved with, as Then in later years it changed to of tickets overall - one fantastic they were all for special people supporting Motor Neurone Disease, effort by all. I was so busy in those and some extra special needs, after my Uncle was diagnosed with six weeks, that I had a running but the one for Mick was this hideous disease. Unfortunately, sheet on my fridge and my trusty extra special, as so many he passed away a few years ago. internet mate, Hayley Smith kept people were involved and I am a keen follower of Facebook up to date as to where everyone had a great deal Beechwood Shamrocks Rugby to find me. On the day we had so of affection for this League Club and I have been many helpers; it would be hard to lovable lad ... involved with the club for 30-odd name them all, but we were very years, selling tickets at every home thankful to every one of them. game and running raffles for What are some of your them. I love being involved in the achievements that you are most community, but next year someone else is taking over. proud of? Tell us what organisations and fundraisers you have I’m happy with all the fundraising I have been involved been a part of over the last 12 months? with, as they were all for special people and some extra Until this year, my fundraising has been a bit slack special needs, but the one for Mick was extra special, as only involved in the Footy Club. That is until April this so many people were involved and everyone had a great year, when a great mate of ours, Michael O’Brien, was deal of affection for this lovable lad. We were all blown severely injured in a boating accident. A friend asked if away by the outcome and support we received from the I had thought about doing a fundraiser for Mick, and whole community. Mick was extremely happy with the we decided we would. The next day, my husband, Grant outcome, and he is planning to either build his granny flat mentioned it to Jason Isaac at Ned Kelly’s Bait and Tackle at the back of his parents’ home or get a car modified for store, who were also thinking of doing the same, so him to be able to drive again. we combined forces, formed a committee and went For anyone out there who would like to volunteer from there. The word started to spread, and we started and give their time, do you have any tips on how gathering prizes. I tackled Wauchope for donations and they can get started within our local community? as usual, they were fantastic; I only had three knock As far as getting involved in fundraising, just get in backs within the whole town and there were some big have a go! That’s what I did, and I’ve met so many lovely donations and some smaller donations, but they were all people. I was very scared when I first started, but that used. passed. Now I’m so well-known, they just say, “She’s back We had two big raffles, one for an instant party and again” or, “What for this time?” but they never say no to one mystery raffle, with some really great prizes. There buying a ticket or two to help people out. were 22 in total, with the major prizes being a Lord Howe Lastly I would like to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU Island trip for two including air fares, a glass bottom boat FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART; YOU ARE ALL SO ride and also a mount Seaview getaway for two. This ran AMAZING. over a period of six weeks, including the big day of the Thanks Lyn.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 39

Lennon: Through a Glass Onion Lennon: Through a Glass Onion is back in Australia following their sensational 16 week season in New York. The internationally acclaimed theatrical event celebrating the genius, music and phenomenon of John Lennon which we know and loved as LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION was re-produced and rebranded for its off-Broadway debut at the Union Square Theatre. Created and performed by renowned Australian actor/ musician John Waters and esteemed singer/pianist Stewart D’Arrietta, Lennon: Through a Glass Onion, part concert and part biography, reveals the essence of the life and astonishing talent of one of the most admired icons of the past century with a story and 31 songs, including Imagine, Strawberry Fields Forever, Revolution, Lucy In the Sky with Diamonds, All You Need is Love, Come Together, Help, Working Class Hero, Mother, Jealous Guy, and more. Friday 17th January 2020 - Glasshouse - PORT MACQUARIE, NSW. (02) 6581 8888 | www.glasshouse.org.au “LENNON’S SPIRIT SHINES THROUGH.” NEW YORK POST “SAVOUR EVERY MINUTE.” NEW YORK TIMES

WITH THE MUSIC AND LYRICS OF JOHN LENNON | LENNON & MCCARTNEY JOHN WATERS with STEWART D’ARRIETTA

FRIDAY 17 JANUARY

GLASSHOUSE, PORT MACQUARIE 02 6581 8888 // GLASSHOUSE.ORG.AU 40 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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Club North Haven have introduced a fantastic initiative to help our drought ravaged local farmers doing it tough. With the desire to support our local community, the Million Litre Promise is set to donate and deliver water right where it's needed.

C L U B N O R T H H AV E N

MILLION Litre Promise

hat a great idea! How did the club come up with this, and what was the process of getting it up and running? The idea of helping out farmers during this drought came from a conversation with Andrew Pratt, one of our bar supervisors. He asked me if there was a way that we could help support our farmers buy sending water to the drought stricken farms. From there, I made a few calls and got some costings together, contacted a few farmers I'd met during a Camden Haven Tourism networking afternoon and found out that the local farmers were in just as much need as the farms out west. We thought if we could help our backyard first, we may be able to challenge other areas to do the same. As always, we don’t like doing things by halves; if we were going to do something to help we would make sure it was substantial, so we set a goal of delivering one million litres. How is the club raising the money to donate the water? The best way we thought we could raise the money was by leaning on our suppliers and local sponsors to create a partnership that would help us through both marketing and an opportunity of a purchasing agreement with Lion, our beer supplier. This agreement meant that we could donate one dollar from every schooner of Tooheys (e.g. Iron Jack) sold to purchase a tanker of water. As we broke it down, it worked out than an average of 300 schooners sold would pay for 15,000 litres of water

to be delivered to a local farm. on purchasing water can go We contact the water couriers We also used our partnership towards other things to keep and we pay the invoices. The with First National Real Estate their farms up and running. farmers don’t have to North Haven to help with a What have been the worry about any fees, so social media campaign and to reactions of the farmers the money they save on grow awareness of what we are who have received a truck purchasing water can go doing. As always, First National load of water? towards other things to wanted to help beyond the The reaction has been keep their farms up and running. media presence, so Stuart and fantastic so far. There is a range his team decided to donate of emotions at times; Some cry $150 from every sale they made with happiness, some farmers to go towards our goal. are just purely relieved that The promise is one million there is one thing they don’t litres before Christmas. Where are you sitting have to worry about paying for this week or month, with numbers at the current moment? depending how long the water lasts. The main At the moment we are well on our way, with response we get is that it helps their mental state just over 645,000 litres delivered so far, and we are knowing that there are people and businesses that also receiving donations from local members and care about them and want to help out. businesses, so those donations will ensure that What are you most proud of with this initiative? we will meet our one million litre promise and no The proudest part of this program that we have doubt have the opportunity to deliver even more if put together is that our local community has required. responded so positively towards it and know that by How do the local farmers get the water doing something that is in their regular routine and delivered, and do they need to register for this day to day life, such as buying a beer, can help out initiative? our local farmers and contribute to them having a The best part about this initiative is how simple it better go at keeping their farms up and running. is. We have certain processes and requirements that We are also exceptionally proud that we initiated must be met before we arrange the water deliveries this program and by challenging other clubs to do but apart from that, the farmers don’t have to do the same, we now have a blueprint that Clubs NSW much at all. Simply contact me (Shane Globits) or have taken on board and are delivering across the Peter Negus at Club North Haven on 6559 9150, state. We now have MPs discussing how they can and we do the rest. We contact the water couriers, help our farmers more, and this is all because the and we pay the invoices. The farmers don’t have community care. to worry about any fees, so the money they save Thanks Shane. Greater Port Macquarie focus 41

So, you want to become a helicopter pilot? A new brand from old bones Introducing DESTINATION FURNITURE, a new concept store created by owner and local Kelly Williams. A qualified interior decorator and experienced furniture importer, Kelly is passionate about sourcing pieces that have a charm that is rare in a mass-produced industry. Building on a decade of experience earned in owning a Vast Interior franchise, Kelly and her team work tirelessly to create a cohesive space in the showroom that can easily translate to your home. At Destination Furniture, designs are carefully curated with a focus on uniqueness, beauty and superior craftmanship. Timber selection includes interesting grain patterns and beautiful textures. The materials tell their own story and show their distinct personality. Each piece is well designed and ethically sourced. The store will stay true to its roots and continue to specialise in sustainably sourced mango wood dining and occasional furniture ranges, but with more emphasis on discovering that special "find" - that one piece that oozes character and initiates a conversation when people visit your home. Come in and be a part of the journey.

Flight training now in Port Macquarie Whether you’re a curious beginner or want a career as a pilot, we’ll teach you everything you need to take flight, all in the stunning beach-side surrounds of ‘Port’.

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42 Greater Port Macquarie focus

national tour thirsty merc live! thirsty merc live! thirsty merc live! december 27 door 7pm $25 + BF Tickets on sale now oztix.com.au

Beloved Aussie band Thirsty Merc is heading to Port, playing a show at Tacking Point Tavern on Friday, December 27. The Aria-nominated artists from Sydney are bringing their big hits including "Someday Someday", "20 Good Reasons", and "In The Summertime" to the Tavern stage, ready to soundtrack your summer drinks and kick-start your weekend with their acclaimed on-stage presence. Some tickets remain to see Thirsty Merc at Tacking Point Tavern â€” grab yours today via Oztix and get ready to sing along to the group's summertime classics, enjoy TPT's special events menu, and celebrate the festive season in Aussie pop/rock style.

CNR OCEAN & EMERALD DRIVES, PORT MACQUARIE NSW | TACKINGPOINTTAVERN.COM.AU | (02) 6582 3939 Greater Port Macquarie focus 43

44 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Brooklyn’s Burger Bar Now open in the Sovereign Place Town Centre, Brooklyn’s offer allday dining with an international-inspired menu. Brooklyn’s Burger Bar is the new kid on the block and is the place to go for gourmet burgers, speciality coffee, shakes and frappes, craft beer, wine, spirits and cocktails. A casual, yet sophisticated dining experience awaits patrons.

Home People Life At Triple Two we offer a collection of great priced on trend homewares, gifts and fashion. People have wondered where the name Triple Two has

Tell us about your menu ...

come from; it is from one of our other Hastings businesses

Brooklyn’s has an internationally inspired burger menu, craft beer and wine, speciality coffee, kids' menu, frappes, breakfast burgers and lighter options; gluten-free and vegan options available.

- Customline Timber Windows and Doors - which is located

Do you have a signature dish? The Brooklyn Burger - flame-grilled Angus beef, crispy bacon, caramelised bourbon onions, sweet jalapeño relish, jack cheese and smokey bbq sauce. What beers do you have on tap? We partnered with Pirate Life and Four Pines Brewery. We serve Pirate Life craft lager and Pirate pale ale on tap. We will introduce limited-edition options from both Pirate Life and Four Pines as they become available. We have a huge range of craft and standard beers by the can and bottle, plus many boutique wines and spirits available. When are you open? Brooklyn’s is open Monday to Thursday from 6:30am to 8pm, Friday from 6:30am to 9pm, Saturday from 7am to 9pm and Sunday from 7:30am to 8pm. We are also available for functions and extended hours.

at 222 High Street in Wauchope. This will be our storage and large delivery drop off point for Triple Two. Our tag line of HOME PEOPLE LIFE has a meaning of something for everyone. We have a selection of baby gifts, arts and crafts to keep the kids busy, ladies' fashion and accessories, kitchen and entertaining nik naks, plus handmade dining tables and bench seats, with custom orders available. We also have men's leather wallets and ties. There are loads of stocking fillers and teachers' present ideas. A gift wrapping service is available, and we can deliver locally if needed. With Christmas just around the corner, there are lots of decorations and ornaments in store, but they have been selling fast … Come in and check us out.

Juice Box Conveniently located outside Hastings Co-op’s new Sovereign Place IGA, The Juice Box serves a range of freshlysqueezed juices and smoothies using produce from the neighbouring store to minimise wastage. Favourites include juices such as Mint Mantra, Beetroot Bliss and the Thirst Quencher and everyone’s favourites, the Banana Blitz and Mango Mission smoothies. You’ll also be able to get your caffeine fix with a takeaway coffee and fill up with a healthy grab-and-go meal or sweet treats to enjoy while you shop. Juice Box is part of the rapidly-growing Hastings Co-op family, which grew to 22 with the opening of the new Sovereign Place IGA, IGA Liquor and Home Timber and Hardware stores in late November. If you have the kids in tow, why not take advantage of the free creche in the IGA, which is open 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm weekdays for one to five-year-olds? The Juice Box is open 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 4pm on weekends.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 45

focusinterview.

OUTBACK Adventures

outback adventure dps

Teale and Linda Bryan Have you ever imagined pressing pause on your life and leaving everyday reality behind for a trip of a lifetime? IT MAY NEVER SEEM LIKE THE RIGHT MOMENT IN TIME, BUT IF YOU DON'T TAKE THE RISK, YOU WILL NEVER REAP THE REWARDS. For locals Teale and Linda Bryan and their two children, this pause was exactly what they needed, and their journey is one that will stay with them forever.

46 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

o pack up and leave it all behind must've been quite a difficult decision to make. What was it that made you take that leap? There’s never a good time to leave for eight weeks, but we felt that if we didn’t pack up and go, the opportunity would pass and we would never do it. Our children are 11 and 13, so we felt that we needed to enjoy the time we have with them, before they became too old to want to spend time with us. How much planning and organisation went into your trip before leaving? There were lots of things to do in preparation. We were lucky enough to have house sitters recommended to us, having them stay with our pets and home took away a lot of stress and organisation. For work, we had just purchased Sportspower Port Macquarie, so timing wasn’t great, but thankfully we inherited amazing staff whom we knew would take care of things while we were away. In terms of planning our time on the road though - very little planning went into it! We had a loose itinerary, to ensure we would be back in time, which the whole family would find amusing when I pulled out the planner, but as for each individual destination, we decided as we went. We developed a motto a couple of days into the trip - "it’s about the journey, not the destination" - and it's so true! The stops on the way made the trip what it was. Prior to leaving, Teale would spend his days researching the best options with the van and car combination and make minor adjustments to ease the driving conditions. We travelled just under 14,000 km, so it was vital to get the safety component correct. Tell us about your setup that was "home" for a few months? We had a 22 ft Jayco Outback Van, which was perfect! We were lucky enough to have great weather for the majority of our trip, so most of our time was spent outdoors. We

realised we needed very Teale would spend his days little to travel with; it's researching the best not as though we were options with the van and staying in one place car combination and for any great length of make minor adjustments If you can narrow it time, and most of our to ease the driving down to five, name the entertainment was by conditions.We travelled just best destinations? discovering the towns under 14,000 km, so it was vital to These questions are and all they had to offer. get the safety component correct. getting tougher! I’m sure We could survive with each family member will very little, which was have different answers, half the appeal. so I’ll consolidate our With two kids in tow, how did you all go responses: surviving the minimal space? I’ll cheat and say the Top End, because it It definitely took some adjustment, but encompasses quite a few of our favourite after a couple of weeks we all learnt patience. destinations, Gem Tree (garnet fossicking Everyone soon became aware of how to deal in the red centre), Coober Pedy (The Breakwith each other and notice if someone was aways were breathtaking), Mataranka and the tired and needed some space! Whitsundays. There was not one destination What was the best thing about being on we didn’t enjoy; we loved it all. Even outstathe road with your family? tions where we stopped for overnight stays As parents we enjoyed seeing the kids learning new skills, and they loved that too. Learning how to light fires with flints, cracking whips and hunt for coconuts were things they wouldn’t have necessarily learnt at home. Being on the road was all about the simpler things and enjoying each other's company (most of the time). Board games, conversation around a campfire and fishing at sunset - it doesn’t get much better. You travelled as far as the Top End. What was your number one experience from the trip? That’s a tough question … I guess as a whole, the number one experience would be learning about our vast country. We learnt so much on the road about our changing landscape; we gained an understanding of the different cultures that exist and how those cultures integrate. We met farmers and listened to their stories, we saw wildlife outside of enclosures - the list goes on. We are definitely richer from the knowledge we have gained and are so grateful that we have been able to take the time off and discover Australia.

on the way through the desert were so much fun, meeting new people and exposing us to a different way of life. What did you take away from your lap around Oz? That life can be so simple if we allow it; it’s about experiences and memories, not material possessions. Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to take an adventurous road trip? Just do it! Life and opportunities will pass you by; everything will be here when you get back, rolling on the same way it did before you left. Go out and enjoy what our beautiful country has to offer. Would you do it all again? In a heartbeat!

Greater Port Macquarie focus 47

THE

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A special focus feature

THE

AVA I L A B L E F R O M WORLD GYM

Tea Samplers AVA I L A B L E F R O M W O R L D PA R T E A

RM Williams Wallet AVA I L A B L E F R O M PORT MACQUARIE WORK WE AR

Pure Fiji

Breville

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Greater Port Macquarie focus 87

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†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. All products may not be available from all Chemist Warehouse stores. Not all products featured in this catalogue are available online. We beat everyone’s prices! At Chemist Warehouse if you find a cheaper price on the exact same item at another Australian Retail store, we will match it and give you 10% off the difference. (Excludes ‘online only’ offers). Exact same item means exact same product, with the same packaging and where the product on offer at the other retail store is not clearance or run out stock. All products subject to manufacturer’s availability. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

SALE STARTS: 2 ND DECEMBER 2019 Macquarie focus 2019 57 DECEMBER SALE ENDS: Greater 15 THPort

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1. Ceramic Jewels by Aleisa Byfield 2. Handmade nature inspired jewellery and wares by bottled earth 3. Girls' Christmas Dress by Cherrie and Blossom 4. Ceramics by Aleisa Byfield 5. Handmade natural skincare with Pure Essential Oils by Bird and Earth 6. Boys' Christmas outfit by Cherrie and Blossom Greater Port Macquarie focus 57

Tech Head

the

DJI

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he compact yet powerful Mavic Mini is the perfect creative companion, capturing your moments in a way that effortlessly elevates the ordinary. Together with the easy-to-use DJI Fly app, you’ll enjoy a simplified flying experience and a perspective unlike any other. The DJI Mavic Mini is extremely safe to fly as it comes equipped with a 360-degree propeller guard that fully protects the propellers and improves flight safety. Thanks to advanced sensors, Mavic Mini can also hover precisely. The DJI Fly app offers a variety of creator templates that generate awesome videos with just a tap. Even beginners with no editing experience can turn any moment into a hit. Whilst the DJI Mavic Mini drone is extremely tiny, its feature set is the complete opposite: •

Ultralight @ 249g total weight

•

30-minute flight time

•

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•

Vision Sensor + GPS Precise Hover

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3-Axis Gimbal 2.7K Camera

• Simplified Recording & Editing SOME OF THE AMAZING BENEFITS RECOMMENDED BY DJI: EASY TO FLY AND FAMILY FRIENDLY - DJI certainly has a drone for everyone! One of the main reasons for this is they are really easy to fly. With easy-to-follow flight tutorials built into the DJI fly app flying will be a breeze. With the added benefits of teaching you everything that you need to know from how to ensure the drone sensors are calibrated correctly, auto take off and the return to home function. 58 Greater Port Macquarie focus

UNIQUE PHOTOGRAPHIC PERSPECTIVE There is nothing quite like an aerial view! This perspective makes for fantastic photographs that will take your breath away and shine a whole new light on the ordinary things around us. SMOOTH VIDEO FOOTAGE - DJI Drones offer unparalleled smoothness when taking videos as all their drones come with high-performance gimbals. The gimbals have made DJI’s Drones a top choice for movie makers and V-loggers around the world. But, they’re not just for professionals, as many drone users use it to capture precious family moments or stunning footage when they go on holidays. MAKE MONEY - Drones present many money-making opportunities, for example, photography, movie making, mapping, 3d modelling, precision agriculture, advertising real estates, inspecting structures and many more. PARTS AND ACCESSORIES - DJI have a range of additional parts and accessories available to support and enhance your experience like, lens filters, additional batteries, prop guards, spare probs etc and with the peace of mind of the worldwide DJI repair network you will have an ultimate flying experience. DJI CARE REFRESH - KEEPS YOU FLYING A unique comprehensive and reliable service plan that offers two replacement units in one year, allowing you to enjoy your DJI product with greater peace of mind wherever you go! The DJI Mavic Mini is light and extremely portable, fitting in the palm of your hand when folded down and nearly as light as your smartphone. With the added benefit of being a DJI Drone and starting from as little as $599 – It’s the perfect gift idea!

focusinterview. Pictured: Pam Milne, Mitch Van der Veer, Bridget Purtill, Annabelle Sneddon and Linden Duke.

EDUCATION @Glasshouse Program

The Glasshouse and Coastline Credit Union have forged an exciting partnership to ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of the Education @ Glasshouse Program throughout the next few years. Glasshouse Venue Manager Pam Milne and Coastline Credit Union’s Creative Strategies Officer Annabelle Sneddon share the details …

Pam Milne

Venue Manager, Glasshouse

i Pam. What led to the Glasshouse and Coastline Credit Union forming a partnership for 2020's Education Program? Hello Jo, and thank you for the opportunity to share this exciting news with your readers. The Glasshouse is actively seeking opportunities to partner with organisations who are passionate about supporting cultural initiatives within our local community. We were absolutely delighted when the team at Coastline Credit Union approached us and offered to support the Education @ Glasshouse Program. How did you see this partnership benefiting the program? As Principal Partner 2020-2023, Coastline Credit Union is offering a significant level of support, which not only ensures the long-term sustainability of the Education Program, but also assists in funding new initiatives which will help us extend the program, increase participation by schools and benefit more students. The Education Program offers so much content across both the gallery and theatre spaces next year. What are some of the upcoming activities you're most excited about? That’s a really tough question! There’s an incredible array of curriculum aligned productions, exhibitions, workshops and tours on offer to our pre-schoolers and students K - 12. If I had to pick … Junkyard Beats is a high energy, imaginative music-in-education performance combining drumming, dance, theatre and comedy. It’s an exciting way to learn about sustainability when unwanted household

junk is transformed into extraordinary musical instruments! The Stencil Art Prize exhibition will be edgy, political and cheeky, featuring artworks by 66 finalists from across the globe. It also brings a unique opportunity to our region; Port Macquarie-Hastings Schools will be invited to submit Expressions of Interest to the mural project, and the winner will develop a mural design for a wall space at their school. It's interesting to see the Education Program not only offers content for students (on site AND within schools) - but for teachers as well. Why do you feel this is important? Over the past 10 years, the Glasshouse has forged strong relationships with our local schools through engaging with the teachers to understand their needs. Providing professional development opportunities for them to learn more about the arts with educators from Australia’s leading cultural institutions is a win-win for everyone - the teachers, students and our community. Delivering these types of opportunities is a key strategic focus for the Glasshouse. How do local schools access the Education Program events/masterclasses? Education bookings are made directly with the Glasshouse; you can view the 2020 program and download booking forms on our website: glasshouse.org.au/Education/Book-planyour-visit Alternatively, call the Glasshouse Box Office on (02) 6581 8888 and request an Education booklet; we can send you all the information. Thanks Pam.

Annabelle Sneddon

Creative Strategies Officer, Coastline Credit Union i Annabelle. What led to the establishment of the partnership between Coastline Credit Union and the Glasshouse for the 2020 Education

program? Hi Jo; thank you for having me. Coastline are well aware of the important role education plays within society. Giving regional students access to the unique and innovative events hosted within the Education @ Glasshouse Program will encourage creative learning and foster imagination. The National Education and the Arts statement says: “Creativity in education is a necessity, nurturing imagination and curiosity - two vital elements that can drive learning for us all,” and this statement is something we are 100% behind. How do you feel this partnership will benefit both parties? The partnership between Coastline and the Glasshouse mutually complements our commitments to our local communities. The partnership presents the opportunity for both to build positive relationships with our local schools and highlights our dedication to support education outside of the classroom and within the broader community. How important is it to Coastline Credit Union to be involved with the local community? As Coastline is customer-owned, we're big on helping our community. Community engagement makes up a large part of our DNA, with our heritage based on a deep commitment to our local communities. Coastline supports over 40 local community

groups and organisations across the Macleay, Hastings and Manning Valleys through our Community Engagement Program. Five per cent of our yearly net operating profits are injected back into the local community through our Community Foundation. We endeavour to make a conscious effort to support those who support us. What's the most exciting thing for you personally helping to support a program of this calibre and scope? The team behind the Education @ Glasshouse program delivers a wide range of creative learning opportunities for students in our region. The access to these shows and workshops is especially unique, as it gives rural and regional students the chance to immerse themselves in educational experiences in a context that is usually only offered in urban areas. The Glasshouse is bringing educational shows to life, including staple Australian household favourites Edward the Emu and Magic Beach. Coastline is excited to provide financial support to assist with costs directly associated with accessing the Education @ Glasshouse program, allowing more schools to participate in the unique and creative events hosted within the program. Thanks Annabelle. For more information, visit Coastline Credit Union at: Coastline.com.au Interviews: Jo Robinson. Greater Port Macquarie focus 59

focusinterview.

i Kathy. You've recently relocated to the Port Macquarie area. Where are you from, and what brought you here? I have lived in Brisbane most of my adult life. I’ve also lived in Lismore whilst at uni, and Melbourne for a few years. I grew up in Hickeys Creek, 40 km West of Kempsey, an area in the news a lot recently with the fires in nearby Willawarrin. My dad still lives there, and I have siblings in Kempsey, Port Macquarie, and Wauchope. My husband, Matt and I decided we wanted family close by again, and we were well and truly ready for a tree/sea change. How have you settled in so far; and what do you think about the area as a whole? I spent quite a bit of time in Port Macquarie as a teenager and also visited one of my sisters here over the years too, so it was already familiar. We felt happy and settled straight away, and knew we had made the right decision. Having said that, the fires have been stressful, with family affected, but it reminded me how strong the sense of community is on the Mid North Coast and how people pull together. Port Macquarie and surrounds is beautiful, and we look forward to exploring, camping, and getting involved in the 60 Greater Port Macquarie focus

community. Where did you get your start in photography? My love of photography began in high school, back in the film days. I used to borrow equipment from school and set up a darkroom in the bathroom at home and loved taking photos of the animals AS YOU WOULD EXPECT, on our hobby farm. PHOTOGRAPHING FUR When it came time to FAMILIES REQUIRES A LOT choose subjects for OF PATIENCE, PLANNING the HSC, I thought I babies and children, BEFOREHAND TO SET UP should be sensible and weddings, some product SITUATIONS THAT WILL do business studies and photography, but CREATE GOOD PHOTO economics, and I left photographing animals OPPORTUNITIES, AND dreams of becoming a is what made my heart BEING FLEXIBLE. photographer behind. truly sing, and in 2016 I went on to study that’s what I decided to business at uni and specialise in. worked in sales and marketing most of my Photographing fur family members must career. be so much fun ... but it no doubt has its In my early 30s I was working for a not for challenges too! What are some of the profit, working 16 hour days, and was fed skills you've had to learn over the years to up. I questioned why I was doing jobs I hated work with family pets? and quit. After dabbling in a few different It is a lot of fun, and it absolutely has things, at age 35 I commenced my Diploma of challenges, but probably not what you might Photoimaging. think. The skills I have learned are more to I started my business in 2014 when I was do with humans than the animals! Most still studying, and photographed families, fur-parents worry their furry friend won’t

“behave” during a session, which they feel will somehow reflect badly on them, and this can create a stressful environment right from the start. Good communication with the client at the beginning means a more relaxed and fun session for everyone. I explain my approach, provide reassurance I don’t expect any particular behaviour, and my tried and tested tricks for gaining their fur baby’s attention which don’t involve treats by the way! As you would expect, photographing fur families requires a lot of patience, planning beforehand to set up situations that will create good photo opportunities, and being flexible. When working with animals, you need to let them take the lead and not force anything. My motto for photo sessions is to approach them with kindness, patience, and love. I encourage

focusinterview.

lots of cuddles, kisses and interaction for really meaningful photos. My technical training has given me understanding of the right lenses to use for animals to make them look super cute, as well as lighting techniques. I edit photos professionally in Photoshop, and have become adept at removing leads and swapping heads in group shots! What types of shoots do you offer? I offer a wide range of services, and work with my clients to determine what style they like, what they want to do with the photos, and then plan the best approach and recce locations if required. I offer lifestyle sessions at home and outdoors, and people are welcome to be in the photos. A lifestyle session is more about capturing natural moments; they are still planned and I provide direction on posing, but I try to keep it as relaxed as possible. I sometimes supplement light indoors if a house is a little dark; my work tends to be light and bright. I also have a mobile studio set up which I bring to the client’s home if they want a studio-style session; these are available for fur babies only at this stage, mainly due to the larger space requirements to photograph people. I also run themed photo events in partnership with other pet businesses, such as my annual Christmas photos. Commercial photography services for companion animal businesses are also available, to create imagery for websites, social media, and marketing material. I service the entire Mid North Coast from Forster to Coffs Harbour. What are some of the more interesting/ enjoyable shoots you've been involved with? I have photographed a cat called Teddy on the beach, which was fun; it really surprised

people passing by and made everyone smile to see a cat on the beach. Unfortunately, Teddy left this world in February, which makes his photos even more precious. He was a very adventurous cat and was harness-trained as a kitten. He was on his harness and lead during the entire session; safety always comes first. A family with five snakes was also memorable. Snakes are fascinating creatures to photograph, and look their best just after shedding their skin. I had to do two separate heartbreakingly clear how short my time with sessions a month apart, as the snakes were them is going to be. I want to remember shedding their skins at different times. I set up every moment with my mobile studio in the them - Chloe’s adorable family’s lounge room. head tilts, Webber’s Have you had to work earnest little face. with many animals They have their own other than cats and A LIFESTYLE SESSION Instagram account too @ dogs ... and if so, what IS MORE ABOUT chloeandwebber, where types? CAPTURING NATURAL I share really bad photos Snakes, guinea MOMENTS; THEY ARE taken on my ancient pigs and budgies are STILL PLANNED AND I mobile, and sometimes some of the different PROVIDE DIRECTION good photos taken with animals photographed ON POSING, BUT I my DSLR! for clients. I have also TRY TO KEEP IT AS What most taken photos of cows, RELAXED AS POSSIBLE motivates you as a pigs, sheep, goats, photographer? chickens and ducks at Capturing a moment Farm Animal Rescue in of connection between Dayboro, Queensland. All require very different a fur baby and their human. Posed shots are approaches. I plan to volunteer with some local lovely for fur family portraits and creating wildlife rescue groups to photograph animals some artwork for your home, but a photo of in care to help spread awareness and raise an animal and human interacting with love is funds. what really makes my heart sing. Do you have any fur babies yourself - and I have taken some really meaningful can you tell us a little about them if you photos of animals who are terminal with their do? humans, and just capturing that moment they My fur kids are two ten year old Maltese x are looking into each other’s eyes, it makes me Shih Tzu dogs, Chloe and Webber. They were well up. I consider it an honour to create such very influential in my decision to become a important memories for families. fur family photographer in the first place, It may be considered old school, but I always particularly as they got older and it became

supply black and white versions of photos, as they often convey the emotion of an image far more effectively. What special events/plans do you have coming up for the holiday season and into the New Year? I do Christmas sessions every year in partnership with other companion animal businesses. Most were in November, but if readers are quick they may still be able to book in for 7th December at Bonny Hills Veterinary Clinic; the booking page is on my website. Story Dogs literacy program will receive 25% of revenue from those sessions. I can also bring my mobile studio to clients’ homes to do Christmas sessions in the Port Macquarie area. So if the event on the 7th books out, the date doesn’t work for you, or if your fur baby is very timid, you won’t miss out! Where can we see more of your work or contact you for more info? Website: www.kathymcmillanphotography. com.au Instagram: @kathymcmillanphotography Facebook: @kathymcmillanphoto. Email: kathy@kathymcmillanphotography. com.au Call: 0422 100 763. Thanks Kathy. Interview: Jo Robinson. Greater Port Macquarie focus 61

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It takes a special type of person to not only stay awake for 24 hours - but to ride a mountain bike while doing so! BRENDON WOOD RECENTLY WON THE UNDER 23 DIVISION AT THE 24 HOUR ASIA PACIFIC CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP HELD IN ARMIDALE, which was a test of his endurance and fortitude against tough competition …

Wood Brendon

i Brendon. Long time, no speak! You were planning "schoolies" and a trip overseas the last time we spoke. Where are you up to with work/studying these days? Yes, that was four years ago now since my trip to Nepal, and it was really fantastic. These days I have some amazing opportunities to be working with and alongside young people. I work at Heritage Christian School as the Outdoor Education Assistant. This allows me to plan and participate in a lot of camps and sports trips throughout the year, which means I get to spend lots of time with students in a relational way. I don’t teach in classrooms, so I use these opportunities to teach them character and to build relationships with them. I also work as the Youth Ministry Leader at Grace Church, Port Macquarie. This again gives me opportunity to build relationships with teenagers and guide them in their faith in Jesus. Both jobs work hand in hand, and I love the opportunities I get to help others. Mountain biking is obviously still a big passion for you, as you recently won the Under 23 division at the 24 Hour Asia Pacific Continental Championship held over November 9 and 10 this year. Where was this event contested, and what was the course like? The event was held at Sport UNE in Armidale, NSW, which is part of their university campus. It was two championships combined, as you could win the NATIONAL Championships and the ASIA PACIFIC 62 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Championships. I was lucky enough to win shoulder two weeks beforehand. This caused a both of these titles, after a number attempts in lot of stress, but I have some really great help the past at the national champs. from Matt Hempsell at One Health Clinic, who The course was really dusty and dry and had was able to sort me out with strapping my open areas and pine forest. Lots of rocks and shoulder. roots made the track very rough, especially at What was it like coming away with the night time, when you couldn’t see as much win? ahead of you. It was a pretty special moment for me and How did you find the competition - was it something I did not expect leading into the super tough? race and even during the race. We were being Well, 24 hours is a evacuated from home on long time, where lots Friday afternoon due to can happen to both you the bushfires, so I didn’t and your equipment. even know if I was able While there aren’t many to race. The event was held at Sport UNE people who participate in So, with all that stress I in Armidale, NSW, which is part these crazy long events, chose to not worry about of their university campus. It you often find that what position I was in, was two championships everyone is really good but rather to have the combined, as you at it - which makes it attitude of just riding could win the NATIONAL competitive. and enjoying myself. As Championships and the ASIA The toughest part the race wore on, I was PACIFIC Championships. for me in the past has able to become more been staying healthy competitive and more and staying awake the focused on positions, entirety of the event. This which helped me get the time I was able to do win. both, which was the original goal, to just ride Whom would you like to thank for their all through the night. support? This sounds crazy, but I actually felt bad from My mum and grandma were able to take 8pm - 2am, BUT then started to feel good for me and support me financially and organised some reason. all my water and food during the race. Mum How did you prepare for this event? always makes friends and did so with our The best way to prepare is obviously lots pit neighbours, who were also very kind in of riding and with a good variety - lots of assisting with my bike maintenance and food climbing hills and riding at different times of while they were asleep or away. the day. My preparation wasn’t the best it has One Health Clinic - Matt Hempsell has been been, as I sprained (potentially dislocated) my a long time supporter of me with my racing

and personally, so many thanks to him. What's next on the agenda for you sporting-wise - what are your sights set on? World Championships next year will be the ultimate goal. It is in Armidale at the same time of year, so it was great to get a feel of the race track and conditions that may be on offer. Otherwise, it will be to compete at the National Championships again. I also play some local sport competitions with some friends; it’s really great for me to be playing in a team sport having loads of fun. That’s what sport is about for me - enjoying it with others and helping others succeed, so when I’m racing my bike I know it’s not the end if I lose, because the game of Multisports or touch footy with friends is the enjoyable part. Twenty four hours riding is to see how far I can push my limits on a bike. Apart from sport, what are your other plans moving into 2020? Do you have study/travel/work goals? 2020 for me I believe will be similar work-wise, as I just hope to keep making a difference to young people who are around me. I love travelling, and the camps and sports trips at school gives me plenty of that, as well as organising bike races for the excuse to go on holidays. Where can we follow your achievements? You can follow me on Instagram @brenny_wood where I generally update what I’m doing in my life. Otherwise, I'm more than happy to share in conversation if you ever see me around town. Thanks Brendon. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Summer has arrived at Colonial Cobbler Summer is here. It is officially time to store your closed toe shoes and embrace a sandalonly summer! The options in-store at Colonial Cobbler are endless when it comes to sandals, including the wedge, bright coloured flats that allow your feet to breathe whilst looking pretty, or a stylish low heeled sandal, perfect for coffee and lunches with friends in the sun or to wear to the beach. So, what are the smart women buying this summer season in footwear? It goes without saying that we are looking for superior comfort with our sandal attire that will not dig in around our toes or gnaw at our feet. Adjustable leather straps, comfortable

cushioning on the base providing superior arch support and materials that massage your feet as you walk are all at the top of our priority list when buying new sandals. Colonial Cobbler has taken all of this into careful consideration when they stock their ranges of Australian, New Zealand and European footwear, with new styles landing in-store now for summer. Colours and styles are vibrant for the new season, adding a pop of colour to your summer wardrobe and effortlessly taking you from work to the beach, to lunch and back again in style and comfort. Call in today to find your new favourites for summer. The friendly team will have you fitted out in no time.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 63

health F E A T U R E

62 Greater Port Macquarie focus

W I T H S U N D I A L D E N TA L

Massage at Port Macquarie There is absolutely no doubt that professional massage therapy delivers positive results and many people agree that He Ling Ying (Ling) the hugely popular and highly-skilled principal of Massage at Port Macquarie, provides the very finest Remedial Massage treatments available anywhere. Highly qualified in Australia, as well as in her native China, Ling’s abilities are quite unique, as she successfully combines today’s recognised contemporary techniques with time-honoured Chinese modalities to provide genuine assistance to those with physical discomfort, sport, health or occupational mobility issues, insomnia or even common fatigue. In fact, Ling’s loyal long-term clients are an ongoing testimony to her incomparable massages and to her outstanding level of care. Fully accredited by Australian Association of Massage Therapists / Massage & Myotherapy Australia, Ling practices from her purpose-built, air conditioned home clinic in the Lighthouse Beach area, where parking is just metres from the door. Approved treatments are recognised by all major health funds, with HICAPS providing instant rebates where applicable.

The festive season is a busy time of year, but it's still important to look after your oral health! Here is a take home message to improve your oral heath by following a few simple steps to keep your smile fighting fit for life!

on’t keep your toothbrush for more than three months. After three months, studies have shown that the effectiveness of the brush diminishes and germs, bacteria and fungi can grow among the bristles … so don’t be an offender and keep those old and dying tooth brushes … it’s out with the old and in with the new! Don’t sell yourself short! Take your time when you are brushing; you should be taking two full minutes and do this TWICE a day! If you need to, set a timer or play your favourite two-minute song to measure your time. Be gentle - don't brush too hard! Pressing too hard may damage your gums and start to erode enamel on your teeth. Always use a SOFT BRUSH for

best results. Hard bristle brushes might be tempting, but your gums and teeth are soft and need gentle dental care. Make sure you are brushing all the surfaces of your teeth equally and adequately. Don’t neglect any surface, because they all serve a purpose and are equally important. Floss like a boss! Flossing is second only to brushing in importance and gets between the teeth and gums and helps keep your teeth, gums and smile healthy for life! Store your tooth brush in an upright container and let it dry in the open. Avoid putting your toothbrush in a closed container, where germs have the opportunity to multiply. Use a brush that fits your hand with a head that fits in your mouth. Some adults find using a child’s brush easier and others use an

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

electric brush. Whatever your preference is, use your tooth brush twice a day for two minutes. Don’t brush right after eating, but rather wait 60 mins before brushing; especially if you have been eating something acidic. Drink Water and swish it around while you wait. Diet, including the beverages you choose, affect dental health, so think about your lifestyle choices and avoid fizzy drinks and sports drink! For specific care concerns, contact the caring team at Sundial Dental to address your family's dental needs, and with four friendly locations and a team of dental professionals to look after you, what are you waiting for? Port Macquarie 6583 3533 and Wauchope 6585 2015. Greater Port Macquarie focus 65

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

BY ADRIAN CORNALE, EYEQ OPTOMETRISTS

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

Take R E G U L A R L Y

Once again this is a current topic in our house. Shattered collar bones cause a lot of pain.

GLAUCOMA the sneak thief of

rom my experience, when somethey should be taken two, three or four times one is in a lot of pain and leaves a day, then you should take them as stated. hospital or the doctorâ€™s surgery The reason for this is that pain is relieved with multiple prescriptions and best when the medicine stays at a certain level instructions, it can become in your body, and this occurs when it is taken confusing and overwhelming to know what at regular intervals. If pain medication is not to take and when. taken regularly and pain occurs or worsens, it As my partner is more difficult to bring explained to me, his it under control. pain management Often more than one previously meant taking medication is needed tablets when the pain to manage pain. The If you have an injury, got too much to bear different medications ongoing pain or have and suffering in silence may need to be taken had surgery and was OK (and a manly at different times or the have been prescribed thing to do). same times. medications that state that The most important Do not take any extra they should be taken two, three aspect of treating pain pain relief without or four times a day, then you is to take the pain consulting your doctor or should take them as stated. medication regularly as pharmacist, as over the prescribed. counter medications may Take pain medication affect what you have regularly been prescribed or your In most situations, pain medications are other prescription medications. best taken regularly. If you have an injury, Shannon Lawrence is an Accredited ongoing pain or have had surgery and have Consultant Pharmacist. B Pharm (Hons) MPS been prescribed medications that state that AACPA 66 Greater Port Macquarie focus

GLAUCOMA is one of AUSTRALIAâ€™S LEADING CAUSES OF VISION LOSS, affecting two in 100 people.

he most common form has a very slow onset, with no pain or symptoms. Sufferers are completely unaware they have Glaucoma until its final stages, at which point there is significant and irreversible loss of vision; hence, why it is referred to as the "sneak thief of vision". Glaucoma is hereditary: People who have a close relative with Glaucoma have 10-fold more risk of developing the condition. So, if a family member has Glaucoma, it is imperative to have regular eye examinations.

have regular eye examinations - at least every five years for children and adults, every three years after the age of forty, and annually after the age of 65. What is the treatment for Glaucoma:

Most commonly, drops are administered each evening, and new surgical treatments are now available. The treatment used will depend on individual requirements in consultation People who have a close with your Ophthalmologist. relative with Glaucoma

have 10-fold more risk of developing the condition. So, if a family member has Glaucoma, it is imperative to have regular eye examinations.

Glaucoma can occur at any age: Although more common over the age of forty, it can occur at any age. Some are born with Glaucoma, and others can develop it in their teens, twenties and thirties. When it develops at a younger age, the loss of vision can be devastating later in life. Hence, everyone should

How does Glaucoma impact your life: If detected early, Glaucoma will have little or no impact on your lifestyle. If left undetected, there can be significant vision loss and even blindness.

The only way to prevent significant vision loss from Glaucoma is by early detection and treatment. Even if you think everything is fine, Glaucoma may be present "sneakily stealing your vision". So, have regular eye examinations, to ensure you are not at risk.

A natural solution for pain to stay active. THIS IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY PAIN FREE LIVING... BOOK YOUR 30 MINUTE OBLIGATION FREE DISCUSSION TODAY.

Think outside of the box to take back control of your health. An uplifting story of recovery. Here is Mike’s story. I came to see Krystyna two months ago suffering from severe nerve pain in my shoulders, neck and numbness in both hands. This was the result of two spinal operations on my neck to replace the damaged discs. After two months of treatment my neck pain is gone and I am able to bend fingers in my right hand first time after 4 years and I am enjoying my bowling again. I could not believe these amazing results. I had consulted a neurologist previously and he had told me that there was not much he could do, as I had scar tissue from the operations, that cause pressure on my nerves resulting in the neurological dysfunction. However, I noticed he had a brochure on Somatherapy Clinic in his waiting room and having seen Krystyna’s article in a local magazine I decided to give this treatment a try. I could not be more pleased with the results. Thank you Krystyna, your therapy changed my life. Mike from Laurieton NSW

If you’re not responding to conventional treatment... There is a better way! Frequency Specific Microcurrent Therapy (FSM) FSM Therapy is the pillar of Somatherapy Clinical Practice.

A unique course of treatment that targets the real cause & source of pain. Regenerative therapy that supports the body to self-repair damaged tissue. A course of FSM Therapy has proven to end chronic pain for these common conditions and so much more: • Nerve Pain, Sciatica • Whiplash • Fibromyalgia • Shingles • Joint & Muscle Pain • Spinal Disc Injury • Peripheral Neuropathy (incl. Diabetic Neuropathy) • Post-Surgical Scar Tissue

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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 79

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Lauren's dream from a young age was to be a professional athlete. With a push from one of her high school teachers followed by years of physical training, this dream became a reality. A professional cyclist for the past seven years, Lauren is now focusing her goals on the 2020 Olympics.

i Lauren. Tell us a little about yourself; how long you have called Port Macquarie home? My name is Lauren Kitchen and I have lived in Port Macquarie since I was six years old, when my family moved from Armidale. I’m 28 years old and while I still call Port Macquarie home, I am based in France for most of the year these days, where I am a professional cyclist with the FDJ-Nouvelle Aquataine Futuroscope Pro cycling team. I went to Port Macquarie High and I've since studied a Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning via distance education through UNE. I'm currently doing some work experience with King and Campbell in Port Macquarie before I get back into full training in the next few weeks. It’s been great to work with King and Campbell lately, to refresh myself for the next season on the bike. You have been a professional cyclist since 2012. When did your passion for cycling begin, and how did you get into the professional scene? I always wanted to be a professional athlete and represent Australia; that has always been my dream as long as I can remember. In 2005, one of my school teachers, Jim Harper, suggested I go to a talent ID for "could be cyclists" run by Graham Seers and the North Coast Academy of Sport. I never really expected to follow through with it, but I just wanted to prove that I could do it. I found cycling quite challenging. I was quite small for my age, and I wasn’t as strong physically as some of the others initially, but the 68 Greater Port Macquarie focus

challenge is what got me hooked. I processed through the junior ranks to the seniors and was part of the Australian Institute of Sport squad in 2009 - 2011, where I was based in Europe for a few months each championship teams year to get a taste for based on their roles the professional style of and jobs for the While cycling is often racing. race. I recently raced seen as an individual I signed up for my in Yorkshire, UK, sport, it is very much first pro team in 2012, at the 2019 World a team sport, with Rabobank, the world’s Championships and our riders selected for number one team with team leader, Amanda championship the World's best rider, Spratt took home bronze teams based on their Marianne Vos of the for us! It was a great roles and jobs for the race. The Netherlands as the championship, and I was leader. Since 2012 I’ve very proud to be a part been based in Europe for of it! most of the year, racing Who are you currently professionally for Dutch, English, Norwegian racing with, and where are you based? and now a French team. I race about 50 days a I currently race professionally for FDJ year all over the world, but mainly in Europe. Nouvelle Aquaitaine Futuroscope; it is a French You have represented Cycling Australia on register World Tour team. It is made up of a number of occasions. Can you share a 13 riders for 2020, with seven French riders little more about this? and six international riders. We are quite an I have represented Australia at the Junior international team with a French core. I am World Championships in 2007 and 2008 as an based in France from February to October in a U19 and at the Elite level in 2013, 2015, 2016 town called Poitiers. and 2019. It is always an honour to represent What is your role within the team? Australia, and the World Championships are the My role in the team varies depending on highest level apart from the Olympic Games, the course and race, but mostly I am the team which is still a big goal. captain. That means I make the calls on the road Selection to the Australian team is on how we race and what to do in different varied each year, depending on the course situations. I'm not normally the protected rider requirements for the championships and to get the result at the end of the race, but as the structure of the team. While cycling is the captain I feel responsible for the result, as often seen as an individual sport, it is very my decisions and actions can influence the team much a team sport, with riders selected for and the leader directly. We race with radios, so

I can easily talk with my teammates across the bunch and also with our director back in the car. How do you balance your obligations within the team with your individual racing? With my coach we make a season plan, which is a bit dynamic. Some races we identify as opportunities for me to go for a result, but most of the time my value to the team is as the captain, directing the younger riders and setting up the opportunities for victories for the leader(s). However, some personal goals are the Australian Nationals and Tour Down Under in January next year; both races I have podiumed in before. What are your aspirations for the coming years in women's cycling? Next year is an Olympic year, so I will throw everything I have at that selection. There are five key races in March and April that will decide the four riders who go to Tokyo. I believe I have a chance, and I'm going to give it my all. I was a reserve for Rio Olympics, and I don’t want to be in that position again. I would love to win a race in Australia. A lot of big races are in Europe, with all the history, but for me, my family and friends are here and I would love to share a big win with them! In the next few years I can also see myself slowing down from racing and starting my career in town planning. I really enjoy it and hope to continue with it soon. Thanks Lauren.

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Evening and day workshops are available and will be held at Port Macquarie Library. To register for a workshop, go to events. humanitix.com.au/new-year-new-passionate-life Purchase a ticket for that special someone for a truly unique Christmas gift and encourage them to shine! If you would prefer a private consultation, The Passion Test is available over

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December 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Preparing for a move is likely to be a major influence this month. Words need to be expressed and the longer you procrastinate, the harder it will be to express with honesty. Give yourself permission to speak and communicate from the heart, then these words will not be misunderstood. Sunstone will attract like energies to you.

You need to make a choice. There are beautiful gifts coming into your reality, but you need to know you deserve these things. Sit quietly somewhere in nature and state (even to yourself) what your heart desires, then give yourself permission to receive it. Distract yourself from not having it yet, by concentrating on all the wonderful qualities you have. Aventurine is great to carry for changes.

You have some exciting new influences knocking at your door. All you need to do is open yourself to receiving the best of what life can offer. Avoid compromising your standards, just because you don’t want to miss out. The more you can love yourself at present, the more rewarding your month will be. Carry some calcite for spontaneity.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Relationships will prove to be a major influence affecting you this month. Speak honestly and openly to avoid any misunderstandings. Play with your partner more, to help them feel a little more cherished. Aries have such independence and focus on their needs so much, that their actions can easily be interpreted as a noncaring attitude.Rose Quartz is the crystal of love; place some in your environment.

Strength will be your major attribute that you will lean on this month. You will be likely to recognise that there is no challenge too big for you to easily remove from your reality. Your mind will benefit from some interesting information, so keep an eye out for a new book or something to learn about. Lapis Lazuli benefits self-awareness.

You are learning to stand stronger, by looking at all cycles that repeated over and over in your past. You are a different person now, so there is no need to fear the repetition of these things. Simply claim the benefits of being in that situation and give yourself permission to be freed from this pattern. Moldavite is a very powerful crystal for transformation. Try wearing some.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

You are slipping into the habit of taking life too seriously at present, which is waking up fears and self-doubt. Don’t forget how clever you are at getting what you want. It isn’t by chance that you can so easily manifest new things into your reality; you just need to recognise this gift in order to receive your full potential. Larimar will assist with personal nurturing benefiting self-worth.

You may be feeling unsupported and neglected at the moment, as you are always there for others but feel no-one is there for you. Take some precious time out for yourself and do nothing but spoil yourself and focus on all your beautiful qualities with complete contentment. Sunstone will strengthen your leadership and independence.

Set fresh goals in order to make some comfortable decisions soon. You are about to tumble into an experience that you may be completely unaware of; but have no fear, as this feels like an answer to a previous wish or prayer. You will have fun discovering new talent and perhaps new friendship. Cuprite will connect you with a sense of purpose.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Changing circumstances will be an important influence this month. You can expect new friends, new learning, even a new outlook at home. You can expect a move or the need to re-arrange things. A speech is coming forward to someone from your past; this will be likely to free some old emotions which may have been playing with your thoughts lately. Turquoise will benefit you if you wear some.

You are likely to be drawn to spiritual influences this month. Playing with new talent and discovering new friends with likeminded attitudes will add a well-deserved break to the monotony of everyday living. You may need to strengthen your energetic protection, as you are vulnerable to other people’s sadness and torment at present. Try wearing some ruby for a few weeks.

You are learning to appreciate the difference between head strength and stubbornness at present. You will be likely to recognise patterns of behaviour from the past, which may surprise you. Avoid self-judgement, as this will only hinder your growth. Instead, thank yourself for these insights and commit to making change. Wear some azurite for self-approval.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 71

70 Greater Port Macquarie focus

THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING 2019 F R O M T H E T E A M AT PR I C E L I N E PH A R M AC Y

Priceline Pharmacy here in Port

Quang - 12 years. A lot of the other

Macquarie is locally owned and

staff have been here for many years as

operated, can you please introduce

well. We are like an old fashioned family

us to the amazing management team

store. Customers aren’t just a number

there?

to us. We know our customers by name,

Quang Mai, is the Owner and

and we have even watched their family

Pharmacist. Peta Lisk is the Manager

grow up.

and Fiona Durham is our Assistant

Because of this, the staff are happy

manager.

to work in a family orientated

There are so many programs

environment and that is why many of

and initiatives that you run in

us have been here for so long.

conjunction with Priceline such as

There are so many aspects to

the Sisterhood program, but there is

Priceline Pharmacy that people

also so much you do on your own. Tell

wouldn’t realise or begin to know

us about the makeover days and the

about. Can you tell us about The

Girls talk?

Nursing Homes Visits and the

our customers provided much needed

Our Sisterhood program is a card that

Student placement that your offer?

items like lip balm, eye drops, pain rub,

we are so proud of. It’s not just another

Our nursing home visits are very

magnesium tablets and many more

loyalty card, the program behind the

special to us. Garden Village, Bethany

items. To this date, it equals $10,000

card supports the following charities.

Nursing home, Bundaleer Nursing

worth.

Children’s First Foundation, Dementia

Home and Hostel and Broken bago Club

We so want to thank Peter Jamieson,

Australia, RAISE (the youth mentoring

Wauchope. Are the ones we visit several

owner of Australian Natural Care for

foundation), Look good Feel better

times a year. We call these our pamper

donating a ton of magnesium tablets

and Panda (Perinatal, Anxiety and

days. We do makeovers, mini facials,

and lip balm to the firefighters, Frank

depression Australia). This is where the

paint nails, hand massages all to make

Caruso, owner of Caruso’s Vitamins for

fundraising money goes.

residents feel good about themselves.

donating much needed magnesium rub

At Camden Haven High School,

Even the men come onboard; they love

for those aches and pains plus multi-

they provide a class called Girls Talk

the mini Facials.

vitamins to keep the firies going. I’d

which we teach them about personal

All of this we provide for free and would

like to add that these two companies

grooming & hygiene and how to feel

encourage other groups that would like

are completely Australian owned and

better about yourself. We show them

us to visit to call us and make a time &

their products are made here. Last but

how to apply makeup and teach them

day that suits them.

not least, Ego Skincare. They provided

the importance of personal hygiene.

We also work with all the local schools

washes and much needed moisturisers

and job agencies by supplying work

for the Firefighters.

Peta, you yourself and a lot of the

training for students. This helps with

That’s what it’s all about……people

staff have been with the company

their hours of training for their courses

getting together and helping each other

for such a long time. Why is that and

that they’re doing at school and over

and that’s what we do at Priceline.

what makes working at Priceline Port

the years we have ended up employing

Customer service is such an

Macquarie such a rewarding job?

some of these students.

important part of any business and

Many of us have been here for a

Being in a country area we LOVE to

Priceline Port Macquarie have some

number of years even before we

support communities in need where

of the best in town. How do you make

became Priceline. Peta - 18 Years total

we can. For example the Farmers

sure this continues?

and 11 of those years as Priceline.

Fundraising day, Sisterhood Fundraising

In 2016 we won Port Macquarie

Marion - 24 Years total and 11 of those

day, Donations to Christmas on the

business awards in the Medical &

years as Priceline. Kim - 17 Years total

Beach, Sunscreen to every local cricket

Healthcare industry and the People’s

and 11 of those years as Priceline. Jade

team Association - Harry Brady helped

choice awards, and in 2017, we were in

- 11 years at Priceline. Ron, our Delivery

coordinate the donation, and our latest

the finals for both awards.

Man has been with us for 11Years and

which we are so proud of - helping

We treat customers as we would like to

Priceline Pharmacy Port Macquarie 36 Horton Street, Port Macquarie PHONE 6583 1900 OPEN HOURS Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday

8.30am- 4pm 8.30am- 6pm 8.30am- 6pm 8.30am- 6pm

support all the volunteer Firefighters that came to Port Macquarie to help the Hastings and Manning areas with the devastating fires. Priceline and

be treated and offer fast friendly service. Our staff have been trained in their special fields to provide this great service. Marion in health and vitamins, Heather in skincare , Sarah, Kim & Lily in cosmetics and Tina in hair care. Our dispensary team, Jade, Quang, Lesley, Tushar, Chantel and Ben, have become an integral part of our customers daily healthcare needs and questions. They have earned the customers trust and loyalty in this competitive Pharmacy Business. We offer individual and personalised service and we know we make people happy because our in store customer survey is 94% almost every month. What are some of the other services that you offer? Medication Review Flu Vaccination Blood Pressure Monitoring Blood Glucose Testing cholesterol testing Home Delivery (local area) Script Repeat on File National Diabetes Service Free Gift Wrapping Is there anything else you would like to add? Priceline Pharmacy also has an app that you can download from the app store. And coming very soon is a new service Click & Collect which will make life much easier for our customers.

@pricelinepharmacyportmacquarie

Thursday Friday Saturday

8.30am- 6pm 8.30am- 6pm 8.30am- 5pm

Greater Port Macquarie focus 71

74 Greater Port Macquarie focus

focusinterview.

Church is not about religion. Church is about coming together, to celebrate, to love, to ﬁnd opportunity, to be kind and to understand each other. Coastside Church has a "come as you are" philosophy and is focused on embracing everyone, from all walks of life. Senior leader Mark Minturn tells us more.

Coastside

Church

i Mark. For those in our local community who don't know you, can you please introduce yourself and your role? I've been the senior leader of Coastside Church for nearly 23 years, which means I run the direction of the church and how we’re going to meet, when we’re going to meet, and also the culture of the church. In the 23 years that you've been at Coastside Church, can you share what it was like when you first got there and a little about how it's grown over the years? When I first took over the church, I was 28 years old and it was a very religious church that basically talked about all the rules and what you couldn't do. Over the years we have majorly affected the next generation, so there are a lot of young people in the church - a lot of young adults and a lot of young families. Instead of talking about what we can and can't do and the rules that most people believe apply in church, we talk more about how you can love each other, serve each other, and actually be kind and humane to each other - not just the people in the church, and not just the people who believe what we believe, but also the people who believe other things. Whether that's the colour of their skin, their sexual preference, or anything else they choose to do, our job is not to judge anyone or tell anyone what's right and wrong, but it's to clearly love them where they’re at. It sounds like a really inclusive place. How many people generally come along on a Sunday to your services? We probably have around 200 who come through over the weekend. And obviously they come from all walks of life? Yes, all walks of life. Some people are

rich, some people are poor, some people are educated, some uneducated and all different nationalities. As I said before, some of them are on journeys of different moral standards, and it's not for us to judge them, but just to love them where they are at and to help find the love that God's given them and also that love that we should then extend to other people, which is all inclusive. If I was to come along on a Sunday, what could I expect at Coastside Church? The service is free, and we’re currently meeting at Panthers auditorium. Firstly, you would be welcomed, and then we run the service that goes for an hour and 15 minutes. Within that service, we sing a couple of songs, mainly whilst people arrive, then there will be a message that will go anywhere from 20 minutes to 30 minutes on how you can better yourself or love other people better, how you can raise your kids, how you can keep your marriage together, how you can be a generous person, and all of the great values that we find make a good life. Given that we've been through some turbulent times recently with the drought and bushfires, and that it’s coming up to the season of giving, how can people be more in touch with their community as we lead up to Christmas and this sacred time of year? When it comes to generosity, it shouldn't just be promoted because something has gone wrong. Generosity should be a lifestyle, whether things are going good or bad. Obviously, when there is a need, there is more opportunity to be generous. I think that the best thing people can do is be kind to each other. Sometimes people always ask for money to get others out of trouble, but one of the things you need more than money is just to be generous. Tell them that you're thinking of

them, tell them you can We specialise in GENEROSITY help them and support loaded fries and loaded SHOULDN'T JUST BE them, whether that's snitties - which means PROMOTED BECAUSE with time or the talents chicken schnitzel with SOMETHING HAS GONE you have to serve them; whatever you want to WRONG. GENEROSITY it may be finances, but put on it and also hot SHOULD BE don't just limit it to chips with whatever you A LIFESTYLE, finance. Be kind and want to put on them. WHETHER THINGS ARE sympathise with where We also do a whole GOING GOOD OR BAD. other people are at and range of hamburgers and do what you can. milkshakes and of course, In the sense of what all of those other things you've built with Coastside Church, you've you'll find that are unhealthy for you but taste also taken over two takeaway shops to great. help provide and look after some of the It's not just about serving and helping the people who are close to you. Tell us a little people within your family and community, about what you've started there. but you've also got an offer out there for I had family members who were finding it people who might be doing it tough. Can hard to get employment, and an opportunity you tell us about that? came up to grab one of these takeaway shops. The shops don't exactly make a lot of money We bought one and then we bought another or profit, but they're not there for that. They're one, and the idea behind it was that it would there to help people in the community and give family members a job and it would also those who are employed. For the month of give other people who didn't have jobs a job. December, anyone who is doing it tough, feel Obviously we can't provide jobs to everyone free to come in and order whatever you want who needs one, but I have certainly provided off the menu, let the managers know that 12 jobs for immediate family, distant family you're doing it tough, and they will provide all and friends and some younger people who of the food for free. have left school and couldn't find employment. For anyone who loves the food, and we Now they have a kick start to learn how to have thousands who eat there weekly, who get up in the morning and be there on time feels generous enough to pay a meal forward, and be a good employee. So wherever they that will help the wheels go round a lot longer. go, they've got basic skills on how to stay If you have the ability to bless someone else's employed. meal, then please feel free to pay a meal Where are the two takeaways located? forward, and we will certainly make sure that it One is in the main street of Wauchope called gets to someone who is doing it tough at this Feel Good Food, and the other one is right time. opposite Lake Cathie, also called Feel Good Any final parting words for this interview? Food. Same menu, same signage, same prices, When it comes to the church, there are no same everything. The two shops mirror image conditions; come as you are. When it comes to each other. being a person, be kind to each; live long and What can we expect to see on the menus prosper. over summer? Thanks Mark.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 75

focus_contributor

MICHAEL MOWLE - PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Minding your THE CHRISTMAS SEASON IS UPON US, AND WITH THAT THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY WILL NO DOUBT REFLECT ON 2019 AS AN EVENTFUL AND SOMETIMES TUMULTUOUS YEAR.

he NSW State Election was held in March with the Berejiklian Coalition Government returned to office, promising a big infrastructure spending agenda. In May at the Federal level, the Morrison Coalition Government was also returned against all previous poll predictions and to the surprise of many commentators. The promised immediate income tax cuts from the Morrison Government were closely followed by two interest rate cuts by the RBA. However, the second half of 2019 saw little change as a result of this stimulus and the domestic economy continued to record lower than predicted growth. In particular, retail sales growth has remained flat at best. On this front, local retailers would be hoping for a boost from upcoming Christmas sales. Most recently and in response to below forecast economic activity, the Federal Government has announced infrastructure spending of nearly $4Bn; much of it in NSW will be brought forward. Although a big proportion of this will be large metropolitan projects, the broader economy and regional areas like ours should experience flow on benefits to local businesses. The worst drought in history has persisted and expanded its grip across much of eastern Australia. Recent reports indicate a drop in Australia’s farm

76 Greater Port Macquarie focus

output of nearly 10% as a result of this wishes to express sincere gratitude to the ongoing natural disaster. In response, RFS, SES, Council, all emergency services the NSW Government via Water NSW workers and the many volunteers for has announced a massive portfolio of their efforts in fighting these widespread new water infrastructure projects valued bushfires. at $10Bn to be undertaken over the Despite these recent challenges, next five years. Two of the largest water the agricultural sector and business infrastructure community in projects are general continues Glengowan Dam to invest in and near Tamworth have confidence in On behalf of the entire and Mole Creek the Port Macquarie community, Port Macquarie Dam north of region. General Chamber of Commerce wishes to Tenterfield. business confidence express sincere gratitude In our area has risen slightly in to the RFS, SES, Council, we’ve had the wholesale trade, all emergency services recent bushfires, agriculture, finance workers and the many which have caused and professional volunteers for their widespread services and efforts in fighting these devastation in the construction widespread bushfires. Macleay, Hastings compared to past and Manning years. At the same Valleys and time, the region beyond. Rural and continues to record residential areas alike were threatened by stronger than average employment the worst bush fires in several decades. growth. Dry, windy conditions and persistent As the Christmas and holiday period smoke haze have been ongoing for many approaches, we can reflect on the recent weeks, as many fires continue to burn challenges met and handled stoically, in inaccessible forest areas and National along with the opportunities that a Parks. New Year brings and the good fortune Only the heroic actions of the we share to live in this area. The Port firefighters and many volunteers saved Macquarie Chamber of Commerce significant loss of life and property. On wishes all its members and the local behalf of the entire community, Port community a happy and safe Christmas Macquarie Chamber of Commerce and New Year.

focusinterview.

Eastern Air Services

Whether you’re adventurous or more grounded, wish to SPREAD YOUR WINGS OR PREFER TO KEEP YOUR FEET FIRMLY ON THE GROUND IF AT ALL POSSIBLE, EASTERN AIR/EASTERN TOUR SERVICES OFFER A WIDE VARIETY OF SERVICES, from ﬂight simulators to aerobatic manoeuvres. David Bartush explains the best ways to experience ﬂight locally …

i David. Tell us what’s new with Eastern Air Services/ Eastern Tour Services here in Port Macquarie. Eastern Air Services have recently attained their RPT (Regular Pubic Transport) full commercial licence. The RPT is the highest approval that the Civil Aviation Safety Authority issue, which all our major airlines are required to meet, including Qantas and Virgin. This higher standard requires Eastern Air Services to adopt many additional programs, including safety management systems, human factor training, pilot training and a comprehensive system of maintenance, all carried out in-house at Eastern Air Services’ fully approved facility here in Port Macquarie. Eastern Air Services offer year-round scheduled flights from Port Macquarie to Lord Howe Island, which was recently placed as the number five destination in the world by Lonely Planet. Other destinations are also in the pipeline, including Lord Howe Island to Norfolk Island and return, and some east coast mainland routes. Eastern Tour Services is pleased to announce a host of new and exciting accommodation/flight packages for Lord Howe Island flying direct from Port Macquarie and return; no more having to drive to Sydney to catch a flight. We also promote Port Macquarie and its many varied tourist attractions and accommodation facilities to our international and interstate travellers. You have a couple of exciting new additions to your stable of planes at Eastern Air/Eastern Tour Services! Firstly, why did you decide to purchase a Super Decathlon Aerobatic Aeroplane? The latest edition is our Super Decathlon Aerobatic Aircraft; we tracked this aircraft down

in Queensland and acquired it, brought it home, totally refurbished it and put it online with our flying school EAS Flight Training and extreme adventure flights. This aircraft was also a previous resident of Port Macquarie, as it lived here in the 1990s, taking lots of people on scenic and aerobatic joy flights with great delight. A small piece of trivia: these aircraft were distributed in Australia by a former Port Macquarie resident, Gerry Dick. What type of plane is this, and what are some of its specs? The aircraft is an American Champion Aircraft Corp “ Super Decathlon”. This great little aircraft has some very cool specs. For a little two seat aeroplane, it has a top speed of 290 kph and a cruise speed of 230 kph; to put it in perspective, that’s more than twice the legal road speed. These aircraft are still competing in intermediate Aerobatic championships worldwide, and having an aerobatic loading of +6 G-Force and -5 G-Force, that makes them a very strong aircraft. What is the most thrilling thing about enjoying a flight in this aircraft? The fun to be had in this aircraft is extremely hard to be outdone. The thrill of doing your first loop will not be forgotten anytime soon! As you enter the loop, you feel the pressure of the g force upon your body; you’re looking up through the huge clear sunroof, waiting for the ground to come into view, and as you pull out of the loop, you experience the g forces again. All this time our cameras are capturing every minute of the action and yes, sometimes there are some very funny pictures - that we promise won’t go any further than Facebook (with your permission, of course!) What types of aerobatic manoeuvres can this

plane pull off in the hands of the right pilot? Eastern Air Services conducts joy flights as As mentioned earlier, these aircraft compete in far as Macksville to the north and Pacific Palms aerobatic competitions and can carry out a vast to the south, or custom designed as requested amount of manoeuvres. Some of the aerobatic … Morning flight to the Froffy Coffee at Pacific manoeuvres you can do but are not limited to Palms, back to Laurieton for lunch and then back are wingovers, loops, aileron rolls, barrel rolls, to The Whalebone Wharf for dinner, without a stall turns, Cuban eights single drive involved. and my favourite - flying For those who like upside down. With the to travel a little less experience our pilots have adventurously, what with many thousands of other planes/services Flying in a floatplane adds a hours, including military, does Eastern Air have whole different dimension and airline and flying training available? excitement; with a seating backgrounds, you are defiOur scenic packages are capacity of three plus nitely in the right hands at designed to suit all walks pilot, the waterways of Eastern Air Services. of life, from the tame to the Mid North Coast are The business is also the most outrageous. We your adventure grounds. the proud owner of have a couple of our tame We also offer float plane training a seaplane now too, scenic packages which here in Port Macquarie. which certainly offers a involve flights in our land different dimension to based fixed wing Cessna scenic flights. Tell us a aircraft to Ellenborough, bit about this aircraft. to see one of the longest single drop water falls Another of our editions is our float plane, in the southern hemisphere, or flying along the which operated here in Port Macquarie until it beaches and admiring the beautiful coastline and moved to Gladstone five years ago. It’s now been lighthouses. totally refurbished and is ready to operate here For the people who really have a fear of flying, on the Hastings River. Keep an eye out for the we have a simulator located at the airport that black tail and EAS logo. people can hire, so you can fly without leaving Our float plane is a Cessna 182, one of the the ground. most reliable and sold aircraft worldwide. Flying What’s the best way for us to find out more in a floatplane adds a whole different dimension about the various planes and tours you and excitement; with a seating capacity of three offer? plus pilot, the waterways of the Mid North Coast Eastern Air Services: 1300 359 327. Website: are your adventure grounds. We also offer float www.easternairservices.com.au plane training here in Port Macquarie. Eastern Tour Services: 0429 775 898. Website: How far can the seaplane travel on a typical www.easterntourservices.com.au journey, and what tours do you currently Or, find us on Facebook. offer with this aircraft? Thanks David. Interview: Jo Robinson. Greater Port Macquarie focus 77

focus_contributor

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

Lord Howe Island

tourism UPDATE

What a heroic effort from all the firefighters, who were able to contain the fires in our region. Our community cannot thank you enough! Many people have been impacted, and our hearts go out to them.

he wildlife, and particularly our local koala population, have been decimated. The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital staff and volunteers have been working day and night to save the injured koalas who survived the fires. Thank you to each and every one of you. Thank you also to our wonderful community, who were very busy donating items for the farmers and then quickly realised they needed to help the firefighters as well. Charles Sturt University stepped in during the recent fire crisis to provide a much needed home to over 700 firefighters from all over the country and the world over the last fortnight, with thousands of complemintary beds, meals and services provided for fire crews in the student residences and university hub, who were brought in to contain the catastrophic fire conditions in our region. The university was overwhelmed with support from the Port Macquarie business community, local community and social groups, individuals and families. Thank you, CSU. We have a message to our visitors. We are open for business! Tourism accommodation is open and available; check in for local and current conditions. Our beaches are open. Enjoy our coastal and river-based nature attractions. There is an abundance of activities and attractions available for visitors. We are a foodie’s paradise, and our cafés, restaurants, microbreweries and providores are waiting to welcome you. Support Regional NSW. The 6th, 7th and 8th of December are the dates for the Touch State Cup this year, with over 6,000 people coming to our area. The State Cup contributes substantially to our local economy and encourages competitors and support teams to come back and have a holiday in our beautiful region. As we welcome the competitors, families and friends to our region, we say thank you to all our locals for their hospitality. Great News that Port Macquarie-Hastings Councillors voted to start the process to open Lake Cathie to the ocean. This iconic area of our region is very popular with locals and tourists

78 Greater Port Macquarie focus

alike, so it will be really appreciated to have it functioning once again. Thank you for all your efforts, Revive Lake Cathie. The results from the highly competitive State Tourism Awards are in. Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail - Gold, Telegraph Retreat Cottages Gold, NRMA Breakwall Caravan Park - Gold, Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel - Bronze, and Janette Hyde - Outstanding Contribution by an Individual in NSW. At the Australian Hotels Association NSW Awards for Excellence, Settlers Inn Hotel was the winner of the Best Regional Local Hotel. Fantastic results for our Greater Port Macquarie region. A huge congratulations to these members for achieving recognition at a state level. Two popular events that are happening in December: Festival of the Sun, 12th - 14th December at NRMA Sundowner Breakwall Caravan Park; and Oysters in the Vines, 28th December at Cassegrain Wines. Some dates to remember if you are interested in celebrating with some community Christmas events: Lighting of the Christmas Tree, 1st December, 6:30pm, Laurie Memorial Park, Laurieton. Lake Cathie Carols by the Lake, 7th December, 5:30pm. Carols on the Deck, Wauchope/Bonny Hills Surf Lifesaving Club, 8th December, 6:30pm. The Westport’s Club Christmas Under the Stars featuring special guest Tania Kernaghan, 15th December, 5:30pm. Two new members join the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association this month: Botanic Wine Garden Relaxed dining, licensed, open seven days a week, conveniently located in the CBD near the Glasshouse forecourt. Two Triple Four Restaurant Located at Cassegrain Winery, TwoTripleFour is a proudly local, paddock-to-plate eatery with a focus on championing quality seasonal produce and carefully crafted wines. Check out other events happening in our region: www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

Norfolk Island

Oxley Travel specialising exclusively in Lord Howe Island & Norfolk Island. It will be our privilege to ensure that your holiday is as enriching as it is relaxing. Whether it be a short break, romantic getaway, family holiday or special interest group, contact our friendly reservations team for expert advice & tailored made holidays.

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

focus_contributor - Travel Editor Susie Boswell.

Photo: Sean Fennessy

Brisbane’s best [heading]

[STANDFIRST] The Queensland capital’s beckoning with new hotels and an exhilarating vibe – a must-do holiday destination for NSW north coasters

BRISBANE’S BEST The Queensland capital’s beckoning with new hotels and an exhilarating vibe - a must-do holiday destination for NSW north coasters

otels - for too long, impersonal corporate edifices. Brisbane’s changed that with two of its newest offering a refreshing take on holiday accommodation, in the most happening locations. The Fantauzzo and The Calile, both named for individuals, both striking: “urban resorts” edging the city centre; amid the action, yet peaceful, relaxed havens. First, The Fantauzzo. Pictured centre is the view from my bed, beneath exciting Story Bridge at the Howard Smith Wharves (HSW) on the northern bank of wide, buzzing Brisbane River. It’s named for Archibald People’s Choice portraitist Vincent Fantauzzo, an Art Hotel showcasing acclaimed painters (others: The Olsen, The Blackman, etc), their works influencing the style of each distinctive property, not stuffy or high-brow, just desirably different to the run-of-the-mill. (Fantauzzo is often recognised for his wife, actress Asher Keddie). Only six storeys tall the hotel, on the riverbank backed by impressive cliffs soaring above its open-air bar deck and classy infinity-edge heated pool, hosts just 166 openplan contemporary suites with magnificent bathrooms, from studio to twin (two sleeping areas suiting two couples), two-bedroom apartments with kitchen, and deluxe with balcony. Does it matter the in-room teabags are delicious, the supplied slippers black to match the restful subdued decor instead of routine white, behind-door coathooks fashioned to resemble dripping paint, like Dali’s

melting clocks? Yes, when it shows attention Fortitude Valley. to detail beyond the humdrum usual: barbecue Onto The Calile, located in The Valley’s terrace, on-site Italian restaurant Polpetta, fresh elegant James Street district, also delightfully a la carte breakfasts as standard rather than low-rise, also just six storeys tall and a regular stewed bain-marie offerings, terrific comfortably uncrowded ambience of just gym. Rent one of the 175 suites. It’s named hotel’s baby Fiats, hire for Khalil (anglicised to electric scooters or bikes. Calile) Malouf, a Brisbane It’s a short boardwalk business identity who stroll westward to arrived from Lebanon Virgin Air services between Port popular Eagle Street in the late 19th century. Macquarie and Sydney will be Pier, ferries, entrance The name Calile’s boosted from Sunday March 29, to the city proper and been inherited down a week before Daylight Saving major attractions, or the generations, the ends pre-Easter, on Sunday turn east and enjoy the family instrumental in April 5. Flights will depart for broad meandering scenic developing the James Sydney at 6.10am Monday to “floating” Riverwalk. Street precinct, the city’s Saturday. Six additional weekly You’re right amid the chic shopping mecca services will return later in HSW’s outstanding (homewares, fashion, the day, departing Sydney at new multiple dining, boutique stores, cafes). 6.25pm, 6.45pm or 7.15pm brewery, bar and lawns The hotel’s architecture, depending on day of travel, precinct running 200m archways, cobblestone daily except Saturdays. Also, alongside the water. porte-cochere, neutral Alliance Airlines says its services Attractions include Qld’s decor of white brick, between Port Macquarie and no. 1 restaurant Arc; travertine and towering Brisbane remain solid. Greek specialist Greca; palm trees remind me Mr Percival’s overwater of unspoiled pre-war casual eatery with Beirut. Its spacious lofty central octagonal bar, topped by a DJ; balconied rooms are reminiscent of Ottoman family-friendly Felons on-site specialty brewery empire grandeur (soft-underfoot pale cork and indoor-outdoors dining for beer, cider, floors imitate travertine too) yet with sleek wines, fresh seafood, fish and chips, steaks, simplicity and ultra-mod accoutrements of pizza, burgers, with picnic rugs for hire. Two cloudlike king bed, marble bathing chamber, towering outdoor lifts, some six or seven divan day bed, living greenery. Here, in-room storeys high, carry pedestrians from the HSW refreshments include organic Love Tea, the riverside to the top of the cliffs and thence to slippers - and linen robes suitable for poolside

- are desert-sand coloured; again, breakfasts a la carte. Guest rooms overlook the hotel’s feature, its big beautifully-tiled swimming pool set among the palms, luxurious sun beds and exclusive draped cabanas. Waiters ferry drinks and snacks poolside, adjacent to Queensland’s no 2 best restaurant (for me, it’s no 1), Hellenika. Greek cuisine is despatched from a top-class open kitchen; a menu for all tastes: fresh seafood, succulent lamb, sharing plates: exceptional execution, presentation and drinks. Essential download/hardcopy from the Glasshouse VIC: Brisbane Visitor Guide. Orient: book a Brisbane Greeters tour. Check qagoma.qld.gov.au (Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art) and search its breathtaking family-friendly exhibition Water with multiple animals, snowman. Museum of Brisbane: amazing pop-rock extravaganza High Rotation. Walk, cycle, scoot. Cocktail and gin culture. Gather at rooftop bars, in parklands. Live music. Plan a Sunshine Coast day trip. Susie was hosted courtesy of Brisbane Marketing.

Greater Port Macquarie focus 79

Community News Leslie Williams MP

Member for Port Macquarie Deputy Speaker

Port Macquarie Koala Hospital Multi-Million Dollar Upgrade Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital is set to undergo a multi-million dollar redevelopment that will transform this iconic attraction into a world class facility. The NSW Government is providing $5 million through the Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund towards the $6.25 million project. This is a huge win for the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and will showcase to the world the wonderful and unique work that they do to protect and improve the health of our local koala population.

Once completed, visitation to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital will only continue to grow as one of the premier tourism attractions in the Hastings, putting our region front of mind for tourists when planning their next trip to the North Coast. Koala Hospital’s Cheyne Flanagan, Sue Ashton with Leslie

Eyes In The Sky Keeping Beachgoers Safe Beach safety in Port Macquarie will reach new heights this summer, with the NSW Government’s collaborative drone trial with Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS) operating at 18 beaches, including Flynns Beach. Our beaches are synonymous with summer, so we want to ensure we are using all the tools available to us to keep our beachgoers safe. The drones will enhance the already significant capacity of our lifeguards and lifesavers to increase protection for beachgoers from sharks and other beach hazards. As always, please make sure you only swim at a patrolled beach and between the flags.

Work Underway On New Commercial Wharf Work is now well underway on the new $4 million commercial wharf along the Port Macquarie foreshore which is expected to be completed in the first half of next year. The fishermen’s wharf will include an unloading jetty, two new large mooring berths, an extension of the boardwalk along Kooloonbung Creek and the realignment of the existing rock revetment. The two mooring berths will service large commercial vessels and the new unloading jetty will include vehicle access.

Big Boost For Billabong Park In a boost for the region’s tourism offerings, the NSW Government has provided funding to support the development of a new night time experience at the Billabong Koala & Wildlife Park. $150,000 funding has been granted through Destination NSW’s Regional Tourism Fund towards the total project budget of $470,000.

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Mark Stone, Leslie, Danena Stone and Blake Stone

The development will include a new deck that incorporates a function and dining room extension providing a space that will enable visitors to experience the Billabong Zoo in an interactive capacity throughout the evening.

Supporting Local First Home Buyers

Game Over For Deer In NSW Farmers and private landholders are now able to better and more easily control the State’s exploding feral deer population following a regulation change announced by the NSW Government. Previously deer were classified as ‘game species’, meaning a special hunting licence was required to eradicate them. Under the recent changes anyone with a firearm licence is now able to eradicate deer on private land, so long as they have landholder’s permission. The changes will come as a huge relief to the local community where the deer population has become a significant issue damaging farm assets, causing grief for motorists and encroaching on residential properties.

First home buyers in regional NSW have saved millions of dollars in stamp duty thanks to the NSW Government’s Housing Affordability Strategy introduced in July 2017. So far in the Port Macquarie electorate we have seen 526 people take up the First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme, totalling $7,428,000 and 136 First Home Owner Grants delivered for a total of $1,375,000. It’s great to see so many local people staying in town and taking advantage of the First Home Owner Grant and stamp duty concessions. The future of our small towns is dependent on young people being able to live and work locally, which is why this program is so important.

New Gym Equipment For Port Macquarie Base Hospital The NSW Government recently allocated $30,000 for a new outdoor gym at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital. We all know the benefits of exercise and now anyone at the Hospital can stay active with this new gym equipment. I would like to thank and congratulate Heart Health NSW volunteers Max Heslehurst and Mike Storrier who met with me seeking financial assistance from the NSW Government for this exciting initiative.

With Area Health Board member Neville Parons, Max Heslehurst and Mike Storrier

Seasons Greetings My staff and I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and relaxing New Year. If you are heading out on the water over the holidays, make sure you log in with any Marine Rescue Base on the VHF Channel 16, check weather conditions and always wear a lifejacket.

New Public Toilets For the CBD Our community and visitors deserve improved amenities in the CBD and the recently completed new toilet block in Short Street delivers modern design and easier access. I was a strong supporter of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s application for State Government funding for this project and I look forward to working with Council and other local organisations in the future to continue to provide upgraded and enhanced infrastructure for our community.

The Port Macquarie Electorate Office in Grant Street will be closed from 4pm on Friday 20th December and will reopen at 9am on Monday 6th January 2020.

Contact Leslie email portmacquarie@parliament.nsw.gov.au website www.lesliewilliams.com.au address Macquarie Business Centre, Suite 6, 27 Grant Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 phone 02 6584 0977 fax 02 6584 0978 Greater Port Macquarie focus 81

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Business Minds with Jane Hillsdon of Dragonfly Marketing

BUSINESS MINDS

AreCreative

en, can you please tell us about your business, AreCreative and about your role within the business? AreCreative is a design agency based here in Port Macquarie that services pretty much everywhere that gets the interweb, as well as some places that don’t. We can look after all of your brand, web, digital, print, social media and point of sale design needs, and we’ll do it quickly and efficiently. We’ve been operating full-time for about eight years now and really enjoy the work/life balance we’ve been able to achieve here in Port Macquarie. My roles within the business are many and varied, though they consist mainly of designing all the above-mentioned goodies for my clients. Or when things get really hectic, directing some other creative types in the designing of those goodies, to make sure there’s no lag in production. That, and making sure the toilet rolls are as plentiful as the coffee and the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription is always up to date. I also sometimes do the accounts and other general bookwork (while grumbling) which then enables me to purchase more toilet rolls and coffee … Like anyone who's running their own gig knows, there’s a lot more involved in the day-today operation of a business than meets the eye. It never sleeps and it pretty much always needs feeding, but at the end of the day it gives me the freedom to enjoy life on my own terms. You recently travelled around Australia, along with your wife and three kids. I travelled with you vicariously and loved witnessing all of your adventures.

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Amazingly, you also managed to maintain running your business while you were travelling. What were some of the challenges and highlights of this experience? Our lap around Australia was the best thing we’ve ever done as a family so far. It wasn’t always easy juggling business and adventure, but we made it work and would go again in a heartbeat. In fact, my wife, Erin and I didn’t want to come back at all and would have been quite happy to go straight through the donut and keep heading south again. There’s definitely something very addictive about the open road. As it was, we had a window of opportunity with the kids' schooling situation that made the timing ideal, and my work situation meant I could operate from anywhere with a half decent signal. That was probably the biggest challenge we faced, making sure we had a signal, so I could set up shop when it was required. Then it was making sure we were getting our feet good and dirty off the grid when it wasn’t. As for the highlights, they are countless, but after many a lengthy family discussion we’ve settled on our top five spots from around the country. 1. Karijini NP in the Pilbara, WA; 2. Ningaloo Reef and swimming with the whale sharks, also in WA; 3. Uluru; 4. Kakadu NP and last but not least is number 5. Litchfield NP, just below Darwin. All of these places are just incredible and if anyone is thinking of a trip, my advice would be don’t hesitate. As a designer, how do you approach designing a brand for a business? The first step of the process involves working through a brand brief with the client. This involves getting inside the client’s head by

asking the relevant questions to establish a clear direction for the project. These questions are around the client's target customer demographics, current competitors, long term goals of their business etc. We’ll also ask more fundamental details, such as whether the client has any colour preferences and preferred font styles. I always make it clear that the more information I start with, the better the end result will be. Once this is done, I sit down to go over the information and start to brainstorm and develop a type of mind map based on the information provided. The purpose of this is to land on a number of concept ideas, ideally generating some visual connection to the brand that I can then drill down on to create some initial proofs. Only then do I grab a pencil and start getting some thumbnails down on paper. What are some of the biggest mistakes that businesses can avoid when it comes to branding and design? In terms of branding, one of the biggest things to try and avoid is inconsistency. Bringing a brand to life involves a lot of moving parts. Implementation of the brand is a major element. Considerations of how the brand will look across the countless social media channels that the whole world can see, to the vehicle or shop front signage that only those in your area are able to notice, presenting the same brand image consistently is key. A mixed message or an unclear, undefined brand identity can seriously hinder a business’s potential. This is a fundamental part of any design work that a business undertakes, and it’s one of the first things designers will address when commencing a project. What have you learnt about building

relationships in business? Relationships are key. The better the relationship you can develop with your client, the more attuned you’ll be to what your client needs and what they prefer. A good working relationship means the more comfortable everyone will be with each other. This then leads to less inhibitions if and when it comes to having difficult conversations. The more comfortable a client feels, the more likely they will be to speak openly and frankly about the work at hand. More effective feedback results in a better overall outcome. What’s one thing that you wish someone would have told you before you embarked on being a business owner? It’s not always going to be cake and ice cream. You’ll lose some sleep, possibly a lot of sleep, and you will fall down. When you do, just remember that getting back up results in standing tall. You’ll be doing it on your own two feet, and it’ll be that much sweeter because of it. And finally, if you could invite three business people to lunch, who would they be, and why would you invite them? I’m assuming this is theoretical and as such, I’m going to say Steve Jobs for obvious reasons. The guy was a genius. He radically changed the world and would be a very interesting person to have a conversation with, to say the least; plus, there’s a couple things I’d like to run past him. Melanie Perkins, the founder of online graphic design tool, Canva - because we have things to discuss. Jordan Belfort (former stockbroker) … because, let’s face it - that would make for one helluva lunch! Thanks for your time, Ben.

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WITH DEBBIE SOMMERS

Dad’s happy in his new home at CCA

ondi School student Betty Patterson visited Port Macquarie in 1938 and wrote an essay for a competition organised by the Chamber of Commerce. Here, in part, is what Betty said about our beautiful town and region. "Famous for its historic foundations, scenic beauty, surfing beaches and as an angler’s paradise, is Port Macquarie, the Manly of the north. As a queen clad in green and gold, this township seems to serenely rule the sparkling waters of the Hastings, along whose banks are concealed such fairy bowers as no motoring enthusiast could fail to appreciate - thus we entered Port Macquarie. "From all the capital cities of the Commonwealth, by rail or along the Pacific Highway which opens the doors of Port Macquarie, come men and women seeking pleasure. Should a visitor wish to come by train they leave it at Taree or Kempsey. Leaving Taree we were impressed by the forest giants majestically towering above us, until they seemed to merge into the blue heaven above. Perfect roads and comfortable service cars carried our party over 52 miles, we, with interest and curiosity, were given an opportunity to acquaint ourselves with the town, finally assembling at Memorial Park, where sacred memories dwell in its cool atmosphere. "If we so desired we were allowed to start at the breakwater on the town beach and follow it round to a number of consecutive pools and long stretches of golden sand, where

Over the years Port Macquarie has been referred to by many names, including the sportsman’s paradise, pleasure resort and even the Manly of the north. unceasingly the waves foamed and crisped. Returning to the township our interest turned to the business thoroughfare, and although variety of architecture was not predominant there was that mysterious something in its buildings, which to the traveller is more fascinating than old-world charm. The Ritz Theatre, recently opened, is constructed on modern lines, tastefully equipped, yet not ornate; here films are screened before that modern lady, Sydney, knows of their being. "The new Hotel Macquarie, only lately built, caters for visitors and tourists, who wish to learn about the district. The Royal Hotel is just one other of these hospitable and quiet places of refuge. Pineapples! - how they gladdened our hearts - are grown in the vicinity so to a plantation we wended our way. We learned that we would locate our quarry at a certain Mr. Kennedy’s home, and that he would kindly show us over his plantation, in addition to giving us some interesting and amazing details about their cultivation and the process of how to eat them - but being abundantly favoured by wisdom, to demonstrate the latter, he merely provided us with one. "Port Macquarie being an old convict settlement is filled with historic and interesting relics of the past, the cemetery, the church, once filled with convicts and officials, and the old gaol …" "Tourists' Paradise" is a new online exhibition by Port Macquarie Museum. Visit www.touristsparadise.com.au from 16th December 2019.

CCA Residential Care welcomes you into a homelike environment, with permanent accommodation options to suit your specific health needs and lifestyle choices. • • • • • •

Social events and lifestyle programs 24 hour care delivered by experienced staff Meals, cleaning and laundry services Pastoral care and support Specialist support for people living with dementia Residential respite care and palliative care

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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

Introducing Sandra Fischer and Amita Krautloher ... this dynamic duo are passionate educators who are excited to announce a new way to access and achieve your study and career goals. They are ready to unlock and harness your potential with the launch of the revamped Diploma of General Studies and the brand new Charles Sturt University Pathway Course from 2020. These game changing courses will create a clear pathway to study success and guaranteed entry into a multitude of Charles Sturt courses. No matter who you are and what your work and life demands are … the key to change and your dream career is just one course away!

andra, as the dedicated coordinator of the Diploma of General Studies and the new Charles Sturt Pathway Course, you are part of a mini education revolution in making university study and personal development a possibility for anyone thinking about university study in our region. Can you please tell us why the launch of the new Pathway Course is changing the way people can access and pursue tertiary education? We are so excited about the new Pathway Course, because it opens up new opportunities for anyone in our region who might be thinking that they can’t get into uni because they don’t have the right qualifications, or they can’t afford to study. The new Pathway Course is free; that means there are no expensive course fees or HECS debts. The new Pathway Course consists of four subjects designed to introduce and prepare students for first year uni study, and completing the course provides entry into most Charles Sturt degrees. Plus, students can choose how they want to study; that is, on campus in Port Macquarie or online, or a combination of on campus and online. Students can choose to study full-time - four subjects in one session, or part-time - two subjects over two sessions. Studying part-time suits students who are already in the workforce, or with busy lives! Studying online suits students who can’t get to campus to study. We also have two intakes per year; that means you can start in session 1 - March, and go into your degree in session 2 July, or start in session 2 - July and go into your degree in session 1 - March the next year! It’s a very flexible course to study; it’s designed to fit into our lives and study needs. We’ve also revamped the Diploma of General Studies, with brand new subjects and electives to prepare students for uni studies. The Diploma has been offered in Port Macquarie for four years now, and it is the course most suitable for our school leavers and younger people in the region who want to study on campus. The 84 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Diploma is what we call a qualification pathway; you get a qualification while you prepare for uni, which improves on students' previous educational qualifications, and students can use for better paid jobs once you start your degree studies. The diploma in on campus full time with flexible options available and from 2020 students can study the Diploma online as well. Students wanting to get into courses in education, creative industries, computer science and IT still need to study the Diploma. Sandra you have described this Pathway Course as an absolute game changer for those wanting to enter tertiary study and chase their dream career. Who is eligible, and how can they apply? The new Pathway Course is definitely a game changer; it’s free, and it has very flexible study options, and it’s just four subjects! Any Australian citizen or permanent resident is eligible, as long as they are 18 years old, or turning 18 years old in the year of enrolment. We’ve also opened up the entry requirements for the Diploma; students don’t need an HSC or Cert III anymore. Again, anyone who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, and is turning 18 in the year of enrolment can apply. Amita, as academic coordinator you are completely passionate about learning and fostering an environment for people to achieve their personal learning goals on these new courses. Can you tell us why the new course is so unique and why providing this free course is a pathway to success for many in our community? The new CSU Pathway course is unique, as it is short, free and flexible for anyone to study, offers guaranteed entry into several Charles Sturt degrees, and enhances students’ career opportunities. Offering a free course, I believe, will allow many who haven’t thought it possible to pursue higher education to have a go. This course will help to build students’ confidence, as well as the skills to succeed in their chosen degree, which is the first step to their dream job or career. Confidence is a very important factor in being

successful - believing in your own ability to succeed. We see students who at the beginning of their course who are nervous, and think that they can’t do maths, for example, who at the end have succeeded, passed all their subjects and have an offer for their degree. They have transformed during the course and realise that they CAN do it. Amita - flexibility is king in the modern world, with demands on time through family, work and community commitments. How flexible is the new Pathway Course? We have made the new courses very accessible to anyone who wants to study, because we know how busy our students are and the pressure they are under juggling work and personal life commitments. The new Pathway course is very flexible, with two intakes per year and multiple study options. Students can choose to study full-time either in Session 1 or Session 2. If unable to commit to full-time study, they can study part-time starting in Session 1. They can study on campus, online or mixed mode. Students who complete their Pathway course in Session 1 can progress to their degree, wherever possible, in Session 2 or Session 3 and not have to wait for the following year. The benefit of enrolling in the Pathway course is the opportunity to prepare for university study and to gain entry into a degree qualification in their current career, or be able to embark on a new career for better prospects. And what about the Diploma of General Studies course? And what are the benefits of enrolling? What is mixed mode, and how can this work for students? Diploma students can also choose to either study their course on-campus, online or mixed mode. The benefit of enrolling in the Diploma, apart from gaining entry into their chosen degree, is an improved qualification level that would allow students to get entry level jobs in any industry, particularly if they decide to take a break from studying, or that uni is not for them. The mixed mode study option allows students to complete some subjects on campus and some

online. The choice is theirs; they can assess their commitments and choose to study some subjects on campus to experience campus life and learn about all the facilities, and study some subjects online - in their own time and space. Sandra - with an exciting year ahead, what are you most looking forward to with the launch of the new Pathway Course, and the revamped Diploma of General Studies course? It is very exciting, and I am looking forward to an increase in enrolments in both courses, so that more people in our region can get into tertiary studies! At our open day, a father who’d come along with his son asked me about studying at uni, and he said he was thinking of a career change, but didn’t have the quals to get in to uni. I told him that all he had to do was the new Pathway Course, and he would not only get the qualification to get in, he’d learn what he would need to do to succeed in his degree studies. He could continue working and study part-time online over the year. His eyes just lit up, and he said he had no idea he could do that, or there were courses to prepare students for uni study. That’s what we’re all about! Anyone can study at uni, and doing our pathway course will set anyone up for uni study. Many of our degree courses are also offered online and part-time, so students can continue to work, or work part-time, and mums can study part-time as well! Amita - if you could give one piece of advice for those thinking about embarking on a journey via your new Pathway course, what would it be? Don’t wait; start NOW! Try it - you can do it! Link to web/courses here: study.csu.edu.au/ study-options/pathways Thank you both!

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

"Enjoying some lunch with a friend” - Ranger Riley, painted by local artist Pauline Roods, is National Parks NSW Roaming Ambassador for threatened species, including the koala. Photo Parks Australia.

RESILIENCE in the face of ADVERSITY

ast month, along with many people in our community and within the state, my partner and I evacuated our home in Ellenborough and our Hello Koalas office and warehouse. It was a scary experience. I have never felt so frightened and the anxiety remains. The threat of bushfire is ever-present in uncertain climate change. In my work in arts and health, I have become familiar with the way that people, facing such adversity through natural disasters, reach out to find solace in creative ways and ease the mental anguish of being confronted by firestorm and flood. My first understanding of this experience was Hurricane Katrina which devastated New Orleans in 2005. 80% of the city was suddenly underwater, affecting neighbourhoods rather than tourist areas and the business district. Katrina was one of the worst storms in American history, causing some 1,300 deaths. Often called “the soul of America”, New Orleans is known for its cultural traditions – music, performance, visual art, architecture and cuisine – which shape the city’s identity. One of my arts and health colleagues there orchestrated a creative arts program for her community – and the publication of a book of poetry written during that time of massive hardship – stands testament to how the arts can engender resilience in the face of adversity and give a voice to comfort and embolden others. The Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria in 2009 provide another example where a community choir literally rose up from the ashes and reached out to people who lost homes, animals, livelihood, along with their own sense of self-worth. Singing together, along with sharing poems, stories and spoken reminiscences, brought with it solidarity and resilience to face the future ahead, individually and collectively. Recently, the Sancrox/Thrumster Rural Fire Brigade gave heart to people, posting a music and dance video on social media with firefighters, flashing truck lights and young children, raising the spirits of our community and reminding us that life goes on towards better times, as the fires subside. In a bittersweet moment, the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail won gold in the NSW Tourism Awards for Cultural Tourism ten days ago,

making the finals in the Australian Tourism Awards. Over the phone, surrounded by packing boxes, I heard the sounds of cheering Port Macquarie friends attending the awards ceremony in Sydney. In 2014, I established this public art trail as an arts and health program to contribute to the cultural fabric of our community and create a unique cultural tourism attraction for our region. I was also committed to highlighting the importance of koala conservation in an environmental area where koalas are known to thrive. It gave me heart to see enjoyment of these playful and beautifully painted koala characters continue through the smoke haze and desperate times in recent weeks. With our local koala population so badly impacted by the fires, I see the Hello Koalas sculptures as a beacon of hope for our community while continuing their role as eloquent tourism ambassadors for this region. This is critical at a time when we need to remind potential visitors to Greater Port Macquarie that we are “open for business”. I’d like to pay tribute to the Hello Koalas team for their incredible commitment to these ideals and share a moment from the fires that exemplifies this. When local Hello Koalas fibreglass manufacturer John Belfield and his wife Julie were forced to evacuate their property at Johns River, they did not know what they would be returning to ... or if their house would be intact. Facing the same plight, I asked John how he prioritised what to take in his trailer in the face of such danger and destruction to his property. He replied: “I took the Hello Koalas sculpture mould because it was the most precious possession in my care and the one that would be the hardest to replace.” Hello Koalas’ recent award was due to many such passionate people. In particular, I would like to pay tribute to Greater Port Macquarie Tourism President Janette Hyde, who won the Dean Gorddard Award for “Outstanding Contribution to NSW Tourism by an Individual”, at the same awards. Janette is a perfect example of ageing creatively and, on behalf of the arts and health world, we salute her. Greater Port Macquarie focus 87

Downsize your home, upgrade your lifestyle 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.

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*Price correct as of 14 Nov 2019. Subject to change. All details, images and statements are based on the intention of, and information available to Stockland as at the date of this press ad and may change due to future circumstances.

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Wauchope Funerals Wauchope District Funeral Services has been providing practical help and beautiful, personalised funeral services since 1927. Our commitment to you is to ensure we expertly help you through each step of the process after the death of a family member or friend. We are honoured to provide advice and assistance to families throughout the Mid North Coast region, including Wauchope, Port Macquarie, Kendall and Camden Haven. All our funeral directors and operations staff have been carefully selected for their sympathetic personality, organisation skills and knowledge of the local region. From choosing a coffin to suit your budget through to unique funeral service ideas and burial or cremation, our caring team will tend to the smallest of details. Our Wauchope funeral directors are happy to

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visit your home and talk you through what happens next. At Wauchope District Funerals Services, our empathetic funeral directors are able to provide expert advice and assistance with all details related to planning a personalised funeral service to honour your loved one. We understand grief can be all-consuming, making it difficult to focus on the important decisions that have to be made. Our job is to remove the stress associated with planning a funeral, so you don't have to worry about a thing. In the event that a death occurs interstate or overseas, we are able to make all the necessary arrangements for the body to be returned home. We are also able to organise interstate or overseas funerals.

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adobe

Brand new, spacious residence, ready for immediate sale.

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A local builder with a reputation for quality construction

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JOHNSON HOMES

C A spacious, modern residence, boasting both family and private zones, December FOCUS Home of the Month is a modern, spacious design built to perfection by Johnson Family Homes.

hrissy Jones had the pleasure of viewing the home, found in Stage 10 Brierley Hill, a brand new residential area of Port Macquarie. On the market for $585,000.00, this four bedroom, two bathroom contemporary style home is a state-of-the-art design. Having a rendered front facade, it is a must-see if you are in the market for a top-quality home, built to exacting detail. An exposed aggregate concrete drive leads to a double garage with auto panel lift door installed by Port Macquarie Garage Doors. The drive, flanked by manicured lawns and garden beds, also leads to the tiled entry portico.

Entry to the home is via an opaque glass entrance door into the foyer that has tiles underfoot supplied by ColorTile Tiles with Style. The foyer blends into a wide hallway leading through the home, past the internal access to the garage on the left and the master bedroom with en-suite to the right, past the media room and through to the open plan living/dining and kitchen. Internal living areas combine seamlessly with an impressive wrap-around alfresco dining area, that is encased by easy-care gardens. All create a magnificent indoor/outdoor entertaining area that is easily accessible via an expanse of corner glass stacker doors.

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A local builder with a reputation for quality construction

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JOHNSON HOMES

KITCHEN, DINING, LOUNGE, ALFRESCO Mid Coast Kitchens have excelled, supplying and installing a fantastic kitchen. Essa stone bench-tops, soft close cabinetry, walk-in preparation pantry and a large island bench that divides the kitchen from the living areas and also acts as a breakfast bar; all is very well laid out for the home cook. The island bench is home to a sophisticated yet functional Oliveri sink complete with a black flick mixer; a Dishlex dishwasher is under bench and has storage cupboards and drawers placed either side. Further cabinetry on the back wall of the kitchen has a centrally placed gas cooktop and concealed range-hood. White subway tiles have been used as the splashback behind the cooking and food preparation areas, with

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further storage cupboards above and below. An electric wall oven is conveniently placed alongside the bench-top and has further kitchen cabinetry above and below. Tucked away behind a wooden cavity sliding door is the walk-in pantry. Having a matching bench-top to the main kitchen, the pantry not only acts as a food storage pantry, but also an extra spot to prepare meals or snacks out of sight. The kitchen area overlooks the home's vast living area and opens out to the alfresco terrace at the rear of the home. This brand new contemporary home has certainly been designed to impress. FAMILY BEDROOMS, BATHROOM, LAUNDRY Adjacent to the living area, a tiled hallway

A local builder with a reputation for quality construction

focusAbode.

The island bench is home

takes you to three mirror benchtop in keeping to a sophisticated yet image bedrooms. All with the pantry, storage functional Oliveri sink are a generous size and cupboards underneath, complete with a black boast an abundance a white tile splashback ďŹ‚ick mixer; a Dishlex of natural light and and a deep, stainless dishwasher is under bench airflow, are fully fitted steel laundry tub with and has storage cupboards and out expertly with flick mixer - the laundry drawers placed either side. plush carpet from Port is very functional. All Macquarie Carpet One open out through a Floor & Home, have glass sliding door onto ceiling fans and custom a concrete pathway to built-in robes from A1 Wardrobes installed. the drying area to one side of the rear yard. Servicing the bedrooms is a stunning family Having fine quality tiles, carpets, fittings bathroom that has a freestanding bath and and fixtures throughout; being close to vanity, plus a cleverly hidden shower recess shops; having nearby school and university that is tiled three sides with a glass screen complexes; plus being just five minutes to the door installed by Pavy's Glass. Port Macquarie CBD and beaches, this home Completing the amenities is the wellticks all the boxes. appointed laundry. Having a laminate

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family

A local builder with a reputation for quality construction

JOHNSON HOMES

FROM THE BUILDER

FOCUS is featuring 10 Clunes Street, Port Macquarie this issue … What are the standout features of the residence in your mind? This is a great family home, with two living areas and a large wrap-around alfresco, all undercover. The yard is flat and easy to maintain and even has side access at the front for a boat, van or trailer. It was designed and fitted out with a family in mind. The home is for sale. How can readers view the property if they have an inter-

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est in buying? Readers can contact us directly for an inspection: Krisann 0402 318 073 or contact Todd Bates at McGrath Real Estate. We have it open for inspection twice a week on Thursdays and Saturdays (see the Domain for times). If a reader was to purchase the property, can they move straight in? The home is finished and waiting for someone to love it. They can be in and have the tree set up for Christmas!

This is a great family home, with two living areas and a large wraparound alfresco, all undercover.

Tell us about your How many people do The yard is ﬂat and easy business … How you employ? to maintain and even has long have you been We have Stephen and side access at the front for operating? Krisann Johnson as the a boat, van or trailer. It We have been owners, plus three fullwas designed and ﬁtted out with a building homes in the time carpenters. All other family in mind. Hastings since 1995, trades are subcontracted with Stephen learning in as we need them. Our his trade here in Port trades are all local, many before that. I can’t doing their trade apprenrecall how many family homes we have built ticeships locally too. over the years, but it would be around 100. Do you source your materials and associ-

A local builder with a reputation for quality construction

family

focusAbode.

JOHNSON HOMES

We are not project home builders pumping out the same product all the time ... We are

ated trades locally? We have definitely grown Definitely local all in experience, but have kept custom home builders the way. You may be our size small on purpose. We that are hands-on each able to find cheaper are not project home builders and every job we build. products online, but pumping out the same prodWe communicate directly with there is absolutely no uct all the time, with teams of each trade and owner, keeping it guarantee of quality trades that have no commupersonalised for each job. and no recourse if a nication with the builder or product is faulty, or owner. We are custom home doesnâ€™t perform well. builders that are hands-on We have learnt to always buy locally; that way each and every job we build. We communicate we support local stores and employees and directly with each trade and owner, keeping it can quickly deal with any product issues should personalised for each job. We wouldnâ€™t be able they arise. to do that effectively if we grew too large. How has your business evolved over the years?

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A local builder with a reputation for quality construction

family

JOHNSON HOMES

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What type of construction do you specialise in? Our business is a mixture of building new homes for sale, as well as building homes directly for clients. We have a number of repeat clients who are building their investment property portfolios, as well as new homeowners building for the first or second time. Do you have house plans for prospective clients to choose from? We donâ€™t have a range of plans we hand out; we custom design the plans to suit the client's needs and to suit the parcel of land. We have samples of plans we have used in

the past and offer a lot of guidance, but everything is customised. Can you custom build to a client's wants? Absolutely! That is what we do best. As we have been building for a long time, we have learnt what works well and what looks good on the plan - and these arenâ€™t always the same thing. We are always trying to get the most value for money and the most value out of a parcel of land and pass this onto our clients. How do prospective clients contact you? We can be contacted directly by phone or email - please see our website: johnsonfamilyhomes.com.au

focus_contributor

JULIE HO FROM PORT MACQUARIE LANDCARE

landcare. update Smoke Signals Looking out the window at a smoke filled sky, I think how lucky we are to have trees in our town.

ort Macquarie Landcare has planted hundreds in its 20 years and has grown many more for farmers, residents, developers and our Council.

Engineered to cope with strong winds, drought and even fires, Australian trees are tailored for our land. They belong here and we have to live with them - but they often get a bad rap.

A tree falling on a roof or blocking a road makes dramatic TV (despite being uncommon). But clearing of trees and other vegetation, and the death of wildlife that results, rarely makes the news. “Since European settlement, Australians probably have removed more than 20 billion native trees, about one third of the original standing stock,” says Professor Michael Archer, UNSW. “That’s an average of about 100 million trees a year. Two-thirds of the rainforests, half of the other forests and more than a third of the woodlands and shrublands have gone.” Clearing continues on private and state forest land, and has recently increased. Local Ecologist Mark Graham warns that losing forests means losing our life-support systems. “The science is very clear; forests make rain and hold water like a sponge, buffering against drought and the rapidly increasing temperatures that our world is experiencing." Forests are essential to keeping our region reliably wet, with a moderate climate that agriculture, fishing and tourism depend on. We are also trustees of “the oldest forests on the planet”; Gondwanan rainforest relics that survive only on mountaintops. These forests “have been permanently wet for tens of millions of years” and they have no tolerance for the fires that now threaten them. But fire has come to dominate our daily

lives this spring. In NSW, 1.5 million ha burned: more than burned in the Amazon, and that caused alarm because of effects on the world’s climate. “Fire also releases carbon into the atmosphere, and frequent and widespread fires can compound the problem of climate change and make bushfires occur more often”- (Dr David Bowman, pyrogeographer). We can see this now - the smoke sits in our skies, the pollution worse on some days than in New Delhi. Ironically, 200 years of clearing did not prevent damaging wildfires here. Still, we hear claims that the answer to fire is to remove more trees, especially from national parks. That ignores the climate-stabilising benefits forests give us for free. Australia needs forests, because it is the most fire-prone and driest continent. Re-growing forests is the quickest and cheapest way to sequester carbon. Bowman says in the future we must stabilise the climate and aim for “selfcorrecting landscapes”, as well as managing fuel loads. This year hazard reduction by professional fire managers was limited by lack of opportunities due to higher temperatures, lack of rain and lack of resources in NPWS and RFS. Australia’s firefighters faced unprecedented numbers of fires and challenging conditions. They will need the best science and resources in an uncertain future.

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Give the gift of time, money and hassle-free pool cleaning this Christmas from Pollard Pools & Spas Experience the latest revolution in pool cleaning technology with the next generation Dolphin Supreme Robotic Pool Cleaner by Maytronics for your pool. With superior suction power, a lower carbon footprint, reduced backwashing and triple-action brushing, there is a perfect model to suit your pool’s needs.

olphins save power by operating and filtering inside the pool. They are completely independent of the pool’s main filtration system. The great benefit of this is that water does not have to be pumped all the way to the filter pump, through bends and elbows; it can be filtered in the pool, saving all the power to hydraulically move the water. This is supported by independent studies by electrical companies that have shown that savings can be up to $400 per annum (even after the small running cost of a Robot is taken into account). Pool filtration is still needed, but not to the same level required when other cleaners are used. Because Dolphins filter in the water, they remove the debris from the pool system. This in turn means that the main pool filter unit does not become clogged as quickly, which results in fewer backwashes saving water. Estimates are that backwashing is reduced by up to 30% when

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using robots, compared to all other cleaning methods. Dolphins help to reduce chemical requirements. In Australia, the vast majority of pools have suction cleaners that are permanently in the pool and connected. In this circumstance, the skimmer is completely ineffective; the result is that all debris landing on the surface must slowly go through the water before eventually being collected and then held in the system until the next backwash. This organic matter requires chemicals to control, but with a Dolphin the pool’s skimmer starts working again, and around half of all organic matter is removed from the system. All this saves you and the environment from unnecessary chemicals! Give the gift of time, money and hasslefree pool cleaning this Christmas with a Dolphin Supreme Robotic Pool Cleaner from Pollard Pools & Spas. We’re all about service. Let us come to you!

I’m most at home, when you're at home… Home ... the word I use to describe my place, the place where once through the door, I can strip back my facade and be my true raw self, the good, the bad, and the fabulous! Like you, and regardless the situation in which you live, be that own or rent, your home is your fortress - the place where you feel safe in the warmth and comfort of its surroundings. I often say to buyers, when walking into your future home, the one that nudges you, bites you even, wraps itself around you like your favourite cardi, 'tis "the one" - and undeniably so. This year I had the absolute privilege of helping nearly forty families either move into their first, next home, or build investment portfolios. Not everyone's road is the same, and I feel happiest when I know that I've been instrumental in helping create the change and future memories for those who engage me. You hear all the talk about numbers and yes, numbers are important, but the focus should be to deliver an exceptional sale price, provide exceptional service and basically, say it how it is, which is consistently what I aim to provide my buyers and sellers. L E T ' S

S AY

I T

H O W

I T

I S

“The house whisperer! If anyone can help you with buying or selling in Port Macquarie, this is the person to see. Danyelle has sold two houses for us and helped us buy our forever home. Danyelle Macfarlan understands what your needs are in both areas and makes sure that your dreams and wishes become a reality." - M&M Dillon. Packed with punch and full of energy, positivity, and accountability. Do and will I measure up? Absolutely, and I’d love to show you how. When all is said and done, you want to feel comfortable and at ease, or shall I say at home with the agent you engage, and “THAT GIRL, THAT AGENT” is me. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get the show on the road.

D A N Y E L L E 0 4 2 1

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danyelle@portmacquariefn.com.au

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PORT MACQUARIE FAST FACTS FOR 2019 SOLD

1205

MEDIAN 3 BED HOUSE

$510K

MEDIAN 4 BED HOUSE

$624K

MEDIAN UNIT PRICE

$395K

RECORD SALE PRICE

$2.95M

SOLD BY HEM

175

HEM Property have loved helping all our buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants achieve their Happy Ever Moreâ€™s in 2019. We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas in your new homes and we look forward to doing it all again in 2020! 2 Greater Port Macquarie focus

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2019

MORE THAN JUST ANOTHER YEAR FOR HEM AND THE PORT MACQUARIE PROPERTY MARKET: THE MARKET IN 2019 It has been a roller coaster year for the Australian property market in 2019. The first quarter was dominated by doom and gloom. Sydney and Melbourne markets were entering a second year of falling prices, the banks were under fire from the Royal Commission and there was zero confidence coming out of the media. Fast forward five months and things started to change. The election result provided stability, the Royal Commission was finalised, the banks started to lend again and we saw two interest rate cuts which kick-started a return of investors to the market and affordability to everyone. Add to this a fall in stock levels and a general shift in consumer confidence, and it was enough to see the market turn. In recent months, capital cities have seen auction clearance rates rise to 80%, sales volumes increase, shorter days on market and prices climbing back towards their October 2017 peak. If this trend continues, we are set for a bumper 2020!

THE PORT MACQUARIE MARKET WOW, what a massive year it has been here too. Just like Sydney and other capital cities, we experienced a slow-down up until the election and since then we have seen our market really kick on in the second half of 2019. Although we have seen little growth in prices since 2018, there are many indications that we will see growth moving forwards. For example, in the last three months, there were 20% more sales than the first quarter in Port Macquarie. HEM are seeing a higher volume of “ready to buy” people at open houses and compared to the start of the year, we are selling homes faster and more often than not, at asking price. This is great news as we head towards 2020 and we are confident that as a town, we have the foundations of a consistent and prolonged, strong property market ahead of us.

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 9 New HEM Rentals office opens

F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 9 Welcome Sarah Wright as HEM take over Hudsons Real Estate

M ARCH 2019 HEM sponsor ladies Pennants at Port Macquarie Golf Club

APRIL 2019 Easter colouring in competition winners

M AY 2 0 1 9 HEM goes pink for the Mothers’ Day Classic Walk

JUNE 2019 HEM sponsor Port Saints Gala Day

J U LY 2 0 1 9 SOLD sticker art competition - over 220 entries

AU G U S T 2 0 1 9 HEM buses are seen driving around Port Macquarie

SEPTEMBER 2019 M.A.D. charity fundraiser major sponsor

OCTOBER 2019 New era in property management with launch of HEM Rentals

N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 9 HEM adopt injured koala - Ocean Summer

DECEMBER 2019 Countdown to get everyone in their homes before Santa comes!

Buying, Selling, or Renting... There is no place like hem! 02 6583 2324 | hemproperty.com.au 104 Greater Port Macquarie focus

Greater Port Macquarie focus 3

alue and an impressive

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*Price shown is the manufacturer’s maximum drive away price (incl. GST) including on road costs available on a new, standard specification GLA 180 Urban Edition with listed features ordered and delivered between 1 November and 31 December 2019 unless extended. Offer excludes rental, government and national fleet customers. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Offer is not a chance to win the vehicles shown. Visit https://www.mercedes-benz.com.au/win-win for full terms.

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

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