Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i179 by Focus

issue

179 FEBRUARY 2021

Ilona CONAGHAN

Make someday today. Demonstrator offers. Limited days. Take advantage of exceptional offers on a wide range of Mercedes-Benz Demonstrators during Mercedays*. With 3 years complimentary scheduled servicing^ and a $1,000 contribution from Mercedes-Benz Financial Ser vices~ â&#x20AC;&#x201C; why wait? Visit Andrew Miedecke Motors today. Ends February 28. Whilst stocks last. www.mbportmacquarie.com.au *Offer available from participating Retailers, limited to stock available at time of purchase. Excludes new and pre-owned vehicles, EQC model, leasing products, fleet, government, corporate and rental buyers. Applies to vehicles ordered and delivered between 1 January and 28 February 2021, unless offer is extended by Mercedes-Benz. Whilst stocks last. ^Scheduled servicing is complimentary for up to 3 years or the relevant mileage-based servicing interval applicable to your model, whichever occurs first, in accordance with the applicable Mercedes-Benz Service Plan. For further information (including vehicle eligibility, mileage and Service Plan conditions) please contact your retailer or visit www.mercedes-benz.com.au/servicesolutions . ~ Offer is subject to the customer entering into a finance contract (minimum 36-month term and $30,000 financed) with Mercedes-Benz Financial Ser vices (excluding Simplicity, operating and finance leases). Restricted to approved customers (excluding fleet, government or rental and corporate buyers) of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 73 074 134 517, Australian Credit Licence 247271, and subject to standard credit assessment, lending criteria and fees.

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

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BUY. SELL. HAPPY EVER MORE. At HEM, selling a client’s home is far more than just “another” transaction. We understand that moving home is one of the biggest financial or lifestyle decisions you will ever make. Now more than ever, the agent you choose, the experience, skills and approach they offer, will have a direct and fundamental impact on the result you ultimately walk away with. Unlike the franchise-style, “one-size fits all” approach of other agents, who often seem more focused on promoting themselves on the back of your property sale, we listen to your situation and provide personalised service designed to get you the best result, with the least amount of fuss. It is our philosophy of happy ever more; treating people how we want to be treated ourselves and keeping the focus on YOU. So if you are looking at selling and want what is best for YOU, contact the most experienced team in Port Macquarie and find your happy ever more...

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Gum Disease SILENT & SERIOUS GUM DISEASE + YOUR HEALTH

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Visit lanapaustralia.com.au for more information or call our caring team on 6583 3533

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME, CALL OUR CARING TEAM TODAY WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR HE ALTH FUNDS AND BULK BILL FOR CDBS AND VETER ANS AFFAIRS

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PORT MACQUARIE 133-137 Gordon St P. 6583 3533

WAUCHOPE 51 Hastings St P. 6585 2015

LAURIETON 16-18 Laurie St P. 6559 9276

TAREE 46A Wynter St P. 6551 1005

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Welcome to the February issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

ith a renewed passion and purpose we’ve set off this year on our mission to make sure that every single edition of FOCUS is a true and positive reflection of the time we are living in. Every time you turn the page, you’ll be met with more and more stories of local people - that’s our mission. It truly is a wonderful way to spend the work days - searching for people who have a story to tell; meeting them, curating our questions to learn and explore and then gathering their answers. The most fun is always the photo shoot.

We are blessed to have a talented team, and none more so than our photographer Gavin. Gav puts in the hard work every month to ensure our photos are perfect especially the front covers. It takes an immense amount of creative thought and planning to pull off a good photo shoot - although, we must admit we are known for waiting a bit too long and crashing it at the last minute with a plan. This month's cover is the vivacious Ilona Conaghan. Ilona’s bubbly personality, passion for meeting new people and her love of design and style shine through this month in pictures and words. We spoke to Ilona about her time as a dancer and performer, her work life, being a mum to two boys and of course as wife of our local

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Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie PHONE 02 6584 7433 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

contacts. MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR Claire Dunkley claire@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

Federal Member Pat Conaghan. We’ve included a nod to Pat’s home town of Kempsey by featuring an Akubra in the styling. A special thank you to Charlize Rose (Dress), Saltwater Wine (Akubra) and the talented Karina Deichler (hair and makeup). Shot on location in a secret grassy spot in Port Macquarie. Inside this edition you will find our Wedding Edition for 2021, as well as Interviews with V-Man from Skydive Port Macquarie - who crazily are jumping from helicopters over our town, and country music legend Brad Cox who performs this month at Live at the Smokehouse. Have a wonderful Valentine's Day and enjoy the last month of summer.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joseph Dable joey@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au PROOF READING Sue Chamberlain info@focusmag.com.au

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2021 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

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contents Issue 179 - February 2021 INTERVIEWS

INCLUSION REVOLUTION

TOBIE QUINN

OXHILL ORGANICS

Tenneayle, Josh and Sullivan’s story is about “Every Body, Every Brain and Every Heart”, values that they embrace every day as they strive for a more inclusive world. .

AFL is a game that rewards commitment, fitness, and achievement. Tobie Quinn started out playing AFL at the age of 4 and has developed into a ripper of a player.

Oxhill Organic Farm is now four generations deep. The Eggert family work tirelessly to preserve the legacy and family tradition of farming with innovative success. .

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 36. Nathan Tomkins - Cocktail of the Month 38. Alex Cassegrain - Wine Time 42. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures 49. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

LOUISE FLEMING

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.

95. Michael Mowle - Business Voice 96. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate 98. Peta Pinson, Mayor - A Moment with the Mayor 103. Vanessa Lawrence - The Style Vibe Savvy 113. Louise Fleming - Real Estate Talk

www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

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BUYER ENQUIRY HAS EXPLODED IN PORT MACQUARIE AND THE MID NORTH COAST!

With every sale, we continue to set exciting price levels for our sellers. We have refined our skills and developed our strategies, each of which is custom designed for individual clients, their property and circumstance. Percival Property is about more than just selling property…We work to exceed seller expectations at every level. Our specialised marketing and administrative support enhance our ability to focus on you and your outcome. Selling ‘lifestyle’ from coast to country, our sales expertise across residential, land, lifestyle properties, commercial, development sites, subdivisions, residential project management, business, small acreage and large land holdings are complemented by a comprehensive property management service. If you plan to capitalise on a hot property market and a surplus of buyers, team with the most recommended* local property specialists in Port Macquarie!

Michelle Percival 0404 466 500

Ally Downing 0417 929 726

SALES 106 William Street, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 8606 I percival.com.au

Greg Ward 0412 823 088

Ayla Bailey 0431 194 876

Martin Newell Rural & Lifestyle 0429 883 488

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What's F E B R U A R Y

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HIM IN HEELS

Hosted by Hastings Business Women's Network. Our fabulous local businessmen and identities are back in their best heels in the name of fundraising for Liberty Services. A short morning walk from Town Green Wharf to Little Shack. Proudly sponsored by CBA Regional and Agribusiness Banking Team Port Macquarie When Wed, March 3, 2021 at 7:45am – 9am Register by Facebook event search Him In Heels Where Town Green Wharf

DOUBLE HEADER ENTERTAINMENT WEEKEND When 12th Feb - FOTSUN back in the Sun Tickets www.fotsun.com When 13th Feb - Live at the Smokehouse Tickets www.liveatthesmokehouse.com.au Where Westport Park

CAMPER TRAILER OF THE YEAR SHOWCASE EVENT Come on down and join the team from CAMPER Australia and the best camper trailers in Australia. The showcase is a great family-friendly event, not only featuring the best of the hand-picked camper trailers but also the people behind these leading products. Located at Westport Park on the corner of Park Street and Buller Street. The Camper Trailer of the Year Showcase is an event not to be missed. When Sat Feb 27 2021 at 10am – 2pm Where Westport Park | Port Macquarie 14 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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DreamlIfe Photgraghy

PAINT & SIP MARGARET OLLEY CITRUS STILL LIFE Settle in with your favourite beverage and create an impression of Margaret Olley citrus still life with our talented in house artist in residence Leanne Prussing! Bookings go to @Bluewater Bar When Sunday, February 28, 2021 at 2pm – 5pm Where Bluewater Bar, Ocean Street Port Macquarie

CANCER COUNCIL BIGGEST MORNING TEA Devonshire morning tea. $5 donation at the door. Music will be provided by Elaine Kerr at piano and “The Grannies” will sing. Focus on Mens Health. Guest Speaker, Malcolm Revell. Bring your friends. ALL WELCOME. Secret auction. We are requesting REGISTRATION of names before Thursday, March 11, due to purposes of Covid-19. Please call 6581 2414 or email church office office@portmacquarie. unitingchurch.org.au to register When March 11, 2021 @ 10am – 11.30am Where Port Macquarie Uniting Church

Meal SERV IC E S with MAREE FOSTER

FROM OMNICARE ALLIANCE

Hi, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Maree Foster, the new Head of Meals Services at Omnicare Alliance. I transitioned into this role last month, taking over from Alvena Ferguson as she ended her long career. We would like to wish Alvena all the best in her retirement.

mnicare Meals Services is a member of Meals on Wheels NSW, operating across the whole Mid North Coast region. We have seven branches that span from the Great Lakes all the way up to the Coffs Coast area, including two commercial kitchens, and two non-production kitchens. The staff and volunteers that operate the centres and deliver meals are the lifeblood of our organisation. 2020 was a difficult year for many

Australians and we are really proud and thankful for our staff and volunteers for continuing to service the vulnerable members of our community during the height of the COVID pandemic, regularly changing the way we operate to stay on top of the different regulations and restrictions. All Meals on Wheels members recently received a formal letter of appreciation from the Governor General of Australia and his wife, who are Patrons of Meals on Wheels

Australia. The letter highlighted that across Australia 76,000 Meals on Wheels volunteers help to support more than 200,000 older and vulnerable Australians every day. We hope that as life returns to a more stable routine, we will see the return of volunteers who were unable to help for health reasons due to the pandemic and more volunteers offering to help out those many vulnerable members of our community. Due to COVID restrictions, we offer contactless delivery or inbranch collection on a wide range of meals that include hot, chilled, or frozen; sweet or savoury; and single to bulk orders. Our seven COVIDsafe branches service the Great Lakes, Manning Valley, Hastings, Camden Haven, Macleay Valley, and Coffs Coast areas. Our meals are suitable for any lifestyle and are available for anyone to order. Our clients include busy professionals, individuals recovering after hospital care, the aged, and

people with a disability. The meal choices are affordable and highquality, offering great value for money. The diverse range of meals on offer are prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients and have minimal additives, catering for a wide range of tastes, cultural preferences, and dietary needs. We offer light and substantial options; mainstream and vegetarian dishes; gluten-free, low-fat, and low-salt options. There are no contracts or minimum commitment required to access the Meals Services. You can set up an ongoing arrangement or just order meals if, and when, they are needed. If you would like to order meals, please contact our Access Team on 1300 336 488 or send an email to mylife@omnicare.org.au. Our friendly access team can also assist with navigating the My Aged Care system for people who are eligible for government-subsidised meals.

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I had always wanted to travel. My dad was born in Hungary and I’d dreamt of meeting my family in Budapest. A er uni, I worked on US summer camps and met people from around the globe.

Ilona CONAGHAN

From Sydney to Singapore and Paris to Port Macquarie - Ilona Conaghan travelled extensively performing in shows before se ling down for family life on Australian shores. ILONA IS A WOMAN WHO IGNITES AND INTRIGUES. SHE IS FUNNY, TALENTED AND PASSIONATE ABOUT PEOPLE.... as a mother, business woman and community conscious individual she packs a lot in to her days.

’d met Ilona a few times before, but never had the chance to sit down and hear her story. I had been given snippets about this woman who once performed in the Moulin Rouge, and was now thrust into a different spotlight as the wife of our Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan. It was a great pleasure to sit with the ‘First Lady of Cowper’ as I cheekily dubbed her, and

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ask all the questions about her life. Here is how the story goes. Ilona it was at a young age, living in Sydney that you began in the performing arts (dance, singing, drama). Tell me about where it all began for you. My older sister was attending a local dance school and as a two year old, I would stand at the back of her classes and try to copy. I thought I was nailing the moves, apparently

not, my mother said it was very entertaining none the less! She decided it was time to enrol me at two and a half and I remember being as proud as punch on my first day. Dance classes consumed my every day after school and on Saturdays – classical ballet, tap and jazz as well as drama and singing. I did exams for all disciplines, performed in countless eisteddfods, shopping centres, and talent quests. I loved the thrill of being on stage and the challenge of turning the nerves into positive energy. Growing up, I also learnt the piano and studied piano musicianship, but finished up after a shaky grade 6 exam performance at the Conservatorium. I couldn’t quite harness my nervous energy in the same way! You’ve performed throughout most of Asia, Portugal, France and the United States, in various contracts, but the longest stint was on board with Star Cruises where you went from stage performer to Entertainment Director – this must have been loads of fun? I had always wanted to travel. My dad was born in Hungary and I’d dreamt of meeting my family in Budapest. After uni, I worked on US summer camps and met people from around the globe. I just knew I needed to be out there exploring. The dance contracts were the perfect solution to being paid to travel the world! When my dance contract finished on the cruise ships, I was offered the role of Entertainment Director and I jumped at the opportunity to create and schedule activities, roster staff and essentially make sure the passengers were having fun. It was during this time that I realised I loved meeting and bringing people together in a positive way. The ship was based out of Singapore so our

focus_interview Le: Ilona in Paris, Moulin Rouge. Below: Ilona second from right aboard Star Cruises as Entertainment Director

Paris and attend the Moulin audition so that I could have something lined up and ready to go. It all sounds very simple but this is in the days before I had access to email or a mobile phone. I remember making countless calls from telephone booths with calling cards and running out of money! I was so excited to land a 12 month contract in such an iconic production, and was eager to shed the Mandarin and learn some French. I shared an apartment with a friend who was there at the time. I made a conscious decision to not take for granted the fact that I could simply jump on a bus to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Trocadero and the list goes on and on… It was very surreal and I’m so grateful that I made really good use of my time there and lived like a tourist. I enrolled at Alliance Francaise within weeks of arriving. I’d just gone through two gruelling weeks of learning the show which was instructed in French. Suffice to say after a couple of very embarrassing faux pas, I quickly learnt my left from my right! I was fortunate to be offered a soloist position about halfway through my contract. It was definitely one the most challenging

I remember making countless calls from telephone booths with calling cards and running out of money! I was so excited to land a 12 month contract in such an iconic production, and was eager to shed the Mandarin and learn some French.

passengers were mainly Chinese Singaporeans with a love of Bingo and Karaoke. This is where my years of singing paid off, as I lead the Karaoke program. I had to learn to call the Bingo game in Mandarin along with other Mandarin phrases and jokes. One time I was making a (nice) joke about a passenger playing Bingo but accidentally used the wrong inflection on a word which caused the passenger to “lose face”. It was a huge drama and I nearly lost my job! Fortunately, the lady accepted my heartfelt apology and I lived to call another Bingo game! Thankfully, it wasn’t all Bingo and Karaoke. I was able to bring my “Aussie” to the table and introduce a lot more outdoor activities to the program. I have so many fun and funny stories from the Cruise Ship days, I could write a memoir. Watch this space hahaha! How did you end up in Paris and in the Moulin Rouge, and what did you enjoy most about this part of your life? I was staying in London with a friend so I could audition for European contracts. I landed a 6 month stint in the south of Portugal, but before I left for that, I was able to pop over to

and rewarding experiences I’ve ever had as a performer. When my parents came to the show, I was so proud to show them that all the sacrifices they’d made for me had paid off. The cast at the Moulin is multinational, and I met loads of inspirational and talented people. It was definitely a highlight of my time working as an artist. It was in between trips from your hometown Sydney and back to Paris that you met a young Pat Conaghan. What was it about him that you fell in love with? Well, I didn’t meet the “real” Pat till a year later as he was an undercover drug operative at the time, but at the risk of sounding corny, behind the long hair, earrings and Black Sabbath T-shirt was an articulate, intelligent and kind person. Neither of us were looking for a relationship at the time, but we hit it off and I knew there was something really special about him. Fast forward a few years and you are now married, with Pat working as a criminal lawyer after a career in the Police force, and a young family is blooming. What prompted you all to move to Port Macquarie in 2013? Pat had always said he would love to move back to the area to raise our kids. He has great memories of growing up in Kempsey, being involved in the surf clubs and experiencing the sense of community you get in a regional town. >>>

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I always loved visiting his family here but was reluctant to leave the city lifestyle. Who was I kidding? We had two small children and that so called “lifestyle” was but a distant memory! A conversation with a dear friend who had made a similar move, gave me a shove and without having to convince Pat, we literally sold our home within weeks and off we went. We have never looked back, we love it here, it’s the best thing we did. Once you were settled here you found a passion for people and design and embarked on a mission to find a role where you could do what you loved every day in interior styling. Tell me how that came about and your role at present. Pat was commuting between Port and Sydney to his law practice. We decided to open a practice here in the hope of moving everything to Port. I put my hand up to work in the office here but after about six months, I was feeling really creatively stifled. I’d studied an interior design course on-line while the kids were babies, so kept finding myself on Pinterest dreaming of styling homes instead of keeping the office work up to date! Hahaha, I was a terrible employee as Pat will testify. I used to drive around to the homeware stores to be inspired and got to know the lovely Dee at OZ Design. Three months later I was offered a casual job and six years later, I still absolutely 18 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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He has great For us personally, 2020 cherish this role. I love meant we could spend my customers and have memories of a lot more time together met some of the most growing up in than we ever have. Pat amazing people with Kempsey, being has always worked really incredible and humbling involved in the surf hard. After we moved back stories. I help clubs and experiencing to Port, he spent nine customers with interior the sense of months of the year styling, colours and community you get in commuting to Sydney. furniture placement. a regional town. Now, in his current role, I’m also working with it’s around five months Designing Divas, doing of the year in Canberra home staging for and the rest of the time travelling around the properties on the market. electorate. Pat's role is increasingly demanding in 2020 gave us an opportunity to press the the public eye, but you both complement pause button and make the most of the time each other so well when out and that we had together. We were so grateful for about. What do you enjoy most about Pat’s job and the community that we live in. supporting his role as Federal Member? There is a whole new year ahead, what do My love of meeting new people and you hope to accomplish in this time? chatting to people is constantly being fulfilled On a personal level, just like a lot of other in this role. When we are at functions, fifty year old women with kids, I’d like to get whether it be here in the electorate or in fitter, eat healthier and find more time for Canberra, Pat knows that I’ll be totally myself. LOL! I have so many projects on the go, comfortable in this capacity. I joke to him and sometimes it’s difficult to know where to start. say I’m going to “work the floor”. He just rolls Pat’s job presents a lot of opportunities for his eyes. me to get involved in the community and this is Along with supporting your husband, something I definitely want to make the most you have two boys – Hugh and Hamish; of this year. reflecting on the year that was 2020 how Thankyou for sharing your story Ilona. did the family unit stay together and Interview by Louise Beaumont. support each other?

000 1 $ * WIN r you r fo you D AN urite! favo

Share the love to win* a $1000 Gift Card Simply tell us your favourite Settlement City customer service member and you could win a $1000 Gift Card PLUS score the team member you nominate a $1000 Gift Card!

Here’s how to enter: 1. Like the Settlement City Facebook page 2. Facebook message us or comment on a relev ant post with your nominated team member, including the store name

*One entry per person. P romotion ends midnight Feb 14 , 20 21. See settlementcity.com for full conditions.

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INCLUSION REVOLUTION

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Tenneayle, Josh and Sullivan’s story is about “Every Body, Every Brain and Every Heart”. We spoke to the family about their new business and these values that they embrace every day as they strive for a more inclusive world.

i Tenneayle, firstly introduce yourself and your connection to our local area. I’m Tenneayle, I’m a 34-year-old first time Mum to Sullivan. I’m a financial adviser 9 to 5, and also the owner and founder of Inclusion Revolution, a brand that creates t-shirts to advocate for messages of inclusion, kindness and diversity. I have lived on the Mid North Coast for my whole life, and currently call Wauchope home. My partner Josh and I love the Greater Port Macquarie area and find it very hard picturing ourselves living anywhere

else. How did the business “Inclusion Revolution” get started and what was the inspiration for it? Inclusion has always been important to me. I have always been a strong advocate for inclusion, whether it be about normalising the discussion around mental health or being an ally to those who aren’t represented. As a society we need to embrace and celebrate our unique and diverse identities, where no one is excluded and everyone feels like they belong. In July 2018 Josh, my partner, and I welcomed our first child, Sullivan. As many new parents do, when he was born I started to see the world a little differently and what it would look like to him. When Sullivan was 5 months old, we learned he had survived what his neurologist described as a “catastrophic” stroke, which led to

a very rare form of seizure disorder and a subsequent diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy. Sullivan, Josh and myself spent the best part of a month living in John Hunter Hospital where Sullivan fought for his life. As time went on I began to realise that the conversation around disability was largely negative, disability was seen as a tragedy. I just didn’t want to believe that narrative and I didn’t want my son to grow up in a world where he wasn’t valued or respected. I wanted to change that, I needed to change that, to help try and make the world a better place for Sullivan. Inclusion Revolution gave me a voice. It gives Sullivan a voice. It empowered me to help change those disability stereotypes and the negativity that surrounds disability. By being inclusive and diverse, I hope that it helps to change the way that society thinks about disability and differences. Continued over... GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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“EVERY BODY, EVERY BRAIN AND EVERY HEART” Most importantly we want to show you that celebrating the things that make us different make us stronger, as individuals, and as a collective force.

Can you tell us about what the business does and its philosophy? Inclusion Revolution was established in July 2020. It’s an apparel brand created to promote the message of Inclusion and Kindness through t-shirts. Inclusion Revolution is a brand that chooses to not just promote inclusion, but to celebrate diversity, culture and unity in all its forms. Our aim is to transform the conversation, to evoke change and to highlight the beauty in differences. Most importantly we want to show you that celebrating the things that make us different make us stronger, as individuals, and as a collective force. We have a motto “Every Body, Every Brain and Every Heart” which means we aim to ensure that everyone is included, represented 22 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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and has the same accessibility to live a thriving life where they are free to be their authentic selves. It's really taken off in popularity, how does this make you feel? Inclusion Revolution has only been operating for 6 months, so the fact that our shirts and message has been received so well and spread so far just astounds me. My original plan in July last year was to get 10 shirts printed. I created an Instagram account to market our message and within a few days I had so many people wanting to be waitlisted for shirts, I decided to open them up to pre-order. Within a week we had sold over 100 shirts. I couldn’t believe it. While the feeling was overwhelming in a good way, it also gave me so much hope that there were so many individuals and

families that resonated with our message who were so keen to help us change the world for the better. The Instagram platform has connected me to so many people with the most pure and gorgeous intentions. Every day I wake up to an inbox of personal stories and gratitude and I feel honoured that I, along with Inclusion Revolution, get to be part of people’s journeys. One of my most memorable orders to date was a beautiful order of shirts for an entire family to help celebrate their daughter who recently came out as transgender. How do you describe an inclusive world? To me, an inclusive world is a world where each and every person feels free, safe and valued to be their authentic self. An inclusive world is one that doesn’t limit a person’s ability to thrive because of their physical or mental ability, a world that doesn’t discriminate against gender, sexual identity, sexuality,

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In the next 18 months, I would love to see Inclusion Revolution continue to flourish. I’d love to meet more local families, support more local charities and initiatives.

physical appearance, colour of someone skin, their cultural background or their religious beliefs. An inclusive world is a world that values diversity and above all. What are your future goals and where would you like to see the business in 18 months? Currently I am working hard to release new designs that have been in the making for a few months now, and focusing on keeping enough stock on the shelves. I am also developing something very exciting that is aimed towards use in the home as well as the classroom. It is my hope that this can further the important message of inclusion with our younger generation. In the next 18 months, I would love to see Inclusion Revolution continue to flourish. I’d love to meet more local families, support more local charities and initiatives. I’d also love to see Inclusion Revolution grow big enough for us to find a space to operate from, as we are currently operating from

our family home. How can we support Inclusion Revolution? First of all you are so welcome to pop over and say hi on our Instagram page. We have a beautiful community of individuals. It’s been lovely to watch friendships and connections flourish. You can start to try and live a more inclusive life, by making some small changes. • Start to try and use inclusive language in your day to day life • Use social media to diversify your feed and amplify the voices of those who may be underrepresented • Challenge stereotypes and avoid making assumptions • Practise mindful communication, ask the right questions and listen carefully • Be aware of your own privilege. Privilege isn’t a dirty word, but we need to use our own privilege to help others But above all, Be Kind to one another. Thanks Tenneayle. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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1300 753 494

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wine i

TIME

ALEX CASSEGRAIN From Cassegrain Wines

Regional Heroes

hroughout 2020 are Cabernet Sauvignon from and now coming Coonawarra, Chambourcin from into 2021 a Hastings River, and Pinot Noir key focus on from Tasmania. everyone’s minds In the Hunter Valley they have has been realising what each 2 hero wines that to me stand region has to offer. In Old World out more than any other, one winemaking regions the wine being Semillon and the other produced is typically dictated by Shiraz. Tyrrells produce their Old its appellation. Patch Shiraz For example, from vines New World to call a wine a planted in 1867 countries ‘Champagne’ just under the are more forgiving it must have Brokenback in that we can been grown in mountain grow and make the region of range and it is any style of wine Champagne considered the from any region, and also made oldest vineyard but each region a particular in NSW. The has its ‘heroes’ way. This helps 2019 vintage protect the just picked up a that consistently region and the 100 point rating stand out. product, thus for the fourth you won’t find a champagne consecutive vintage – a very made in Bordeaux. New World remarkable effort. It is a medium countries are more forgiving in bodied wine with fantastic that we can grow and make cellaring potential supported any style of wine from any by delicate savoury notes and region, but each region has its rich red fruit aromatics with ‘heroes’ that consistently stand embedded complexity that will out. A few examples of this leave you wanting more. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BEACH TO BUSH TRIKE TOURS

With retirement not panning out the way heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d thought, Gray Connelly decided to make things interesting. With the purchase of a Touroz RF1 Sport Tourer, Port Macquarie now plays host to his newest business venture, Beach to Bush Trike Tours, proving you can teach an old dog new tricks.

i Gray. You truly have one of the best jobs Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard of; it's just you, your trike and the open road. Firstly, please tell us about yourself, and when your passion for motor bikes began. You are right. I have nailed it in the job department! I am very lucky to do something I love and I've met some amazing people and made some great friends along the way. 26 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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It is a great experience for me as well as my passengers! I grew up in Molong, a small country town in central west NSW. From the age of 4 I lived on a property. Like so many kids that grew up in the bush you learnt to drive and ride at a very early age. You can't really compare the trike to a bike though, if anything it is more like an oversized Go-Cart the way it handles. Being close to the ground is a lot of fun. Your business, Beach to Bush Trike Tours,

started in August 2019. What was the driving force behind it and how has the first year been for you? I had to retire a little earlier than planned, so I thought if I have to buy myself a job I'm going to do something that I will enjoy. I love Port Macquarie and this area, I enjoy meeting new people too, so the idea of a trike tour business was the perfect combination of all of that. I have been overwhelmed by the support in my first 12 months. Not only have the

To Bush trike tour have gone through the roof in recent times, and word of mouth has spread quickly for locals as well. I have seen the countryside change so much from all this rain over the course of the last 12 months and it is great to see so much green. Even our rainforests were brown from the lack of water but are now thriving back to life. So all in all we have come through it ok. Our extensive beaches, waterways and thick bush terrain stretches along the Hastings, making for picturesque scenes. What can we expect from a day on tour? A trike ride is one of those things that initially doesn't seem that thrilling. However, once you are on the trike your cares melt away and you feel The oldest the freedom with person I've the wind and sun in your face. It turns taken for a spin was into an exhilarating a 98 year old lady, she experience. Ask loved every minute anybody that rides a of it. I have also motorbike they will taken a local tell you the same gentleman who is thing. And with our totally blind for four amazing scenery as a rides so far. These are backdrop, how sweet the days that are it is! really special. We truly are lucky to have some of the best beaches and scenery on the Mid North Coast. Each tour really is different. Some people love to take in the beaches while others want to travel up into the hinterland or combine the two. The beauty of Beach to Bush Trike Tours is that we can tailor each ride to the individual. A popular tour and one I enjoy myself starts with a cruise along our amazing coastline and then a ride out to our local amazing locals got behind me but I've also vineyards for a tasting then out through the been lucky enough to feature on both The hinterland for a visit to a great country pub Today Show and Sunrise television breakfast for a counter lunch. It is the best of both the programs. Beach and the Bush. The first year has certainly had its Who can come along and join the fun challenges. Drought, fires, floods and and do you have an age limit for your Coronavirus. Not having many international passengers? tourists visit our region due to the Covid Anyone over the age of 8 is able to ride on travel ban was a concern at first, but I have the trike. We have made a few alterations been really fortunate in that it has really to the trike which makes it more accessible increased local tourism. Bookings for a Beach and safe so there are not many limitations to

who can ride with us. The oldest person I've taken for a spin was a 98-year-old lady, she loved every minute of it. I have also taken a local gentleman who is totally blind for four rides so far. These are the days that are really special. More recently, you were asked to take a young cancer patient out on a night ride to view Christmas lights in the area. Tell us more about this. Unfortunately he wasn't feeling up to going for a ride but we didn't want him to miss out. The local bike club who asked me initially to do this arranged for us to all do a ride past his house. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t count the number of bikes that turned up, many decked out in Christmas gear. It was great to be part of it and made me feel very proud of our community. I've offered to take him on the trike later when he is feeling up to it. I've taken a number of people that are in a similar situation and these are the rides I struggle with emotionally. To see that smile come on their dial and to know you have taken their cares away if only for a short time is a feeling I can't describe. The most rewarding thing for me has been giving people with a disability a chance to feel the freedom of a ride in the open air. It's something they would not be able to do themselves and it really is an emotional thing for me to be able to give that experience to them. It's a small thing but when you see their faces light up, enjoying the moment, it's really special. What a great way to get out and explore our region. Do you offer vouchers for those wanting to buy an anniversary or birthday present? Absolutely. Yes we offer Gift Vouchers for all occasions and these can be purchased online through our website or you can contact me directly and I can and pop it in the post if you prefer. How can we find out more and book an experience we won't forget? The best way to book is via our website beachtobushtriketours.com.au or by emailing gray@beachtobushtriketours.com.au or call and leave a message on 0413 937 303. I'll probably be out on a ride but will get back to you as soon as I can. Thanks Gray. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BUSINESS

at blooming SOVEREIGN PLACE TOWN CENTRE

BUNGALOW & CO.

020 gave Katie Walker-Smith the opportunity to evaluate what she wanted to do with her creative passions and experience in interior design, graphic design and photography. Bungalow & Co. - a bespoke florist with fresh seasonal blooms, dried and live natives, and harder to find indoor plants - rose from those passions, with the Sovereign Hills local excited to throw open the doors at Sovereign Place ahead of Valentine’s Day. “For a long time I’ve been passionate about floristry and interior design, and Bungalow & Co. represents that passion for me in bricks and mortar. “I love the idea of customers being able to come to Sovereign Place to buy their deli goods, enjoy an amazing coffee at The Hill Café next door and then wander into Bungalow for a new plant or bunch of flowers to brighten their home!”

RHIANNON JOHNSTON & KATIE WALKER-SMITH

Joining Katie instore is florist Rhiannon Johnston. The business comprises a collective of passionate individuals focused on creating an amazing experience with great customer service while supporting the local community. “My aim is to continue to collaborate with local growers, suppliers and small businesses,” added Katie who will also stock a range of unique interior goods. “I believe that beautiful flowers, plants and homewares should be affordable and accessible to everyone!” The mother of three is looking forward to injecting peace and beauty into people’s homes

and lives during these unprecedented times. “I’m hoping by supplying amazing and rare indoor plants, and a stunning flower market, I can lift the spirits of customers and bring some joy back into what’s been a very hard 12 months! “My dream is for Bungalow & Co. to be a regular hang out for those who love and share my passions.” Opening Wednesday 2 February (7 days) Shop 15 (next to The Hill Café) www.bungalowandco.com.au Instagram @bungalowandco

PRO MOBILE REPAIRS

DAN PARKER

ntroducing Dan Parker, owner of Pro Mobile Repairs, with more than over 10 years of experience as a phone technician. Dan previously owned Pro Mobile Repairs in Parkes before relocating his business to Port Macquarie in late 2020. Services include repairs of mobile devices, tablets, laptops, iPods, iWatches and software issues. All repairs have a guaranteed 12-month warranty. All phone screen repairs include a free screen protector.

“We can fix most phones within the hour so just drop off your phone, do some shopping, pick it up and off you go.” Pro Mobile Repairs only use the highest quality replacement parts. They also stock phone accessories including cases, chargers, screen protectors and earphones. Open Tuesday - Saturday from 10am Shop 9 (next to the IGA entrance) Find them on Facebook 15ChancellorsDrive,PortMacquarie(nearSt Joseph’s Regional College) www.sovereignhills.com.au

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PORT MACQUARIE’S NEW SHOPPING DE

GemLife.com.au/grb

Rainbow Beach. A whole new life.

GemLife offers luxury resort-style living with world-class lifestyle facilities on your doorstep. No entry fees, exit fees or stamp duty Friendly community Pets welcome Gated neighbourhood Extensive first-class facilities Luxury homes Optional caravan and boat storage* Retain your capital gain

Over-50s living on the Mid North Coast. Sales office now open.

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Call 1800 718 413

*Conditions apply.

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KIDS WHO RIP

TOBIE QUINN

From skillful kicking, to speedy running, speccy marks and awesome skills, AFL is a game that rewards commitment, fitness, and achievement. Tobie Quinn started out playing AFL at the ripe old age of 4 and has developed into a ripper of a player, equalling that of his commendable spirit.

i Tobie. Your love of AFL has steadily grown over the years and the footy field is where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re most happy. Before we get into that, can you introduce yourself to our readers. Hi my name is Tobie and I am turning 12 this February. I just completed I enjoy AFL primary school at Hastings because it is a Public School and will be fun game with a lot starting Year 7 at Hastings of diff erent skills Secondary College, Port and requires fitness. Campus. I live here in Port You also meet really Macquarie and I love AFL. good friends. You started out playing requires fitness.You AFL at just four years also meet really of age and quickly your good friends. confidence and ability Last year, you captained your team to grew. What was it about the sport that a grand final win and had a ripper of got you hooked and why do you enjoy a season, being undefeated. You also it so much? took home a couple of best and fairest I guess I just like getting outside and awards. How proud are you of your having fun. I enjoy AFL because it is a team's effort last year, and of course fun game with a lot of different skills and

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your own achievements so far? I was so proud of our teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effort last year. We couldn't have done it without our coach and the support of the club. To my team thanks, for playing your best and putting the skills at training into our games. I am so proud of my own achievements last season. My goal at the start of the year was to win best and fairest out of my club but

I ended up winning it out of the Under 11s This year, I am best and fairest for the looking North Coast. forward to a harder You’re also a competition moving member of the up to the Under 13s local Sydney Swans and new teammates. Academy. Can AFL training involves you tell us what is drones to assist the kicking, handballing, involved with this? assessment process. running drills and Every week we get Only those who score sometimes a practice together for intense at or above the cut-off match. training drills and mark get accepted into fitness activities. Swans the Academy. I was the Academy has been only player selected for really good for me and I recommend you go my age group for the North Coast Region in try out. 2019. The Sydney Swans Academy operates Swans Academy training is at Wayne separately from Club AFL. The Sydney Swans Richards Park from 5.30pm to 7pm every Academy invites juniors to Selections once week except once a month, when the Port per year at Moore Park, Sydney. I tried out in Squad travel to Coffs Harbour for that 2019 with about 200 Under 10s from across week’s training. The training is high paced New South Wales. The selection process puts and to get the kids fit and ready to hopefully kids through a series of football and fitness play AFL one day, the drills are the same as skill sessions. The sessions are observed and what the Sydney Swans team do. assessed by Academy Coaches who grade You’re certainly dedicated to your sport. each player. The Academy uses cameras and What training does it involve and what

are you most looking forward to in the 2021 season that's about to kick off? I play for the Port Macquarie Junior Magpies and we train at Wayne Richards Park. Training sessions run from 4.50pm to 6pm on Tuesday every week. This year, I am looking forward to a harder competition moving up to the Under 13s and new teammates. AFL training involves kicking, handballing, running drills and sometimes a practice match. Who is your inspiration in the footy world and what big dreams do you have for yourself? My inspiration is Dustin Martin from the Richmond football club. I want to play pro footy and captain the Richmond football team. Thanks Tobie. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Kanga TRA IN ING ANNA WEIDNER Baby wearing has amazing benefits for both mother and bub. Mix that with physical exercise and you have a recipe for endorphine success. Anna Weidner is now proudly offering Kangatraining classes here in Port Macquarie, helping new mothers connect while staying active.

i Anna. You moved to the area in February 2020 from Emu Heights NSW. Firstly, please introduce yourself and your family to our

readers. Hi, my name is Anna and my little joey is Georgie (who is 2). We moved from Emu Plains to Port Macquarie in February 2020, after waking up one day and knowing it was time for a big life change. We have lived all over the world but this time we wanted it to be permanent. I sat down and wrote down all the places we knew people and what we wanted. Once we decided on Port Macquarie, my heart and soul knew it was right and once the decision was made everything just aligned. It was kind of like we were just along for the ride. Since moving up to Port Macquarie, we have spent every possible moment in nature, swimming in the ocean, bush walks, sitting in the park and we could not be happier with our move. After having your first child, you joined Kangatraining in Sydney. What was your reaction to this and how did it develop into being certified as a trainer? 32 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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I discovered Kangatraining while living postnatal workout for mums and bubs and in the Blue Mountains NSW. It appealed to is endorsed by many health professionals. me as I was eager to get back to some sort Currently I am furthering my knowledge of exercise but didn’t in baby wearing, so want to leave my baby that I can offer baby with anyone. I loved wearing consults to Port We start off with it because Georgie Macquarie families. was not only welcome I love Kangatraining a gentle warm but was a part of the and see the positive up with babies in workout with me in her benefits for mothers arms. Then we do baby carrier. and all the amazing some floor work on a Kangatraining ticked friendships that have mat, whilst we interact all the boxes, low impact formed. I’m passionate with our babies and with an emphasis on about empowering focus on our core and restoring core and women and look pelvic floor. pelvic strength and it is forward to connecting dance-based which is with like-minded mums. the kind of movement You now run classes I really enjoy. It got me out of the house right here in town for mums and bubs. and proactive about the threats of postnatal Tell us about the class and what’s on offer. depression. I was hooked on my first class. Here is a sneak peek into what happens Once I found out I could be a Kangatrainer, in a class. We start off with a gentle warm I signed up for the course and haven't looked up with babies in arms. Then we do some back. floor work on a mat, whilst we interact with The course was a week-long intensive our babies and focus on our core and pelvic training, where I was trained by babywearing floor. Don’t worry siblings are welcome at consultants, midwives and physiotherapists. Kanga too! They can dance along or play with It was amazing to learn about how much toys. After floor work, I help you get babies Kangatraining prides itself on being the best comfortable and safe into their carriers and

for the remainder of the class we do a number of dances, squats/lunges, arms, leg repeaters and barre work. We finish off with stretches, pelvic floor strengthening and a supportive conversation. As your baby gets heavier, your body gets stronger! Class usually goes for about an hour but we occasionally run a bit over, due to carrier fittings and chatting (cause we are mums and we love to chat). The best part is you can just arrive and take a breath because you will be welcomed with open arms (even if you have vomit on you). We regularly catch up after class to continue our conversations over a nice cuppa. Another great thing about Kanga is that it doesn’t interfere with nap time because the movements and comforting closeness to Mum, means that almost always babies are asleep in their carriers by the end of class! You don’t need to be super fit or coordinated or even have a carrier (you can hire a carrier through me), all you need to do is turn up! The mental health of new mothers is often not spoken about openly. Postnatal Depression and Postnatal Anxiety affect 1 in 7 new mums. How can coming along to a group like this help us find an anchor to hold onto in what can be an emotional time? Our classes form an important foundation for the mental, as well as physical, health of our local community. It provides mums with the opportunity to feel good about themselves, connect with other mothers and join a supportive community. From my own

It provides mums with the opportunity to feel good about themselves, connect with other mothers and join a supportive community.

experience it helped stave off the threats of postnatal depression, and provided an opportunity to build a network at a time that can be so isolating. Kangatraining Australia is now recognised as a Community Service Organisation providing parents with support, guidance and connection, which I can be contacted through the COPE website: cope.org.au/e-cope-directory/search/ For anyone that would like to find out more, create new friendships and join in

the fun with their bub, how can they do so? My classes are available for all mums as early as 6 weeks postpartum for vaginal delivery and 12 weeks for C-section. My best contact is: anna.w@kangatraining. com.au or on the Kangatraining Port Macquarie Facebook messenger. You can join Kangatraining at any time and I will adjust the term fee to reflect the time that you will be there. And right now I have a special for FOCUS MAGAZINE readers on until the end of February for a FREE trial class (dependent on class availability so that we still adhere to the COVID restrictions), just quote FOCUS when you sign up or contact me directly on the above information. The Plug Classes Tuesday @11:30am at the Mac Adams Community Hall Fridays @9:30am at the Mac Adams Community Hall Bookings are essential to adhere to COVID-19 safety rules. Follow the ‘book now’ button on the Kangatraining Port Macquarie Facebook page or email anna.w@kangatraining.com.au. If you don't have a baby carrier or are unsure if your carrier is suitable for Kangatraining, please don’t hesitate to ask. I have spare carriers that are available for hire or trial.

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eat DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH PORT CENTRAL PANTRY

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e en i

THAI BEEF SAL AD

1 Bay Street, Port Macquaire (02) 6580 2300 portmacquarie.panthers.com.au

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Shaker

FRESHWATER GIN SOUR INGREDIENTS Goodradigbee Freshwater Gin 15 ml Sugar Syrup 30 ml Yuzu Juice One large egg white

METHOD 1. First shake egg white alone in cocktail shaker (allows for better froth). 2. Then add ice and all ingredients. 3. Shake vigorously (30-60 sec). 4. Strain cocktail into glass of your choice. 5. Garnish with citrus zest. Goodradigbee specialist distilled spirits exclusive to the Whalebone Wharf

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PORT CENTRAL

Pantry SEAN TIDDY

Owner Sean Tiddy and head chef Jaimie Morgan tell us about their menu from Port Central Pantry.

ell us about your menu, how would you describe your creations? The menu at Port Central Pantry is one we are proud of, always following the philosophy of fresh is best. We simplified breakfast with a few staples like smashed avocado and breaky burgers, but allowing our customers to “build their own” choosing how they like their eggs and what extras they would like with them. What has been the most popular dish? Easily our most popular dish is our chicken schnitzel burger. When COVID hit and no one knew who we were, the word slowly got out about our freshly crumbed chicken schnitzel burger

We make almost 90 percent of which brought customers in droves the cakes used in our cabinets. The from around Port Macquarie. apprentices are always trying out The coffee must be pretty special as new cheesecakes. A well, what are few crowd pleasers you serving? When COVID hit are our chewy milk The coffee and no one knew cookies, orange poppy we use is a who we were, the word seed cake or lemon private blend slowly got out about meringue. from White our freshly crumbed No doubt you use Horse Roasters chicken schnitzel local suppliers – who in Sydney. These burger which brought else is on the menu? guys are climbing customers in droves We use a few local to the top of the from around Port suppliers. Our bread game quickly, and pastries mostly run by a crew Macquarie. come from Cassera’s that is passionate Pastry & Bake House, about coffee and closely backed up by Bakers Delight its growing scene in Australia. Port Central. You make a lot of your sweets and Our fresh produce comes from the treats in-house too – what will we Growers Market. find this month in the cafe? GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Spiced

pork LOIN

SALAD

INGREDIENTS Pork Tenderloin 200grams

Salad

Spice rub

100 grams Rocket

- ½ tsp paprika

100 grams Sliced Red Cabbage

- ½ tsp ground cumin

50 grams Toasted Pine Nuts

- ½ tsp salt

100 grams Blueberries

- ½ tsp white pepper

50 grams Danish Fetta

- ½ tsp cayenne pepper

100ml Balsamic Vinegar

- ½ tsp ground coffee

Splash of olive oil

METHOD 1. Mix all dried spices together, massage mix over the pork. 2. Place balsamic and blueberries in a saucepan and bring to boil over medium heat, reduce liquid by half. Set aside to cool. 3. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over low to medium heat, sear pork on both sides for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and place in a preheated 170 degree oven for 5 minutes or until the pork has reached an internal temperature of 64 degrees. 4. Remove pork from pan and rest on a cutting board. 5. Toss rocket, cabbage and splash of olive oil in a bowl then arrange down the middle of a plate. Slice pork into six pieces and place on top of mixed leaves. Top with pine nuts, fetta and balsamic blueberries and drizzle with the balsamic blueberry jus to finish. 38 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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PUTTING A

Face TO

When people think about the Camden Haven, idyllic lifestyle images spring to mind; beaches, the spectacular view from North Brother Mountain, fishing and a laid back holiday.

upporting this imagery are scenes from local cafes and restaurants, where food is sumptuous. Local farmers in the Camden Haven support the gourmet lifestyle by growing fresh produce and supplying not only the community but larger stores and top restaurants further afield. The Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce is putting a face to farming by producing a series of videos. “Four local farmers generously agreed to be part of the campaign,” said the Chamber’s executive officer Megan Philippa. “We hope this series will show the gourmet food bowl of the Camden Haven. I’m sure local people will feel proud about what is being produced here. The aim is to educate people about farming in our region, connect with local producers and seek out the local businesses who stock Camden Haven grown products. “As we share the videos further online, we hope to draw attention to the amazing quality of our products as well as the talents and passion of our local farmers.” Challenges presented by years of drought

followed by bushfires, then floods saw local farmers looking forward to a positive new year for 2020. While farming operations could still carry on relatively as usual during the global COVID-19 pandemic, many of their customers who run restaurants and cafes suddenly closed for a lengthy period. “When supply chains further afield are affected, it is particularly important that people support local businesses as much as possible,” Megan said. “Businesses in the Camden Haven are passionate about our region and are champions of local produce. People now, more than ever, are conscious about where food comes from and how it’s treated from paddock to plate. “Our campaign is aimed to help businesses and farmers connect with the community.” The campaign is supported by Port MacquarieHastings Council and jointly funded under the Commonwealth and New South Wales Bushfire Community Resilience and Economic Recovery Fund. Camden Haven-based writer Kate Dwyer and Port Macquarie videographer Michael Wilkie produced the videos and farmer stories. The farmers featured in the video series are: Ana and Sven Martin from Amber Drop Honey; Rob,

Brandon and Jason Armstrong from Armstrong Oysters; Col Cowan, a dairy farmer producing Farmer’s Own milk; and Sean Gleeson, a beef farmer. In each video, the farmers speak about their produce, farming, connecting with local products, and why it is vital to keep farmers working. Their words are overlaid by magnificent images of their farms and local businesses. “Anything that is grown locally is always better,” said Staffan Andler, owner of Kew Corner Store, a treasure trove of Camden Haven delicacies. “The flavour is better. I think our farmers put a bit of extra love in it.” Watch the videos at https:// camdenhavenchamber.org/camden-haven-farmersinitiative/ and on the Chamber’s Facebook page. Look out for future forums and events through the Chamber by liking the Facebook page and signing up for notifications through the website. Feel free to share the love by sharing the videos with your online networks. Throughout 2021, Focus will feature the stories of the four Camden Haven farmers. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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WH AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S O N AT PA NTH E R S

AUSTRALIA'S NUMBER ONE MALE REVIEW PERFORMANCE

SAT 6 FEB

TICKETS $35 8PM | DOORS 7.30PM STRICTLY 18+ | LIMITED SEATS

FRI 19 F E B 8PM | DOORS 7.30PM

ERADO DESPthe EAGLES SHOW

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS

panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au 40 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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MEMBERS $34.95 VISITORS $40.05

CUE DELI BUTCHERY

KEN LITTLE'S 2020 apple harvest has begun. This year’s new season apples are now in full swing with all our favourite varieties available in our ”LITTLE” shop. Sunny days and those cool summer nights have produced a great crop. If it’s those sweet tart Pink Lady apples you love, or the crisp sweet Gala apples you adore, now is the perfect time to be stocking up on supplies. Remember we have free home

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delivery within Port Macquarie and we’re open 7 days a week. Don’t forget every Tuesday, we have fresh organic produce, straight off the truck. Plus you can shop online for our pre-made fruit, veg, combination and special packs that can be delivered to your door. Always remember ”Fresh is Best” and to continue to support our local family and farmers. Ken.

There are quite a few aspects to the business that is ‘Cue Deli’ that make it a one-stop-shop for a high-quality woodfired barbecue experience. Cue Deli food-caters many functions and events of all sizes, serving up hot off the smoker American Style Barbecue using award-winning recipes from the Pitmaster’s (Adam Roberts) secret notebook. Then there’s the Learn to BBQ Classes which run every month where Adam shares some foundation tips and tricks to cooking up the perfect low n slow beef brisket, meaty pork ribs or that succulent and flavourful thickcut scotch fillet steak.

The shop itself is open 5 days a week, Tuesday to Saturday where you can grab all the low n slow and grilling cuts of meat, fresh house-made bacon and specialty sausage and a bunch of weekly specials. You can’t sell low n slow or grilling meats without the seasonings and sauces to compliment, so the Bossman has carefully selected some of the most flavourful spice and sauce mixes straight from the heartland of ‘proper barbecue’, the USA. There’s hot sauces and pickled chilis, Mexican salsas and sauces, hard and soft tacos and burritos and even a stash of BBQ’s and accessories to get you sorted.

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Palate PLEASURES i

LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

TRUSTING THE PROCESS

oping everyone’s had a somewhat relaxing and refreshing time over summer. This season has seen Port Macquarie going completely gangbusters in terms of leisure and tourism. Once again we’ve been so incredibly fortunate to be able to have provided a safe haven for travellers this season and many visitors have been surprised and delighted by what Port has to offer in terms of natural beauty as well as newly emerging fresh, colourful and diverse restaurant, café and bar scene. This can only be a great thing and we look forward to hopefully a new breed of repeat visitor, having freshly discovered a destination such as ours, only a few hours up the highway and a world away from the continuing pandemic-induced stress ad infinitum! However as we continued into the yet uncharted depths that 2021 may bring, we ourselves aim to carry on in the same kind of hedonistic spirit that has fuelled the holiday season… Long lunches – they’re back! We’ve noticed this very happy side effect/trend of late and we couldn’t be happier. We don’t know why for sure – could be purely a consequence of social distancing, but perhaps, joyfully, this pandemic has led to some kind of 80s style revival, or at least certainly a sense that we should seize the moment and live life to the fullest whenever and however we can!

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Taking this philosophy to heart, brings us to Of course, we believe to always adhere another juncture of the journey of restaurant to respecting the wishes of our very valued dining – that place where we find ourselves in customers, but in the interest of the above a brave new world where we are seated at our current pursuit of hedonism, we wish to tables and ready to experience whatever may encourage a relaxation of such constraints, of come our way... course only as much a one is comfortable with. In an ideal world we all would be fully willing As indeed the culinary journey we wish to do so, trusting in the all of our diners to go process involved with the on is one where they very concept of dining get to experience in In an ideal world we away from home seems entirety – the whole deal. all would be fully intrinsic in the decision From pairings of wine willing to do so, trusting to do so – otherwise to unbelievably match in the process involved why would we ever flavours in dishes, from with the very concept of be inclined to venture enjoying the combination dining away from home outside our own kitchen of flavours on a plate the seems intrinsic in the at all? way it was meant to be decision to do so. However the reality of experienced… perusing a list of limited We want you to let options (ie menu), as well go and trust the process as allowing another to convey your choices, and as much as possible. That is the very pinnacle yet another to prepare and serve it can seem of success in our opinion – when you discover a little too much to some as relinquishing all something new in your culinary repertoire, try a control and diving into a as yet unknown deep wine you never tried before – and love it. end… Of course there are hits and misses and Hence in the restaurant world, we all there’s always a risk there. But once again if the become accomplished in managing all last year has taught us anything, it is to just go manner of requests – whether they be dietary for it – while we can! requirements, individual likes and dislikes, all the Happy dining in 2021! Whether it be the full way through to the need for entire dishes to be adventurous style, the kind you know and love, modified into something completely different to or the kind you cook for yourself – just enjoy what they once were. with family and friends x

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Oxhill ORGANICS

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Withstanding over 100 years, industrial revolutions and evolving technologies, the Oxhill Organic Farm is now four generations deep. THE EGGERT FAMILY HAVE WORKED TIRELESSLY TO PRESERVE THE LEGACY AND PROUD FAMILY TRADITION of farming with innovative success right here in the green hills of Redbank.

i Ann. The beautiful Oxhill Organics Farm has been operating here in Wauchope with a long history and four generations behind it. Please tell us about your family. Chris, the manager and joint owner of the business is the fourth generation on the farm. Chris’ parents, Jenny and Paul, are still involved in the business with the day-today operations and Chris also manages the property with myself and we are helped by our three sons, Lachie, Jimmy and Billy. It definitely is a family affair and we are appreciative of the history and what it has taken those before us to enable us to reach the stage we are at now. We are also hopeful we can continue the farm’s ownership into the fifth generation but that will be up to the boys and we are careful that they are free to take their own path in life, whatever that may be. There’s a lot of history here on the farm. How has it developed and expanded over the years? Chris’ great grandfather was the first to dairy on the property over 100 years ago. Over that period of time there have been many different farming practices, and evolving technologies such as milking machines and tractors as well as generational changes, but it has remained in the Eggert family throughout. The property has seen the industrial revolution

The property has seen the industrial revolution and the introduction of chemical fertilisers. As population grew, the farm expanded through the leasing and purchasing of land to be now a 500 acre farm which is fully certified organic.

and the introduction of chemical fertilisers. As population grew, the farm expanded through the leasing and purchasing of land to be now a 500 acre farm which is fully certified organic. We have also expanded the number of facets of the business, diversifying into different enterprises to spread our risk and enable more employment opportunities and interesting work for the employees and family members involved in the farm. Oxhill wasn’t always run as an organic farm. When was organic farming implemented and what was the process to becoming certified? In 2000, when deregulation was implemented, our business suffered a significant financial hit, so we were looking at

ways to recover those losses. A number of options were suggested by dairy advisers and government employees at the time including increasing herd numbers, building a new dairy and purchasing more land. However, our local milk factory, the Hastings Co-op, suggested that an option may be to produce organic milk, as there could be a significant price difference. So we decided to go ahead with that option, with very little knowledge of organics. Our knowledge at that time was in running a very input-driven, conventional farm, which was highly reliant on artificial inputs of fertiliser, antibiotics and pesticides. We were also in the middle of a significant drought at the time which made the transition more difficult. Continued Over... GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Although we did notice an immediate improvement in the health of the cows after cessation of the use of artificial inputs such as urea, other changes were slower. Initially, we had a lack of knowledge and confidence but, by reading books, speaking to other farmers in the industry, attending numerous conferences, and trying other farming practices such as compost building and controlled grazing, slowly the farm began to improve. That was when we started to notice an improvement in the health of the farm and the soils. The certification process was three years, so we became fully certified organic in 2003. No longer just a production farm, you have many other initiatives on offer here. What are you currently running and producing? Our primary business and source of income is still the dairy. However, over the years we have expanded to other enterprises and sources of income. Now we also produce organic pasture range eggs and directly sell meat including beef, pork and meat chickens. We also run field days occasionally and host veterinary students and trainees. Jenny has also built a yoga centre on the farm where she teaches yoga with some other teachers, with the centre also being utilised for workshops and field days. Compost production is also the core of our business. We produce approximately 1,000t of compost per year which we primarily use on the farm. This enables us to reduce our input costs, as the 46 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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the focus of the farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operations? Whether you are a large- or small-scale farm, soil health should always be at the core of your management. It is essential to ensure the sustainability of your farm in the long term. It is absolutely viable and imperative financially to look after soil health, no matter the scale of your operation. Before we converted to organic production, we were relying almost solely on brought-in inputs to Norco has been produce our outputs, very supportive as the nutrients in of our business since our soil were locked we started supplying up in unhealthy and them with organic milk hard soils. This created in the mid 2000s. Th ey a significant cost to base of the compost are understanding of our business. With comes from the dairy the nature of our increasing soil health, yard and laneways, we were able to unlock business and the so that the nutrients nutrients in our soils produced on the farm challenges we face with and all our inputs were are able to be kept droughts and floods. building capital in our on-site and utilised over soil, as opposed to how the whole farm to build it was before, when fertiliser was an annual the health of our soils and build biology and cost which only increased every year. As I carbon in the soil. Although carbon is not a mentioned above, the centre of our whole direct income source, it is our most important farm is compost production. We try to keep asset for the farm and future generations. You also milk 180-200 cows and are one of the original suppliers of Norco Organic milk, and for many years the only supplier. What was the driving force behind this decision? We are passionate about the product we produce. We believe that it is important for consumers to have a connection to the product they buy and when they buy Norco milk, they are purchasing from only a handful of family-owned farms who supply a Co-op which is wholly Australian owned with farmers who all have shares in the Co-op. Norco has been very supportive of our business since we started supplying them with organic milk in the mid 2000s. They are understanding of the nature of our business and the challenges we face with droughts and floods. Soil health is important and we really need to hone in on taking care of it. As a large-scale farm, does this supersede

as closed a system as possible by cycling the nutrients throughout our farm. We also use mulch and sawdust as a source of carbon in our compost. A lot of this product would otherwise be disposed of, so we are using it to increase the biodiversity in the biology of our soils and build carbon. And at the same time education around our food systems is so imperative. Education is very important to Oxhill and you host workshops and tours covering this area. Tell us more about this. Direct consumer education and contact is an essential part of our business. We believe that the connection between consumers and where their food comes from is in danger of being lost. There is a lot of fear and misinformation about food production and people are being removed from direct contact with the source of their food because of fears of biosecurity breaches. We are trying to remediate this by re-establishing connections. Connections between people and their natural environment are essential for a number of reasons. Over the last few years, we have run field trips for local primary and high schools which are becoming increasingly popular. On the excursions, we keep cows back from the morning milking so that the students can see the cows being milked. We also feed the calves and then take a walk down the farm where they can see the chickens and our free-range pigs. Children have an innate curiosity and thirst for knowledge and they are the future consumers who will make decisions on what they buy based on their experiences throughout their life. If they can appreciate the work that goes into producing food, and understand concepts such as reducing food miles and purchasing products that are produced sustainably/organically, not only will that help the local economy, but it will contribute to their health through consumption of nutrient dense foods free of artificial additives. We also hope that it may inspire some of them to consider agriculture as a potential career pathway that is enjoyable and profitable. People are wanting to connect and know

more about where their food comes from, who grew it and how it was grown. What do you love the most about the consumers’ interest and support? As well as educating consumers, it is beneficial for our wellbeing, attitude and enthusiasm for what we do to have direct input from the consumers who buy our products. We enjoy the positive feedback and interaction with our customers as it inputs meaning and intent into our day-to-day activities. We are available and transparent to our customers through social media and our phone number is on our egg carton so customers are able to have direct contact with the producer, something which is quite rare in today’s mass food production environment. Where can people get their hands on your fresh produce? We sell our eggs locally at Ken Little’s, Growers Market and Wild Culture Organics in Port Macquarie and at EcoWild in Wauchope. We also go to the Wauchope Farmers Market on the fourth Saturday of every month where we sell our eggs and meat, and make bacon and egg rolls using rolls from Urban Grain bakery in Port Macquarie. The meat we have available from the farm is all grown on the farm. We have pork, beef and chicken which are all rotated regularly on our fresh, diverse, organic pastures. Contact us directly if you are interested in sourcing some of our fresh

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produce from the farm. What’s next for Oxhill Organics? Now we have received significant, welcome rainfall after suffering through the drought of the last two years, it is onwards and upwards from here. We are continuing with all the enterprises we have now and hope to get back to excursions which were halted due to COVID-19. We want to continually improve the products we are producing through the betterment of our landscapes and community by increasing soil health, planting trees, and developing deeper relationships with our customers, employees and the farming community. Now there are a quite a number of farms which are embracing direct sell methods and using regenerative methods of farming on their properties, so it is an exciting time for agriculture. If you would like to learn more about our farming methods and the journey we have been through since converting to organic production, you can listen to Chris’ podcast interview with Charlie Arnott on “The Regenerative Journey with Charlie Arnott”, Season 2, Ep. 22 https:// charliearnott.com.au/s2-e13-chris-eggert/ Thanks Ann. Contact details: Find us on Facebook - Oxhill Organics Website - oxhillorganics.com.au/ 41 Redbank Rd, Redbank NSW 2446 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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5% discount for seniors

EVERY

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Port Macquarie

Sovereign Place

Wauchope

Timbertown

*Excludes sale items. Check out weekly catalogues at www.hastingscoop.com.au

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F RO N T

BAR

ALISTAIR F L O W E R

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

Alistair Flower, Managing Director of Flower Hotels talks to exceptional members of our community, over a beer.

s this the year of the Beechwood Shamrocks? You wont find a more passionate footy man than Beechwood’s Jimmy Bright. We caught up with him to find out whats planned for the year ahead. Jimmy, how long have you lived here in Beechwood? I’ve been here about 11 years now and couldn’t be happier. My parents had a property out here so I’ve always had an affiliation with the place but I now have a few acres just outside of town. But before that I moved down from Townsville and Darwin where I was for 7 years and I thought I’d help my brother out with the family business. Tell me what you do for work? The old man bought Mid Coast Doors about 35 years ago and now my brother Michael and I run it. Keeps us bloody busy. Didn’t really take Xmas off this year. We initially got involved with the Beechwood Shamrocks as sponsors. Now I hear you were a rugby man before heading across to League? Yeah I played Rugby Union at School and then went and play down at Norths Rugby while I was doing my apprenticeship in Sydney. I then went over and played for the Las Vegas Blackjacks Rugby Club and even in South America. Was a great time while in my early 20s!

So now back at Beechwood, how did you the Sharks so will be great to have all the get involved with the Shamrocks? Flanagans playing together As suggested, our business has been a For those that don’t know, Beechwood major sponsor in the past and I’ve thrown the Oval is a community funded oval and not boots on also. We had some tough years. I council owned. How does that work? played in a game where we were beaten by Well it’s exactly that, it’s an oval owned the Cathie Raiders 124by the Beechwood 0. We’ve come a long community, we make Our major day way. sure it’s maintained, which the whole My role now is the watered, mowed, pay junior vice president, community is really for the lights etc. We and we have a great proud of is the have a really great committee led by Jumbo Billy Cart race which active committee and Workman. It’s a great happens in September. its shared between the club in an awesome We also use it as a sports. Cricket in the community. Just love camping ground summer months, footy being involved – as does in the winter etc. which is managed by everyone. How do you raise the Pub. How do you think funds for the upkeep? the Beechwood Our major day which Shamrocks will go this year in the the whole community is really proud of is the Hastings League? Billy Cart race which happens in September. We would have won it last year and I think We also use it as a camping ground which is we will give it a good crack in 2021 also. It’s managed by the Pub. like we have been building for 10 years, we Finally mate, what’s so special about had about 15 core guys come through the Beechwood for you? years and I think there is a really good feeling Mate, it’s all about the great people who around the place. live here, the community spirit which you see We’ve needed in the past a couple of big in the footy club and we love our local Pub, blokes to get us out of our half and we have looking forward to seeing what you do with them this year. We have Ben Kirkman, Blake it mate. Carter and Cameron Savage all throwing on All the best and good luck for the season! the boots. We also have Zac Flanagan from GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Australia's newest entrant to the COUNTRY MUSIC SCENE BRAD COX HAS AMASSED A HUGE FOLLOWING after his winning the Toyota Star Maker in 2017

o Brad, it’s been exactly one year since we last caught up with you and what a year it has been. Tell us a bit about your 2020 and how you handled

it.

Yeah, well, I did a lot of nothing for a few months, but played PlayStation and drank far too many beers. But then, me and the Mrs, Sammy, actually had an opportunity to go and play some acoustic shows and we ended up going I feel like we’re to about 40-50 shows breaking the between Cairns and stigma a little bit in the Victorian border Australia. Definitely over a few months. about commercial And then, I did nine album launch shows as space for country well acoustically - with music, which is our first gig of 2021. reduced capacity. So growing every year, It’s a live gig. So we kind of made the which is awesome. that's that must be best of a bad situation pretty exciting for for the last six months you. of 2020. Yeah, definitely. I’ve got a couple of boys Good on you, that sounds great. And so coming up and yeah, it’ll be epic as it’s the live events are back on now and you're first time I’ve been on a plane since February heading to Port Macquarie on 13th last year. We usually do four to eight flights February for Live at the Smokehouse. a week! Have you been to Port Macquarie Oh that’s going to be special. You’re before? extremely talented and you’ve got an I have. I’ve got a couple of good mates incredible voice. But for those who that live just near Port, and we actually lived haven’t listened to your music yet, can in Newcastle for 18 months. We’ve been you tell us in your own words about up there a few times for sure. But yeah, it’s your sound and what your albums are a lovely part of the world, the Mid North like? Coast. So we are looking forward to playing

Yeah, definitely. We’re a country act, but I get so many people coming to our shows that go, “oh, I never liked country music, until I listened to your records”, so it’s always a bit different from our stuff. Especially, the new record’s got a big horn section on it. We’ve got a nine minute song and then some kind of more traditional country stuff as well. But yeah, I feel like we’re breaking the stigma a little bit in Australia. Definitely about commercial space for country music, which is growing every year, which is awesome. So we sit there somewhere and you know there’s something that we play that everyone should like hopefully. Continued over...

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Tell me a bit about your band, who’ve mates and having a great time. But yeah, you got and what do they play? they're all really talented musicians in their Yeah, look, my band, they’re an own right. awesome group of lads. Played with them You do have a new album as you so long as we’ve said, ’My Mind's been doing acoustic Projection’ and shows. James Edge, it’s really taken My favorite my drummer, is off with a great song on the a Novocastrian, playlist. But you record would Newcastle born and know, do you have probably be raised. The other fellas a favorite song on ’Remedied’, where I are from the Central there perhaps. Coast; Hunter Beasley Yeah. My favorite collaborated with plays mandolin, tenor song on the record Adam Eckersley. He’s guitar, banjo; and would probably be actually on the Mid the other guitarist is ’Remedied’, where North Coast now. Jesse O’Neil Hutchin. I collaborated with They’re my best Adam Eckersley. He’s mates. We spent so actually on the Mid much time together, obviously, before all North Coast now. We spent a heap of time this rubbish started and, you know, really at his place. And, you know, I’m such a fan living the dream playing music with my best of his work and he’s one of my best pals. 52 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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So it was a great opportunity to be able to share a song on the record with him. And yeah, it’s probably my favorite one. Speaking of fellow people in country music or just in music in general, have you got some other artists that inspire you, maybe nationally or internationally? Oh, yeah, always. And in different genres for sure. But lately, Chris Stapleton, his new record is definitely a big one, but I’m a huge Sturgill Simpson fan. Tyler Childers records are some of my favorites at the moment. And just to wrap up the interview, have you got a favorite quote or phrase that you live by? I do! Frank Sinatra said he ”feels sorry for people that don't drink because when they wake up in the morning, that's the best they're going to feel all day.” Thanks Brad.

O sm ke p o r t m a c q ua r i e / W e s t p o r t pa r k

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WEDDINGS COVER

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Baked by Katie Here at Baked by Katie we create cake dreams! Being a part of a Wedding or special event is not only a privilege but also an important part of the day. With so many choices available in the dessert and cake department, it’s essential to find the right person who can cater to not only the unique style that you’re creating but to deliver a cake that has a real wow factor inside and out. The cake should be a part of your day that’s not going to add pressure but to bring you enjoyment and a little sugar rush. I keep things simple and stress free – because at the end of the day, it’s just cake after all and it should be fun! For me, I love baking and do this full time at our Cafe – Middle Rock Pizza & Eatery. Having my own kitchen allows me the freedom to play and create every day. I’m able to pick and choose cakes and desserts that will fit into your event and leave you wanting more! I spend time on baking and perfecting flavours each week

when needed so that I can give that ultimate taste and keep things fresh! As for decorating, my style is all about a natural approach and using fresh elements – most of all fresh flowers. This is my love and specialty – creating and working with amazing florals to bring you a cake that will leave a lasting impression and a dessert you won’t forget! So let’s get together, eat some tasty dessert and let me make, bake and create a cake you will fall in love with! Can’t wait to meet you xx

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Photos by Seed and Salt photography

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Oceans Elopements of Love

Conscious consumerism may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of weddings. With their shared vision, these nine trailblazing women are creating the shift toward a deeper meaning of ceremony and the love of humanity with an eco-ethical approach.

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i Arly. Flowing into and creating a beautiful new year, Oceans of Love is a new wedding collective on the Mid North Coast. Nine wedding industry professionals collaborating, offering unique experiences with one main goal – happily ever after with a happy Earth. Tell us more about Oceans of Love and the women behind the We're creative movement. and innovative Thank you for and essentially our connecting with us and value is being as ecomain value is being allowing us to share how ethical, sustainable as eco-ethical, our team are eco-ethical and conscious as we sustainable and wedding industry change can possibly be in the conscious as we can makers! We are really wedding industry. In possibly be in the buzzed to offer Oceans early 2020, there were wedding industry. of Love elopements. We a few elopement style are a group of wedding ceremonies that a few industry professionals of us were involved in who have been doing our own thing in and we had so much fun working together, the wedding industry, and had an idea to the couple really benefited from feeling come together and join our shared values a solid team around them on the day. So to offer mindful and conscious elopement this really came from that, the opportunity and micro wedding packages. We’re creative to work together as a community with and innovative and essentially our main shared values, which is a bonus for our

clients, as they feel the buzz of a team that functions well together and is really passionate about how they do business. With each of you sharing a passion of real connection with others and Earth, it seems only natural that you join forces. How has the amalgamation of personalities brought about a cohesive business model? We are all switched on in our own professions and are deeply engaged in green ways in our own business models, and what also helps is that we keep up with current trends. Everyone involved in Oceans of Love are asking themselves ”how can I do better?”, and we really focus and shape what we do around the customer experience journey. We want couples to love what we do as much as we love what we do! I think the integrity and transparency of our business model empowers couples to be conscious consumers. What also needs to be said in this conversation is that we not only focus on ourselves being eco-ethical, but we are focussed on contributing to the shift of the entire industry to minimise its impact. In an eco-ethical approach, not only are two people thinking about the love that they share, but the love of humanity and the love of the world, and I think that is powerful. Continued over...

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Oceans Elopements of Love

This intimate moment means couples have an appreciation of the beauty in the simplicity, and when there is less stuff that clutters the wedding day, then there is more meaning.

We are also a local team and our business model ensures that the local economy is supported. This limits carbon consumption, because we don’t drive hundreds of kilometres to get to an event. We are a team that functions well together and we uphold powerful love vibes so couples feel assured and confident to absolutely own their day. We share a vision to operate our businesses with minimal impact. We do this in our processes by being paperless, using solar energy to power devices, reusing materials where possible, carbon offsetting and giveback initiatives. Essentially, we are locals supporting locals, but we are also trailblazers in not only what we do, but how we do it, and to me, that’s got soul. Ceremony has been a constant on this land for thousands of years. Here, you offer unique experiences, tailored to suit the individual. For those seeking a deeper meaning with their ceremony, please share what’s on offer. 60 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Yes, good point about ceremony being here for hundreds of thousands of years. As humans, we’ve always known the importance of a moment in time where we get to make a mark on our own life timelines. And the thing with that is, if the ceremony is for you, you get to think about how that mark would be best made. Elopements and micro weddings are intimate ceremonies that focus on the couple. This means that we don't put on a performance, the moment you marry is not a Broadway show! And so this intimate moment means couples have an appreciation of the beauty in the simplicity, and when there is less stuff that clutters the wedding day, then there is more meaning. Less is more with our Oceans of Love ceremonies. Extending on from that, there's a little pressure in meeting expectations of certain people or thinking about if the food and drink are going to be okay for everyone, anxiety around speeches or the awkwardness of wedding presents. Eco-ethical elopements are the best alternative to an extravagant

event which can produce excess waste and a large carbon footprint. An elopement can also take away the stress of feeling like you're having to host a party. For me as a celebrant, I find elopements allow couples to melt into their day and smile into the moment more genuinely. In times where restrictions are influencing our lives, we see a shift in couples opting for elopements, and I think this means that the industry has been kinder on the Earth. We are a collective of wedding professionals that offer packages or bundles to couples which includes the Celebrant, photography, flowers and can also include catering, styling and equipment hire, videography, and hair and make-up. We are all eco-ethical and sustainable vendors and ensure couples are making a conscious green choice when they choose an Oceans of Love elopement. This is an easy breezy option to purchase a package or bundle, which limits effort for couples in all the administration side of planning a wedding. Couples don’t have to get caught up in communication with numerous vendors and time making and mapping transactions. We want couples to be able to focus on the important thing, like the meaning and intention of the day. We want couples to enjoy the journey towards marriage, with the buzzed and stress-free vibes so that they can

focus_interview relax, not only on the day, but in the lead up too. There’s beauty in vulnerability and this takes trust and courage. How do you aim to help make people feel comfortable for their day so they can ultimately let go and enjoy their special moment? Ohhhh, great question and here I will share some of my tips. I often hear from couples “we have never been married before, what do we do and what can we expect?”, and when I hear this, it’s a good time to explore how they would like to remember the moment they marry. Some say they want fun, laughter, lots of joy, and for others it’s intimacy and connectedness. With honouring their needs, I guide the conversation into how that memory can be created. I find when couples feel heard when we connect, they start to build The couples trust, let go and are able that we connect to lean into the moment with have big hearts on the day. When we go often overlooked at for humanity and through how the ceremony this time is, what are the world around will flow and what will your shared values? them, and this value happen at different points The reality is that is seen in how we in time, I share tips that you do not need to they can start thinking help to create their mirror weddings that about. This helps with best day ever. you’ve seen on TV or dismantling any concerns or in magazines (totally anxiety they may have. okay if you do!), you For example, precan unapologetically do your own thing. listening to the ceremony songs before the For many couples who have been married day when relaxing helps with feeling reassured before, a common narrative is “we should when hearing these at the ceremony on have just eloped.“ Whilst this won’t be the day. Stopping for a deep breath to take a priority for everyone, if you want your in the moment before reading vows helps ceremony to be framed solely about you with nerves if there are any. I also have a and your love without having to pay for an mindfulness script for the beginning of a expensive party. The word in the industry now ceremony that I offer to couples so they can is that it’s okay to elope, it’s okay to be green feel like they land in that moment before and kind on the Earth, it’s okay to do your own getting married. Sometimes couples will say thing and totally own it. that they’re nervous because the moment What has been the biggest highlight since means a lot to them, and to me that’s starting the business? awesome. Knowing that a ceremony typically It’s a gift to see a couple’s dreams come goes for 15-20 minutes means that it can feel alive and we fill up with gratitude to be able fleeting, and so there are other tricks to also to support them through a sacred moment in dispel any pent up energy from the ceremony, their lives. People are awesome, we are blown but I will save those for a future blog. away with the legends we get to connect For those about to embark on their with. The couples that we connect with have wedding plans, what wisdom would you big hearts for humanity and the world around impart on them? them, and this value is seen in how we help to I think the most fundamental thing that is create their best day ever.

What big dreams and adventures are on the cards for Oceans of Love this year and beyond? This year is going to be an epic with the growing demand of elopements. We’d really love to put Crescent Head and Port Macquarie on the map for eco-ethical elopements. The truth is, we live in the most beautiful location in the world, and we have got it all. We have a plethora of green options, from eco-accommodation, restaurants that support farm-to-plate cuisine and local suppliers, ecotourism, and eco-ethical elopement and micro wedding bundles. The beyond is Oceans of Love being a part of the movement of ecosustainability in the industry. I’d love to see this “movement” become a norm, but we need consumers to help change the industry with conscious consumerism. For anyone interested in finding out more about the business and each individual, how can they do so? Please check us out on our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ oceansofloveelopements/ or visit our website www.oceansofloveelopements.com we love connecting with couples and we love sharing what we do with eco-ethical conscious elopements. Thanks Ladies. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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WEDDINGS BY TWOTRIPLEFOUR AT CASSEGRAIN WINES Twotriplefour by Bills, the sister restaurant to the well known Bills Fishhouse & Bar, is nestled within the estate of Cassegrain Wines, on the outskirts of Port Macquarie. With a passionate team of chefs and a wedding coordinator on hand to ensure your day runs smoothly, you can be sure that your wedding needs will be met with quality and creativity. Alongside Cassegrain Wines, a family owned business which has been in operation for more than 30 years, our venue is quite simply a picturesque locale offering distinctly charming spaces to celebrate your wedding. Exchange vows and celebrate the night with your guests in any of our beautiful spaces and create your very own bespoke wedding package perfectly suited to your unique preferences. Contact our Events Coordinator to book a guided tour of the winery and discuss the details of your special day.

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Love is in the air at The Old Cheese Factory The Garden Bar & Kitchen is nestled amongst the historical surroundings of Frederickton’s Old Cheese Factory. With its stunning river views and its rustic charm, we are thrilled to share this beautiful venue with you. Whether you’re planning on holding a cocktail party or a sit-down dinner, The Garden Bar & Kitchen has all the ingredients which go towards making your wedding the most magical day. From a ceremony in The Old Shed, to a waterfront reception in the restaurant, great tasting food and endless photo opportunities. The Garden Bar & Kitchen is a minute off the highway, but a mile from the chaos, located 35 minutes north of

Port Macquarie airport and 1 hour south of Coffs Harbour airport. Your ceremony will take place in the oldest part of the factory, The Old Shed, built in the 1860’s. With its high ceilings and cathedral like feel, The Old Shed oozes character and class. The Garden Bar & Kitchen was built with weddings in mind. Elevated off the ground to capture the 180-degree water view. With its large wrap around balcony and spacious indoor dining area, it’s the perfect place to wine, dine and dance the night away with your loved ones.

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FOXKin &

N I C O L A

B O D L E

Knowing thyself takes many years of ups and downs and FOR NICOLA BODLE, UNDERSTANDING HERSELF AND WHAT VALUES SAT DEEP WAS ESSENTIAL for her business to blossom.

nce choosing to truly reflect this through her business, people with similar values began seeking out her expertise and creativity, and life once again became

purposeful.

Hey Nic. You're the founder of Fox & Kin – an amazing photography business that oozes realness and purpose, but for those that don’t know you, please introduce yourself. Hey! I’m Nic Bodle, a photographer and people watcher, an outgoing introvert, a lover of love, living in Bellingen with my feet in the river and my face in the sun. I have been told that I laugh a lot, and my laugh is very loud and distinct, which is really 66 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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handy if you’re trying to Wedding photos find me in a packed bar certainly don’t or café. I believe that look like they used shoes are overrated and to! I’m an advocate there is no such thing for keeping weddings as too many tacos. I simple and eco-friendly to be captured. Wedding am, in general, a very and a vocal ally for photos certainly don’t passionate person, and those underrepresented look like they used to! I’m am quite outspoken an advocate for keeping in the wedding about things I care weddings simple and ecoindustry. deeply about. friendly and a vocal ally for I describe myself as a those underrepresented wedding photographer in the wedding industry. I’ll always stand up for for people who don’t like wedding photos. equality and take action for the planet. We’ve seen a real shift in the last couple of years Take us back to when you first took an in how people approach weddings and wedding interest in photography and how the planning, and I think that shift has been business began. reflected in how people want their weddings I don’t remember a time when I didn’t

There have been highs and lows, as there are with any business, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else right now and I’m so thankful.

have a camera in my hand. I’ve never had any formal training, it’s just something that has always seemed so natural to me. Long before smart phones and selfie sticks, I would go everywhere with a disposable film camera, documenting little moments throughout my childhood and younger years. I remember the anticipation of waiting to get the film developed, revealing what fleeting moments had been frozen in time. That feeling never gets old! At university and various jobs, I was always known as the person with the camera slung around my shoulder, ready to document it all. It was almost 8 years ago when I was asked to photograph my first wedding. I had no idea what to do or what to expect, and that was possibly one of the most terrifying days of my life. I’d previously never even considered the idea of being a wedding photographer, but after the first few weddings and the adrenalin rush that accompanied them, I was hooked. How has Fox & Kin grown and developed over the years as you have grown and developed yourself? When I first set out to become a photographer, I would take any job I could get my hands on – bands, babies, animals, events – you name it. I just wanted to take

photos but had little direction or drive towards anything in particular. But after a while I realised that I was feeling really disconnected from my work and was being pulled about by outside pressure and expectations, rather than being driven by passion. I realised then that I needed to strip my business back to its roots and rebuild it step by step, focusing on what was really important to me. I stopped taking bookings and worked in bush regeneration for about a year so I could clear my head. Then at the beginning of 2017 I launched Fox & Kin, a brand and business that reflected my passions of nature, sustainability, equality and love. These are the ethos that drive my business and, if I’m ever feeling lost or disheartened, I ask myself how I can serve these values. It’s been mind-blowing to see the growth of Fox & Kin in the past few years. I still have to pinch myself whenever I’m published in a magazine or win an award or get to travel the world to shoot a wedding. There have been highs and lows, as there are with any business, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else right now and I’m so thankful. It’s also been an incredible privilege to be able to hone my focus with the business and work with people and brands who have similar values, rather than just

saying yes to everything, even if it doesn’t quite resonate. I feel as though those people with similar values are seeking me out too and we’ve been able to create some real magic together! Not only are you creative on the wedding front, you’re also passionate about taking beautiful images of people in intimate moments. What services do you have on offer for those that reach out to you? I love the storytelling side of photography and think that so much of that gets lost when we stage those extravagant shoots in exotic locations with fancy outfits and dancing alpacas in bowties. Don’t get me wrong, I love those shoots too, but it sometimes feels a little more about the scenery or the décor than the couple. I always wondered to myself, what would happen if we just took that all away, stripped it back to just a couple on a couch at home, no props, no distractions, just two people in love. Wouldn’t that allow us to tell a better story? I started offering intimate couple shoots, and at first, people were hesitant. It sounds a little scary, inviting a complete stranger into your home to watch you in your most vulnerable moments. >>> GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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There was a bit of fear in the unknown, but as soon as I started sharing images from my first few shoots, it absolutely took off. There is so much power in the vulnerability of skin on skin. Just by being physically close to someone we love, our bodies release a myriad of wonderful chemicals that cause us to feel happy, relaxed and in love. We literally produce our own antidepressants by cuddling! So couples often come away from these shoots not only with a gallery of incredible images of themselves, but feeling a renewed passion in their relationship and an excitement for their future together. My aim is to create a piece of art for a couple that they can look back on for the rest of their lives and say “yes, that was us, exactly as we were“. My intimate shoots can take place in your home or in an Airbnb (with the owner’s permission). There is no pressure to take your clothes off or to do anything you’re not comfortable with. I work with couples in the lead up to figure out what they’d like to do during the shoot and what sort of guidance they would like from me. I travel all over NSW for these shoots, but most couples come to Bellingen for a full weekend experience. For people to express their vulnerability and trust in you takes real courage. How do you help people feel comfortable for their shoots? 68 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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I work with I think just by being couples in the relaxed I help those around me to relax. lead up to figure out Wedding days never what they’d like to go to plan. No matter do during the shoot how meticulously you and what sort of plan a day, there will guidance they would always be some little like from me. surprise that you never ask as many questions could’ve expected. The as they want from me. trick is brush it off and Most people still arrive to go with the flow. Often, I’ll arrive on a wedding a shoot nervous, and that’s okay. Most people day to a flurry of family members fussing over think they’re awkward and unphotogenic and something unexpected. Anxiety is contagious insist that they hate having their photo taken. and a huge (unspoken) part of my job is But I remind them that a shoot with me isn’t keeping couples calm, so often I’ll smooth just “having your photo taken“. It’s a fully things over before they even realise something immersive experience where you dedicate a is wrong, or I’ll defuse the situation like a day to just being present with the person you wedding bomb disposal technician. love. I don’t ask people to smile at the camera The other part of making people or strike uncomfortable poses. I start by asking comfortable, as you said, is trust. Trust is a questions and observing the way they move huge part of being a photographer and it’s and laugh and play with each other. Then I take not as simple as just asking for it. You need to all those tiny little bits of tenderness and tell a earn it. I gain trust from people by being totally story. open and vulnerable myself from the moment You’re a huge supporter of eco-ethical they enquire and book with me, through to the weddings, something that is emerging delivery of their photos. a little more into the mainstream which I get to know couples really well before their is fantastic. What makes you passionate shoot or wedding day. I ask a lot of questions about this and can you share some insight about what’s important to them and what into the choices we can make that align their expectations are, and I allow them to with this concept?

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Right from the get-go, when I launched Fox & Kin, I knew that my personal values would be the driving force behind the type of work I wanted to do and the message I wanted to send out. I care deeply about having minimal impact on the earth and leaving things better than we found them. I am fairly vocal about ditching wedding ‘must-haves’ or outdated traditions if they no longer carry meaning for you. I am also highly aware of the massive consumption of wedding related ‘stuff’ that takes a huge toll on the earth. When we talk about eco-ethical weddings, we’re talking about how you approach every stage of your wedding planning. Starting with where your wedding ‘stuff’ is coming from, how it’s sourced and where it’s going. As well as how you interact with your community and support local business. It’s not enough to just have eco-confetti anymore. I mean, that’s a great start, but the world is changing, it’s too late to plead ignorance to everything else. Humanity is moving collectively towards a more

business owner I could be, but at the time I sustainable future and choosing to celebrate was in disbelief. minimalism, rather than decadence. The truth I think so many people connect with my is, it is no harder to be married with nothing images because they can picture themselves in than it is with everything. them. The majority of media we consume, both There are ways to minimise your impact at digital and printed, is dominated by particular every step, while still having everything you’ve body shapes, cultures and sexualities, and ever dreamed of for your wedding. In fact, I it’s not reflective of the real and wonderfully am sure you will find it far more sentimental to diverse society we live in. I know I still have a recall the way you felt, and the words spoken, long way to go with my work, but I try really than the material ingredients of what was your hard to focus on representation of those wedding day. who are not usually represented in the media If you’re not sure where to start, speak to we consume. It’s really important to me that your wedding planner or vendors, and ask how anyone can open a magazine and say, “hey, they can help your wedding to have a lighter that person looks like me!“. footprint. You can also head to my website and Another thing that I try really hard to convey grab a copy of the Mindfully Wed E-Guide put in my images is feeling together by Less Stuff and emotion, so I really More Meaning which appreciate you saying is full of great tips to The majority that. When we look get you started on your of media we back at old photos, we eco-ethical wedding consume, both like to be reminded of journey! digital and printed, how people moved, their There’s so much is dominated by feeling behind expressions, mannerisms particular body your images; they and how a place felt. I find pull you in and shapes, cultures it so strange that we as a give an emotional society are obsessed with and sexualities, and connection. photos of us smiling at the it’s not reflective 2020 saw you camera. It’s not natural of the real and named as the top and it doesn’t convey wonderfully diverse emerging wedding anything other than how society we live in. photographer of great you looked (which, the year by Capture I’ll admit, is sometimes Magazine. Obviously the confidence boost we you’re doing something right! need!). Wow, thank you so much. I sure hope I’m Often it doesn’t tell the whole story. I want doing something right! I just followed my my photos to take you back to a moment, gut and my passions and stuck to my values so you can feel everything that’s happening, and here we are today. I’m still learning how so you can be reminded of how that person to take compliments and I’ve always suffered walked and laughed and cried. So you can from imposter syndrome, so I often have a remember the way they looked at you, and you hard time accepting accolades or awards looked at them. I think there’s a lot of power without brushing them off as luck. It was a real in that. shock to be named Australasia’s Top Emerging For anyone interested in learning more Wedding Photographer of the Year by Capture and viewing your work, where can they Magazine, and I remember quite distinctly follow along and get in touch to book bursting into hysterical laughter when I found your services? out, as though my brain couldn’t quite process You’ll find my most recent work on what was happening. Instagram @foxandkin and to dive deeper into Looking back now, I can see that it was a my world and learn more about me, check out result of an insane amount of hard work and www.foxandkin.com dedication to being the best photographer and Thanks Nic. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Welcome aboard! Julie & David here - owners and operators of Port Sailing. We are ‘20 year’ locals of Port Macquarie. Our luxury vessel Seawindow is a 12.5m cruising Catamaran. She was built in Wollongong by ‘Seawind Cats’ – renowned builders of strong, safe, stable Bluewater sailing yachts. “Seawindow” is ingeniously designed for entertaining with a large bridgedeck lounge, cockpit and foredeck areas for relaxing. We are now offering cruises on the beautiful Hastings River. Join us for a sunset cruise, enjoy a lovely French Champagne or cold beer, as we leisurely cruise around the picturesque river, taking in the surrounding landscape, we may even have a visit from the dolphins

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who regularly swim alongside the vessel. We offer private/corporate functions, sailing experiences or simply "Dinner on the River" looking back at the magnificent Port Macquarie Foreshore. Fully catered or BYO steak to cook on the large BBQ. BYO Alcohol. Call us for more information. 0447 734 727

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ONE NINE

YOGA ene

Jo and Laure have combined their areas of expertise and evolved a well known business to offer more in the realm of health and wellness… we caught up with them to find out more.

i Jo, please introduce yourself and your business. Hello out there, I'm Jo Rowan, I have been a local businesswoman in our area for over 10 years and my business is

Launch Group. Launch Group offers local and interstate Performance Coaching, Body Rehabilitation and Psychotherapy services to individuals and businesses. I am truly honoured to have a business where I am able to assist people and businesses on their journeys through health, wellness and personal successes. Looking to offer further options to the community in health and wellness, I recently joined forces with Laure Mignot from NRG Healing Massage and become the new owners of Yoga One Nine - Now called One Nine Yoga & Wellness. Laure can you tell us a little about your passions and businesses? Health & Wellness are a big part of my life combining walking, running and meditation as part of my daily practices. Good food also takes an important role in my life. I have always been interested in health, nutrition, plant benefits and other ways to help improve and support the body’s function. Enter NRG Healing Massage, I have been operating for the last 3.5 years after I decided to settle in Port Macquarie and Australia, I was born in France! I haven’t looked back since, I feel like this is what I was meant to be doing all along and I feel

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privileged to be helping people of various ages and backgrounds, to feel better than they did when they entered the clinic. I came across Yoga One Nine studio when I was preparing a workshop with Joanne following recurring complaints about lower back pain from clients, we worked together to develop workshops to the public and that is how our partnership started. When the opportunity came up to purchase the studio, it made sense to embark on this wellness journey to share knowledge and empower people to take care of their body. You've joined forces together, collectively what is the business known as? It was known as Yoga One Nine, we have now tweaked it slightly to become One Nine Yoga & Wellness, increasing our yoga timetable and offering other complimentary classes and workshops in yoga and wellness. You have a wide range of services, how do they complement each other? All our services offer support and growth to the body, brain and soul: 1. Remedial Massage. 2. Yoga. 3. Pilates. 4. Psychotherapy and Coaching. All of these services work symbiotically together to support, develop and assist health and wellness. What has 2020 taught you about running a business? 2020 has definitely been challenging for everyone and having to close for a little while was

stressful for us both. Rather than letting that define us, we ceased the opportunity to work together developing workshops for health and wellness of all. Both our businesses have ramped up as many of us have decided health and wellness to be at the forefront of our lives. 2020 has reinforced to us both that resilience and perseverance are essential qualities required in business. It's not enough to just believe in your ideas, without combining your grit, resilience, perseverance and following intuition. However get that combination right and you can achieve great things! Talk us through what you hope to achieve in the next 18 months? A lot can happen in 18 months, we have all seen things change on a dime and know how quickly this can happen. With this in mind, the plan is to continue to grow the studio and businesses steadily. Supporting our clients and members, offering the highest quality services possible. It’s of the highest importance to us both that our clients and members are never just a number. In the studio our amazing instructors are always invested in their students, assisting them to achieve their goals through quality lessons, likewise in other businesses we both go above and beyond, always working with our clients and their goals. How can we find out more? Contact us by phone, email, website or social media – details are in our ad on the next page.

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in ing Michelle ALLAN

Support4Me Kirinari

upport4Me Port Macquarie branch would like to welcome Michelle Allan, Michelle has joined our team as the Home Care Package Coordinator. Michelle has lived in the Port Macquarie area for over 20 years and said that she couldn’t think of a better community to live and raise her family in. Michelle said “I have been spent my career working in the Human Services field whether that’s been in community, medical/specialist centres or management and have found my passion is being able to ensure that services and care are ’consumer directed’. In other words when a customer receives a Home Care Package we work together in understanding what services and goals are important to them so they can remain living independently and safely within their own home. ”Many of my customers have not had their extended families living locally and I often hear how the families are relieved to know that their parents can remain living in their own home

with a little extra support and having their Coordinator being a local with local knowledge about the various service available has been extremely beneficial.” Michelle felt that working for a regional provider such as Support4Me Kirinari was extremely appealing to her as she believes that understanding regional communities and the importance of services being provided by those that live within that community is incredibly valuable and is looking forward to being part of that team.

Michelle said, “I am always very happy to have a chat about the services that Support4Me Kirinari can provide such as Home Care Packages DVA or our general home care services and can be contacted on 02 5719 1060 or 0401 877 451. Our office in Clarence Street is just about to be revamped to ensure easy access and be a space where our customers feel comfortable chatting. We are all very excited about the design and can’t wait to show our customers”.

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Natalie FENN BLOSSOM HEALING

Wisdom acquired through experience is an essential part of growth as humans, and leading by example is a role that Natalie Fenn has chosen to step into. Combining both her knowledge of Kinesiology and intuitive healing, Natalie now shares her magic with those in our community.

i Nat. You and your young family settled in Port Macquarie back in 2018 after travelling Australia in your van, so firstly, please introduce yourself to our readers. Thanks for chatting with me. I grew up on the Mornington Peninsula and after meeting my husband on a chairlift in the snowfields, we moved and were happy on The Great Ocean Road in Victoria. But after the birth of our daughter we knew we wanted something a little different, so we sold almost everything and went on the great Australian road trip... with a toddler in tow. You would have seen some breathtaking and memorable places. Tell us what drew you to this area and why you chose to call it home? We visited some really magical places that I didn’t even know Australia had to offer. The country here is so diverse and has a lot of stories to tell. But the stand out was the people we met along the way, from friendly locals in tiny country towns, grey nomads always happy for a chat and other families travelling. We’ve met and made some lifelong friends along the way. The beaches, thermal springs and bush walks were a highlight for us, but I found myself in Kakadu National Park one sunny morning listing to a dream time story about how it is the responsibility of the whole tribe to raise and care for a child, and I knew it was time for our little family to find a community. After chasing the sun for 15 months we knew we didn’t want to go back to Victoria. We had stopped in

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Kinesiology (pronounced Kin-easy-ology) means MANUALLY TESTING THE MUSCLES TO SEE HOW THEY RESPOND.

Port Macquarie on our way past in the van and knew there was a beautiful like-minded community here, with many strong and caring women who I knew would be wonderful role models for our daughter. You are a certified Kinesiologist, something you are very passionate about. Can you explain what kinesiology is? Kinesiology (pronounced Kin-easy-ology) means manually testing muscles to see how they respond. It uses these muscles as monitors of stress and imbalances in the body. Kinesiology integrates western techniques and eastern medical systems to promote physical, mental and emotional health. It is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that identifies physical, biochemical, psychological and environmental stresses. It then determines and addresses the support needed by the body to help

facilitate positive change, with tools like Australian Bush Flower Essences, acupressure, sound and colour therapy, EFT/ Tapping, Brain Gym, energy movement and many more. It’s one of my fundamental beliefs that your body has an innate ability to heal itself and if the mind, body and soul are balanced it will do just that. However if the body and mind are in dis-ease, muscles, tissues and every organ are affected. By uncovering the hidden causes of health problems by exploring the subconscious, the body's ability to heal itself is stimulated. Using kinesiology, I help you align and realise the connections between spiritual, emotional, physical and cellular levels in a truly holistic healthcare model. Tell us about your first experience and how you got started and trained in the field. I grew up with a mother who was a healer and

metaphysical practitioner, so from a young age I was taught to really listen and trust my intuition, and by my early 20’s I was already using most of the tools used in kinesiology in my daily life. I remember having a kinesiology session for some learning difficulties I had always faced. I came out of that session, slept for 2 hours in the middle of the day and woke up a different person, with a new thirst for knowledge and learning... that’s when I knew kinesiology was for me. I wanted to give that same type of gift to my clients that I had received after just one kinesiology session. I studied with the Australian College of Complementary Medicine in Melbourne, as they offered a full time Certification for this with some of the leading teachers, mentors and experts in their field. This passion was put on hold whilst you gained significant life experience and intuitive wisdom. Now, the time is right to take the leap to fully immerse yourself in the modality and the business. How exciting! Yes, I took some time off professionally from kinesiology to care full-time for our daughter and then to travel. Over those years I learned so much more, not only from additional training but also personal experience. I really tapped into my ability for intuitive healing and found that it complimented the kinesiology aspect so much more. I have done a lot of personal development and spiritual growth particularly in the last 12 months and have found that I'm now really being

called to step forward and share my knowledge and gifts with my community. It's a really exciting time to be human and our potential is infinite. What can someone expect from a session with Blossom Healing and how may it help them? With kinesiology, Blossom Healing can help connect to your inner divine self and let go of the ancestral patterns, emotional blocks and baggage that stop you from living this life to your full potential. Every session is different depending on the client and what they are needing to address. For children it’s often things like anxiety and stress management, shock, behavioural issues, digestive upsets and sensitivities, bed wetting, learning difficulties and treatment for a range of brain integration issues including learning, memory and concentration challenges. For adults I’ve worked with clients with everything from chronic pain to childhood emotional wounding or just being stuck on where to move forward in their life. The growth, openness and development of a child’s young mind is paramount. You’re embarking on a whole new journey for our community and have developed a workshop specifically catering towards little people. Can you tell us your plans for “blossoming child” and why you’re so passionate about this? The past 12 months really gave me clarity as to what was missing and where I could contribute

to our community. In a previous life I worked in early childhood education and have always known that working with children was something I would continue with. Children respond so well to kinesiology and over the years it’s really become a passion of mine to work with children and families as a whole unit in my sessions. I’ve developed some great techniques for our smaller humans that aid in healing and growth processes and wanted to get this out to children before the need actually arose for them to come and see me in my clinic. I've always said ”when you nourish the seed it blossoms and the transformation is magical”. From my own experience in women’s circles and my clinic I knew there was a need for children to have the opportunity to form a really solid foundation in self love and open communication. When children start out with these tools, it then filters out into the family and the wider community. I’m so excited to announce that I will be offering the Blossoming Child Workshops to children aged 5 to 12. This will be a series of workshops that will include an introduction to sacred circles, practical tools to help them self regulate, meditation and crafts for mindfulness practice. It’s a really fun introduction to getting to know themselves and their Souls. How can people get in touch to book a session, a workshop space, or find out more? If you or a loved one has a young human you feel would benefit from the Blossoming Child Workshop series or you feel like your higher self is calling you to address something and you need some assistance translating that, reach out to me by emailing natalie@blossomhealing.com.au or you can get more information about Blossom Healing through my website www.blossomhealing.com.au Thanks Nat. Blossoming Child Workshops First round - Lake Cathie Community Centre Saturday 20th Feb 10am-11am Saturday 6th Mar 10am-11am Saturday 20th Mar 10am-11am Second round - FUN yoga studio Wauchope Saturday 22nd May 10am-11am Saturday 5th Jun 10am-11am Saturday 19th Jun 10am-11am GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BELLBOWRIE APPLIANCE SERVICE Bellbowrie Appliance Service has been servicing clients in the Port Macquarie area for more than 25 years. He is the vacuum cleaner and floor-care specialist.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s some new exciting businesses and some old favourites. Conveniently located close to Settlement City and with plenty of easy parking, Bellbowrie Park is definitely worth a look.

For all your appliance and vacuum cleaner needs, repairs and spare partsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Bellbowrie Appliance Service is your go-to for service and advice. Family owned and operated since 1986, we are your small appliance specialist for all major brands as well as a huge range of vacuum bags, filters and belts. As your small appliance specialist, we can fix your electric shavers, clippers, coffee machines, microwaves and more. Warranty agents for all leading

brands including Breville, Sunbeam, Delonghi, Kambrook, Electrolux, Vax, Volta, Nilfisk, Miele, Hoover, Numaticâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s broke, let us fix it. Call in and get friendly professional service and advice from David - located in Bellbowrie Park Business Centre, Port Macquarie. (02) 6584 3838 bellbowr@hotmail.com Hastings River Drive Hastings River Drive

More than 30 exciting businesses call Bellbowrie Park home.

BOTANIC

Port Trophies

MERCHANT

Port Trophies and Badges has been locally owned and operated since it was established in the early 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, with the original owner still working as part if of the small team of 3.

From small beginnings this beautiful store has evolved into a bespoke florist with attitude.

he minute you enter the store your senses are overwhelmed with the scent and sight of a multitude of fresh flowers. But it does not stop there.... The Botanic Merchant also offers their clientele an amazing range of pots, plants, baskets, giftware, homewares and now furniture. It is truly a unique shopping experience that welcomes and appreciates their customers. With a well deserved sense of pride The Botanic Merchant provides excellent service and a friendliness that makes a visit to the store a delightful experience.

Mark, Jim & Holly are continually expanding their knowledge and products now offering event signage, welcome signs, seating plans, place cards, cake toppers & cookie stamps. Supplying quality Awards and Trophies to local businesses, the sporting community, clubs, schools and many more organisations is an integral part of the business. They also supply name badges and ID cards, electrical labelling,

directional and safety signage, plaques, giftware such as engraved glasses, timber boards and pens. There is never a job too big or small, every customer is important to the business. Unit 22/23 Opening Hours Port Macquarie 9am to 3pm Tuesday to Friday Port Macquarie 02 6584 2152 portbadges.com.au

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0468 954 654 thebotanicmerchant.com.au Shop 30/10 Bellbowrie St, Port Macquarie facebook.com/thebotanicmerchant instagram.com/thebotanicmerchant

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LAURIETON

MEN'S SHED

Men's Sheds often utilise skills from their earlier identifying roles, and in doing so enhance their sense of purpose and selfesteem. President Brian Wood lends a glimpse into the world of secret men's business

i Brian. The Laurieton I’m guessing there's a mixed bag of trades Men’s Shed operates to and skills amongst the group. What are give its members a place some of these and how do they come in to share skills, learn new handy? ones At the Shed we have and, some 180 members from The aim of simply, just chat. Can you all manner of trades Laurieton tell us a little more about and professions. These Men’s Shed is to the organisation and its include carpentry, joinery, provide a welcoming aim? woodturning, automotive, environment where The aim of Laurieton metal working, welding/ Men’s Shed is to provide fabrication machining, men from all a welcoming environment sheetmetal working, IT and backgrounds, where men from all computing, electrical and situations and backgrounds, situations and electronics, gardening plus cultures can find cultures can find friends, many craft and professional friends. feel comfortable talking, skills. The skills these learning about health issues, members possess provides and benefit their own health through sharing of the basis for our on-going existence. We are information, skills and knowledge while pursuing fully self-funded and with the vast range of skills pastimes or hobbies of their own choosing. available we are able to design, manufacture,

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repair and service a wide range of items for sale to the general public at markets, garage sales and the like. However, having said that, we do not try to compete with local trades and businesses. We are men who have retired from the grind of daily work and have, in the main, no desire to enter We are fully selfthat environment. We funded and with only cater for our own the vast range of skills existence as a not for profit organisation. available we are able to How often do you design, manufacture, meet up and what's repair and service a usually on the wide range of items for agenda? sale to the general public The Shed is open at markets, garage sales for members five days and the like. a week. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 3.30pm. designed and manufactured 16 large animal Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 12.30pm. enclosures for the FAWNA group. We hold fortnightly committee and operations We are in the process of restoring a 1946 meetings, with a monthly member meeting Bedford truck and have recently undertaken where members have the opportunity to the restoration of a late 19th / early 20th express their views and opinions in a collective century horse drawn “sulky”. These among forum on any aspect of Shed activity. many other projects for members of the public. What restorations or bigger projects have For anyone interested in starting 2021 off you all been working on lately? with a new hobby, how can they find out Over the last 12 months or so we have more and join in?

LAURIETON

MEN'S SHED

Anyone interested in finding out more about Laurieton Men’s Shed is more than welcome to visit the Shed during opening hours to have a look around and meet the guys and talk about what is available. Thanks Brian. Contact details: Address: 164 Diamond Head Road, Dunbogan 2443 Telephone: 02 5519 8019 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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An International Affair

DG Debbie Loveday

Rotary District 9650 Conference PANTHERS PORT MACQUARIE 12-14 MARCH 2021 There will be an Arc of Friendship around the auditorium showcasing Rotary programs and projects.

Keynote Speakers

Peter Baines OAM

Shane Fitzsimmons

Dr Ray Hodgson

HANDS ACROSS THE WATER

RESILIENCE

NEPAL

Peter Baines OAM, was a forensic specialist who was sent to Thailand as part of the Australian contingent that was charged with the task of leading the international identification effort of the 5395 bodies that were recovered following the boxing day Tsunami in 2004. It wasn’t the enormity of the tragedy that spurred him to do something. He had previously worked in Bali after the 2002 bombings and saw plenty of death and destruction there.

Shane is the Commissioner of Resilience NSW, a new disaster preparedness and recovery agency. Shane will also be the Deputy Secretary of Emergency Management in NSW. Commissioner Fitzsimmons said he was honoured to have the opportunity to continue to serve the people of NSW in this vital new role, and to work alongside the leadership of the state’s combat agencies.

Dr Ray Hodgson is a Rotarian and an Associate Professor in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the University of NSW. He is the Founder and Director of the charity Australians for Women’s Health and author of the bestselling book Heartbreak in the Himalayas. Over the past 11 years Dr Ray and his teams of volunteers have provided lifesaving medical care to women and children in remote areas of Nepal. He is currently building a hospital for Mothers and Babies in far eastern Nepal.

Black Tie Evening 14 March 2021

Other Speakers throughout the two days include

District 9650

Entertainment by Rob McDougall of Les Miserable Fame and Daniel Belle. Rob is currently singing with Anthony Warlow in the Secret Garden.

Dave Pearson National Vice Chair – Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) Katherine Vaara – Lifeline Mid Coast | Youth Public Speaking Finals Michael Weatherall - Mens Health Educational Rotary Van (MHERV) PDG Greg Moran – Tiny House project Kokoda | Mike Greenslade – Shelterbox PDG Maurie Stack and the Rotary Club of Taree on Manning – Riverstage Project | Rotaract

MICHAEL

Rohr

Cowboy Monkey talks Fluff Inspiration can come to us in quite unusual places, and for Michael Rohr, tangible bedtime stories told to his young children set about a ponderable creation for a children's book. Proudly, Michael is now a published author with big dreams ahead.

i Michael. Congratulations on the release of your first published children's book “Cowboy Monkey Talks Fluff”. You must be relieved to have it finally out amongst the world for all to share and laugh along with. Tell us about your book. Thank you, it is an amazing feeling having a published story and it’s definitely on the list as a memorable moment in my life. My book is a fun, simple story, designed to bring joy and laughter to parents and children who read it. It was a tough 2020, so this book helps us remember what it feels like to laugh and connect with others. We follow Cowboy Monkey as he explains what a FLUFF is to his children, when it is ok and not ok to FLUFF. The theme was inspired by my son's blue and green plush

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monkey toy. I tell bedtime stories with my children and use Monkey as a protagonist, as I make it all up as I go along. I have plenty more material for many more books, so watch this space. Your day job is certainly contradictory to that of a writer. Tell us a little bit about yourself and why you felt the desire to unleash the creativity within. I was born and bred in Port Macquarie in the 70’s, when Port was just a small holiday destination. I had the opportunity to take on my parents’ (Frank and Erika Rohr) jewellery business, which at the time was one of the longest established businesses in Port Macquarie. However, I was interested in doing something a little different and knew I needed to challenge myself and forge my own career. I joined the army as an infantry soldier after finishing Year 12 at Mackillop, which challenged every physical and emotional aspect of my being. It was very rewarding

and helped me gain independence as a man. My nursing career has been varied, travelling interstate and overseas to work in various hospitals and settings. I very much enjoy helping people and assisting them when they are at their most vulnerable. I am now a nurse manager and enjoy the opportunity to make innovation and change within the system and support my staff. FLUFFs (aka Farts) are definitely a topic of interest in both industries. I was able to hone my understanding after exposure to them under varied conditions very successfully. For some reason, they are a very innocent source of amusement and fun for both children and adults. They can actually be a great ice breaker and topic of conversation, but please remember everyone, they should be used for good, not evil! Meeting my beautiful wife Caroline, who is also a nurse, and having two amazing children Zsofia and James, has given me

purpose to be the best person I can be. I recall the first time I saw Zsofia when she was born, it was like a light switch turned on and I was Dad, I have not looked back. My wife would probably tell you she has three children in the house, which in many ways has been beneficial for my journey to becoming a children’s author. I love spending time with the kids and bedtime stories often evolve into quests to other realms, and lots of laughter. As a novice to all things writing and illustration, where did your journey begin and how have you managed to pull it all together and complete such an amazing project? With over 10 years of storytelling experience with my children, I literally woke up one morning, had the idea, grabbed a coffee and typed the story down from start to finish in about 45 minutes. I tweaked it a bit over the next few months, then thought, this is not bad! The kids loved the story, so I thought it might be good as a picture book with funny illustrations. I was fortunate to find a freelance illustrator online, Ritwij Sasmal, from India, who was extremely easy to work with and saw the vision of the project straight away. I gave him the picture concepts and he brought them to life. He told me the project was the most fun he had worked on. We started with black and white mock-ups and went to colour from there and very little changes required, I was blessed to

find Ritwij. It came together quite easily, the see it released Christmas 2021. path of least resistance can be quite fruitful. I was fortunate enough to have another What has the response been like from short story called “The Swoozlmonger” the local community and, of course, your published in a writing competition in the US family and friends? in December last year. It was highly regarded The response has been wonderful. by the judges and I look to make this into a Bookface Port Macquarie has been very children’s picture book in 2021. supportive with the local launch of the book, I am also working on another picture selling out in the first book meant for week. There has been younger children called My family is very lots of support and “Greyhounds Are proud of me and interest in social media Great” and hope to I think it is a great as well as local media submit it to publishers opportunity for the kids to outlets. My family is by February 2021. see their dad have a book very proud of me and So I guess the I think it is a great answer to your published successfully by a opportunity for the question is, I want to reputable publisher and see kids to see their dad keep writing in my the book in a bookshop. have a book published spare time, releasing successfully by a books and you just reputable publisher and see the book in a never know, one day make it a full-time gig. bookshop. I hope it gives them inspiration. I would love to hit the top 100 best children’s When I received the email from Emily Kelly books one day, so let's see what happens! at Boolarong Press, I was over the moon. She Where can we grab a copy of your book stated that she loved the story and, having or follow along on your journey? kids herself, saw its potential. They have Bookface Port Macquarie done an amazing job getting the book to Links: market. https://www.bookfacestores.com.au/portIf you would dream big, where to next macquarie for your writing career? https://www.boolarongpress.com.au/ I already have a contract from a UK-based product/cowboy-monkey-talks-fluff/ publisher for a new classic Christmas story, https://www.facebook.com/ “A Monkey Christmas”, which I will not MichaelRohrOfficial discuss too much for now, but be ready to Thanks Michael. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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CHRIS VIEIRA

SKYDIVE P O RT M ACQ UA R I E

Thrill seeking in Port Macquarie has reached new heights with Skydive Port Macquarie. Chris Vieira (aka V-Man) talks about the history of skydiving in the area,

how he got in the industry and how the sport has evolved.

o V, tell us where it all got started for you as a skydiver? Mentally it started for me at a very young age, I think when I was about 12 years old and saw it on TV. It was something that I always wanted to get into (to be honest I had no idea whether I would like it or dislike it, but I just knew it was something I wanted to do)… Fast forward a couple of years to the year 2012 when I was 28 years old and living in Dubai UAE and this is where I took the opportunity to start my AFF (Accelerated Free Fall) course, which is the first step into the skydiving world and becoming a skydiver, and have never looked back. Tell us about Skydive Port Macquarie. HISTORY part 1: Skydiving kicked off in Port Macquarie in the late 70’s with a group of like-minded jumpers that just wanted to push the boundaries of what this amazing sport had to offer. Jumping roundies (round parachutes) and performing PLF’s (parachute landing falls) like they were going out of fashion, progression and good times were had by all. 88 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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HISTORY part 2: Fast forward a little over 20 years later and the first official DZ (dropzone) in Port Macquarie opened in 1996, by the one and only Tony. During its hey day Port Macquarie’s first and only dropzone was buzzing with life and heaps of progression. We had not just local jumpers but also a lot of visiting jumpers running everything from Belly to Freefly and canopy accuracy sessions to AFF just to name a few, and also having a few big name skydivers training out here as well (you know who you are, haha). Alongside this there were a number of not-to-be-forgotten boogies that will stand the test of time to this day. The DZ also put out a number of skilled and now highly experienced skydivers since their humble beginnings during the AFF courses they run. HISTORY part 3: Fast forward another 21 years and after a good innings unfortunately “Coastal Skydivers” in Port Macquarie shut its doors for what was thought to be the end of an era in the region. GAME ON the time is NOW!!!

Fast forward 2 years more to October 2019 and “Skydive Port Macquarie” was born. Fresh blood, new look, new ideas. Who is on the team? It is only a small DZ hence we only have a small team, but nonetheless an absolute powerhouse. At the helm we have our fearless leader, owner, Tandem Master, Coach and all round super nice bloke Tim McDonald. Running manifest we have Tim’s beautiful wife Tiff McDonald. All DZ’s need a Chief Instructor to operate and we have the one and only Tony Maurer. Our main man that keeps us sky high is Chief Pilot Julian and his Wing Man Dennis and lastly, running all things sports skydiver oriented, coach, fun events, videos and sports marketing is me V-Man… You are introducing some really exciting new dives – tell us about them. Yes on top of trying to build the skills progression in our sport with Belly, Freefly and Wingsuiting, we at Skydive Port Macquarie have kicked it a nickel with the addition of “Helicopter Skydives”. Working closely with the wicked awesome crew at Affinity Aviation here in Port Macquarie we have put together

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Exiting the helicopter gives you the feeling of “Still Air” and that amazing feeling of just falling with no wind pressure, just you, your Tandem Master and complete bliss and serenity.

the opportunity for people to take their skydiving experience to the next level and dive from a helicopter over Port Macquarie. You have Tony Maurer staying on as a Chief Instructor, he is well known in the sky diving community, you must be excited to be working together. Yes, for sure, at least for the very near future. Tony is an absolute wealth of knowledge and is well known in the skydive industry and has been in the industry for many many years alongside a few of the other old mates from the early days (you know who you are). They were the pioneers in the Australian Skydive community and kept driving and growing the sport nationwide. To be a CI is not an easy feet, so to have him on board along with him being a Tandem Master, Coach and Rigger at the same time is great, to add on around a total of 10,000 jumps – he is always more than happy to share his knowledge. Chris, things are stepping up with the

helicopter skydiving. How does it differ from a plane? Helicopter dives are the next step to adding that extra bit of excitement and adventure to your skydive experience. The 2 main ways that I believe they differ from a plane is 1: Uninterrupted scenic views of Port Macquarie. Whereas in a plane you have to look through a window and over someone’s shoulder or reshuffle so you can see out the window, in the helicopter it is just you and the view “mano-e-mano”, crystal clear views as far south as Taree and as far north as Kempsey. Number 2: What we call “Still Air” Exits. Where a plane is travelling forward at a certain speed to stay in flight and at a certain height, you have wind coming from the front of the plane and lots of horizontal movement, so when you exit the plane there is a heap of wind. Out of a helicopter because it is almost stationary with no forward movement necessary, there is no wind, no vertical or horizontal motion and hence when exiting the helicopter gives you the feeling of “Still Air” and that amazing feeling of just falling with no wind pressure, just you, your Tandem

Master and complete bliss and serenity. It is something that everyone should experience… What plans do you have for the business over the next 18 months? On a consistent regular basis we run Tandem skydiving out of our plane and also run “Sports Skydiving” for licensed skydivers fortnightly and for beginners their AFF course. Moving forward on top of this, we are looking into offering Tandem Helicopter skydives on a more regular basis and for our Sport Skydivers (licensed skydivers), holding more Development courses for different disciplines within skydiving (Belly, Free Fly, Wingsuiting, etc) gradually turning Port Macquarie into a skydiving mecca for training skydivers. Alongside the amazing support from the APF (Australian Parachute Federation) and the NSWPC (New South Wales Parachute Council), we plan on continuing to grow the knowledge and experience of not just beginner skydivers but also those that want to improve their skills in any of the skydive disciplines and also anyone that wants to compete within Australia and internationally. We want to help anyone and everyone learn as much as possible, have as much fun skydiving as possible while being as safe as possible so we can keep on doing it. Thanks V-Man. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

VOICE i MICHAEL MOWLE

PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Australia Day long weekend and our subsequent celebration of the privileges we enjoy living in the wonderful country also marks the beginning of the real working year for most people. The holidays are now a distant memory and the focus turns to the planned workload and goals for the year ahead.

fter a tumultuous and challenging 2020 a return to some sort of normality is keenly anticipated this year. Hopefully a vaccine rollout in February or March will provide some certainty going forward for hospitality and tourism particularly in relation to state borders but also for potential future international travel. It is safe to say that businesses in these sectors remain constrained by the remaining COVID restrictions. Despite the upheaval the Australian economy has rebounded well and by all reports a strong recovery is well underway. This is evidenced by a recent drop in national unemployment to 6.6% and strong growth of around 3.5% in late 2020. Port Macquarie has fared better than most areas with strong real estate sales and construction activity fuelling a very strong local economy. Many local businesses have reported high activity levels and turnover with the major challenge being to recruit suitable employees to meet demand. This is reflective of a national skills shortage which has occurred over time as trade based skill sets have been eroded or eliminated altogether with an the advent of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;throw awayâ&#x20AC;? society where things are no longer repaired. One other example where local technical

skills are being threatened is the advent of very Just imagine your rates and taxes being put cheap overseas labour being used for digital towards a local road upgrade where the design and cloud based services such as Engineering drafting is being done in SE Asia with that Drafting or Geographical Information System money then going overseas instead of being (GIS) and related Survey drafting. These re-invested locally. Meanwhile a local firm drafting and design services from sweatshops misses out on the work and either lays off staff in SE Asia and India are sold to Australian or cannot hire and train them in design drafting businesses for as little as or survey. If this situation $5 per hour. is allowed to continue The long term Unfortunately the it will erode the local impact of this use of these services by technical services skill base situation is not only the bigger national firms is completely. immediate investment widespread which means Every Federal, State being lost to overseas many local firms are at a and Local Government competitive disadvantage contract should mandate slave labour but the when tendering for local, that all tenderers provide eventual loss of these state and Commonwealth a binding declaration with skills within Australia. contracts. The long term details of any overseas impact of this situation is content. In this way at not only the immediate investment being lost least public servants undertaking a tender to overseas slave labour but the eventual loss of assessment are informed as to whether the these skills within Australia. work will be undertaken by skilled locals or A recent Federal Government announcement taken offshore to a sweatshop. The decision was made regarding new legislation seeking can then be taken to employ local firms with to abolish the use of slave labour in products 100% local content or send the work and and services imported to Australia. The money offshore. strengthening of anti-slavery laws in local Measures such as this to discourage slave and state government is desperately needed labour and protect local businesses will ensure to prevent further erosion of local skills and skilled tradesmen, technicians and professionals infrastructure investment dollars being sent are not only highly valued but trained and offshore by stealth. recruited on an ongoing sustainable basis. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

NEW WEBSITE DELIVERS ADDITIONAL SERVICES VOLUNTEER GROUPS TO BENEFIT FROM STRONGER COMMUNITIES FUNDING I am urging Community and Volunteer Groups to apply for their share of $150,000 in funding under the Stronger Communities Programme. 20 local community infrastructure projects across the region will be funded with grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000.

I recently launched a new look website to help keep you updated on local and national issues. The website uses the same address as before – www.davidgillespie.com.au – but has been completely redesigned. The website offers easier navigation while a new section providing a range of community services that were previously not available online, such as Congratulatory Message requests.

The benefits of these projects go far beyond the here and now, giving a huge boost to rural and regional areas that often rely heavily on community facilities.

One new feature is the ‘Gillespie Grant Finder’ which provides a comprehensive list of grant and funding opportunities available to you to all local businesses, community groups, not-for-profits and individuals. This free service means you will never miss a grant opportunity again, once you register you will receive email alerts for new grants, you can also save your favourites and manage your funding application process. I am pleased to partner with GrantGuru to provide you with this service.

Organisations can lodge an expression of interest through my website at: – www.davidgillespie.com.au/stronger-communities-program on or before Sunday 14th February 2021.

The website enables residents across the Lyne electorate which spans 16,099sq km to keep in-touch and informed of my activities and speeches in Canberra and also nominate a local project that is of importance.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call Josh in my office on 6586 4462.

My Newsroom provides the Latest News and Updates as well as speeches from Canberra and across the region.

The last round of the programme was hugely popular and saw funding for groups including, Comboyne Tennis Club, Kendall Community preschool and Port Macquarie Cycle Club.

Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers. 94 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Wauchope Office

Taree Office

02 6586 4462

02 6557 8910

Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446

144 Victoria Street, Taree, NSW 2430

david.gillespie.mp@aph.gov.au

DavidGillespieMP

Authorised by Dr David Gillespie MP, Corner of High and Hastings Streets, Wauchope, NSW 2446.

david_gillespie_mp davegillespiemp

Adam BUTTON Watershed Insurance Brokers

hat motivates you in your role and business? My main motivation is being able to assist and guide my clients with their insurance requirements. Many clients have difficulty in understanding the complexities of insurance and the options available to them, I enjoy assisting them to simplify these and make informed decisions. What have you learnt over the past

12 months and how has your business changed? Whilst delegation is a great skill to have, I have learnt it’s really important to keep your finger on the pulse at all times. Handling a client from their initial enquiry though to signing a policy, managing claims and constant review means I am always across their requirements and have a comprehensive understanding of their needs. This results in maintaining good communication and a high standard of service.

Describe for us your definition of 'success' relevant to your industry/role. This revolves around client satisfaction and the ability to build client relationships. If I understand a client’s business and their individual insurance requirements, I feel I have succeeded. What do you do for fun/relaxation? Anything to do with water really! My wife and I moved to Port Macquarie in 2009 and the opportunities for water sports and relaxation are endless. Now with three children we are frequently found swimming, water skiing and surfing. Even a picnic or coffee by the water is a great way to unwind while appreciating the beauty of where we live. What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? Whichever way works for the readers works for me! I can be contacted by phone, email, via the website or social media channels like Facebook and LinkedIn. All contact details can be found below, but most of all I would be very happy if a business would like me to shout them a coffee (by the water somewhere of course)!!!

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focus_contributor. Pete Cutcliffe is a man with a huge heart, a chef and restaurateur who loves his team, his restaurants and above all his family. On a day when he could be shouting success to the rooftops on a coveted AGFG Chef’s Hat awarded to the beloved Bills Fishhouse, he sits outside the beautiful Clarence St eatery honouring the collective Bills Family that have made this journey and recognition possible.

s his dedicated team busy themselves for another full house of service, it is clear that this fast paced culinary world is his life and very much a family affair. It’s all hands on deck with partner Jen and little son Ollie and Pete’s parents, Graham and Karen – all part of the locally loved operation. Drawing inspiration from an impressive swag of mentors, Pete’s obvious drive and high octane schedule provides a window into a killer work ethic stemming all the way back to his grandparents and time spent working with them at their Trout Farm in Lithgow. Determined to stay true to the original Bills vision and experience, Pete and Jen are both adamant that “the hat” won’t change a thing. He will still be the guy most likely to be out the back on the dishes with a careful eye on each every detail of service, creating plenty of that Bills signature buzz and locally sourced deliciousness. Congrats Pete & Jen and the collective Bills family on earning a Chef’s Hat in the year that was 2020. A huge achievement recognising the hard work and collective talent and energy poured into Bills over the years. Who was your first call to after you received the news? After we got off the phone to each other, it was a very quick screenshot and text to the Family chat, then to Adam Tait and the chefs at the restaurant. Bills has a truly special energy and ethos that you specifically maintained when your family took over the mantle from founders Chris & Leasa Harris. Why is it so important to you to stay true to the vision and ensure that it is business as usual at Bills? Bills was the restaurant we ate at when we first moved back to Port Macquarie. We felt

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Illuminate THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL E N T R E P R E N E U R S , I N N O V AT O R S , LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

KATE WOOD-FOYE

Pete i BILLS FISHHOUSE

it had the most amazing space, atmosphere and vibe. It became a privilege to work as the Head Chef for Chris and Leasa, and when the restaurant came up for sale we knew that we couldn’t let anyone else take it over. We knew we needed to continue managing the restaurant much the same – as the age old adage goes “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. It’s clear that Bills is all about family, not just your own immediate family, but also the work family that brings Bills to life. Can you share how and why this team are so crucial to the restaurant and the experience for your guests? Bills has never been about an individual person, rather a collective “family” that makes the experience what it is. The overall experience of the restaurant is key, the music has to be right, the lights perfect, the cocktails on point, the service has to be personal and professional without being overbearing, all whilst the kitchen dances silently but efficiently. Not to mention the countless hours behind the

scenes! Everyone within the business has a monumental role as to spare no detail. Your passion for the industry is palpable but there was a time when you felt that you could turn away from being chef and the industry itself. What did it take to bring you back and eventually to Bills? Work had always been a priority, and I’d worked too many 100 hour weeks. I was burned out and disillusioned by the industry. I still loved food and wine but lost the passion I had always had. We packed up our belongings in Sydney and moved home. I had close to a year off work, travelled, played golf and settled into a slower pace of life. A phone call out of the blue one day led me into a meeting outside Bills with Chris and Leasa Harris and the rest is history. Their passion was uplifting and honest. They believed in a balance that was refreshing and unseen to me in a long time. Nothing was beneath them and I was inspired and driven by their mentality.

e BILLS FISHHOUSE

Mentors have been a huge part of your journey. You have been a part of some hugely iconic global enterprises including time with Jamie Oliver to open his Sydney restaurants. Despite this global experience, your inspiration comes from mentors closer to home. Who has inspired and shaped you in your journey? I’ve always been a worker, sometimes a workaholic. This can be attributed to a long list of people who I’ve looked up to my entire life. My dad still puts younger workers to shame. My Grandfather in his late 80’s could probably still run rings around the both of us. Jamie Oliver was a huge role model for me as a budding chef, and hugely instrumental in developing my ethos for local produce. I started my career at a seafood restaurant for Mark and Jackie Holt and it feels good to be home. Local food, local talent and looking after your local guests are at the heart of the Bills experience – why is looking after local so important to you and the Bills

Bills has never been about an individual person, rather a collective “family” that makes the experience what it is.

experience? Because Port Macquarie is home. And because our local scene is full of great people doing amazing things! We’ve always loved supporting ‘local’ and this is something we have honed in on even more through our new venture at twotriplefour by Bills. What drives you to succeed? We appreciate the accolades along the way, but at the end of the day we love doing what we do and we are proud to have created an environment where as a collective we can grow together. We love the industry and we love Port Macquarie, and we are proud to stand alongside so many other incredible restaurants in the area. 2020 saw us completely rejig our business model, which not only made us stronger as a business, but gave our team and ourselves a better work/life balance. How do you both manage the hustle and

juggling act required to manage two restaurants and a young family? Juggling act is the key word. We both have demanding and timeconsuming roles within the restaurants, and the phone can ring at any time of day for a fire to be put out. The day starts when Ollie decides to wake up (oftentimes too early!) and can finish at 1am after we’ve just finished a wedding at twotriplefour by Bills. We have an amazing support network between our team and business partners, Darren and Carly – but Mum and Dad have been a huge help, whether it be babysitting or jumping into the dish pit. We are pretty lucky! What can we expect from Bills in the year ahead? More of the same! Unwavering commitment to the experience, and hopefully a lot more family time. Thanks Pete – congrats to you all again. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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A MOMENT

MAYOR i PETA PINSON

Mayor of Port Macquarie Hastings Council

ow that we’ve welcomed in 2021, it’s a great opportunity to look forward with a refreshed sense of hope and energy, set new goals and to a year that is sure to be filled with opportunity and achievement. Like many of you, I’ve had the opportunity to take a break over the New Year, I’ve recharged the batteries, and I’m looking forward to continuing to deliver for you as your Mayor, every single day. The new year brings a new Chief Executive Officer to Council, and it’s a very warm welcome to our first ever female CEO Dr Clare Allen, who I’m really looking forward to working with during 2021 and beyond. Clare brings a wealth of experience to our community, and we’ll be supporting each other as we demonstrate the strong leadership required to steer our community into the future. I’ll be introducing Clare to you at various engagements

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throughout the coming months, sharing Council’s vision, and engaging with you on our plans for the future. Our Council staff are also looking forward to Clare’s refreshing approach to leadership, and we’ll continue to focus on the strong relationships that have been built with our State and Federal Government colleagues. In September this year we’ll all be heading to the polls to elect a new Council to help guide our region successfully forward. Being a Councillor is an extremely fulfilling and rewarding role. Democracy works by having many different views on the things that matter to our community, and I really encourage anyone who has our community at the core of their values to consider putting themselves forward to become a Councillor. Welcome to 2021, I look to working hard on your behalf and hope to catch up with you all when I’m out and about in our community. Peta

ANDREW MIEDECKE

Mercedes-Benz

At Andrew Miedecke Mercedes-Benz, WE’RE FLYING INTO 2021 WITH MERCEDAYS – the best way to get into the three-pointed star.

or a limited time, grab three years’ complimentary scheduled servicing on all Mercedes-Benz demonstrator vehicles as well as a $1,000 complimentary contribution

on any vehicle financed with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. All Mercedes products now come with a 5 Year Unlimited Km warranty for private customers. Drop the top in your very own C-Class Convertible with our C300 Demonstrator. Stylish Polar White on Black colour combination meets effortless elegance in this beautiful machine. Feel the wind rush through your

Harness the fury of the GLC 63s AMG with its thunderous 4.0L Biturbo V8 engine and constant all-wheel drive. This beast has the heart of a supercar and the practical shape of an SUV – deploy all 503hp on tap and see why Top Gear called it ‘as addictive as they come… an utter monster’! Finished in Obsidian Black Metallic, the ‘Black THIS IS TRULY on Black on Black’ THE PINNACLE colour scheme of this car is complemented OF THE AUTOMOTIVE further by the Interior WORLD. EXPERIENCE Carbon package – UNPARALLELED and available for just COMFORT, LUXURY $176,990. AND STYLE IN THIS Experience what hair with turbo power EXECUTIVE SALOON. many journalists and the restrained yet call ‘The best car in aggressive AMG Styling the world’ with the package. Priced to clear at $109,990, a huge Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This is truly the saving from RRP. pinnacle of the automotive world. Experience Experience practicality, comfort and ease of unparalleled comfort, luxury and style in this driving with the all-new GLB250 SUV. Packaging executive saloon. With exquisite finishes inside 7 seats with a compact SUV exterior, the GLB and out, this S-Class also features the desirable will be your perfect companion whatever the 450 engine and long wheelbase chassis which mission. This beautiful example is also finished further distinguishes it from the crowd. Save in Polar White and is fitted with the most yourself the Luxury Car Tax on this beauty, desirable option packages. The AMG Exclusive available at a substantial discount at $169,990. pack, 20” AMG Wheels, Vision and Sports So come and see why we have something for Packs make this GLB a desirable SUV bargain at everyone at Andrew Miedecke Mercedes-Benz, $89,090. 100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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WINONA GRAHAM

CAMPUS CONVERSATIONS

KATE WOOD-FOYE

FROM CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY

inona Graham has always been driven to succeed academically, and now not only has she graduated from Charles Sturt with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also received a prestigious University Medal for her outstanding academic achievements. Relocating from Sydney with her family to be closer to the beautiful Port Macquarie campus to follow her dream of being a psychologist, Winona credits her family support and a connected university network of lecturers and fellow students underpinning her success. A huge congratulations to you Winona on such a wonderful end to four years of study - graduating with a Bachelor of Psychology AND being awarded the prestigious University medal. What did it mean to you to accept the award? It was a very special and heart-warming moment for me when I accepted my award in front of my family and the Deputy ViceChancellor (Students). I felt very privileged to be able to celebrate my graduation in this way, given the challenges posed by COVID-19. The award demonstrated to me that I have been respected and valued as a student at Charles Sturt University. I am so grateful my family could be a part of the moment because I would not be here today without their unwavering support and encouragement. What was the highlight from your studies in Psychology at Charles Sturt? The highlight of my studies at Charles Sturt 100 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Psychology (Honours), I plan to undertake a University was attending my internal lectures at Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in 2021 and to start looking Port Macquarie campus, as this is where I was for work placement options in Port Macquarie able to develop good working relationships and the wider Mid North Coast community. with my lecturers and forge meaningful, longYou relocated to Port Macquarie with your lasting friendships with my fellow psychology parents and brother for your studies with students. the family now calling the Hastings home You are clearly very driven and dedicated long term. What does in your studies and it mean to be the first this will no doubt The highlight of my in family at university transfer into your studies at Charles and have all of that dream career. Can Sturt University was support and belief you tell us about this att ending my internal behind you? vision and why it is lectures at Port Macquarie I feel very fortunate so important to you? campus, as this is where I to have the love and I want to be a was able to develop good support of my family. registered psychologist They have encouraged because this would working relationships with me to pursue my enable me to share my my lecturers and forge interests in psychology scientific knowledge meaningful, long-lasting and to work through with the wider friendships with my fellow the challenges of community and to help psychology students. full-time study. My people from different parents have taught backgrounds and walks me the importance of being open, honest and of life. respectful in my communications with others I want to apply my analytical thinking and and of always trying my best at academic tasks. problem-solving skills to real-life, practical I'm now ready to take on the next step of situations. I believe mental health is important my journey in Psychology and to sharing this at every stage of the lifespan, as it affects knowledge with the community. how we experience different spheres of life, Thanks and congrats again Winona. including our relationships and social activities, study.csu.edu.au/courses/psychology work activities, educational pursuits and physical health. With a long track record of academic excellence what are the next steps for you to achieve your dream? Now that I have completed my Bachelor of

P U T T I NG A FAC E T O FA R M I NG

LITTLE

H O B BY M A K I N G

A BIG DIFFERENCE A sweet product in the Camden Haven food bowl is Johns River’s Amber Drop Honey. Ana and Sven Martin had careers and a busy lifestyle on the NSW Central Coast in 2015 when they set up a few hives in their backyard.

hey researched bees after seeing a documentary on an Australian invention called Flow Hive and learned bee populations around the world were in rapid decline. The survival of bees and pollinating animals is vital to global food security. “We thought having hives would be a way to contribute,” Ana said. “We thought we could get some honey for ourselves and our friends.” Ana and Sven joined the Beekeepers Association in Gosford. Sven put his name on the swarm collector list to bring bees home. The following spring, Sven had the first of many calls to rescue bees from neighbourhoods and construction sites. He has rescued more than 100 swarms to date. “In four months, we had 35 hives and bees making honey whether we wanted it or not. Our whole basement was full of jars. “We started selling the honey. The number of hives grew. So, we made a side business out of it.” Ana and Sven’s hives were dotted all over the Central Coast, at friends’ properties and backyards. Watching Sven working, it’s clear he found

his calling. The bees are calm when their hives are checked and honey harvested. “When I saw how happy Sven was working with the bees, I thought, let’s give this a try,” Ana said. “We’re not scared of hard work. If you try something and it doesn’t work, well, it’s worse to regret not trying.” In 2017, Ana and Sven bought a farm at Johns River. They split their time between working on the Central Coast and setting up the farm before taking the plunge into fulltime beekeeping and living in Johns River. Ana and Sven love their farming lifestyle. They are passionate about being kind to the environment and championing local produce and businesses. “We all know that food which has travelled or picked too early then matured in unnatural conditions, or heat-treated for cosmetic reasons, has fewer vitamins and nutrients than something picked yesterday and sold today,” Ana said. “From a health and economy perspective, local produce is best. “If we want to keep regional areas moving, we need farmers to keep on farming. “You don’t want to create a society where it’s more attractive for farmers to go and work

in a big company or an office than to produce your food.” Ana and Sven love to educate the community about the importance of bees. Their observation hive is a feature at their market stall and captures the attention of children during school and library visits. “Sometimes, the kids will ask, ‘where’s the king bee?’” Sven said. “I’m the king. That’s my answer.” Amber Drop’s hives are located on pesticidefree properties from Somersby to Mackville to ensure consistent production. “Raw honey is such healthy food. It has a lower GI than a sweet potato,” said Ana. “Some processors will heat honey so that it stays runny and visually appealing, but the enzymes, pre and probiotics, vitamins and minerals are lost in heating. “Raw honey has antibacterial qualities which are good for wounds, and it’s beautiful as a face mask.” To find stockists, order online or find out more, visit www.amberdrophoney.com. au. There is a range of honey flavours in sustainable packaging and bee-utiful products. To watch Ana and Sven’s story, go to https:// camdenhavenchamber.org/camden-havenfarmers-initiative/ GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Vibe S AV V Y VANESSA LAWRENCE

FROM THE STYLE VIBE

Hey there Beauty!

elcome back to the Style Vibe Savvy column for another month, the month of LOVE! As we approach Valentines Day, I would like to use the space this month to talk about something I think all of us need a little bit more of – SELF LOVE! Chances are, today we have already had a negative thought about ourselves. Whether it was looking in the mirror judging our lines, wrinkles or skin condition, feeling guilt for not getting up early to exercise or maybe, you’re feeling extra sensitive about those COVID and Chrissy kilo’s as you get dressed for the day ahead. According to the National Science Foundation around 80% of our thoughts are negative. With around 12,000 to 50,000 thoughts a day, this is clearly a really unhealthy ratio of negative thinking for us to cope with on any one day. A lot of people talk about gratitude, and I am a massive supporter of expressing gratitude daily however most often I am grateful for people, places, experiences or ‘things’. This got me thinking about how I/we should dig deeper, and be grateful for just being us! We are all human, perfectly imperfect, and should be seriously embracing everything we are! Our lumps and bumps, scars and stretch marks tell a story of what we have been through so far and should be celebrated and not feel

So, the challenge is,

ashamed, cover up or meaning of your clothes. can you wake up feel as though we need Dressing well (or not so tomorrow and give compete with others or well) triggers chemicals yourself at least 3 body unrealistic expectations in the brain that can positive compliments? I’m on social media. affect your cognitive talking about GENUINE So, the challenge process – a big part of compliments like the ones is, can you wake up this is your emotions. Put you constantly give out to tomorrow and give simply, when you look yourself at least 3 body good – you feel good! your friends, family and positive compliments? Fashion is amazing, children! I’m talking about and is no doubt a very GENUINE compliments powerful tool however – like the ones you constantly give out to your it does not matter what we wear on the outside, friends, family and children! if we do not love ourselves enough on the Nothing changes if nothing changes right? inside, we will always feel inadequate. But what if we can start to change the way we I hope this month and beyond you can give feel about ourselves and our bodies – just a little, yourself some extra special self-love, celebrate day by day and, what if those changes had a with your loved one and most importantly – ripple effect where each day we started to see, celebrate YOU! feel and remember more beautiful and positive My personal styling packages are fully things about ourselves which in turn started customisable to suit you, your lifestyle and outweighing the negative? budget with my ultimate goal to give you the The result – a more happy, confident, tools, education and inspiration to help you look comfortable you! and feel your very best every day. I believe self-love and confidence are two of I offer a complimentary, no obligation ‘Coffee the most important ingredients for a great day & Chat’ session for locals, which gives you the and a great life. By starting your day right, with opportunity to find out more about my services the right mindset, routine and a great outfit can and ask any questions you may have. Feel free provide you with the most positive powerful to reach out via my website www.thestylevibe. kickstart to your day. com.au The technical term for this is ‘Dopamine Sending love and positive vibes always, Dressing’ where as you believe in the symbolic Vanessa xxx GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

BUILDER OF THE MONTH

H.L.W PROJECTS H.L.W Projects design and build custom homes, renovations and extensions that allow you to realise your property dreams. Winners of the 2020 HIA Northern NSW Country Home 104 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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hat is the History behind H.L.W. Projects? H.L.W. Projects was established in 2017 under our Pty Ltd name Construction and Cladding Australia Pty Ltd. Over time our business has evolved and developed into one of the area’s leading custom home Builders, Renovation and Extension experts, and Commercial Contractors. Our team enjoys working on a variety of different projects and this led us to reflect our company’s direction through a name change in 2020. H.L.W. Projects is derived from our family names. Hicks, Laurie and Webber. Tell us about your team and their area of expertise. Eddy and Donna Hicks, born and raised in Port Macquarie, have long been established within the construction and development industry on the Mid North Coast region. Justin and Monique Laurie are Wauchope locals. Justin is a fully qualified builder and has been working within the Building industry for 15+ years. Justin has a special interest in Custom Home Building and working within the site’s natural elements to produce the client’s dream design. Justin is typically the first point of contact for our clients, meeting with them

We truly do

with impressive results. onsite, completing offer an the quotations We have also recently extensive range of and ensuring worked with a large trades across the the construction Australian-based company board, so that our design brief is met. installing a new stateclients feel confident Monique is currently of-the-art playground in in entrusting us with undertaking a Cert IV Byron Bay, working with a their build from the in Interior Decoration locally-run organisation to ground up. and is often seen on construct 2 Boutique site or in the local Guest Accommodation trade shops helping Chateaux – Moripo Park source our client’s selections. Escape. Our Commercial work has also taken Matt and Jesse Webber now live in the us to Salamander Bay and Redhead, Forster Wauchope area, after spending some time for HomeTown Lifestyle Village completing the in Melbourne. Matt is a fully qualified landscaping, decking and concreting for their Refrigeration Mechanic and Carpenter. He homes, and a complete face lift for the Redhead is currently awaiting his Builder’s Licence having Community Centre. completed the course in 2020. Within our team we have local fully-qualified Matt is our leading Project Manager and his Builders, Carpenters, Earth Movers and attention to detail and meticulous construction is evident in the finished product of our Projects. Electricians as well as experienced Roofers and Landscapers. We truly do offer an extensive Jesse’s role is as the Office Manager, assisting range of trades across the board, so that our staff and clients with contract obligations and clients feel confident in entrusting us with their day-to-day administrative management of our build from the ground up. Projects. We also pride ourselves on long standing What services does H.L.W. Projects provide? working relationships with our Sub-Contractors We are Award Winning Custom Home and Suppliers. Wherever possible we always Builders servicing the Mid North Coast and use local, and this helps ensure we can deliver a surrounding Hinterlands. higher quality finish to all our Projects. We have undertaken several Home Continued over... Renovations and significant Home Extensions GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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H.L.W PROJECTS

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You won the HIA 2020 We are Award for Northern currently NSW Country Home, building an can you tell us about this property and some incredible home of the special features? in Hat Head, This home is located on and undergoing a large family-owned and extensive operated dairy farm in the admin@hlwprojects. renovations to a Hinterlands of Wauchope. com Our team can help home in Lake This hardworking local answer any questions Innes. family had a vision to you may have and help develop a lifestyle which get you started on your would allow for a more sustainable family and building journey. work life balance. You can also follow along and keep up The vision for the home was clear, the brief to date with all our ongoing and upcoming was Single Storey, Country/Hamptons feel, works on Facebook and Instagram. Open Plan and Easy Living with feature French Tell us about some of the new and Doors opening out onto private decks with exciting projects that you are working a backdrop of the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property. Some of on and have coming up in the future? the more special features would have to be We have had a busy start to the year the Dado Rail and Feature Wall Panelling, the with new custom home builds beginning locally-created Hardwood Barn Door, and the and continuing on with our current feature Stone Fireplace in the living area. builds and renovations. We are currently Our team took great pride in producing building an incredible home in Hat Head, this wonderful home that will be enjoyed for and undergoing extensive renovations to many years to come by this wonderful family. a home in Lake Innes.. We also have some What is the process for those looking extensions in mind for our commercial to build or renovate their property with office space, to help fit our ever growing and H.L.W. Projects? diversifying team. We strongly recommend visiting our website What are the top three things people www.hlwprojects.com.au to review our should consider when looking to build recently completed works. We also have a a new house or renovate their existing client enquiry form on the website for you to property? complete. You can also send through an email First and foremost, consider your Budget to our team and always have a contingency plan in mind

to allow for unforeseen hurdles. Utilise the existing space to its full potential. Practicality is so important! Think about the space you have and how you want to live in it. Is there anything else you would like to add? H.L.W. Projects prides itself on being a locally owned and operated business that is involved within the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events, fundraisers and organisations. Our local region has suffered many blows these past few years, with Droughts, Bushfires, Floods and Covid-19. We hope 2021 brings a more positive outlook for other local business and families. We wish everyone a happy and safe 2021. Thanks Guys. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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The Mid North Coast’s Most Respected Builders

Whether you’re looking to build a new custom home from scratch, considering a knockdown-rebuild or need to renovate and extend to accommodate a growing family, the H.L.W Projects team can help. We provide a comprehensive end-to-end service, supporting you from concept to completion and beyond.

“We are with you from the ground up”

Green Homes Our sustainably-focused approach to design and construction sets us apart from our competitors. HIA GreenSmart accredited, we’re specialists at creating sustainable modern homes that boast strong green credentials and offer a comfortable, healthy and energyefficient living environment.

Matt 0408 711 982 | Justin 0431 322 961 admin@hlwprojects.com www.hlwprojects.com.au 19 Trade Circuit, Wauchope NSW 2446

I T' S STIL L

Regional areas across NSW are experiencing a “postcovid” boom according to reports. We catch up with HEM to see what’s Fees are a massive consideration when selling. happening in our property Some believe all agents are the same, so choose market right now.

B U Y. SE L L .

happy ever more. HAPPY

E V E R MORE

egional property markets, and especially IPort NMacquarie, 2 4 4 are 4! the the lowest fee. This could be your most booming. HUGE demand from expensive decision. The best agents work harder, investors, first home buyers and e focused last month on the How do you explain this buoyant market? the home ready, get moreWith buyers relocators isbooming driving prices and but help you rentalup market, It isget all about supply and demand. all home and importantly, negotiate a seeing homes sell fasteritthan ever. that But even in are to your appears homes the changes in 2020, people are re-assessing price. Look at an theexodus servicefrom andthe value a hot market, a dream price isn’t guaranteed selling fast right now too! better theirsale lives. We’ve seen cities an agent can add, than purely cost. when selling your home. at HEM believe That’s right. BuyerWe activity at open houses to regional areasrather for a better lifestyle.their As one of want thesearched best result, workPort withMacquarie the best. is more than ever, your agent approach and internet enquiry areand thetheir highest since 2017. If you NSW’s most suburbs, Median house pricesimpact are up on 7.2% last year experiencing&the brunt of thisCOUNTS migration.–Other REPUTATION EXPERIENCE will have a fundamental theon result. If and homes of in the higher price you bracket factors such working remotely from home, this as rapidly changing market, you are thinking selling, before pickare anselling Navigating well. We have more auctions (a sign of a low interest and high rental 4.4% keeping on toprates of fluctuating pricesyields and of dealing agent,very consider: competitive market), multiple offers and lower for investors, all infl uence high buyer demand. with multiple buyers is a skill. At HEM, our BIGGER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER – The big average days to sell. If you arenetworks selling, thisand is And the number of homes fordeveloped sale has been experienced team of agents have the franchises boast about their huge great news as you can expect a high sale price dropping every month. With just 300 homes for skills and the composure to make the right call many agents. In reality, it doesn’t mean a better and a swift transaction. On the flip side, low sale, it’s the lowest in over a decade, creating the at the right time. A good agent will give you result for you. At HEM, we moved away from availability can make it hard to find a home in perfect storm for a sellers’ property market. confidence you are getting the right advice and one-size-fits-all, where clients get lost in the your price bracket and there is competition. HEM recently celebrated 600 sales!! A great the best price. system. We offer a personalised service, where The town is pumping. It feels busier than ever. milestone in just three and a half years. How IT’S ABOUT YOU, NOT THE your sale more thanand justcafes a transaction. Theismain street are buzzingYou’re and with REMEMBER, is it all going? AGENT – Our industry can forget is the not just a number, you get a more personalised no overseas travel, local tourism should have a We are stoked with what HEMit has become. buyers, sellers and the homes that matter. Most service,bumper and walk away with a happier and season - a huge boost to our town. We never set out to be the biggest or highest agents think it is about them! Rather than listen, better result. they talk of how good they are and chase social CHEAPEST & BEST ARE RARELY THE SAME –

media fame viaWe your property. we selling agenty. simply wantedAttoHEM, get away from the dog-eat-dog imagehome. of real focus on stereotypical, YOU, your situation and your estate and create model thatoffocuses on what No cheesy photosa or videos us on the back of is important, clients homes we aregetting selling your propertythe sale. Ourand energy is spent or renting. agents haveand thewith same your homeEssentially, sold to theallbest buyer “tools”, but we feel it’s the approach, attitude the least fuss. By keeping our focus on what and what you do that is the difference. For us, matters, you will know that you’ve got the right a great sale price or sold sticker is not enough. result. People come to HEM because of our proven track If you put your house for sale in this market, record, reputation for great service and results, itbut will sell – quickly. But if you want more than above all because we are good to deal with. just “a you need gettothe home We treatsale”, people how we to want beprice, treated presentation and agent right. So, if you are ourselves and that is the key to our philosophy of thinking of more. a move and want to see how HEM happy ever could help you find your happy ever more, talk to one of our team today.

HUGE demand from investors, first home buyers and relocators is driving prices up in Port Macquarie and seeing homes selling faster than ever. But, even in a hot market, a dream price isn’t necessarily guaranteed. The agent you choose and HEM Property are pleased to say that real estate is still in high demand in our beautiful town.experience Here are the for 2020 the approach, and stats skills they offer,so willfar:

IT IS STILL HAPPY EVER MORE IN 2444! 929

$590K

SOLD IN 2020 SO FAR

MEDIAN HOUSE (UP $35K FROM 2019)

(1004 IN 2019)

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$549K

$626K

MEDIAN 3 BED HOUSE

MEDIAN 4 BED HOUSE

(UP $36.5K FROM 2019)

(UP $1K FROM 2019)

have a direct and fundamental impact on the result you walk away with. So if youKare looking at selling is best 305 $425 $400 PWand want what for YOU, contact the most experienced team in Port CURRENTLY MEDIAN UNIT MEDIAN RENT FOR SALE (UP $22.5K and find (-4.4% Macquarie yourMEDIAN happy ever more. FROM 2019)

YIELD)

(DOWN 30% ON 2019)

Teing

tales

MICHAEL PERCIVAL

ichelle and I are fast approaching our 40th wedding anniversary and with four decades of living and working together under our belts it’s fair to say that we can speak with some authority on the secrets to longevity in marriage. I’m pretty sure a lot of the success in going the distance in a relationship is how you set things up in the initial stages and I know in my case I went to a lot of trouble to spoil Michelle rotten right from the start. This wasn’t easy in my case because Michelle was living a very comfortable lifestyle in a very comfortable home in beautiful Port Macquarie at the time so I knew I would really have to step up to impress her. How do you spoil a beautiful woman who was just out of school and who had always lived comfortably in a beautiful coastal town you ask? You take her out to the middle of outback Queensland to live and work on a run down and remote cattle station located more than 200 kilometres from the nearest dot on the map of course. And just to put the icing on the cake of this isolated, dusty and baking hot existence our accommodation consisted of a three sided shed with no running water and no electricity. It wasn’t all bad fortunately. Bathroom facilities

You haven’t properly lived unless you have been up close and personal with a tonne of cranky muscle with horns attached that is trying desperately hard to kill you.

included the ubiquitous Aussie long drop and you could have a shower anytime you wanted providing you filled the bucket first. Then there was the “Chef’s” stove that cooked the best scones as long as you fed it the correct amount of wood, and mood lighting came courtesy of a single bulb attached to the tractor battery by a wire and clips. The resident diamond python also did an excellent job of keeping mice numbers in check. Yes – I really do know how to show a girl a good time. We spent our time on “Bottle Tree” mustering wild cattle that had never before been in contact with people. You haven’t properly lived unless you have been up close and personal with a tonne of cranky muscle with horns attached that is trying desperately hard to kill you. And the experience gave Michelle the opportunity to become a Mum for the first time even if it was to 13 very needy poddy calves left behind in the mayhem of attempting to move a sea of mad beasts in a direction they really didn’t want to go. Much has changed in the ensuing 40 years. We now live in a home with both running water and electricity. No more stepping over

snakes to go to the bathroom either. There are some things that haven’t changed though and believe it or not the business of real estate is still very much the same as it was way back then. Of course technology has rocketed ahead in

ways that were unimaginable in the ‘80s but nothing has taken away the human element of creating a meaningful relationship with vendors, purchasers, investors and tenants in order to provide the best possible outcome for each. Property Management is still very much powered by people too. There is no doubt that technology will aid the process of caring for expensive properties but nothing will ever take the place of an experienced hands on property manager conducting quality inspections, checking arrears daily and adding value to your important asset. It is the human qualities that still make the difference when dealing with something as important as a home. Please contact me if you would like the best care for your property. We look after all types of residential dwellings though three sided sheds are no longer part of our portfolio.

PERCIVAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT The Purple House 34 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 (Access from Alva Lane) e. michael@percival.com.au p. 02 6583 7499 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Port Macquarie CARPET ONE Want low-maintenance, easy care floors for your home or investment property that will stand the test of time? Here are our top three flooring products to consider. Eco Plus Carpet If you want the softness, warmth and plushness of carpet without compromising on durability, wear and stain resistance, Eco Plus is the low maintenance flooring option for you. Perfect for at-home entertainers, households with kids and pets - it’s also eco-friendly and comes in a wide range of stylish colours and textures. Vinyl Tile and Plank If you’re pressed for time and the thought of cleaning makes you shudder, vinyl flooring could be for you. It’s easier to clean than carpet and completely water-resistant.

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Luxury Sheet Vinyl Sheet vinyl has come a long way since the '70s! Luxury sheet vinyl is another great easy-care flooring option for those wanting low maintenance. Vinyl sheet flooring is waterproof, durable and easy to clean. It’s also incredibly affordable and very versatile, coming in a wide range of styles.

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REAL

ESTATE T A L K Louise fleming

FROM WISEBERRY

Enter 2021, by the time you have finished reading this article, the value of real estate has probably gone up! That’s how fast our marketing is moving. You don't need to be on the forefront of selling or buying to notice a change in local activity and the unbelievable prices being achieved. A far cry from where things were predicted to head 12 months ago when talks of a 30-40% price drops were predicted.

ort Macquarie and surrounding areas being highly sought after, more so now as a result of more people recently making the sea change for a more relaxed lifestyle. A silver lining to Covid meant that innovation was instant, people started working from home and will continue to do so, meetings went from boardrooms to lounge rooms, inspections via FaceTime, video walk throughs, selling properties sight unseen. Everything that we have adapted to will continue for the foreseeable future. Whilst there is unbelievable demand for homes for sale, properties for lease is equally high, in some cases experiencing similar results to the sales market with people offering more than the home is advertised for to secure it. It is no surprise given travel out of Australia off the cards that we see increased demand for holiday lettings, this area of the market has soared!! We at Wiseberry cover both permanent rentals and holiday management handled by one of the best in the industry, Diane Flynn, currently running at almost 100% occupancy for the months ahead. Why do we keep missing out on homes? A frequent question, particularly from first home buyers or local buyers looking to upsize/downsize or invest. First, there is stiff competition from out-of-town buyers with larger budgets and urgency. Get your preapproval sorted first and foremost if you need finance. Second, get in touch with your agent, spell out your specific needs, inform them of your capacity to buy and ring them daily. Gone are the days when as a buyer, you flick through realestate.com.au when

you see a new property appear and expect it to be there and available for you to inspect on the first open home. Most homes are selling these days either the day they hit the internet if not before!! In saying this, if you are a seller, I am a big believer that you can’t sell a secret therefore you should always list your home for sale to the market and capture the biggest audience possible, therefore giving you peace of mind, you have achieved the highest price that is possible. This is why communicating with agents is key, if the agents don't ring you back, then keep ringing them letting them know your criteria and update them on your capacity to buy and inform them you are still looking. We are dealing with hundreds of buyers and whilst we make every effort to inform everyone of what is coming up, it is almost impossible to keep up with the supply vs demand even with technology on our side. What does the future of real estate look like from where I’m standing? Quick answer is - the future looks bright, the demand should continue in all areas. Banks will continue to be flexible and interest rates should remain at an all-time low. I’m excited to see what’s around the corner from both a home and business owner point of view, as well as from an agent’s point of view. I’ll let the stats do the talking ……… -Port Macquarie Median sale price as of December 2020 was $602,500, Median rent as of 16th January 2021 is $460 per week - realestate.com.au -Currently 203 properties for sale in Port Macquarie across all property types, 65 properties for rent - realestate.com.au

-Borrowing costs have never been lower and governments are pumping money into the economy via HomeBuilder, first-home buyer incentives and stamp duty relief in some states. This is encouraging Australians to consider buying property. With most stimulus measures to continue into 2021 and interest rates to remain low for years, buyer demand will likely stay at near record-high levels in 2021. -Heightened borrower confidence in record low interest rates could push property prices sky-high according to the Reserve Bank. In an internal document accessed via the Freedom of Information Act, the RBA has predicted that home values could rise by as much as 30% within just three years due to borrower belief that rock bottom interest rates are here to stay. One thing we learnt from last year is we never can be sure what is around the corner and we most certainly need to be ready. We have learnt there isn't much that we can't bounce back from, and always remain positive and back yourself. What appeared to be a setback in the early part of 2020 actually turned into what is now one of the craziest markets in my 12 years in the industry. I’m passionate about people and feel privileged to be a part of their real estate journey. I’ve always said in my industry we move people; houses stay where they are, but people stay with you forever. I love that I do what I do for a living and I am blessed with meeting lifelong clients and friends along the way. For any real estate needs, be sure to contact me or the friendly staff from our Port Macquarie or Forster offices. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Team Plews Elders Lifestyle Group

local agent, proven results, driven by integrity

“...David’s integrity and professionalism during the whole process resulted in a quick sale and I have no hesitation in recommending Team Plews”. Sandra & Peter Wallace - Port Macquarie Local

elderslifestylegroup.com.au

Join Our Facebook Group! VIP Buyer Updates With Team Plews

New Listings OO Line Listings Property Advice

what is your home worth in the current market? "In the last quarter, 59% of all the listings were sold higher than asking price, with a further 10% sold at asking price!" (Source Domain data insights) 0448 836 000

6584 1199

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A GIFT FO R L I F E

RACHEL MACLAINE

Donating blood supports health care and saves lives. Rachel Maclaine from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood tells us about their work and how we can contribute...

lease introduce yourself and your role at the donor centre? I’m Rachel, I started in my role as a Registered Nurse and Educator here at Port Macquarie Lifeblood just over three years ago. How did you land in this industry and commence your training? I was working in palliative care when this job came up. It was a great avenue to increase experience and see what happens on the other end of lifesaving treatments, the end that relies on thousands of Aussies every day. When I started, Lifeblood put me through three months of training. This involved trips to Sydney learning the ins and outs of how to collect blood and plasma donations, and then putting it all into practice back here in the centre. How has the clinic had to adapt over the last 12 months? Our top priority is always the safety of our donors, staff, volunteers and blood recipients. Since the start of the pandemic, the situation is constantly changing and we continue to follow the most up-to-date government advice. Lifeblood facilities are strictly regulated spaces, so we have always adhered to strict sanitation protocols including wearing gloves, wiping down surfaces after every donation and using single use sterile collection kits for every donation. 116 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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We have also implemented a range of other measures to protect our donors and teams including: - Increased cleaning of frequently used items - Providing additional hand sanitiser for donors - Additional daily cleaning of all areas in our centres - Restriction of non-donating visitors to our centres - Provision of public health information in every centre - Implementing social distancing wherever possible - Wellness checks before entering the centre We’ve had an overwhelming response from our donors and we urge them to continue donating and encourage family and friends to join them. The target is 1,000 donations a month which is huge! You must have a lot of regulars, but is it enough? Some of our donors made the maximum 26 donations of plasma in 2020, they’re fantastic. We have many regulars who we rely on and they are part of the donor centre family. Many donors are part of Lifeblood Teams – our group blood donation program for workmates, friends, team mates and communities who want to make a difference. It doesn’t matter if there are 5 or 500, nothing beats the feeling of saving lives together. But we are always looking for new donors. One in three of us will need blood or blood products

in our lifetimes but only 3% of us donate. You have some amazing contributors from the business community who donate regular, can you give them a shout out. Through Lifeblood teams we have large and small businesses and community groups donating. Essential Energy, Port Macquarie Hastings Council and Charles Sturt University are some of our biggest donors. Our smaller groups include schools, churches and sporting communities who are also fantastic and make a big difference. And what about the volunteers? Their role is very important tell us about them. Our volunteers are great. They make donors feel safe and are comfortable, welcoming faces that they see time and time again. They help keep our donor centres looking their best and they provide the best catering. Our volunteers are famous for their milkshakes. Without them, our day wouldn’t run as smoothly, or taste and smell as good! How can people find out if they are able to donate? Jump on line at donateblood.com.au as most questions can be answered here. Sometimes, you may need to call 13 14 15 to discuss more complex questions about your health. We always look forward to welcoming regular, returning or new donors in centre every day!

We’re paving the way. Literally. We’ve been busy laying the roads towards our brand new, luxury over-50’s lifestyle community, Forster Lakes. As the culmination of over 40 years’ expertise, the resort features a range of facilities that will help you make every day a pleasure—including two luxurious country clubs, a private marina precinct and nine stunning home designs.

Get in touch to learn more. Freecall 1800 577 542 Email salesforster@palmlake.com.au | Visit forsterlakes.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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INTRODUCING

GEOFF

WOODHAM

TO T H E E LDE RS LIFE STYLE GROU P eoff, tell us a bit about your connection to Port Macquarie? My wife, Natalie Oates was raised in Port Macquarie. We met each other in Sydney, married, and had three beautiful children before realising that we wanted to be closer to her family in Port Macquarie.

After securing the role of the Regional Manager of the NSW Business Chamber, we moved to Port Macquarie in 2004. Over the years, I have worked and consulted to several organisations, including Men at Work, Pivotal Business Systems and MBC Recruitment in Senior Management roles and Business Development. I have been a Board Member of the Port Macquarie and Wauchope Chambers of Commerce as well as holding Executive roles with Junior Surf Life Saving. What are you looking forward to the most about your new role with Elders Lifestyle group? I am looking forward to helping clients navigate one of the biggest decisions of their life. I am looking forward to using the skills that I have gained over 30 years in business, to ensure that my clients get their best possible property investment advice. People who know me well say that I am professional, hardworking and naturally engaging. From purchasing their first dream home, to building a property portfolio, to downsizing when the kids move out, I am looking forward to being with my clients, every step of the way. Tell us about your work/life balance, where can we find you on the weekends or when you are not in the office? Natalie and I are passionate about living in Port Macquarie. Every morning at 4:45, our dog Sunny wakes us up by jumping on our bed. We get dressed, grab Sunny, our swimmers and towels, then jump in our campervan and head to the beach. During the week, we walk the coastal walk from Town to Shelly and back. Sometimes on a Wednesday or Friday morning, we squeeze in a session with “Sunrise Yoga” on Town Beach. On the weekends, we love to take Sunny to Lighthouse Beach. After every walk, watching the sunrise and a swim, it’s off for coffee with the sunrise swimmers at Salty Crew or with friends at Little Shack. The mornings are our special time together. Whatever the rest of the day throws our way, we have already had our therapy. It’s a Port Macquarie start to our day, that allows us to continue to live the dream, of living with family and friends. Contact Geoff on 0421 038 633 or email him at geoff.woodham@eldersrealestate.com.au

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