Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i185

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185 AUGUST 2021

DAVID

The first-ever GLB. Open for what’s next.

Make space for more - the GLB has arrived at Andrew Miedecke Motors. Whether you’re looking for more adventure or more leisure time, it’s the perfect partner for life’s twists and turns. With its unique design, 7 seats as standard, MBUX system and advanced safety features, the GLB is the most flexible compact SUV in our family - and it’s ready to welcome yours.

Discover the GLB today at Andrew Miedecke Motors. www.mbportmacquarie.com.au

100 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 6583 8855 DL8071 www.mbportmacquarie.com.au 2 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Applicable to new and demonstrator GLB first registered on or after 1 March 2020 for 5 years from the date of first registration of the vehicle.

Warranty start time may differ for demonstrator vehicles. Commercial application of vehicle is subject to 5 years from first registration date or 200,000km (whichever occurs first). Battery warranty periods vary. Excludes customers with specific warranty arrangements with Mercedes-Benz. For full terms, conditions and exclusions please refer to the warranty statement here www.mercedes-benz.com.au.

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W H AT’S ON EXHIBITION

WORKSHOP

DREAMS, NIGHTMARES & REALITY

BY GLENN DICK

CREATIVE PARENTS & BUBS 10 X WEEKLY SESSIONS

Saturday 10 July to Sunday 5 September

Fridays, 16 July to 17 September, 9.30am

HOTEL CALIFORNIA Wednesday 1 September, 8pm

DRAWING FUNDAMENTALS WITH JILL CAIRNS

8 X WEEKLY SESSIONS Saturdays, 7 August to 25 September, 1pm

SPECIAL OFFER

Now valid until 31 August 2021

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SHOP @ GLASSHOUSE AUSTRALIAN MADE & ARTISAN GIFTING

OFF GLASSHOUSE MEMBERSHIP GLASSHOUSE OFFER * conditions apply. Memberships expire December 2021.

Small print

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888

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glasshouse.org.au

Follow Glasshouse:

@ GLASSHOUSE ARTIST IN RESIDENCY

LIAM BENSON

THE SWEET CAROLINE TOUR

Saturday 21 August to Saturday 18 September

Sunday 12 September, 8pm

BEHIND THE SCENES GLASSHOUSE TOURS Thursdays 23 & 30 September, 1pm

AN AFTERNOON AT THE PROMS - SPECTACULAR Saturday 11 September, 2pm

PLEASE NOTE All event information is correct at time of printing.

Please check the Glasshouse website for the most up-to-date information on events. glasshouse.org.au The Glasshouse is a COVID safe venue. Masks must be worn at all times while inside the venue and all visitors are required to check in via Service NSW.

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE Corner Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Glasshouse Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 9am - 2pm Closed Christmas Day

Regional Gallery Opening Hours Tue - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat, Sun 10am - 2pm Closed Mondays

Gum Disease SILENT & SERIOUS GUM DISEASE + YOUR HEALTH

ARE YOU AT RISK? If you have bleeding, bad breath or sensitivity you may be at risk. Research shows that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, arthritis and pre term delivery in pregnancy.

The good news is Gum Disease is TREATABLE!

LANAP

BENEFITS OF LANAP

Save your smile with the revolutionary laser treatment.

• Saves your natural teeth • Safe, precise and effective • Regenerates bone and gums • Faster recovery and healing • Safer + gentler than gum surgery

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

www.sundialdental.com.au 10 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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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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Friendly Faces

A proven reputation for achieving the highest prices for our clients.

Looking to sell? Call us first.

Here’s what our customers have to say about us.

“An excellent knowledge of all aspects of buying and selling real estate” Peter.

“The friendly and professional family run business reflects standards and ethics not often found in the corporate world which is of great benefit to their customers”. Ian. “For a young family selling our first home no question was too “silly” making us feel just as valuable as someone selling a million dollar home”. Sasha and Renee

67- 69 Horton Street, Port Macquarie 02 6583 6000 portmacquariefn.com.au

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Welcome to the August issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

hey say that a change is as good as a holiday and there have been some huge changes here at FOCUS. We have a brand new office and you can now find us at 2/28 Fernhill Road.

The beautiful Sarah Baker is returning from an 18 month break on maternity leave to rejoin our sales team.

Last but not least we have two of our team members leaving us. Claire, who was our interview and editorial girl, is moving on to help her husband in their busy and thriving family business. And our captain and leader Louise is closing the curtain on her time as Sales Manger at FOCUS. Louise has been with FOCUS since day one and although she will still own the business with her husband Jay, she is moving on to a new business venture.

I know that you will join with us in wishing

Louise all the best. She has definitely made a full-on month putting this together and we FOCUS what it is today and we are all proud of have an absolutely amazing line up of local men her achievements – and we know she will be who share their stories of why they do what just as amazing in her new they do. role.

Our Cover star is none other Louise has Happy First Birthday New than David Gray and his story definitely FOCUS! This edition marks is definitely one to read. made FOCUS what exactly 12 months since we We also feature the very it is today and we returned from our “Covid” clever Josh Hunter whose are proud of all of hibernation. Our “new” business Sockgaim appealed her achievements FOCUS has been received to him as a contrast from and know she will with open arms and we his time in the dull grey do just as an have had nothing but monochromatic streets of amazing job in her positive feedback. Thank London. new role. you to our advertisers, We have a jam packed 128contributors and readers page edition with so many for supporting us and allowing us to keep the amazing stories, people and businesses. So FOCUS dream alive. enjoy this August edition and the last month of Inside this edition... winter, and we will get cracking on September Men In Business is back. The team have had to bring you another great edition of FOCUS.

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contacts.

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Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, 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

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

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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Sales Agents Ayla Bailey & Principal Michelle Percival secured a record setting result through their expertise in marketing & sales negotiation. Whether a one bedroom unit or prestige lifestyle property, their pursuit of the best possible outcome is the same! Talk to our team today to discuss your home’s potential in the current market.

COVETED DEEP WATER FRONTAGE 122 HIBBARD DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE

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SALE PRICE $3,000,000 Sleek, stylish and sophisticated, this is cosmopolitan living in an exclusive riverfront setting with coveted deep water frontage and the much desired north to rear aspect.

M ICH E LLE PE RCIVAL 0404 466 500 michelle@percival.com.au

AYLA BAI LEY 0431 194 876 ayla@percival.com.au

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contents Issue 185 - August 2021 INTERVIEWS

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JESSICA FUSSELL

SURF LIFE SAVING

BEACH TO BROTHER

Jess’s life unfolded in ways she never imagined.

This incredibly strong young woman shares her story in all its vulnerabilities, and reminds us to be kind always and live life to the fullest!

Surf Life Saving Mid North Coast President Rod McDonagh tells us about the club’s history and its members who are dedicated to protecting those who enjoy our beaches.

Peta Alexopoulos and Belinda Johnson have joined forces to encourage us to get involved in the Beach to Brother Running Festival while fundraising for local cancer patients.

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

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 24. Vanessa Lawrence - Style Vibe Savvy 39. Nathan Tomkins - From the Shaker 42. Lou Perry - Palate Pleasures 44. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar 46. Alex Cassegrain - Grape Escape CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

ALISTAIR FLOWER

105. Michael Mowle - Business Voice 112. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate

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

t i ti t Follow us on 16 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

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Our credentials in the property industry are unrivalled.

Our team consists of some of the most skilled negotiators and highly regarded sales agents. It’s not unusual for companies to claim they have the best, but in our case, the results speak for themselves.

PORT MACQUARIE I WAUCHOPE I CAMDEN HAVEN I CRESCENT HEAD I KEMPSEY

62 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | PHONE 02 6584 1199 | elderslifestylegroup.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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WHAT'S

THE 3 RIVERS MINI MARATHON

AUGUST 2021

DREAMS, NIGHTMARES & REALITY EXHIBITION

DREAMS, NIGHTMARES AND REALITY presents historical anecdote, educational value and the artistic verve of individual stories. The works portray a sense of futility, inhumanity, brutality and contradictions from the exploratory survey of Oxley and the subsequent displacement of the BIRPAI People when establishing the Penal Colony, through to the first fleet settlers’ arrival from 1838 - Glenn Dick’s own ancestors arriving via “William the Fourth” in April 1841.

MID NORTH COAST WRITER'S CENTRE POETRY SLAM Tickets $45 Members, $50 Adults, $25 Students (10–17) ($5 from each ticket sold goes to Headspace Port Macquarie) Performance Registration $15 (Limit 20) Those performing on the night do not have to also purchase an attendee ticket.

Tickets on sale 12 July 2021 at The Glasshouse Port Macquarie.

This project is supported by the Community Grants Program provided by Port MacquarieHastings Council.

When Saturday 21 August 2021 5pm - 7.30pm Where The Studio at the Glasshouse, Clarence Street Port Macquarie NSW 2444

When 10 July - 05 September 2021 Artist Glenn Dick Where The Glasshouse

LAURIETON RIVERWALK MARKET Enjoy a bite to eat by the riverside, or get your kitchen in order with a range of fresh produce and gourmet foods to take home. With an extensive range of toys, clothes, fashion, plants, candles, perfumes, fishing gear, furniture and so much more you will love your day out at the Market.

When Sunday 15 August 2021 Where Bruce Porter Reserve, Tunis Street, Laurieton, New South Wales, 2443 18 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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This fun water event is for all self-propelled craft; rowboat, surf boat, kayak, surf ski, dragon boat, ocean ski, outrigger, SUP and canoe. The event is targeting the local and regional community and open to anyone over the age of 12, from the serious competitor to the casual paddler.

The event begins under the Telegraph Point Bridge (the old Pacific Highway Bridge), travels downstream via the Wilson, Maria and Hastings Rivers and finishes at the Port Macquarie Rowing Club off Hibbard Drive.

When 29 August 2021 (19 September in case of postponement) Where Telegraph Point bridge Registration https://www.revolutionise. com.au/pmrc/events/104017/

25 PANTHERS TAPP BAR

2021 MNC YOUTH WORKERS CONFERENCE

Kicking off monthly trivia with the iconic Sex and the City trivia night. Get your friends together and use your $25 discover voucher.

Free appetizers on arrival, best dressed and other prizes, themed cocktails, food specials.

A professional development workshop for youth workers on the Mid North Coast.

Tickets $99 at www.stickytickets.com.au Optional conference dinner at Blue Water Bar and Restaurant $55 Limited tickets available.

When Wednesday 25 August 7:00pm Bookings essential. Contact Club reception on 6580 2300

When 2 & 3 September 2021 Where Charles Sturt University, For more info call Deb 0437 761 363

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DAVID G R A Y

I'm here with David Gray, the owner of the Elders Lifestyle Group, to chat about his career and businesses.

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hank you, David, for joining me. So take me back to 1999. You’re living in Sydney and you get into Real Estate with the Perdis brothers.

How did that all come

about?

So firstly, I had left school and worked in the money market, which was really exciting, but just wasn’t quite for me, and then I spent a number of years managing restaurants. From an early age, I had thought about Real Estate, and it was actually a friend’s parents who talked me out of it when I was probably 18.

So I had already sort of been thinking about it. To me, it was sort of perfect, because you’d see them dressed nice, you’d see that they’d be in and out of an office. And it just seemed like a dynamic industry to join.

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decided to try your hand at auctioneering. take long before in 2009, you became What prompted you to get into that?

Auctioneer of the Year.

Damien Cooley’s Yes, that was a huge probably Australia’s best achievement. So it had auctioneer, everyone's been six months, my diet To me, it was seen him on The Block. was perfect, I exercised sort of So to see someone at like crazy, didn’t have a perfect, because the best at their craft, drink, and totally honed you'd see them I was motivated to see my craft. Yeah, it was a dressed nice, you’d how good I could get wonderful experience. see that they’d be in and to me this is the With that passion for and out of an office. ultimate type of selling real estate, you then And it just seemed because you haven’t met got into developing the buyer, haven’t met as well. It seems like like a dynamic the vendor before and a natural progression industry to join. within seconds, you’re for you. What are right in the middle of some of the standout the transaction. developments that you worked on in You obviously love that fast paced and Sydney? really energised environment and it didn’t My mentors that I was lucky enough to work

with were the Perdis brothers. They taught me all those aspects of property right through. it’s not how much you make doing real estate, We’re an industry that has a lot of pressure. it’s how much you make out of real estate.

Property managers being in the middle of the So property investment is a huge passion owner and the tenant, and then also dealing for me. Probably the with people’s homes. Being proudest building would able to help grow people is be a Marine Parade, The probably number one and We do a lot of Pavilions, we’d built 10 generally people are under personal apartments and eight a lot of pressure, so be able development at townhouses and it was to work with them in their Elders and we’ve got right on the coast, it skill set and in the sales was a very successful world, I don’t think there’s some of the best development. I was another industry where you coaches in the lucky enough to live can do so well out of so country in our there for a while. quickly if you work right. business regularly.

David you have It’s very rewarding. My clocked up over $100 mentors are the Perdis million worth of brothers – they are still development in Sydney. But Real Estate is great friends now. I learned many lessons from not just one of your passions, it is obviously them, what to do, and also what not to do. I your life. And you talk a lot about the always thought I could do it better. people in real estate too. So tell us a little So a lot of my drivers are from the 16 years bit about what it is about people in real with them and then going out and seeing what estate that you get excited about? we could create. They also strongly believed in Yeah, I think the first thing is talking about personal development. property. If I’m going to Noosa the first thing We do a lot of personal development at Elders I do is walk down the main street and look at and we’ve got some of the best coaches in the every single real estate window. You know, country in our business regularly. wherever I am, whatever I’m doing, I love the In 2016, you actually made the move to Port architecture, I love the investment potential of it, Macquarie to semi-retire, but before we

get into what actually did happen let’s talk about your family ties to the area.

Yeah my Dad was born and bred in Smithtown. So Dad to the age of 14 lived in Smithtown, and my grandfather was working at Nestle’s – it was a big part of their life. They’re the Grays and we’ve still got family in Kempsey.

And then there is the Bullins who travelled up here every year for the holidays. And I’ve been going to South West Rocks since I was little.

And then Mum’s family moved up.

Mum and Dad met Sydney when they were both about 16. But it’s just funny how their lives overlap. So the Grays and Bullins are a big part of this community.

Come 2016 you did move here to semiretire but ended up buying a business. And from there, it’s expanded exponentially – tell us about Elders Lifestyle Group and all of the business arms that come off it now.

Yeah, I think what one of my frustrations is that people might say that I’ve come up from Sydney with the intent to build a beast or to try and conquer the world, but it was quite the opposite.

I thought the property market in Sydney was going to slow so I came up here to get a little cash flow business and enjoy the lifestyle. And then I’ve just loved it ever since.

Continued over...

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Those lessons and all that time in real estate and learning about giving back is what I now want – I want to build a sustainable business that gives back. It’s a strong purpose piece and I love growing things.

We’ve been able to grow the Elders Lifestyle Group and now have a management team – we’ve now got a head of HR, we’ve now got a head of PM, we’ve just put on a sales mentor, we’ve got a GM, and we’ve got a head of IT. To actually build a sustainable business that can that can outlast and outgrow me and see the team get better than me. Not many people can say they’ve actually achieved a business that is sustainable.

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that mean something to me, like, there might be some things we might donate it a little bit of money, but like the big things like Luminosity, Self Seen, some of these amazing organisations, and like I say a lot of the time, we give money, but these people that donate their time.

I’m big part of the Port Boxing Club, and they’re very thankful that I’ve donated that space to them. But I’m not the ones that turn up, Monday, Wednesday, Friday night, not getting paid, going to the boxing camps and giving back. So I’m inspired by those people.

I used to be inspired by the At first it was a Richard Bransons of the world and bit of a self all those people, defence space – I lost but they’re not my brother when I for me, I say, “can I build my mentors any was 8 - so there was a sustainable business that more. I just love the makes an impact on our an anger piece there community people. team, but also the community and so to me, it was a You did mention as well?” real outlet to be able that you’ve Elders has had a huge to get to boxing. donated the space impact on our communities at the boxing gym, over the years. And for them to have you’ve now got offices for their business, but you’re also really stretching from Casino to Laurieton – 11 of into boxing as well.

You say the science and them – which as you say has a really strong the beauty of boxing is what drew you into team, strong passion, strong purpose. But it.

And all this after being heavily bullied it is about giving back as well, can you in school, so tell us a little bit about your talk me through some of the ways that journey there. your business has managed to help our I went to an all boys school and growing up I community? think boys can be quite cruel. At first it was a bit Being able to involve ourselves in the events

of a self defence space – I lost my brother when I was eight – so there was an anger piece there and so to me, it was a real outlet to be able to get to boxing.

But once I realised it wasn’t about anger, or even the self defence side of it, it’s now that the science and the art of boxing is beautiful.

What I love is that when you walk into a boxing gym, it doesn’t matter – nationality, age, all those type of things. It’s one on one, it’s in a ring and you’re both even.

You’ve been training really hard for a Masters Tournament that was going to happen in August. But unfortunately you’ve sustained an injury.

How was training I love the going up until that, freedom of and what are you focused on now? being able to go Let’s talk about your Training was going places, more than hobby though, which really well, I never probably the is flying. When did that felt better. And then I technical side of start? injured my hamstring It was probably over 10 the actual flying. and then like anything years ago, I started flying It’s what it can life gets to you – so I and then at the same time offer my lifestyle. think that’s one of the I bought another business things to share is that and I couldn’t get to and for all of us you can be from Bankstown. So I can as motivated as possible, but you know, when get to Bankstown in 40 minutes, but it’s like an you get an obstacle it can slow you up – but I’m hour and a half to get back to do the training. certainly back training now.

So I gave it a miss for a while.

I’m looking forward to November and if it And then it’s still taken me three years up here doesn’t happen in November, it’s definitely in Port to complete the training. I’ve now got going to happen at some time. I’ve been there my Recreational Pilot Licence and am enjoying flying around the skies and am lucky enough to before and can’t wait to get back in there.

have bought a plane and I am looking forward to flying to my other offices now.

You obviously love the freedom that flying can achieve for you. What about the technical side of it? Obviously, there must have been a lot to learn?

Yeah, so a lot of the theory I’ve still got to do – like navigation – and I need to spend more time on that.

I love the freedom of being able to go places, more than probably the technical side of the actual flying. It’s what it can offer my lifestyle.

Lastly, as a man in business, what sort of tips do you have for those who are striving to achieve their best and have big goals?

Yeah, I think one of the best quotes is that we all overestimate what we can do in a year, but underestimate what we can do in 10.

So I think it’s a patience game, and you need to be constantly looking at yourself. I personally still have a business coach. There’s stuff in my life that I’m working on and seeing different specialists to become a better human.

I think at times I’ve probably beaten myself up and been too critical, I think it’s really about enjoying the journey. People say ‘What's next?’ or ‘How much more?’ to me, it's not about accumulation.

Am I enjoying this journey right now? And to me, it’s ‘Yeah, the journey that I'm enjoying’ I don't have a destination.

Thanks David.

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focus_contributor.

Vibe S AV V Y

with VANESSA LAWRENCE FROM THE STYLE VIBE

Hi everyone! I’m so glad to be back this month as I celebrate one year of the Style Vibe Savvy! I am incredibly grateful to the crew at Focus for the opportunity to connect with you on all things fashion, business and branding. This month I would like to use this platform to promote some of our awesome local fashion retailers!

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he best part about sharing this with you is that YOU can help.

Your support can turn a bad day into a great day for one of these businesses and most of all, your support will encourage small business owners to keep going – even through the hard times and to keep smiling.

On Trend & Different: MAINSTORE Visit Simone and Matt to get the very latest uber-cool looks in Port. Located in Sunset Parade these guys have created a unique little clothing/lifestyle store stocking women’s and men’s fashion along with Matt’s incredible photo gallery, gorgeous jewellery, exclusive personal care products and so much more. This store is my go-to to be inspired. Drop in for a look or a whole outfit – you will not be disappointed!

The Fabrics: CHARLIZE ROSE If you are into quality and great smart casual styles drop in and see Janet at Charlize Rose!

One of the things I love most about Charlize Rose is the great range of brands and the fact that so many garments work 24 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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beautifully to complement each other.

Seasonal colour trends run right through the store and encompasses the PMAC lifestyle showcasing a collection of fabulous garments, beautiful accessories and lovely homeware at very reasonable prices.

Old School: INNERVISION No surprise in these guys getting a mention, they are one of Port Mac’s oldest and most iconic destination surf stores. Matt, Shell, Jess and Lisa are the friendly faces that greet you providing the most genuine customer service around, stocking a heap of traditional surfwear and accessories along with some exclusive alternative brands too. Here you can always find a great hoody, pair of boardies, cool shoes, a massive range of Yeti products (the perfect pressie for anyone!) and get sound advice on anything scooters and skate. This is and has always been a family-owned and operated business and these guys are always 110% dedicated to serving you.

Park out the front and pop in to check out their great range – 80 William Street.

Stylish & Staples: PORT HORIZONS If you have not been to Port Horizons (Hayward St up from Coles) you are missing

out! Wendy and Donna are two of the nicest ladies in PMAC! Stocking great staples along with dresses, knits, tops and pants sized 8-20. Port Horizon also stocks accessories, cute knick-knacks and jewellery and is definitely worth a visit!

Unfortunately, as my column can only be 600 words along with above retailers, I would like to do a massive shout out to these other wonderful stores too. Pretty Rad, Lilly Rose Design, Arthouse Industries, Meg & Me, Saltwater Wine, Stormriders and Heidi Beau.

A shout out to some of our wonderful beauty and hair services too, Alana Roper Lashes, Plum Hair Studio, Aqua Vitae, Get Fresh Nails, Elise Fox Injectables, Danielle Geary Brows just to name a few!

Our local businesses need your support right now so why not grab a cool G.Activewear mask this weekend and do a bit of ‘Christmas in July’ shopping or purchase a gift voucher? I know our small business owners would really appreciate it and it really is a win/win situation, ‘Support Local & Get Sorted Early!’

Big hugs to you all, Vanessa Jane xxx

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focus_interview

With life unfolding in ways Jessica Fussell had never imagined, through it all a symbol of fortitude has emerged. This incredibly strong young woman shares her story in all its vulnerabilities, reminds us to be kind always and live life to the fullest

to think too much about it, I was only 33 after all and had no family history of breast cancer, so I thought I was catastrophising when that thought entered my head. I did still go to the doctor though, as obviously it had to be something (I pinned my hopes on a cyst). She sent me for an ultrasound that day, and the next followed a core biopsy, and I was diagnosed within the week and starting chemo the week after that. It was all very fast. The number of times I have had other patients and professionals say to me “you’re very young” was a huge amount. I was incredibly impressed by the very smooth way our medical system can operate when something is urgent.

After what was a very quick timeline from diagnosis to Due to where treatment, you started the lymph node on a typical protocol Life took a rather big was situated it was a treatment and ended turn in your journey tricky surgery that up also having at just 33 years old. immunotherapy. Take was going to require In August 2019 you us through that first them to crack my were diagnosed journey. sternum, making for with Triple Negative Yes within two weeks a much longer and Breast Cancer. Can I was having my first harder recovery. you take us back to round of chemo. My that moment when husband came with me everything changed. and we laughed and I found a lump in my breast one day joked with the nurses. I also met one of my whilst lying on my back. At first I tried not “breasties” that day, another young woman

i Fussell

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ife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Friend, WARRIOR. This is how I will introduce you to our readers. Jess, tell us about the woman behind the name...

Haha well, I don't know that I have anything to add to that! Just like all the women in the world, I wear many hats with pride and love.

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But weirdly, this diagnosis freed me of some of that fear. I made a decision, with the help of many amazing people, that I would be a miracle, and that I would replace fear with love.

going through breast cancer, who was on her second round, and she became a very special friend and lifeline over the last two years.

Since that first day I have had six different types of chemo via a Port-a-cath, varying side effects which included having to have an angiogram on my birthday, immunotherapy, two surgeries, and three rounds of radiation.

While things also changed in the outside world during early 2020, you were home recuperating and rebuilding. Your surgeon requested, against regular protocol, that you have a surveillance scan. This came back showing a cancerous lymph node in the chest wall. He then referred you to the best cardiothoracic surgeon in NSW. What surgery was performed to help remove the tumour?

Yes, I have the most incredible medical team, and my surgeon that removed my lump referred me to a cardiothoracic surgeon at the RPA. Due to where the lymph node was situated it was a tricky surgery that was going to require them to crack my sternum, making for a much longer and harder recovery. Dr Tao advocated on my behalf that he be able to perform surgery using a robot, therefore making it less invasive and with a quicker recovery time. It was such an amazing surgery that my original breast surgeon sat in on it

just to watch, and shared pictures of it with me the next day! When the medical team all trudged in the next morning I told them I wanted to go home that afternoon, and they laughed and said they had never seen a patient with a chest drain say that before, but sure enough I got let out that afternoon. All thanks to Dr Tao and his awesome team.

After that September 2020 surgery, you mentioned that you felt a niggling pain in your chest and you were sent for further scans. What happened that day in the Doctor's Office.

Yes, I had a weird pain in one of my ribs.

My oncologist is incredible, and has always listened to me and allowed my intuition to have a place. So when I said something didn't feel right, she listened. She sent me for a PET scan and it showed that I had 3 metastatic nodules in my lungs, 2 small ones in my right lung, and one tiny one in my left.

My radiation oncologist delivered the news to my husband and I. She is another amazing woman I feel so blessed to have on my team, and that was a tough day for everyone. My greatest fear had come into realisation, a stage 4 diagnosis. I just remember barely being able to breathe, and apologising to my husband over and over again, with so much meaning behind that sorry. Sorry that this is

the way life had gone for us, sorry that he was having to go through this, sorry that he may have to be widower and single dad at such a young age, sorry that I couldn't to better and be better, sorry to myself that this was happening to me, sorry to my doctor that she had to have this dreadful conversation, sorry that I would have to go home and break my Mum’s heart all over again, just a lot of sorrowful sorries.

Talk to me about the fears, the vulnerabilities and anxiety that existed here after such trauma.

Well death had been something I had thought a lot about by this stage, 17 months into my cancer journey. I had experienced extreme anxiety around dying and all that had entailed, and probably traumatised a few of my closest people along the way. I gave my husband instructions on what kind of person he was allowed to remarry, and I told my best friend a dream she had meant I was going to die. But weirdly, this diagnosis freed me of some of that fear. I made a decision, with the help of many amazing people, that I would be a miracle, and that I would replace fear with love. I actively worked towards that goal everyday, and still make that decision every day still. >>> GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Please share the next step of treatment...

My radiation doctor Carmen mapped the tumours in my lungs and managed to deliver a high dose of radiation to the nodules in my lungs, as I said, she is an amazing person.

She is the most gentle, kind human, and even though she never flat out said it, I know it was a truly genius thing to be able to achieve, hitting those small moving targets.

Being the amazing woman that you are, you decided to own your story, and look at cancer a little differently. Can you share what changed and how you intrinsically balanced out both the medical world and a holistic one?

From that horrible day in that office, I decided I would be open to everything and anything, truly recognising there was no line drawn in the sand, and that I could walk both worlds of medicine. I researched a lot, and really went within myself, learning to lean into my intuition as much as possible, and if something felt right, to take a leap of faith. I saw Dr Simon Feehney, a local Chinese medicine doctor and he guided me in many other approaches. I saw another lady Margareet from My Ayurvedic Yogini, who healed my soul as well as my body, and had 28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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I have done so many amazing things because that’s why we come here right? To have all the experiences and do all of the things, you only live once so you have to live it well!

sessions with Megan from Inner World Vision, shining a light on all of the parts of me that needed healing.

I started doing Yoga more frequently, finally understood and learnt to love meditation, prayed to and with many different beliefs and understood the oneness of everything.

I fasted, I listened to and read Joe Dispenzo.

And I BELIEVED that this would not own me. I learnt to surrender and release my fear, and my perspective on cancer changed.

Instead of the anger and fear I held around this happening to me, I held love and acceptance. I even have a drawing on my wall in my lounge room that a beautiful friend drew for me of an upside down love heart representative of 2 breasts. It has scars just like me and all over are the reasons I have to thank cancer. Strength, community, resilience, sisterhood, depth of gratitude, tribe, deepened spirituality, perspective, inspiration, love. And YOLO became my motto. I have done so many amazing things because that’s why we come here right? To have all the

experiences and do all of the things, you only live once so you have to live it well!

After learning to lean into your intuition and faith, and after no systemic treatments following the stage 4 diagnosis, where does your diagnosis sit now?

My last scan results were great. My Oncologist called me with the great news and it was honestly the most surreal feeling in the world. I have such a great relationship with all my doctors and am so grateful for everything they have done and continue to do for me, and I was so happy that we could finally have a GOOD conversation, and some positive news! I wanted to shout it from the rooftops, but I just made a lot of calls, and sent a lot of messages. My poor Dad is hesitant to answer my phone calls now, as I have broken his heart a few times, but this was a good day. And sharing the news with my husband Todd and my Mum and my two children will forever be one of my happiest memories. My Mum and Todd have supported me in a way that blows

expectations. The way people stand with you through something like this is so important, and I had an entire community rally behind me. It blows my mind just thinking about it.

You share, in all your beautiful vulnerability, your journey, feelings and experiences on your socials – Rainbow Petals. This space has also grown during your journey. Tell us about it I have been crocheting since I was 7 years old, having been taught by my Oma. I went quiet on my page for a little while when I got sick. Losing my hair was incredibly sad for me.

We place so much value as a society on what a person looks like, and I had nowhere to hide with a bald head. I could feel the stares as I did my grocery shopping with my 3 and 5 year old, and everyone would feel such sympathy for me. I felt so vulnerable, so I decided to take back my power and own what I was going through. I posted my first wool + selfie pic in November 2019, and people were so supportive and kind. From there Rainbow Petals has become more than just a crochet page, it has become this amazing community. I have shared parts of myself and parts of my story in a very open way. I have raised awareness and money for breast cancer charities and other charities. I think it’s important to normalise all the parts of life that may be scary. I certainly knew nothing about breast cancer before my diagnosis, and would have been staring at me in the shops along with everyone else. If something I share helps just one person then that is perfect. I

made a bald doll one day, and shared her on the page. I experienced an instant vulnerability hangover. The things I find hardest to share though are often the things that touch people deeply. She was so loved and well received, and I have had the honour of recreating her for other special people. I feel so blessed to share my journey and my creativity with other people, to both inspire and be inspired.

What has cancer taught you?

It has taught me to do life in the best kind of way. Love hard and express your love, keep your perspective on what is truly important and try not to sweat the small stuff. Our body, mind and soul are so resilient, I have bounced back from so much treatment and trauma and shown strength I never knew I had.

Community is so important and when it rallies behind you, in all of the ways that it can, you feel so held and so seen. Gratitude is so important, and when you need a perspective shift you can find it with gratitude, we all have things to be grateful for, cancer just shone a

light on what I have to be thankful for.

If you could, can you put into words the love and gratitude for your husband, family and friends and community?

Oh my, well I don’t think there are enough words in the English language for that! My husband is the most amazing man, I am truly blessed to have him. I wish that life had been more gentle on him and my Mum, because sometimes I think it’s even harder for the support people, feeling so helpless. Every day I was so grateful that it was me and not my children, and yet that was the reality my Mum was faced with everyday. I only hope that they know how much they mean to me because words aren’t enough. I have not a single negative word to say about anyone, from family to friend, community and strangers. I have received so much support and can only hope that I can shine my light somehow in some way to repay the world for its kindness.

Where to next?

Well the sky is the limit really isn’t it! I hope to be able to use this life experience to help others. The cancer community is so amazing, and you are embraced with open arms the second you are a part of it. I hope to extend that kindness and help other women facing such big fears. And I would LOVE to write a book one day, because #YOLO Thanks Jess.

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SURF LIFE S A V I N G

MID NORTH COAST

Surf Life Saving Mid North Coast is set for a big season.

President Rod McDonagh shares a li le about the clubs history and its members who are dedicated to protecting those who surf and swim at the beach.

H

i Rod. Take us back to the beginning. Tell us about the history of Surf Life Saving Mid North Coast.

Surf life saving clubs have officially been operating on the Mid North Coast since 1919. The Surf Life Saving Mid North Coast Branch (SLSMNC) was formed in 1929 and now consists of eight clubs, Macksville-Scotts Head, South West Rocks, Hat Head, Kempsey-Crescent Head, Port Macquarie, Tacking Point, WauchopeBonny Hills and Camden Haven, covering 180km of coastline. Each Club is unique and all members are commended for the volunteer role they play.

The goal posts have changed many times over the years, but part of the success and sustainability is the resilience of our members, and the can-do attitude of club committees.

How has surf life saving evolved and where do you see it heading in the future?

Originally surf life saving was about saving lives on the beaches over the summer period and surf carnivals. It was also a way to keep fit for many during the off season of rugby league, cricket and other sports. It was traditionally surf club in the summer and football in the winter. Surf Life Saving has 30 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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produced many great sportsmen in many fields. The involvement of women has been monumental to the success of the movement and this year officially marks 40 of years of women in life saving, but the wives and girlfriends have had a major contribution for a lot longer than that. Obviously the Nippers are a big part of what we do, which provides skills for our kids into the future.

As things have evolved, our commitment remains to provide aquatic safety to the community, and sport and development programs for our members. An integral part of our operations in the past few years has been the escalation of our role as an Emergency Service providing a 24/7 Emergency Response Group which includes highly trained duty officers and other support personnel. All Clubs within the Branch are on call to provide assistance with emergency responses as well as assisting in local disasters such as the recent floods and, before that, bushfires.

Who are some of the key volunteers?

Even though our core role is to provide volunteer patrols to our local beaches, there are also many other opportunities to help out, if getting your feet wet is not your thing.

Some of the different volunteer roles include: being a volunteer surf lifesaver who patrols our

beaches, become a First Aider or UAV (drone) Pilot. If competition is your thing there are opportunities to compete, coach or officiate.

SLSMNC and our Clubs are also always looking for extra hands around the clubhouse by way of Committee Members or Support Crew who help out with special projects, maintenance or lending a hand on the fundraising BBQ. The more the better and the opportunities are endless and provide a great social atmosphere.

Every parent wants their child to be happy, healthy and active. There is no better place for this than surf life saving and nippers. What's available to the younger generation and how can locals get involved?

All Clubs within the Port Macquarie-Hastings area offer Nipper programs throughout the season. Our Junior Education is an important part of the Nipper experience, with our younger members learning about beach safety, signals, how to spot and rip, basic first aid and resuscitation. Our Nippers can also participate in aspects of traditional surf lifesaving activities such beach and water events, competing either individually or as a team.

Many of our Nippers have gone onto bigger and better things which was evident this past season with a Taylah Moffitt from Kempsey-

Crescent Head becoming the NSW Junior Lifesaver of the year, an amazing achievement.

Most importantly they learn skills for life.

What are the benefits of being involved in the surf club and how do I become a member?

Surf Life Saving teaches people skills for life, and many people dedicate their life to this great organisation. We have members from 6 years old to 80 and beyond, it is an amazing experience to see people across all age groups and different life situations come together.

There is no class distinction within surf clubs, one day you might be on patrol with the local doctor, or bricklayer or school teacher, it is a great leveller. The high regard and level of All Clubs within training provided by surf the Branch are on lifesaving assists many young people with career call to provide opportunities. assistance with How important is financial assistance emergency responses as community support for helps us educate well as assisting in local Surf Life Saving ? beach goers and allow disasters such as the Surf Life Saving Clubs us to operate to our recent floods and, are at the heart of many full capacity as an before that, bushfires. local communities and Emergency Service. But deliver more than just an it is more than that, it on-beach safety service. allows us to facilitate Our clubs offer training, education, recreation, avenues for our youth, provide facilities for a place to socialise and give people a sense of our members and the broader community. Our purpose and belonging.

Clubs are involved in many community projects The support we receive from local away from the beach and the interaction communities either through volunteering or with other community groups is all part of

volunteerism.

What are the top five tips you would like to give everyone heading to the beach?

1- Swim Between the Red and Yellow Flags The lifeguards have chosen a section of the beach that’s best for swimming and they’ll closely supervise this area.

2 - Read the Safety Signs - This will ensure you’re aware of any warnings or dangers on the beach.

3 - Ask a Lifesaver or Lifeguard for Safety Advice - Lifeguards are highly trained and very knowledgeable about beach safety and conditions.

4 - Swim with a Friend - While you’re swimming together you can keep an eye out for each other.

5 - If You Need Help, Stay Calm and Attract Attention - Even the most careful people can find themselves out of their limits in the water.

Stay calm, raise your arm in the air and wave it from side to side.

Each Club will be hosting some form of Open Day or Sign On Days for senior or junior members before the start of the season in September. For further information visit your Club’s website: Port Macquarie SLSC - www.pmslsc.com.au Tacking Point SLSC - www.tpslsc.com.au Wauchope-Bonny Hills SLSC - www. wbhslsc.org.au Camden Haven SLSC - www. camdenhavenslsc.com.au/ Thanks Rod. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Magnificent program for 2021 tour. The Australian Tenors’ versatility spans all genres of the classical tenor repertoire.

The Australian Tenors unite in this wonderful concert with a dynamic display of true Australian talent.

Audiences are thrilled by the everpopular classical arias from the popular Operas such as the tenor Trademark Puccini - Nessun Dorma, Verdi’s-Anvil Chorus to popular tenor songs from Man of La Mancha, The Impossible Dream – Les Miserables, Do You Hear The People Sing & Neapolitan favourites Funiculi Funicular. The Australian Tenors also delight audiences with songs from hit music theatre productions and their stirring rendition of The Hallelujah Chorus. Beautiful duets

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are also a part of the program including Phantom of The Opera & The Pearl Fishers.

Proudly Australian, their performance is never complete without delighting audiences with a sing-along of Australiana songs. The ever-popular, ‘Waltzing Matilda’, the iconic poem

by Dorothea Mackellar, ‘Australia My Country’ set to music, with a didgeridoo opening, which evoke love and spirit of connection, ‘I Am Australian’, I Still Call Australia Home, Road To Gundagai among other favourites. This adds a very patriotic musical segment to the performance.

PETA

PINSON

SHARON

GRIFFITHS

DANIELLE

MALTMAN

Current Mayor Peta Pinson is a proven community warrior.

As the civic leader of the Port Macquarie Hastings over the last four years, Peta has lead the community through a crucial drought period, bushfires like never before, a world-wide pandemic and devastating floods. Peta is re-standing for mayor and also councillor in this election with the support of Team Pinson to continue to lead the community into more prosperous times.

Councillor Sharon Griffiths will contest her third successive election and brings nine-years’ experience as a councillor, is a proven, valuable and trusted community representative and has more than 30 years’ experience as a small business owner in the Hastings.

Danielle Maltman is a former citizen of the year nominee, has a strong background working with State and Federal Government Agencies as a community and industry representative and more recently, President of the Revive Lake Cathie volunteer community-driven initiative.

ADAM

ROBERTS

Adam Roberts is an internationally awarded cook and author, brand ambassador, content creator and freelance strategic business consultant to the food industry. Adam represented the Port Macquarie Hastings community from 2012-2016 as an elected councillor and served a term as deputy mayor after owning and operating multiple small businesses in the region.

Josh Slade is a solutionsfocussed young entrepreneur, transport company owner with dozens of employees, a community project coordinator and has a strong history of working with multiple local sporting groups.

JOSH

SLADE

NO RAT RISES E

DIRECTION. DELIVERY. LEADERSHIP Authorised by Peta Pinson, 3 Mahala Close Bonny Hills NSW 2445 Photos were taken by Focus photographer on Tuesday 21st July.

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ADVERTISEMENT

JONBailey

To find out more search: @jbailey4PMHC

JON BAILEY IS THROWING HIS HAT IN THE RING to be elected as a councillor for the community.

Jon, please introduce yourself to our readers? I started my working life as an apprentice boilermaker before somehow falling into Television, and I’ve been behind the lens for 36 years. Happily married to a local girl for 35 years with 2 wonderful young adult children who were born and raised in the Hastings. I’ve participated in many local sports as a player, coach and referee and made lifelong friends along the way.

If you are successful what will be your priorities for our region? I want to get our infrastructure up to speed with our growing population.

My top 3 priorities are: Our road network - it’s under increasing pressure and needs immediate attention.

Sporting facilities - they’re bursting at the seams with increasing junior numbers in all codes across the region.

Camden Haven River pollution - stormwater and sewage overflow into our river when it rains hard, closing our oyster industry.

What would you like to achieve for our area within the next 4 years? All of the above would be ideal. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get projects started that have been spoken about for decades.

Our region is one of the fastest-growing on the coast. Wauchope and The Camden Haven will be under increasing pressure in coming years, we need to plan ahead for our beautiful region so generations to come can experience the lifestyle we are so lucky to have. We can’t hold back the tide of population growth, but we can certainly get the infrastructure right and strategically plan for the future. Let’s not leave a mess for the next generation to clean up.

What are you passionate about? I’m certainly invested and passionate about our community and our environment. The Camden Haven, Wauchope and Port Macquarie populations have increased dramatically, and we’re at a point now where we really need to get it right for our community and future generations. Our business community has endured the worst few years in living memory and need all the help they can get. From accommodation to cafes, restaurants and retailers right across our region, they’re really struggling at the moment. "Shop Local, Buy Local" is a great slogan, but we all need to support the lifeblood of our economy - Local Families employing local people. They need our support right now.

Feel the warmth of friendship Enjoy the comfort of living in your own home within our welcoming independent seniors rental community.

Take a virtual tour today or call our friendly Community Manager on 6581 5223, and discover why our residents feel so secure and connected.

SCAN TO TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR NOW 12 SHERIFF WAY, PORT MACQUARIE ingeniagardens.com.au 34 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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VOT E 1

PETA PINSON FOR MAYOR & TEAM PINSON FOR COUNCIL

Let me start by thanking our amazing Port Macquarie-Hastings community for granting me the privilege of serving you as your mayor over the last four years.

In my time as mayor I have shared many challenges with you, including drought which saw us almost run out of water, a bushfire season like no other, global pandemic and, most recently, devastating floods. Through all of that, I’ve been in awe of the sheer grit and determination we all have as a community.

On the council front, I’ve had to work extremely hard to fully understand the unique views of our diverse community and then do whatever I could in my power to represent what I believed to be the wishes of the majority, in the various pockets of our region.

As you may well have seen, I’m a person who wears my heart on my sleeve and I’ve given everything I have to fighting vigorously for the benefit of our community on issues large and small that have been important to you.

I genuinely have the view that we are at a point in time where as a community we have a massive opportunity to reset the council agenda, and choose not only capable but community-focussed councillors, in order to deliver on the expectations that our community has now and into the future.

What I would ask of you is that you give me the opportunity to work with former Deputy Mayor Adam Roberts, councillor Sharon Griffiths and community champions Danielle Maltman and Josh Slade who are running with me as councillor candidates under the banner of Team Pinson in the council election.

In the previous two elections I have run as a solo candidate but, being wiser, I now fully appreciate and understand the need to be working with a more positive, can-do-attitude team and I have been busy working with my chosen five on a strategy to ensure that the new council delivers effectively and efficiently.

As your popular choice for mayor last election, I am asking you again for your support by trusting me with your vote for the upcoming mayoral election. I can’t tell you how excited I am to announce that I have the full support of a team of councillor candidates and genuine community champions who I know are more than capable of delivering on key and critical infrastructure needs, whilst also dealing with the social and economic issues facing our area.

Together, if elected, Team Pinson and I plan to freeze all rate peg rises for the full three-year term. This will ensure council will focus on delivering to our community the expected infrastructure within budget and in a timely

manner.

Council has a healthy stockpile of almost $338M which has accumulated over many years and, strategically, Team Pinson will ensure many millions of dollars will be directed to much-needed critical infrastructure and projects.

Team Pinson is firmly focussed on getting back to the Tidy Towns approach to parks, gardens and road corridors which will deliver a sense of pride to our residents in our many towns and villages. Team Pinson will also be strategic in planning solutions to road network issues and maintenance backlogs.

Because this next term of council is shorter than usual, it is vitally important that we hit the ground running and transition to a new and very capable council so we don’t lose valuable time.

As your current mayor, my door has always been open and if re-elected, that will not change.

Further, if you elect my whole team to support me, there’ll be more sleeves rolled up, more ears to listen and more community champions on council for the benefit of our community.

For more information on my campaign, check out my Team Pinson Facebook page.

DIRECTION. DELIVERY. LEADERSHIP

Authorised by Peta Pinson, 3 Mahala Close Bonny Hills NSW 2445 Photos were taken by Focus photographer on Tuesday 21st July.

NO RATE RISES

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DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH LAMB SHANK WITH CHASSEUR SAUCE, MASH POTATO AND BEANS FROM HASTINGS HOTEL

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Your local Club

PORT CIT Y BOWLING CLUB

$ 2 0 W E E K LY SPECIALS STEAK & SCHOONER SUNDAY CHICKEN SCHNITZEL TUESDAY PROPER ROAST THURSDAY LUNCH 11.3OAM  2PM DINNER FROM 5.30PM

Bookings Essential 4 O W E N S T P O R T M A C Q U A R I E | P 6 5 8 3 1 1 3 3 | P O R T C I T Y. C O M . A U

The only thing better than good food is great food with water views 1 Bay Street, Port Macquaire (02) 6580 2300 portmacquarie.panthers.com.au

Open for lunch and dinner Menu subject to change without notice GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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SEASON

BLOOD

sour INGREDIENTS

60ml Four Pillars Gin 30ml cold press blood orange 10ml Yuzu juice 45ml Sugar syrup 30ml egg white (optional aquafaba) METHOD

1. Dry shake egg whites, then add ice and all ingredients, shake well.

2. Double strain into glass and garnish with dried blood orange round.

Whalebone’s Cure for Covid. See you soon

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THE

MILKBAR

W

ho is the team at the Milkbar?

Alison and I have been the owners at Milkbar since November 2019. We are fortunate enough to have two qualified chefs behind our great food – Les and Belinda.

Les is also our Café Manager who has also had many years working in the hospitality industry as a café owner. The rest of the team is made up of friendly casual staff who love bringing the best coffee and service to our customers.

Tell us about your background in hospitality.

I have over 18 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, having owned and operated several retail food businesses in numerous locations on the Mid North Coast. During this time I have employed hundreds of local young people.

Prior to the purchase of Milkbar, Alison and I purchased and continue to run a business in the construction industry.

What is the Milkbar best known for, what are some of the favourites on the menu?

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We try to keep the menu fresh and healthy which compliments the great lifestyle Port Macquarie brings.

There are a number of favourites that our customers come back for, including our Smoothie bowls with home made granola and our baked eggs, however, our best seller would have to be the scrambled egg with avocado and sourdough.

Customers love adding their favourite extras including bacon, mushrooms or roasted tomato.

Tell us about the coffee you serve.

We are so fortunate to be in partnership with a local Mid North Coast roaster from Maclean – Botero Coffee Roasters. We have so many compliments on the great flavour this coffee brings which is a combination of our great Baristas and Botero flavours.

When it comes to ideas for the menu, where does the inspiration come from?

When it comes to menu items and ideas, we encourage our chefs and café staff to contribute their own ideas. We often have weekly specials for our customers to try, which can end up on our regular menu. We are lucky enough to have a team of staff who are always

keen to add their own suggestions. We try to keep the menu fresh and healthy which compliments the great lifestyle Port Macquarie brings.

What local produce do you use at the Milkbar?

We use a number of local suppliers including honey from the Beekeeper, Black Market Bagels, Nambucca macadamia nuts, Kenny Little’s fresh produce, Botero Coffee, The Bread Basket and Urban Grain. Norco milk from our friendly milko who also supplies local eggs and small goods. We are also so fortunate to be able to sell delicious treats from Michelle at For Flavours Sake.

For those who haven’t experienced the Milkbar yet what are they missing out on?

From what our customers say, the best coffee in Port. The location, which is perfect all year round and our healthy and delicious menu options. Also being served by our awesome friendly staff. If you don’t have time to drop in we also now offer home delivery through Menulog and Doordash.

F E T TA

Baked

EGGS INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Baby spinach

1. Layer pan with baby spinach

Poached eggs

2. Place two poached eggs on top of spinach

Semi dried tomatoes

3. Add semi dried tomatoes on top of eggs

Chopped shallots

4. Sprinkle with chopped shallots & crumbled fetta

Fetta

5. Cover with Milkbar egg mix and bake for 10 mins

Milkbar mix

6. Serve with sourdough

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focus_contributor.

Palate PLEASURES with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

I

G R AT E F UL

t’s hard to know where to start this month, given the strange, frustrating and seemingly unrelenting times we are in the midst of. There’s no more important time to summon that old and tested adage “This too, shall pass”. Whilst it might feel as if each passing day is Groundhog, and then some, days stretching to weeks and now into months, there is indeed an end point somewhere.

So, in an effort to lift above this flatness of mood that seems to have perpetuated this winter of 2021, it is worth taking the glass half full approach and having a think about all the very many things there still are to be very grateful for.

As our state of NSW faces its biggest challenge yet, within a spate of relentless other hurdles over the last couple of years, we can only strive to invoke some kind of silver lining to get us through. Luckily for us here in the Mid North Coast right now (touch wood, cross fingers and all of that), we’ve been incredibly fortunate so far.

So when it comes to being grateful there’s an enormous list of everyday, normal little things we get to do with ease and freedom every single day. Like going to work, like sending our kids to school, watching them play sport, being able to browse in a shop, sit in a 42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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As a small business, relying on a constant flow of Sydney visitors like many others in our region, we certainly are feeling the effects of the current restrictions.

café, visit our elderly relatives, have a few friends over! The list goes on and while it’s still possible to do all these things, let’s just do them. As we’re so painfully aware at the moment, it could all change at any time.

As a small business, relying on a constant flow of Sydney visitors like many others in our region, we certainly are feeling the effects of the current restrictions. But once again, there’s really no better time have to think about being really, extremely grateful for the fact that we can still have bums on seats. That in itself is worth celebrating each and every day that we navigate this terrible uncertainty.

There’s one thing that comes to mind when thinking ‘grateful’, one thing to be more grateful for than anything else… That thing is you.

You know who you are – just someone who lives in this beautiful town, and supports local business. Someone who lends their support and loyalty even when times are tough, even when we can’t offer you the same proposition that we used to.

Port Macquarie, you’ve proven time and time again that you care for your community and those in it.

For us personally, we’ve once again been very much humbled by all the support you’ve given us not only recently, but every single day.

And just being able to see your faces, when you join us for a lunch or a dinner…

We know you care, and many of you are reaching out and supporting businesses all over town, whether it be getting on board with take away options, buying gift vouchers, or just deciding to eat out rather than stay home.

Every little bit helps a whole lot, and I think I can speak for many hospitality businesses – we are extremely grateful, and extremely fortunate to be living here, in this place, at this time.

We surely will get through this mess of a time, as we have with so many other challenges within our community.

We will emerge stronger and more resilient than ever as individuals, and as a community at large.

With thanks from the bottom of our hearts to you all, we’re so incredibly grateful for all you do to help us keep doing what we do.

Warmest regards, The Stunned Mullet Team.

New Menu COME TRY OUR

WITH A NEW VIEW

4 O W E N S T P O R T M A C Q U A R I E | P 6 5 8 3 1 1 3 3 | P O R T C I T Y. C O M . A U GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BARNABÁS

BENE PRESIDENT OF THE PORT MACQUARIE ROWING CLUB

i t F RONT

BAR with

ALISTAIR F L O W E R

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

Alistair Flower, Managing Director of Flower Hotels chats to wonderful humans within our community. This month he caught up with International Rowing Champion & Port Macquarie Rowing Club president, Barnabás Bene.

B

arny, you’re not originally from Port, tell us a bit about yourself?

I am originally from Hungary, I have been here for 2 years now.

I came over to visit a friend in Sydney and fell in love with Australia. I moved to Port Macquarie to pursue a job as an Au Pair for a local family.

Recently I’ve been busy training for the Iron Man, that unfortunately was cancelled for the 4th time. I’ve started playing in a local jazz band and am also the President for the Port Macquarie Rowing Club.

Have you always had a passion for rowing? What are your greatest rowing achievements?

My mother was a great rower, and my sister follower her footsteps. I followed my sister to all of her rowing competitions. I started rowing in my last year of high school, I quickly became competitive.

I was the Hungarian National Champion in 2015, in 2019 I won the International Rowing Regatta in Slovenia.

Here in Australia received first place in the National Indoor Rowing Championships in 2019.

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Tell us about your role in the Port seen a lot of interest from students and we are Macquarie Rowing Club? excited to be growing our club.

I joined the club as a social member, and The Port Macquarie Rowing Club has its then found my way onto the committee. After annual major event coming up ‘3 Rivers 8 months the long term Marathon’. What does president stepped down, and this event mean to the I love teaching I was asked to take on the rowing club? people the skills job. It’s a big job but one I 3 Rivers Marathon is a of rowing, I enjoy thoroughly enjoy. huge annual event for us. It I also take on a lot of the is our biggest opportunity to the physical and teaching, for people that promote ourselves and be mental benefits. join us with minimal rowing seen in the community. experience.

The 3 Rivers Marathon is I love teaching people the skills of rowing, an event for all self-propelled water competitors. and I enjoy the physical and mental benefits.

That includes Surf Skis, Kayaks, Paddle Boards Anyone can start rowing, from 12 yeas of age to and Canoes.

100, no experience necessary!

It’s a great day to introduce ourselves to the Find us on Hibbard Drive or reach out to us on community, and to raise some funds to keep the Facebook to enquire about joining. club moving forward. All of the details on the How is the Port Macquarie Rowing Club event, and how to register, are on our website. going?

Last of all, what is the best thing about the We have had a tough couple of years, the Port Macquarie Hastings Region? flooding and Covid hasn’t made it easy for Absolutely the community. For me, as an us. However, we have seen an increase in our outsider from Hungary, the community here is so membership and recently we have started welcoming and kind. And the surroundings, as a our school program up again, which is huge lover of everything outdoors, Port Macquarie is achievement for us. The school program has the best place to be.

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GRAPE ESCAPE

NEWS FROM THE VINES

with ALEX CASSEGRAIN From Cassegrain Wines

What an environmental change we’ve all experienced over the last few years: from years of drought, to intense bush fires, followed by raging floods.

F

or many wineries around NSW, 2021 was to be one of the most important vintages, however due to smoke affected grapes from 2020, many wineries didn’t pick – or were not willing to pick – their fruit, leaving many wineries with no wines to sell.

Following the 2020 heatwaves, a cooler summer this year has meant slower sugar development in the grapes.

Normally this wouldn’t be much angst. However, La Niná’s torrential downpour earlier this year has given us and our growers some cause for concern. The thought of potentially losing another crop coming off the back of the previous vintage was heart wrenching.

The weather events of the last couple of years have been hugely disruptive. In normal times, we do a number of things to ensure that our wines are made to a certain quality that we believe our customers would expect from us. Before we pick the fruit, we look for several things, and while flavour is the most important aspect for us, the sugar and

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acid concentrations in the grapes are just as important, depending on the wine and style we intend on making – balance is the key.

Picking grapes with lower sugar content can result in wines that are a little leaner with less alcohol, which helps gives the wine body. However there are a few things we can do in the winery to manage this, such as changing a process once the fruit has arrived in the winery however it doesn’t necessarily suit every variety.

For example, leaving the wine on yeast lees for longer, thus allowing the yeast to soften the wine while it’s maturing is quite beneficial.

This method is being used in sparkling wines and barrel aged Chardonnays. So far, we’re really stoked with the results.

And finally, from all the wines we have produced this year, we are extremely excited about the new release wines. The Edition Noir Riesling and the Seasons Rose are a perfect examples of how are vintages like 2021 suits these styles.

Australia is a sunburnt country, a land of droughts and flooding rains. And we wouldn’t live anywhere else.

Kenny LITTLE'S

We are here for you.

Things are tough right now. your own community in more Covid has impacted us all. We ways than you think. Remember have been here for 34 years, and we are here for you. From have faced some tough times.

Ken ordering our goods, Jan Sourcing our answering our produce locally phone and Ken has over whenever we managing the forty local can, Ken has accounts, our growers regularly over forty local girls on the supplying us with growers regularly registers and our fresh, locally supplying us wholesale boys grown produce. with fresh, locally delivering the grown produce. goods. We want Buying locally with us also to say thank you and value every means that you are supporting single one of you.

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WORKERS CONFERENCE

MNC Youth Workers Conference A professional development workshop for youth workers on the mid north coast is coming our way this September.

H

i Deb. This September, YP Space MNC and My Foundations Youth Housing Ltd. are hosting a conference for youth workers on the NSW Mid North Coast. What is the aim of the event?

The aim of the MNC Youth Workers Conference is primarily to offer a networking platform and professional development opportunity for organisations on the Mid North Coast who work with young people aged between 12 and 25 years. Traditionally workers would have to travel outside of the MNC to large cities to attend such events. This impacts the availability due to cost and time restrictions.

The conference will also be a great way for organisations to showcase their achievements both within the community services sector and beyond.

Who will benefit from coming along and what can they expect to take away?

Anyone who works with vulnerable young people from 12-25 years will benefit from the attending this event. We have a diverse range of speakers and workshops including legal aid, homelessness, mental health, foster care system and worker self-care.

The speakers will inspire and motivate each participant present. Each participant will receive a show bag on arrival which not only contains goodies, but also important

information about each speaker and local services. There will be Q&A panel at the end of day 1. The panel is made up of industry experts and CEOs including the Housing Minister MP Melinda Pavey. This will be an opportunity for workers to ask the decision makers directly about up-coming plans in their area of expertise.

You have a great lineup of guest speakers. Who are they and what will they bring/share to the event?

Isaiah Dawe: The proud founder and CEO of ID Know Yourself, determined to impact the lives of the 22,000 Aboriginal children in Out of Home Care and break the cycle of intergenerational trauma and disadvantage in Australia.

Joe Williams: A proud Wiradjuri/Wolgalu, First Nations Aboriginal man born in Cowra, raised in Wagga NSW, Australia. Joe played in the National Rugby League for South Sydney Rabbitohs, Penrith Panthers and Canterbury Bulldogs before switching Joe to professional Boxing in 2009. Joe is a 2 times WBF World Junior Welterweight champion and won an WBC Asia Continental Title.

Pen McKinley-Rogers: A qigong teacher, clinical aromatherapist and certified health coach working with the intricate connections between body, heart and mind to support holistic health and wellness. As a multi-disciplinary practitioner, fusing ancient wisdom with modern knowledge, she unites the physical with the spiritual, integrating

movement and breath with heart and soul.

Michelle (Shelle) Cowan: An Aboriginal Woman from Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung Country, she carries this heritage with great pride and absolute respect to her Elders, past, present and emerging. Michelle wants to present findings and thoughts around many issues that continue to affect Aboriginal People.

When and where is the event taking place and how can we sign up?

The event is taking place September 2 & 3 at CSU Port Macquarie Campus. Tickets can be purchased at Sticky Tickets for $99 each.

There is also a conference dinner at Blue Water Bar and Restaurant on 2 September.

Tickets for the dinner can also be purchased at Sticky Tickets for $55 each.

This is the first Youth Workers Conference organised by this committee, and if successful we hope to run in annually.

The committee is made up of the following people and organisations: Deb Tougher YP Space MNC Caleb Rose YP Space MNC Tali Troy YFoundations Leiann Vicars CLSD Ian Eggins Future Planning and Support Service YP Space MNC 02 6563 1230 yps.org.au ypspacemnc @youngpeoplespace GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Neil BROWN ARTIST PROFILE

Deciding to exchange artistic screen-based work for tactile art reignited a passion from years past. This month local artist Neil Brown brings his Homage to the Coast exhibition to our shores.

My design eye

H

i Neil. Please introduce yourself and share your connection to the region.

I moved to Port Macquarie from Sydney with my wife Cassandra in 2002 – her parents and brothers had moved here a few years earlier, so we had visited Port quite a lot previously. It was kind of an early seachange for us. I then spent the next 12 months travelling back and forth to Sydney to service a client; writing and producing video segments and screen presentations for car launches.

You had a long career in screen-based media before moving into the arts. Tell us 48 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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about this and what passion. has also got a the driving factor How did you get great love of was behind the started in the creative composition, so I’m change? industry? inspired daily about I actually moved One of the great how things juxtapose back into painting and benefits of doing a artistic endeavours TAFE NSW course was with other things from the screenthat many of them and form surprising based work. I studied have a significant work and inspirational 10 years of art and experience component. compositions. Clouds design, both at school I was fortunate enough with headlands, then TAFE NSW, and got during my study to work trees, buildings, or passionately involved in the art department horizons. in art, photography both for John Singleton’s and film. I then moved first advertising agency, away from the pure arts then for Bryce Courtenay into a more immediately lucrative(ish) career (who was one of my lecturers in my final year journey. I came back to painting largely because of Design at Randwick TAFE campus). John when I met my wife in the 1990s, she was very Singleton had a policy of hiring two graduates encouraging of the little amount of drawing from that Design course every year, and I luckily I was doing. So in 2000, after nearly 30 years got my first job as an assistant art director at since my last painting, I made the move back SPASM – Singleton Palmer and Strauss McAllen and painted a picture that re-ignited that early – in East Sydney. I worked with some really

composition, so I’m inspired daily about how things juxtapose with other things and form surprising and inspirational compositions.

Clouds with headlands, trees, buildings, or horizons. Shadows on walls, road signs, people in foreground and background, verticals and horizontals intersecting in interesting ways.

You recently had your first exhibition ‘Homage to the Coast’. Tell us about the collection of work While I spent a that you created lot of time It’s August, I’m still inspiring people – this sitting with her just having it! The exhibition really set me on the path looking out to sea, I is on display at Long of trying to produce took in the light, the Point Gallery until 30 the best creative work textures, the moods August. The paintings possible. and the colours of in this exhibition paying What inspires you the entire ‘homage to the coast’ most and how do you environment. evolved over 15 years, express that creatively? and were inspired by my Good question… let me wife Cassandra’s deep think about that a little… connection with the ocean. While I spent a lot I think the effect of light is a big inspiration. of time sitting with her just looking out to sea, It plays an enormous role in delivering many I took in the light, the textures, the moods and artistic pieces, be it painting still life, landscapes the colours of the entire environment. or people, or photography of people, places, These paintings are a deliberate attempt to pieces… the colour of the light, its height or depth, its intensity directly triggers an emotional capture how sky and cloud create an overarching key, how vegetation, sand and rock response in us. So a lot of my creative endeavours typically try to capture light, harness underpin with down-to-earth textures, and how the ocean continually excites our contemplation it and express it. with its volatile dynamics.

My design eye has also got a great love of

And then there’s the accents created by the creatures and the people, providing focal points, hints and extra meaning to what we see before us.

Cassandra died in 2019 after a long battle with a brain injury acquired in 2015, and this exhibition is dedicated to her memory.

What is your favourite piece to date and why?

Wow. Well, I really have two favourites in the exhibition. One is called ‘Watching 3’ and I love it because it captures the light almost exactly as I wanted to – plus the water in that painting is the closest I’ve come to Monet-level Impressionism, which is one of my favourite art movements. The other is ‘At Peace’, and depicts my wife afloat in a spectacular azure Mediterranean near Corfu. I just love the colour and the light of that painting.

What’s next for you?

I’d like to put together a carefully curated exhibition of the photographs I’ve taken over the last 30 years. And get better at portraits.

And do some van Gogh style paintings of the changing scene out my dining room window.

And continue my pen-and-ink and watercolour series of children’s books about my two dogs (also no longer with me). I’ve written three… in verse, which was a crazy decision. I just need to get another two done and dusted and then find a publisher. And then next week…

Thanks Neil.

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PORT

MOWER

CENTRE

Port Mower Centre provides quality power and outdoor equipment for the perfect lawn & garden care plus we have qualified mechanics in our Service & Repair Centre.

Inside you'll find 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.

Friendly and Honest Service: Our knowledgeable team has been helping Mid-North Coast residents with their powered outdoor equipment for over 15 years. Drop in and see Dave, Dan and the team for friendly, expert and honest advice.

Regardless of where you purchased your equipment, or what is wrong with it, our service team will be happy to look at it and give you our advice.

More Brands. More Choice: Many of our competitors are restricted to selling just a single brand, we sell most top brands, allowing us to recommend the product that will best meet your needs and your budget.

Comprehensive Product Range: We sell a full range of mowers, trimmers and brushcutters as well as other outdoor power equipment such as chainsaws and blower vacs. Support

your locally owned and operated mower centre next time you purchase.

Full Range of Parts & Accessories We stock an extensive range of competitively priced parts and accessories to suit all brands and equipment so you can be back up and running in no time.

Come and See Us: Our Port Macquarie showroom and workshop is easy to get to with parking right out the front or feel free to contact us by phone or email using the details below (02) 6583 3317 e. contact@portmowercentre.com.au Visit us on Facebook: portmowercentre 12-16 Bellbowrie St Port Macquarie Opening Hours Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturday 8am to 12:30pm, Sunday Closed

Nearly 30 exciting businesses call Bellbowrie Park home.

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Gowrie NSW

PHOTOGRAPHY

MSP Photography is Australia's leading school photography company. giftware and fundraising ideas.

We work and live in our region and actively support our local schools and their wider communities. We call this our ‘community-centric’ approach, where we put our communities first and aim to be the local experts with a local focus.

Unit 28 Bellbowrie Park P: 02 6583 1968 e.northcoast@msp.com.au PO Box 422 Port Macquarie NSW 2444 www.msp.com.au

Come in to Bellbowrie Park to discover these and many other businesses and services

Ha

Be llb ow

PC PITSTOP, CASSERA'S CAFE, BOTANIC MERCHANT, HELLO KOALAS

rie Stree

t

MSP Photography are made up of 25 local businesses with the backing of a national resource centre. With MSP you are in good hands. Our team knows exactly how to make school photography simple. We’ve been the masters of school photography since 1991, and we know exactly how to create a hassle-free experience for staff, students and parents.

Our service extends beyond photo day to offer a range of products that help promote our schools to prospective students and families, yearbooks,

ee t

MSP

wr ie Str

Holiday Coast Tours is your local tour operator offering coach tours from 1 (one) day to a trip of a lifetime – 54 days around Australia. Operating for over 22 years – 19 from the Bellbowrie Park area – Holiday Coast Tours is locally owned and operated. We cater for all community, social and school groups as well as further afield. We have been the preferred carrier for Linga Longa Holidays based in Yarrawonga – a real success story!

Capably managed by Anne-Marie Cecil, our office is open 4 days a week, Monday to Thursday. Drop in to Unit 25 or contact us on (02) 6583 8669. email admin@holidaycoasttours.com. au or on our website www.holidaycoasttours.com.au for all your tour requirements. Happy touring is our aim.

B ellbo

Holiday Coast Tours

‘Gowrie NSW is a non-profit organisation that provides diverse education and care, family support and professional development services to early and middle childhood sector across NSW and ACT. With a focus on research and contemporary pedagogical methodology, we have demonstrated a strong leadership commitment to working in partnership across generations to provide a range of programs and resources that support children, families and education professionals.’ Gowrie NSW is a consortium partner with KU children’s Serviced and Include me, to deliver the NSW/ACT Inclusion Agency. The NSW/ ACT Inclusion Agency provides a network of Inclusion Professionals to provide tailored support to eligible Education & Care services across the jurisdiction.

We work with educators to build their capacity and capability , to ensure the inclusion of children with additional needs. Our aim is to provide the most vulnerable children a strong start, which then supports parents or carers to increase their activity including work, study & training.

From our Units 33 and 34 Bellbowrie Park office, we manage inclusion Hubs in NSW Central West, NSW North, NSW West & the Mid North Coast, along with the NSW/ACT Specialist Equipment Library (SEL). From our Bellbowrie Park office we transport specialised equipment to childcare facilities across NSW. The SEL provides eligible early childhood education and care services with access to a range of resources, free of charge, to increase their capacity and capability. This allows children with significant mobility needs to be included alongside their typically developing peers.

Photo shows the types of equipment you might see in our Library at Bellbowrie Park.

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s R iv e r D r i ve

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i

Wren focus_interview

This li le lady has real creative talent. But it’s not just her artworks that caught our eye, the kind heart of Maddison Wren has landed her on our pages as the official Kids who Rip nominee this month. With an open heart and mind, Maddie sets out to learn new techniques and gives back when she can.

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H

i Maddison. You’re a budding young creative who enjoys spending time making whatever unfolds in your imagination. Firstly, please introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Maddison Wren and I have just turned seven. I am in Year 1 at St Columba Anglican School.

I love playing soccer, riding my new skateboard at the skate park and jumping on my trampoline. I also like making up dances in my garage with my friends. My favourite colour is blue.

You have a pretty awesome setup here at home, just like a mini studio for you to work in. What is it that you love so much about arts and craft?

I love painting on my new easel because it makes me feel happy. My favourite thing is using all the colours. I love being creative and making things from our recycling bin at home.

First I see the things that I want to make in my mind, and then I try to create them.

You enjoy spending time with other creative teachers outside of school. What do you love the most about these days?

I love going to The Seed Creative Art School in the holidays.

I have been eight times now and I really love learning new ways to make things.

I also really love making new friends from other schools too when I go there.

Lots of kind people stopped to buy something.

Even the garbage truck stopped and a lovely man called Bruce bought my last one. I was very excited. I sold ten paintings and one still life drawing.

Sometimes I also make things and draw things with my Nan in Bonny Hills.

You recently sold some of your artwork out the front of your home and the concept went pretty well. Tell us how much money you made and what you did with the funds?

I asked my Mum if I could sell some of my paintings so we could give the money to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. I set up an Art Stall outside on the front lawn and waved to people when they drove past.

Lots of kind people stopped to buy something. Even the garbage truck stopped and a lovely man called Bruce bought my last one. I was very excited. I sold ten paintings and one still life drawing.

I also got a $200 donation from a beautiful lady called Sharon who was so impressed by my work.

I raised $402 and then the day I handed the money over to the people at Westpac, the Mayor of Port Macquarie, Peta Pinson, matched my donation dollar for dollar, so altogether I raised $804.

There’s a special reason behind why you chose Westpac Helicopter to donate your earnings too. Can you share that with us?

I chose the Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Service because we had a fundraiser at SCAS for them last term. I nearly died when I was born and I was lucky that I had people there to look after me.

I want to make sure that other people who are sick or in trouble have someone there to help them too.

And even the Mayor got involved and matched you dollar for dollar. That’s pretty amazing. What was the reaction from the Westpac helicopter staff when you delivered the money?

I met Richard McGovern at the Westpac Business Centre and I gave him all the money.

He said he was very happy and very proud of me.

I also got to meet all the helicopter pilots too, and they promised to let me see the helicopter and sit inside the passenger seat next time they are in Port Macquarie.

What are you most proud of about this day?

I am most proud of myself for helping sick and injured people get to hospital.

I like being able to help other people.

What dreams do you have for the future?

I would love to have a job one day where I can help people.

Thanks Maddison.

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Treatment FOR GUM DISEASE

Early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) is the inflammation of the gums. This occurs when bacteria in plaque and calculus are not removed through brushing or regular scale and cleans, causing damage to the gums. Advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis) occurs when the inflammation of the gums gets worse, causing the bone supporting our teeth to degenerate.

W

ithout any professional intervention and treatment, over time the teeth can become loose and may need extracting by a dentist.

24% of healthy Australian adults aged 18 and over have moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis), while 60% of Australians aged 74 and older suffer.

How to determine if you have gum disease?

• Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums • Gums have shrunk from teeth • Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth • Loose teeth • Abscesses between teeth and gums Treatment of Gum Disease The treatment for gum disease will vary with severity; mild to moderate gum disease can be treated with brushing, flossing and regular visits to your hygienists and dentist. With more severe gum disease, treatment can vary from sub gingival cleaning to treatment with a specific laser called LANAP. LANAP means Laser Assister New Attachment Procedure.

This laser therapy for the treatment of gum disease is unlike traditional gum surgery; there is no cut and sew. LANAP is a minimally invasive and highly effective treatment. It is used for the treatment of moderate and advanced gum disease. LANAP is the world’s first ever and only FDA approved laser for the treatment of gum disease. Patients have come back with true regeneration of tissue and new bone formation.

Traditional gum surgery is a cut and sew procedure and can cause sensitivity, long teeth and requires ongoing maintenance.

Unlike traditional gum surgery, LANAP uses a multivariable pulsed laser to kill the infected tissue, rejuvenating the gums, connective tissue and bone that support your teeth. The laser attacks pigments in the infected tissue, leaving healthy tissue undamaged. LANAP treatment not only helps the body to regenerate tissue and heal itself naturally, it also helps patients to keep their natural teeth and save smiles!

How does LANAP work?

Before any treatment, a consultation is necessary, as it allows the dentist to identify diseased tissue and whether LANAP is suitable for you. At this time, a 3D Xray will be taken and a treatment plan will be provided, with all costs, appointment lengths and any follow up appointments necessary.

LANAP usually occurs across two dental visits. Half the mouth is completed during the first visit, and a week later the other half of the mouth is completed. The process involves: 1. A perio probe determines the degree of excessive pocket depth and helps the dentist better identify diseased tissue and areas of bacterial infection.

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4. The laser is used to clean the pocket one more time.

5. The gum is sealed closed to prevent further infection.

6. Any high biting spots are smoothed down to create even force on the tooth.

7. Over time, the bone regenerates and the periodontal ligament re-attaches to the tooth.

Benefits of LANAP • Saves your natural teeth • Safe, precise and effective treatment • Bone regeneration up to 50% in patients who follow the protocol and have normal healing • One-time treatment • Less discomfort • Improved recovery time • Little to no recession in gums and regeneration in bone levels.

• Reduces inflammation and bleeding • Helps long term health • Safer and gentler than traditional gum surgery Contact us to Learn More about this Revolutionary Treatment If you've ever been told you have gum disease or need gum surgery, you can take advantage of the tremendous benefits that LANAP laser gum therapy offers. If your gums have become swollen, red or infected, we can help. Our very own Dr Peter Elfar was the first dentist to study and offer this treatment in Australia, with over eight years’ experience and satisfied patients who travel from all over Australia to be treated by him.

Why not take this opportunity to get on top of your dental health? Take action now and call the caring team at Sundial Dental on 6583 3533 or visit our website: www.lanapaustralia.com.au to find out more about this revolutionary treatment.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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BEACH t BROT HER

H

i Peta and Belinda.

Keeping healthy both in mind and body is something you’re passionate about. With a desire to help keep our community members positive and bring them together during times of uncertainty, the Beach to Brother Running Festival was born. Tell us more.

We are passionate about keeping our minds and bodies healthy. We enjoy exercise, the outdoors and helping others in our community.

After a series of trying times for everyone in our community, we were keen to be part of a local event that would help bring us all together.

We chose the Beach to Brother Running Festival. A 42km trail marathon which starts at Town Beach, Port Macquarie and ends at the top of North Brother Mountain, Laurieton.

Neither of us have competed in a marathon before so we agreed this would be a great challenge.

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At a time when community is pushed to its breaking point, coming together and keeping the mood optimistic can have a positive impact on our minds and bodies. Peta Alexopoulos and Belinda Johnson have joined forces to encourage others to get involved in the Beach to Brother Running Festival while fundraising for local cancer patients.

and hoped for other teams, groups, small businesses and clubs to follow our steps.

Mick was very happy to assist us. Cancer has affected so many of our lives and Mick was passionate about our cause to fundraise. The Beach to Brother will kindly contribute 10% of all entry fees to Cancer Council for those entrants that fundraise and sign up to any of the Beach to Brother races.

Lauren has also been awesome in assisting the groups in setting up their own group fundraising page and keeping us well supported with our local Comedy Charity event which we hope to have closer to race day.

No novices to giving back to our community, you have both been involved in many fundraisers before.

Over the last two years, we have enjoyed fundraising for the Cancer Council locally through our involvement with the communitydriven, dance gala event ‘Stars’.

In 2019, Belinda was asked to dance for

A 42km trail marathon which starts at Town Beach, Port Macquarie and ends at the top of North Brother Mountain, Laurieton.

definitely been through a bit. By reaching out to local clubs, businesses and friends/families to participate, our mission is to encourage others in our community to get involved and keep their minds and bodies healthy and stay positive too.

The Beach to Brother Running Festival offers something for all abilities, from the 10km dash or 5km fun run/walk, and of course the longer distances such as the half and full marathon either as individuals or as relay teams.

Your concept grew to include another passion of yours – fundraising. Tell us about it and who you’re raising money for?

We approached Michael Maher, Director of the Beach to Brother Running Festival and Lauren Fraser from the Cancer Council and told them about our idea of getting more of our community involved in the running festival and the opportunity to fundraise for our local cancer patient needs. We became fundraising initiators

That campaign was an amazing experience for us both. Belinda ended up winning the Judge’s Award overall raising raising just over $10,000.

Stars here in the Hastings as a late entry due to a withdrawal of a Star. With only 7 weeks to prepare, Belinda requested my help in fundraising for her campaign, so we became a team really.

We brought our community together at the Port Macquarie Town Pool for an amazing Business House Team Relay afternoon raising money for Cancer. It was such a great afternoon for our community coming together and keeping healthy. We had over 200 people attend in the afternoon. That campaign was an amazing experience for us both. Belinda ended up winning the Judge’s Award, overall raising just over $10,000.

We’ve both stayed in touch with the Cancer Council helping wherever we can, including more recently the 2021 Stars, which raised a record amount in fundraising and provided our community with an amazing event. It has been our pleasure to work as a team with Lauren Fraser at the Cancer Council.

Tell us a little about the people and businesses that have come on board to support the event?

We are so thrilled to have the support of many clubs and small businesses join our fundraising initiative either in donations or

participation in the Beach to Brother Running Festival. So far, we have support from Black Dog Ink, Lindsay Moller Photography, CBA, The Stunned Mullet, TRS Cycles, Mid Coast Windows, Bylund Building, Men at Work, IONA Sports Club, Jodie Kennedy Yoga, SMART Pilates, GI Jones, Miss Motivator, Port Pacers Run Club, Port Macquarie Surf Club, Charles Sturt University and our local MP Leslie Williams just to mention a few and with more to come on board soon. And of course, we’ve been blown away with some very generous donations from people within our community.

What will be involved on the day?

On race day, Sunday 26th September, the Beach to Brother Running Festival offers competitors the option to compete in a Marathon, a Half-Marathon, a 10km Dash, a 5km Fun Run, and a Team Relay Marathon.

All of these distances start in various locations along the marathon route, finishing at the top of North Brother. Our start time and location will be early morning at Town Beach. We anticipate many nerves on the day and also many emotions as we complete our journey and watch others complete theirs too. The fundraising result will also be an amazing feeling, no matter what the result.

How can the community get involved and join the fun?

There’s still time for the community to get involved. As we mentioned we are very hopeful

to host our fundraising event in September.

We’ve had some small businesses locally offer to support our Comedy Night Fundraising event, which features live music and a great line up.

Tickets will be available on our Fundraising Page as well as through our socials.

We’d love for more participants to join in the fun with the Beach to Brother running festival either with their friends, family or their club or workplace and create a great challenge for themselves. To enter jump onto the Beach to Brother website www.beachtobrother.com.au The views at the top of North Brother are so breathtaking, so we can only imagine how great that will feel at the end of completing such a challenge.

And of course, you can always donate to our website and help us reach our target www.doitforcancer.com.au/fundraisers/ beachtobrother/1617766674 And finally, we see there has been an official recognition of you both in Parliament for your marathon entry and your campaign to raise funding for cancer locally. Tell us what this means for you both?

We were actually quite emotional, to be recognised at that level from our local member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams in Parliament.

We are so thrilled to know that both The Hon. Leslie Williams and members of her team in office will also be supporting us and joining in on the fun on the day by participating in the 5km hike to the official finish line at top of North Brother.

Thanks Peta and Belinda.

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tt AT P ORT SMILE S

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TEAM

L:R Chloe, Jess, Shellie. Kim, Jasmine, Holly, Lucy, MJ, Georgia, Rachel, and Jade

IM – Practice Manager Port Macquarie Time: 4.5 years

What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental?

The Culture & Our core values. As a new Management team, we have put such an importance on supporting our team & the community for mental health & Women’s health.

Being a new mama myself I love that mamas can come into the practice with their children & have their oral health as a priority at the same time as their children saving time for time poor parents and also having the peace of mind that the whole family is a priority.

LUCY – Position: Practice Manager – Port Macquarie Time: 1.5 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? The team Dynamic, at Port Smiles we are a family, The team are there 60 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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for each other inside and outside of work & the same extends to our patients. We have an opendoor Policy & our patients often share personal life experiences and we love that we can be there to support & share in these with them.

JASMINE – Position: Practice Manager Bonny Hills

comfortable experience possible ranging from our Same day crowns, iTero Scanner, OPG machine, and our 3D printer. I enjoy coming to work each day and being surrounded by a supportive team including all Dentists, nurses, receptionists, and managers.

EDEN – Front Office Coordinator

Time: 2.5 years

Time: 3 years

What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love our team and I am proud to call them my second family. The dentists provide the best care and always make sure that their patients are comfortable during all procedure’s. Everyone is very friendly and approachable.

What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love Learning something new everyday.

MJ – Position: Front Office Co-Ordinator Time: 10 months What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love working at Port Smiles as it a happy and positive dental practice. Port Smiles is a modern dental practice and has updated technology allowing patients to have the most

CHLOE – Postion: Dental Nurse /Social Media Co-Ordinator Time: 3 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love most being able to help our patients get out of pain and be confident in themselves, giving them back their beautiful smiles. I love seeing people smile as it makes me smile.

SHELLIE – Head Dental Nurse Time: 1 year

What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love the team, Part of my position is to train new and ongoing team, keeping up to date with the latest health guidelines, changes from the Dental association and updated technology. Our training is second to none and ensures a high level of customer service & Dentistry standards.

work/life balance & I am able to study full time & participate in community activities.

CHRIS – Dentist

HOLLY – Position: Dental Nurse

JESSICA – Position: Dental Nurse / Stock Co-Ordinator

RACHEL – Position: Dental Nurse

What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love helping the community. A lot of patients don’t know but we accept Area health vouchers, Child dental benefit funding, DVA cards & offer a range of different payment plan options this ensures no patient gets left behind with dental care making it affordable and accessible.

Time: 3 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love that my team support my university studies, Providing me with study/work balance. The team are always so understanding of my studies & always check in ensuring I do not need further support. I am also enormously proud of our dentists and the work that they do.

TAZMYN – Position: Head Dental Nurse Time: 1.5 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love that Port Smiles feels like a second home. We are all so supportive of each other’s goals inside and outside of the practice. As part of my position I get to support the team in career development GEORGIA – Position: Dental Nurse Time: 2.5 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love the flexibility that Port Smiles provides me, being a family practice, our team has an understanding of

Time: 6 months What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love that our management team is so approachable & I love the range of dental treatment we provide.

Time: 5 months What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love that every day is different, no two days are ever the same and no two patients are ever the same. We customise our patient care to every patient creating a personal experience every time.

JADE – Position: Dental Nurse Time: 4 months What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love that everyone is treated like family.

KAREN – Position: Oral Hygienist Time: 3 months What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love Taking care of our patient’s Oral health & making oral health a priority. My main focus is the prevention, identification and treatment of gum disease.

Preventive care along with cleans are an important focus of overall health, studies have shown dental health can relate to heart, brain & other health concerns so it’s important we all make prevention a priority.

Time: 2.5 years

SAGNIK – Principle Dentist/ Practice Owner Time: 7 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I have loved providing personalised dental care to our community for the past 7 years. I love that we can provide our patients with the latest dental care and technology. The support of the community has meant the world to our small local business.

DYLAN - Position: Dentist Time: 4.5 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love my commute to work, having come from a large city it’s the appreciation of the slower pace and no traffic.

GHAZALEH - Position: Dentist Time:1.5 years What do you love most about working for Port Smiles Dental? I love being part of a family practice that puts patients’ needs first and provides the best level of care.

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These four locals have a vision to support, enable and empower youth through healthy movement. They have come together and created the Pathway Project; a not-for-profit that focuses on giving underprivileged youth opportunities that engage and empower. We caught up with the team to find out more.

PATHWAY P R O J E C T

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ey Guys. You’re bringing a fantastic not-for-profit organisation to town that focuses on giving back to underprivileged youth in our area. Firstly, tell us about the initiative and how it came about.

Pathway Project has been founded by local businesses, Seed Catering and CrossFit Hijacked. Through experience, passion and a growing friendship, a shared goal was born.

To pave pathways through the community to support, enable and empower youth through healthy movement.

We are a not-for-profit organisation raising funds to enable underprivileged youth in our area to engage in sporting activities that they may not normally have the opportunity to participate in for numerous reasons.

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Between the four

You’ve teamed up Here is a little snapshot of us, we all bring with local businesses of our stories our different experiences to bring about change Will – Sport has always that shaped us and and support through been a big part of my helped us through our the benefits of sport. life. Growing up I was an youth. We now want to What are those active kid, being outside benefits and why are playing. Soccer, cricket, pass on some of that you passionate about tennis and football are same guidance we were this? my best memories. fortunate enough to We each have a long Competing with my receive. history in sport and the brother to win bragging benefits we receive first rights was an afternoon hand has set the foundation for the Pathway ritual. Preparing for Saturday sport was the Project and how we believe we can help our meaning of life. community.

In my teens, I had a difficult home Between the four of us, we all bring our environment, leading to feelings of depression different experiences that shaped us and and anxiety. Through experimentation, and helped us through our youth. We now want to studying psychology, I have found sport to be pass on some of that same guidance we were the best medicine. fortunate enough to receive.

On a scientific level, exercise releases

endorphins that make you feel optimistic, reduces pain and lowers depressive symptoms.

The bonus in team sport is social connection, which is proven to lower anxiety, and increase self-esteem.

Therefore, daily exercise is a cornerstone for good mental health.

Reflecting on my experience, and battle with mental health issues, I feel that a little bit of help and encouragement can go a long way. The Pathway Project will We are looking provide great opportunities and support for youth in for business our community. sponsors and will Danielle – I started have more details on It wasn’t until I was dancing at a really young how to get on board in the thick of my age, I think I performed very soon. So, jump cycling career that my my first dance concert on our Instagram, whole mindset and in a nappy at 2½, haha, and give us a follow demeanour shifted.

I starting a long love for to stay up to date. started to understand dance and the community the asset of having that comes with it. understanding and When I moved to Port nurturing mentors around me to guide me in Macquarie, toward the end of school, I was becoming the strongest version of myself - on lucky enough to continue dancing. I started at and off the bike. extreme dance studios with Mr Jay and Miss I am really looking forward to creating a Elisa Pringle. At Extreme, they created a culture safe and supportive space for youth through that challenged us and taught us responsibility Pathway Project and to finally coming full circle beyond the barre. with it all.

Through dance I also gained a community.

Nathan – I grew up like most kids in a country There were always people looking out for us, town, Port Macquarie was a beautiful place to older students, or other dance mums, they had be raised but it challenged us as there wasn’t created a second home. For some students necessarily much to do. Sometimes it's too spending time at the studios helped push easy to get in trouble and end up in the wrong them physically and their passion for sport crowd in times like that. I was lucky enough grew, for others the feeling of belonging to a to walk into a great martial arts gym called community was the highlight of their day. For Zenryoku, which at the time I didn’t realise me, sport taught me how to develop a culture would end up being a very formative time in and promote successes in others, and through my life. pushing yourself physically you can connect As a 15-year-old, I found a passion in with others and grow positively. kickboxing, it was driven by the hunger to be Chloe – For me, sport has always been more better but also encouraged by the head coach than a way of becoming fit and healthy. It’s Jason who believed in me and the peers that been about tribulations and triumphs. The were also there for their own reasons. Having types of tribulations that knock you to the these great people around me kept me out ground so hard you question whether you’ll of trouble.

I learned that respect and hard ever get up - but then you do. And when you work will help you achieve things in life, I am do, you come back harder and more in tune grateful I had that at an age that can be so than you ever have, and the types of triumphs tough for many kids.

I now want to help bring accomplished through all that are the ones I’ll opportunities to kids knowing that all it takes is always remember.

one person to believe in you.

We have been lucky enough to team up with the legends at Headspace Port Macquarie and this partnership will allow us as a foundation to reach more kids and select candidates that are best suited for what we can offer.

We chose Headspace as a partner as we are aware of the increasing problems with mental health in youth and we believe that sport and mentorship can be a great avenue to assist with what Headspace already does.

There are many facets of how we can help and some of these will be purchasing of sporting equipment, sports attire/uniforms and membership or club fees etc. We are growing as a foundation and have big plans for the future of Pathway Project, these will include mentorship and scholarships.

You have been busily working toward bringing a fundraising event to our community. What will the event entail and how can local businesses get involved?

We have an awesome event in the works with the amazing people at Mansfield Estate who have generously donated the space for this great cause. The event itself has been postponed due to restrictions but we will keep everyone posted and it will be one that you don’t want to miss.

We are looking for business sponsors and will have more details on how to get on board very soon. So, jump on our Instagram, Pathway Project, and give us a follow to stay up to date.

Alternatively, you can get in contact with any one of us at Seed Catering or CrossFit Hijacked. @pathwayproject GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Through sharing knowledge in community, Head Heart & Hands aim to bring practical, hands on education to our town while helping build resilience within. We caught up with the team to find out more ...

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i Kate. You are one of four local women involved in running Head Heart and Hands. Tell us about your association, your background, and how you’ve come to be involved.

I am the Project Coordinator of the Head, Heart and Hands project, which intends to build climate change resilience and adaptive capacity in the Hastings region through the development of networks and knowledge sharing.

I was born and raised in the area and am an environmental scientist with a background in sustainability. In early 2020 I relocated to the area with my family after almost 20 years away. I applied for the role because my skills and interests were strongly aligned with the project goals and values and, as a bonus, the hours suited my family life. The broader project team is made up of individuals from varying backgrounds including health, psychology, chemical engineering, waste management and systems change.

Head, Heart and Hands is a project based on building community resilience. Tell us about it and how it came about.

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by a group of local women from the Port professional education for the local medical Macquarie Hastings Sustainability Network. workforce, allowing them to better respond to We came together during the 2019/2020 the health impacts of climate change including bushfires as a group of like-minded community bushfire smoke exposure, heat related illness, members, galvanized by infectious diseases, an increasing concern trauma and mental We are so and awareness of the health. We were awarded fortunate in the impacts of climate a grant and after change and our adjusting our project plan Hastings region to community response. to meet the challenges of have a wonderful When the NSW the pandemic, set about community with Department of planning the events. incredible knowledge Planning, Industry Community volunteers and experience who and Environment bring a wealth of have been supporting announced the strength, knowledge the project since day “Increasing Resilience and life experience and a one. to Climate Change” willingness to be a part Community Grant of something bigger program early in 2020 as a team. How does we decided to apply. The idea was for a series the program rely on these volunteers/guest of practical learning workshops, working speakers etc. groups and a mentor program to address four We are so fortunate in the Hastings streams of resilience; Food and Land, the Built region to have a wonderful community with Environment, Physical and Mental Wellbeing incredible knowledge and experience who and Climate Resilience and Emergency have been supporting the project since day Preparedness. In addition, we have partnered one. The Head, Heart and Hands planning with local health professionals from Doctors committee is made up of volunteers, with the for the Environment Australia to run a health project coordinator position being funded via and climate change summit which will provide the grant.

Our grant funding is limited, and so with the number and scope of events we have planned we absolutely rely on the volunteers and guest speakers generously donating their time and willingness to share their knowledge.

Although I can’t speak for everyone, some program volunteers have described that engaging in the program contributes to a sense of hope for the future of our community and planet, that we are committed to tackling the challenges we face in climate change head on. Our volunteers and workshop facilitators each have their own lived experience of responding to climate impacts, and It is also well their stories bring a real recognised that a authenticity to the events key part of community that we offer. resilience is increasing Overall, what is the aim community of the initiative? connectivity, we all saw implement in the Our project endeavors how important this was future? to take a holistic and after our recent • Emergency multi-disciplinary devastating bushfire Preparedness for approach to building and flood events.

Families workshop community resilience 7-8:30pm, 4th August and adaptive capacity to 2021 – exploring how climate change. The goal to psychologically and practically support of the workshops is to increase knowledge, children before, during and after an extreme our capacity to act and to make changes in weather event; our homes, businesses and community that • Eating for the Planet webinar 7-8:30pm, will assist us with weathering the challenges 18th September 2021 – talking about the ahead. relationship between the food we eat, It is also well recognised that a key part of agriculture, health and climate change; and community resilience is increasing community • Mental Health Responses to Climate Change connectivity, we all saw how important this Community Conversation 12-1:30pm, 4th was after our recent devastating bushfire and September 2021 – discussing the mental flood events. Our events and mentor program health impacts of climate change and building are designed to support new connections the capacity of the community to respond between participants and facilitators. together.

Later this year, as we come to the end We are also planning an event focusing of the project, we will invite all community on business resilience, and exploring how members to join us in a workshop to explore to link our local green thumbs with novice what could come next. Developing community gardeners to share the knowledge, resources, resilience is a complex, ongoing process and and muscles to help people create productive we are excited to think about the energy and gardens that are bushfire and drought resilient. ideas for a sustainable future that could result How have the community responded to by bringing together the rich experience, this inspiring initiative? knowledge and skills already present in our The community have responded with region.

There’s a number of interactive workshops enthusiasm and generosity to the project. A recent highlight was our collaboration with coming up. What's currently on the The MakerSpace to launch their Shed Talks agenda (or has been recently) and are program. The speakers shared their stories there any programs you're looking to

of resilience to a full audience, and we are looking forward to seeing the monthly Shed Talks events provide the ongoing opportunity for community to connect over a whole range of different topics. Head Heart and Hands will support a second Shed Talks evening on Wednesday 28th July called Sustainable Home Hacks.

The recent Future Home workshop, which explored passive solar design, retrosuburbia and natural building methods as some of the possible responses to climate change was also sold out, and the mentoring program associated with the workshop will help participants implement changes in their own homes.

What do you love most about bringing community together and the spirit of the town?

The Port Macquarie-Hastings region is an incredible community filled with people who are passionate about the region and ensuring that we protect our people and natural environment as best we can for our future generations.

The unknown extent of the possible impacts of climate change can feel overwhelming. I love seeing the local community showing up for this work, attending workshops, presenting at seminars, sharing their experience and expertise, and especially my brilliant teammates, who keep me inspired and hopeful for the future.

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BRIAN W E H L B U R G INSIDE OUTSIDE MANAGEMENT

Through a passion for wildlife came a strong interest in Holistic Management. Now Brian Wehlburg has, for the past 30 years, dedicated his career to this specialised industry, sharing his knowledge and mentoring others who seek to find ways to restore and regenerate environments.

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Helping land

i Brian. Firstly, please introduce yourself and share your connection to the region.

My name is Brian Wehlburg, I have been an Holistic Management Educator and practitioner for over 30 years, helping people to manage their lives, businesses and the land holistically, in Australia, New Zealand, Africa and the USA. Twelve years ago, we moved from helping manage large cattle properties in Central Queensland to a beautiful 600 acre farm in the Hastings Valley, where we produced and sold grass-fed beef, pastured pork and pastured eggs. Recently we sold the farm to concentrate on teaching and sharing Holistic Management with more and more people as the interest in regenerative agriculture has surged.

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managers to farming. Tell us how must therefore create sequester large you found yourself the resilience in your specialising in this landscape so when amounts of field? floods and droughts atmospheric carbon I was born a third happen, the environment into their soils, generation Zimbabwean is buffered against these reducing the effect of where I was managing events. Implementing the flood and drought a large cropping and Savory’s holistic ideas on properties and wildlife property. It was which he had developed associated catchments through my passion for through observing and towns. wildlife that I became nature in some of the interested in Holistic large wilderness areas of Management founder Central Africa allowed Allan Savory’s ideas on how nature functions me to increase the biodiversity and profitability holistically and how our management of my farming business in Zimbabwe. This struggles with the complexity of nature, knowledge has been further developed and where everything is connected. One of the refined, and is being implemented around biggest hurdles in the wildlife industry is that the world, resulting in land managers when you have a great season you cannot restoring biodiversity, building more wildlife go to the local saleyards and restock with a habitat while simultaneously increasing couple of elephants, some giraffe or a herd productivity and reducing costs. And reverse of buffalo, the facility is just not there! You Climate Change by helping land managers

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to sequester large amounts of atmospheric carbon into their soils, reducing the effect of the flood and drought on properties and associated catchments and towns.

For those who may not be aware, what is Holistic Management?

Holistic Management is at its core a decision-making framework that allows people to manage dynamic complexity such as farming, which must be one of the most complex and dynamic businesses. Generally, humans are not good at this. Allan Savory’s thinking also allows land managers to acknowledge livestock as a positive tool to restore and regenerate environments. Today the need for this kind of thinking is required everywhere, as every decision regardless of whether you manage land or animals has an impact on the environment. I have taught Holistic Management to livestock farmers, crop farmers, oyster farmers, urban businesses and National bodies, to help them ensure their decisions and policies are simultaneously socially, financially, as well as environmentally sound.

Who can use/implement this into their environments? Do they need to be living on large land?

For farmers, understanding and using livestock in a way that builds soil productivity and profitability is extremely powerful, as American regenerative guru Joel Salatin

We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us.

When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect."

- Aldo Leopold

is often quoted “livestock are solar powered, reproduce themselves and appreciate on your balance sheet - try doing that with the tractor!” Simply put, this type of livestock management is one that mimics nature, where animals remain bunched and are constantly on the move as opposed to much of our current livestock management where animals are spread out, remaining in the same area for long periods of time. By bunching and moving animals we mimic nature, creating the opportunity for farmers to increase profitability and reduce often damaging and expensive inputs. For example: farmers often spend huge amounts on chemicals to reduce worm burdens in their animals, it is possible to break the worm life cycle by keeping the

livestock on the move, away from yesterday's dung and fouling and not returning until the pasture has recovered. Animal performance improves, costs are reduced and ultimately a healthier product is available for the consumer.

Holistic Management is a decision-making framework applicable to everyone. This process is being used by people managing large and small properties, and also those who are not on acreage. We have all seen backyard chickens when they are kept on the same piece of ground for long periods - the ground becomes bare, hard and devoid of biodiversity, however when the chickens are constantly moved to fresh ground allowing recovery the soils become rich, fertile and full of life - and productive!

Continued Over...

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Why should we be aiming to farm in this way?

When I hear that for every kilogram of food that is produced we lose 7 to 9 kilograms of topsoil. When I hear people saying that we only have 60 harvests left from our soils.

When deserts continue to spread all around the world. There is a desperate need for a new way of producing food, a way that works with nature, a way that restores biodiversity, a way that produces not only healthy food but healthy, clear running streams and fertile soils.

Carbon and climate change are just one side of the coin. Carbon is the ‘building block of life’, when productive land turns to desert the carbon that forms the bulk of the plants that are no longer there moves elsewhere. Similarly, as we lose biodiversity, carbon that forms the bulk of animals, birds, insects, worms and microbes moves elsewhere. Today, as atmospheric carbon levels have exceeded well over 400 parts per million, we know where all the ‘life carbon’ that supports diversity and life 68 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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There is a desperate need for a new way of producing food, a way that works with nature, a way that restores biodiversity, a way that produces not only healthy food but healthy, clear running streams and fertile soils.

on the planet is now.

Managing holistically helps bring that atmospheric carbon back through green plants and into living organisms.

After drought and bushfire, what challenges or positives have been seen in our environment?

Droughts, floods and fires are just part of what farmers must contend with as part of the role they play in feeding people, however these disasters often just make us hunker down and wait for the crisis to pass so we can continue business as usual. However, I believe the current spate of disasters have literally rolled one into another and are compounded by the Covid pandemic – this is creating real change in the way people farm and manage

land and importantly the way people live and feed themselves. Today I believe more people are questioning whether life is really about working harder and harder and making more money?

Or is it more about the quality of that life and our relationship with our environment – this will drive change at the supermarket which ultimately helps create change in the way our food and fibre is produced.

Over many years you have helped educate others on Holistic care and management, travelling all over Australia hosting workshops and consultations.

What do people take away from these events and how do they then implement that into their practices?

Holistic Management helps people to create

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BRIAN W E H L B U R G

a clear vision of the kind of life they want and before; in a few short years we've gone from how the community and environment have learning to fly to venturing into deep space, to be to enable them to live that kind of life. our levels of technology have soared but sadly Simply put: if you want a healthy, prosperous, the health of the planet has plunged. It is not secure life then your environment needs to be a lack of knowledge or a lack of technology ‘healthy, productive and stable’. Once people that is driving the problems we face but simply create the vision for our inability to manage themselves, they will complexity. People often then start to make all come to our course It is not a lack their decisions towards seeking new knowledge of knowledge or that vision. but they also gain a a lack of technology What is the main new way of thinking – that is driving the area that people are holistically. problems we face but seeking knowledge For anyone that would about? like to reach out and simply our inability Many people come to learn more about to manage our courses looking for what's on offer, how complexity. some new knowledge – can they do so? a new way to manage There is plenty of animals, a new way to information available manage soils, a new way to plant crops, or new around Holistic Management and managing technologies. Today we have more knowledge holistically. In Australia there are 16 certified about a cubic inch of soil than at any time in educators who run courses or consult. human history. Today we know more about Southern Cross University's new Regenerative our atmosphere, deep oceans, our planet and Agricultural degree incorporates holistic space than at any time in human history, but thinking which is another exciting step and a sadly we are losing biodiversity on the planet at first in the world. Inside Outside Management a faster rate than at any time in human history! runs course country wide, we have a Wauchope Today we have more technology than ever course starting soon. We are involved in a new

project up in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia working with 5 million acres, exciting stuff!

What's next for you and Inside Outside Management Another big and exciting step for Holistic Management and particularly myself, is the development of a global branding for regeneratively produced food and fibre. This program called Land to Market Australia is gaining huge momentum especially from some of the world’s largest manufacturers such as Kering, the parent company for many highend fashion brands such as Gucci. Timberland, global footwear giant and many others who see the demand for products produced from ‘regenerating land’ as the way of the future.

Land to Market Australia and its Ecological Outcomes Verification seal verifies that the products carrying the seal are produced in a way that creates more wildlife habitat, puts more clean water into streams and sequesters more carbon into the soils – and creates happy families.

Our contact details below: www.insideoutsidemgt.com.au brian@insideoutsidemgt.com.au Inside Outside Management Mob: 0428 894 578 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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MEN IN BUSINESS

70 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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ell us about your business…

We bought a zoo… one that was an iconic landmark in this region and has been for more than 40 years. Whilst we only purchased Billabong Zoo 18 years ago, we’re proud to have grown it into Port Macquarie’s top tourist attraction and helped it withstand the test of time through many challenging years.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021?

Due to the impact of COVID-19 we’ve learnt to be more resourceful and less wasteful to be more efficient and stick to a tighter budget in preparation for any uncontrollable circumstances thrown our way, including bushfires and floods that continue to devastate our region and sadly impact the zoo.

After learning of how crucial social media was to keep our visitors up to date during our closure last year, we implemented a full-time content creator to bring entertaining and educating posts to our followers. To keep up with the evolving world of technology we now offer visitors the opportunity to watch educational videos from their smartphones by scanning the QR codes placed around many of our animal exhibits.

Another part of our business we’re proud to have launched this year, are our functions and events after our recent upgrades to provide a modern function space. Since the renovations we’ve hosted private functions, corporate business meetings along with our very own public events including a Valentine’s Dinner and Mother’s Day High Tea lunch. We’re soon

to be fully licenced, meaning lunch at the zoo can be beside our fireplace with a glass of wine or beer in hand. Keep an eye on our Facebook for our future events.

How do you measure success, personally and in business?

As cliché as it sounds, I believe success is measured by happiness.

Happiness on a personal level, being completely content to come to work every day because I believe in what we do, also knowing what we do brings happiness to our zoo guests.

I personally believe customer feedback is king and I get the most enjoyment out of receiving feedback face-to-face from our visitors that I know have gone out of their way to thank us for making their day special and reminding us of how lucky they are to have us here in their backyard. It just cements for us what we mean to the community and helps us to further push towards delivering a quality experience.

MARK STONE

B I L L A B O N G ZO O KOA L A & W I L D L I F E PA R K

What are your future goals?

The Billabong Zoo is constantly evolving, and our ongoing goal is to expand the zoo and grow our collection of Australian native and endangered species. My personal goal now that my children Brooke and Blake are old enough to take on the zoo and run it themselves, is to have more down time to be able to enjoy special moments with my new granddaughter Thea.

How can we connect with you?

Facebook, Instagram and the website billabongzoo.com.au are always up to date with all of the new and exciting things at the zoo!

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MEN IN BUSINESS

BRYCE

JULIAN

DEIN

GILLMORE

SENIOR A C C O U N TA N T

FINANCIAL ADVISO R

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escribe how you got started in your role?

Having completed a Business degree, I previously held advisory roles with businesses in NSW and WA. Most recently, I worked with State Super (now Aware Super) where I specialised in defined benefit super schemes for public sector employees.

carried away with business growth and this can really impact the ability to provide a proactive service proposition to those who rely on us.

What is your business’s greatest asset?

It is definitely the way in which we introduce our clients to technology and how this can typically save hours of Many clients can paperwork.

With a view reinvest that Many clients to expanding time into their can reinvest the range businesses to increase that time into of services I the bottom line. their businesses provide clients, to increase the an opportunity bottom line arose at which is what it’s all about.

Evolution Road and I haven’t looked back.

How does your company set itself apart from its competitors?

I really like how the business appreciates the need to nurture and invest in existing client relationships. It’s easy to get

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What does a typical day look like for you?

Appointments, webinars, lunch meetings, Zoom calls. It is fairly frantic all year round but still enough time for a walk on the breakwall to enjoy this place we call home.

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escribe how you a large number of small business got started in your owners who are quite savvy with role? I had always applications and online systems sought out a career so our service suits them perfectly. in finance somewhere. Year 10 What is your business’s work experience with a local firm greatest asset? turned into picking up accounting Definitely the many and varied as an HSC subject and onto a skills of our staff in the business. university degree some years ago.

Given the range of financial Now I’m a chartered accountant, services we I am also lucky provide, their enough to We have similar specialisations work with my allow us to offer traits and brother Reece that holistic values so it makes at Evolution approach to our for a productive Road. We have clients which workplace. similar traits is also quite and values so unique in the it makes for a local area. productive workplace.

What does a typical day look How does your company like for you? If I’m not in the set itself apart from its office crunching numbers, you competitors? A very proactive will find me onsite with clients and purposeful use of cloudlearning more about their based software such as Xero and businesses. The more knowledge Class, coupled with the ability to we have about a client, the better adapt quickly to an ever-changing we can customise finance and technological landscape. We have accounting solutions for them.

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escribe how you got started in your business?

Evolution Road is a boutique advisory business which was established in the Port Macquarie area almost 5 years ago. Prior to this, we both had considerable experience in other accounting and advice businesses and sought to design a service proposition for small businesses and individuals which not only provided all financial services under the one roof but also embraced technology, efficiency and proactivity.

How has your business evolved since it began?

From humble beginnings in 2016, we now boast a terrific team of 13 including four accountants and two financial planners. Just as intended back then, Evolution Road is essentially a ‘one-stop financial shop’, offering accounting, business advice, financial and retirement planning, self managed superannuation and mortgage broking services.

What is your business’s greatest asset?

Well, we have two. No business succeeds without a solid support staff and we have a beautiful group working hard behind the scenes. Additionally, our use of technology and cloud-based market leading applications also provides a much better experience for our clients. We recently became a Xero platinum champion which accounts for only 2% of accounting practices in Australia.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your roles?

It’s really being able to work together to provide our clients with an expansive and holistic service proposition in regard to their finances. Our accountants and financial planners will generally engage with clients collaboratively to cover all bases, especially during crucial stages such as establishing a business or retiring from the workforce.

Providing positive outcomes every day is very rewarding for our staff.

What creative things do you do to develop a likeable company culture?

Apart from providing as much flexibility as possible for employees including a hybrid model of working from home, we think it is important to engage and regroup with team events. Usually this includes an activity and meal to celebrate company milestones. We try to catch up socially at least once a month. Lately even the boardroom has seen frenetic Uno competition between staff.

REECE D E I N

MARK P O W E R

How do you measure success in business?

We believe that success is measured in positive client outcomes. That’s what gives us a real kick out of being in business. Every time we receive a referral from a client, it is the reinforcement that suggests we are doing our jobs right.

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MSS

MANNING SUPPORT SERVICES

GARRETT HOGAN

SE NI O R M A NAG E R P R O G R A M D E L I V E RY A ND D E V E L O P M E N T

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ow does your company set itself apart from its competitors?

Joshua: We’re local and we offer a number of unique services. We also keep as many services in house as possible, meaning that we are well positioned to deliver incredibly high quality services. We are a welcoming workplace with diverse workforce representing the community that we support. We are proud to have a low Case Manager to care recipient ratio, which means that they are always available to our valued clients.

We recently opened a purpose-built Social Hub in Taree with everything from a diner to a cinema, a barber and beauty parlour to a craft room and a tea house! There’s even a library with just about all the books and DVDs our clients could want! We are able to offer these facilities at a significantly reduced cost because we have them in-house. So far it has been a huge success, and we are so excited to now be working on a similar facility for our Hastings area clients and I cannot wait to unveil this incredible offering. This will mean that travel time is cut down significantly for those living in and around Port Macquarie, allowing even more benefit to clients using the facilities. Definitely watch this space!

Steve: Our strong branding also sets us apart. MSS proudly has both an original

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JOSHUA ROGERS AC T I N G C E O

and Indigenous logo, designed by a local Aboriginal artist.

Garrett: At MSS we pride ourselves on being able to offer a large suite of services to our clients meaning it is a “one stop Aged Care shop”.

What is your business's greatest asset?

Joshua: Our staff and volunteers without question, and also our Mission, Vision and Values. They are the organisation and truly represent who we are.

Steve: Definitely our staff and volunteers.

We have a diverse mix of people across the organisation. MSS prides itself on being an employer of choice that provides opportunities, goals and benefits.

Garrett: Agree that it is our staff and volunteers, as without them we could not provide the services we do.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

Joshua: Being a mission-based not for profit it’s great to be able to focus exclusively on helping the community.

Steve: Interacting with all people across the organisation. We have some characters!

Garrett: To see the smile on our clients’ faces and knowing they can continue living independently at home with dignity and respect.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Joshua: Catching up with our Senior

STEVE PANOS

C H I E F F I NA N C I A L O F F I C E R

Leadership Team (SLT) and prioritising work across the organisation, working to achieve the goals and aims of our Strategic Plan.

I collaborate a lot across the SLT and with our voluntary Board of Directors to ensure MSS is delivering on its mission. I am always looking for new gaps in the market we can fill to better serve our clients. There is a lot of emailing in a typical day, and plenty of meetings with both internal and external stakeholders. I like to try and stay connected to our staff as much as possible, so I try to stop by our numerous offices as often as I can.

Also, coffee. A fair bit of coffee!

Steve: Daily catch up with CEO in the morning, check emails and then prioritise tasks to be completed.

Garrett: Coffee to start of course, followed by checking in with each department I oversee and manage the day-to-day challenges that we come across. Additionally, I am always looking at ways to improve the way we deliver our services and seeking new services for our care recipients via their feedback.

02 6551 1810 reception@mssinc.org.au www.mssinc.org.au

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ell us about your business...

Cassegrain Wines is one of the Hastings River region’s oldest and most awarded wineries.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021?

With international travel restrictions in place, more Australian travellers are discovering our beautiful winery as they find new places to explore. We’ve certainly seen the number of visitors to our cellar door increase, tasting our delicious wines, and then signing up to receive our newsletters.

As more visitors experience our cellar door and get to know us, they tend to share their experience with friends and families. Quite often, that type of influence can encourage more people to sign up to receive our newsletter.

ALEX

&PHILIPPE CASSEGRAIN

Within your industry how does your business stand out? Cassegrain Wines sources grapes from a number of different regions around NSW. This enables us to offer a diverse range of grapes grown in different climates and soils. This means we’re able to offer a wine that suits every taste – from those who are at the beginning of their wine journey, to wine lovers with a more sophisticated palate.

What are your future goals? We’re very proud of our history in the Hastings River region and the way our local community has long supported the winery through the years.

Broadening our customer reach by adopting new e-commerce strategies is our top priority.

While we’ve got a very strong following in this region and surrounds, we’ve also been a bit of a well-kept secret from the rest of NSW. Today’s environment has boosted our opportunities to introduce Cassegrain Wines to a whole new consumer market using digital channels.

How can we connect with you? @cassegrainwines @cassegrainwines cassegrainwines.com.au or visit our cellar door for a tasting experience

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DAMIEN BA I L EY

U N I F I E D ACCO U N T I N G P R I N C I PA L

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escribe how you got started in your business? Many people can relate to the need to step back from the day to day and think about what is important – this past year may have sparked quite a few people to do just that.

I decided to go into business after taking a moment to stop and re-evaluate what I wanted to achieve by being an accountant.

My answer, although it had not changed, was to help people, especially business owners.

What did change was how.

I wanted to be more closely involved in helping them achieve their goals and supporting them on their business journey. To work together with them to accomplish what it was that made them go into business.

Starting my own business Unified Accounting was how I decided to do that.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? The most satisfying aspect of my role is supporting the business community and supporting business owners. That’s what draws me to the advisory side of accountancy.

It allows me to take the skills and experience from over 15 years in both public and private accounting and use it to play a part

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in supporting business owners to grow and succeed. Listening to what the person wants to achieve, then providing guidance to achieve whatever that is.

Every client is different and that keeps it interesting and provides me the opportunity to grow and continuously improve.

What is something that people may not know about your industry? Many people don’t know the role of the accounting industry in being the business storyteller and translator.

When people think of an accountant, they sometimes just think it’s math, numbers, and taxes. Accountants also play a part in telling the underlying story of the numbers and translating that story to make it easier for people to understand. If you understand what the numbers say, you can then use that information to make better decisions.

Where do you see your business in the next five years? I see my business’s ability to provide its services grow and mature. Providing a greater range of services backed by employees that share my passion for playing a part in a client’s success.

One of the decisions I have made is to minimise location as a factor in choosing Unified Accounting by using an online accounting

business model. I want to use the flexibility that provides to serve a larger area, maintain a great level of service, and ensure that clients can easily communicate with their accountant no matter where they are. I also see that flexibility benefiting future employees.

Technology plays a big part in how Unified Accounting operates. I see my business continuing to adopt new technology and use it to provide better services to its clients and helping clients do the same.

Describe for us your definition of success relevant to your industry/role... For me, success is about knowing that I am helping my clients. That the services I provide, large or small contribute in some way to making life better for them. It could be that extra deduction my client didn’t know they could claim, allowing them to treat themselves to something special with the tax saved.

Perhaps saving a business owner some time doing bookwork so they can spend it with family, or something bigger like assisting them to transform their business and bring them closer to achieving their goals.

If I am contributing to making things better for my clients, and they value what I do, I know I’m on the right path to continued success.

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BANK W E B S T U D I O OW N E R & W E B S P E C I A L I ST

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ow does your company set itself apart from its competitors? As a third-generation business owner, I’ve been around small business all my life, and learned so much from my father and grandfather. I started my career as an accountant, working in that industry for a few years before launching Webstudio almost 15 years ago, having built websites as a side hustle throughout university.

I am able to take a zoomed-out view of a client’s business and look beyond the immediate scope of the website we are creating, to offer strategy and insights from my depth of experience.

What is your business’s greatest asset? Our greatest asset, by far, is the community that we are part of. We employ local staff and collaborate with other local creatives, to serve businesses across our wonderful region. There is no way we could achieve what we do without having a great team around us.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

The most satisfying aspect of my role, as the director of Webstudio, is to bring the right people together to solve problems and provide creative solutions for our clients.

We’re often asked about SEO marketing, which is the specialised field of improving the rank of a website in search engine results. We’re excited to have Lauren McAllister join our team this month, as our SEO Marketing Manager.

Lauren brings a depth of experience from her background in broadcasting and marketing.

What does a typical day look like for you? I’m usually up for exercise bright and early, and at my desk by 5am to reply to emails and plan out the day. Once I get into the office, a fair bit of my day is spent engaging with clients face-toface or online. I also set aside time to provide mentoring to emerging talent, from school students through to adults who are starting out in business.

Level 1, 10-12 Short St, Port Macquarie 0404 934 394 contact@webstudio.com.au www.webstudio.com.au

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MEN IN BUSINESS

BLAKE

COREY

BEETON

FAIREY DESIGN

BUSINESS BANK E X E C U T I V E - N AT I O N A L AUS TR ALIA BANK BUSINESS REGIONAL & AGR I M ID NOR TH COA S T NS W

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ow does your I also get a kick out of helping company set itself small businesses get off the apart from its ground. Seeing their ideas come competitors? Over the to life is really great and it’s so last few months, we’ve had some rewarding knowing that NAB plays pretty difficult times here in Port a part in their success with small and across the Mid North Coast. business being so instrumental in The floods earlier in the year really our local region. hit us hard. I was proud that NAB What does a typical day look responded so quickly with support like for you? My days are really for impacted customers, this came varied. Sometimes I’ll start the day right at the time it was needed at the branch meeting with the the most. Seeing the relief on our team, then spend the afternoon customers’ faces with my was great. That’s customers in We’re here to what sets NAB their businesses. serve our apart, we’re COVID has customers well, and here to serve seen a lot of help our community our customers things change, prosper. well, and help and many of our our community customers are prosper. really embracing What is your business's technology. Some days I’ll be on greatest asset? We have such a video calls with customers for most strong sense of family here at the of the day, which is great. It saves branch and that extends to our us both travelling time and we customers too. We work together still get to have a great chat about with our customers in their their business and how NAB can businesses, helping them grow help it grow further. and to achieve their vision for their business.

What is the most satisfying 70-74 Horton St, aspect of your role? I really enjoy Port Macquarie NSW 2444 seeing my customers’ businesses 13 22 65 0472 876 776 grow and succeed which in turn Corey.R.Beeton@nab.com.au sees our local communities grow www.nab.com.au and succeed at the same time.

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ow did you get started in Design & Photography?

I got started with photography about 13 years ago, taking photographs of my friends doing jumps on their bikes and skateboarding. From there my attention turned to landscape imagery from my love of nature and art. As my knowledge of image editing increased, I began to experiment with typefaces and layout. Before long I was designing brands, signs and menus for people. I’ve continued this same passion ever since and have completed a Bachelor of Communication Design at Billy Blue College of Design in Sydney.

Where do you gain your inspiration from?

Inspiration for me comes largely from nature’s patterns. See how nature’s design works to support each part coherently? The soil for the plants, the plants for the air and the air for the animals? It’s comprehensive in its considerations and is very clever. That essence of balance and coherence really inspires me on a deep level. I feel natures harmony is the design element that’s the key to success with whatever you do.

How do you work with your clients?

People comment that I am calm and easy to work with. I think this stems from my friendly outgoing “Aussie” nature. I find the key to working with my clients is seeing their vision. It’s important to know their ideas and inspiration because more often than not, we’re creating things that aren’t a reality yet. Literally creating an idea into reality.

Communication and collaboration are therefore key fundamentals to success in this process of creation.

Why is good Design important?

Good design is important for providing solutions to problems and unlocking unseen potentials.

Design in our modern world is all around us everyday. We sleep in designed homes, drive designed cars, work in designed businesses… It is vitally important to us. When design operates incoherently it is problematic and withholds potentials; it’s like a barrier. Great design however, is like fertiliser. It gives light to connections!

0412 701 042 blakefaireydesign@gmail.com blakefaireydesign www.blakefairey.com

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escribe how you got started in your role?

I started as Director when I took the leap of faith and established my own business a few years ago. It really was as simple as making the personal decision that I wanted to run my own race. And then running, hard and fast.

I have an Environmental Engineering degree which exposed me to many assessment disciplines across two decades from surface water, flooding, groundwater, geochemistry, to heritage, noise, air quality, greenhouse gas, traffic, ecology, soils, visual landscape and socio-economics. But I was always drawn to the study of groundwater and water related aspects.

How has your business evolved since it began? Since inception, I have had wonderful collaborative opportunities with many other leading specialist consultants which has been a cornerstone to our success.

As the Covid lockdowns commenced last year, I was making lease arrangements to establish an office for staff in the Port Macquarie CBD, but circumstances meant reverting to working from home arrangements. The silver-lining being the opportunity to diversify and be involved in some smallerscale, local enterprises and community activities which has been fantastic.

What is your company’s greatest asset? The ability to tailor the make-up of personnel and specialist consultants in a collaborative capacity for a project. Tenacity also helps.

AARON HAGENBACH

T H E H Y D R O - G E O LO G ie I N ST I T U T E D I R E C TO R & P R I N C I PA L E N V I R O N M E N TA L E N G I N E E R

What does a typical day look like for you? Between 5am-9am, I go to the gym, have breakfast, take the children to school, peruse/file emails and prepare myself for the day (I’d be lost without my ‘to-do’ app). Before lunch, I focus on the key priority tasks that are tangible, whether that be authoring or reviewing a report, sending an email advice, compiling datasets, or a field inspection.

In the early afternoon, I like to focus on people to maintain clear communication channels and expectations, whether it be with clients, specialist consultants or regulators. If concentration levels wane deeper into the afternoon, I sometimes turn my efforts to other endeavours like helping with local community/sporting groups, which often provides me with a second wind simply through the enjoyment of the task.

Evenings are then left to attend to residual business administrative matters, and re-prioritising for the day ahead.

1300 426 436 or 02 5507 9909 opportunities@thehginstitute.com.au www.thehginstitute.com.au @thehginstitute GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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MEN IN BUSINESS

RAMSEY B U I LT C O N S T R U C T I O N S

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NEW HOMES, CO M M E R C I A L S H O P F I T & CO N C R E T E CO N S T R U C T I O N

M I C K R A M S E Y, B E N R A M S E Y, C A L E B R A M S E Y, C A E LU M R E A D & G US F E N W I C K E

escribe how you got started in your business? Planning the launch of my own Construction business has always been something I wanted to accomplish.

During my childhood my late father and grandfather were always involved in construction and developments in some way I think those years then naturally led me into the direction I’ve taken and now we have Ramsey Built. Between myself and my brother Ben, we both worked for many versatile companies over the years this is why combined we now have the capacity and expertise to conduct many types of not only building but Concrete Construction also.

How has your business evolved since it began? RBC have now just come into its third year, we are super proud of how far we have come and how the business continues to evolve.

We started out with just two and myself

and as of today we have 12 staff, a site office, a construction, concrete and shop fit side to the company.

What is your business’s greatest asset? Definitely our team, everything we do is a massive team effort daily. Some of the boys have featured in this great photo: • Mick Ramsey - The Building and Construction Director • Ben Ramsey - The Concrete Forman and Director • Gus Fenwicke - The Project Manager • Caelum Read - The Lead Carpenter • Caleb Ramsey - The Apprentice Carpenter What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? I think sometimes I need to pinch myself to realise what I have created and how good it is actually going. I’m truly grateful.

How do you measure success in your business? I think the amount of feedback we receive weekly and the amount of calls we receive by new clients referred to us by previous clients says it all. I’m often

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told by my staff how much they love our working environment and at the end of the day I’m nothing without the staff or the clients so yeah that’s definitely a successful thing I think.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Our motto at RBC is ‘Trust is just one of the things we build well’.

We pride ourselves on building trusting relationships with our clients from day one and ensuring communication is always a top priority. Our team is friendly, approachable and have the skill level to ensure every project is complete with a high level of quality workmanship.

We are professional and approachable, with a vast knowledge in the industry.

We have already created reputable relationships with many other trades and suppliers and take immense pride that Ramsey Built Constructions will exceed your expectations. RBC specialise in the Design and Construct Residential, Commercial Shop Fitout and Concreting projects.

FLOWER H O T E L S

SHANE CURRY

G E NE R A L M A NAG E R

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lower Hotels is made up of 5 Hotels in the Port Macquarie Hastings area including – Settlers Inn Hotel, Fernhill Tavern, Beechwood Hotel, Hastings Hotel and Lake Cathie Tavern. Additionally we are part owners of the Little Shack Bar/Café on the Town Green.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021?

In 2021 we have had to adapt and evolve our business as we look to understand how we can manage Covid in society. Hospitality has been the hardest hit and it’s important being a community Pub group that we provide safety and confidence in our venues, while also delivering the consistent quality in food and beverage that everyone expects.

ALISTAIR FLOWER

M A NAG I N G D I R E C T O R Within your industry how does your business stand out from others?

We pride ourselves on the fact that our venues are the heart of the community – all our local communities in the region. As an industry we all do this very well, but our decision making and our core values of our group centre around community first and foremost.

How do you measure success, personally and in business?

It’s how we are managing our effectiveness and happiness through time. We run busy lives in business and at home, along with understanding the changing landscape of Covid. Not saying it’s easy but if we have small wins, maintain a culture and control before a spiral, I view this as success.

ROD ARCHER C FO

What are your future goals?

We have a large capex program for all our venues in the next 1-2 years as we look to maximise the footprint of each Pub and look to build the businesses for sustainable growth.

We have also set up the resources within the group to allow growth and we have our eye on another couple of local projects.

How can we connect with you?

Each of our businesses have Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as a Flower Hotel Facebook and website.

You can also follow Flower Hotels or Alistair Flower on LinkedIn. flowerhotels.com.au

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MEN IN BUSINESS

JASON

SHER MAN

ANTHONY

FINANCE BROKER

LY N C H

GE N E R AL M ANAGE R

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escribe how you got What does a typical day look started in your role? like for you?

Myself and my A normal day starts by liaising wife Alison purchased with staff regarding the current the business back in 2013. Prior work schedule. We work together to this we had been operating a to ensure all jobs are completed number of other business for the on time. Following that I head past 16 years. We were ready off to complete measures and for a change when we decided quotes.

All Time Glass I normally was a great head back into Our greatest opportunity. The the office after asset is that we business has any quotes are listen to our since grown, complete to customers’ needs and we have return phone now relocated messages, and strive to provide to Jindalee Road order materials them with what which provides for jobs and they require. better access to type up the and exposure to day’s quotes the public. which will How does your company then be sent out to customers. In set itself apart from its the afternoon I would normally competitors? What is your start to organise the following business's greatest asset? day’s work for staff. Not every day We pride ourselves in providing runs to plan and there are always great customer service and giving days when we get an emergency the customer a quality product broken window or door to be that will last them for years to repaired. We are always flexible to come. Our greatest asset is that accommodate these events. we listen to our customers’ needs and strive to provide them with what they require. One of our other assets is our staff who strive to give great customer service in a 6581 2877 timely manner and always with a friendly smile.

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escribe how you got started in your role?

I commenced this role in September 2020 in the middle of COVID, after spending far too long talking myself out of taking the plunge.

I have over 18 years of experience in the banking/ finance industry and for the last 6 years I have worked closely with numerous successful business owners/operators. I figured ‘I should be doing something like this’ (working for myself) and decided to forego the solid salary, company car and benefits and essentially ‘start over’.

Today, I am not restricted to supporting a client based on the amount they wish to borrow or how much income their business turns over. I can work with someone seeking their first personal loan or home loan, to a client with an extensive property portfolio or a commercial client turning over more than $100 million purchasing commercial assets.

And how is that going for you?

I honestly should have done this 20 years ago. The best decision I have made in a very long time!

How does your company set itself apart from its competitors?

By not being restricted to the type of client or product – having experience in both Retail and Commercial lending has enabled me to forge strong relationships with key businesses locally and outside our region and therefore be able to find a solution for my clients.

There are plenty of Mortgage Brokers around that have home loan experience but their experience is limited to that. Sadly, (I have come to learn) there are also plenty that do not call their clients back.

I am passionate about making the business successful, so I will always do my best to achieve the right outcome for my clients.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Every day is different (which is why I love doing this). Plenty of customer conversations about refinancing for a better deal, leveraging equity to purchase another property, restructuring to free up cash flow, first home buyer queries – to name a few.

0422 202 475 jason@idealfg.com.au idealfinancialgroup.com.au

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ell us about your business.

We are a small cafe tucked away on the top floor of Port Central.

We serve up seasonal, cooked to order breakfast and lunch as well as fresh baked sweets and treats.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021? We opened during the first wave of Pandemic Shutdowns and have since grown to operate at full capacity, which has in turn seen our dedicated staff rise to the challenge.

Within your industry how does your business stand out from others? A hard question really when there are so many great cafes in Port doing great things. I like to think our service and freshly cooked to order menu answers the question modestly, closely followed by our coffee roasters White Horse which we are the only ones serving this delicious blend on the Mid North Coast.

How do you measure success, personally and in business? I would easily measure success by regulars. The cafes regulars are what makes our business survive. The site had previously turned over twice within a year. That can be damaging because people don’t know what to expect when visiting the Top Floor of Port Central.

SEAN T I D D Y

What are your future goals? The future for us would be to turn this establishment into a cafe stencil.

Multiple sites are the dream and in motion. Hopefully, we will find the sites and opportunities in Port and its surroundings.

How can we connect with you?

The easiest way would be to park on the first level of Port Central and walk straight through the doors. Otherwise, all our details are online and keep an eye out for our app that will be launched very soon!

Level 1, Port Central Shopping Centre 40-42 Horton Street, Port Macquarie 0484 294 722 @portcentralpantry @port_central_pantry

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ADAM

BUTTON WAT E R S H E D INSUR ANCE BROKERS M ANAG ING DIR EC TOR

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escribe how you got started in your role?

I have been in the insurance industry for a long time now, but my passion for assisting the community to make fully informed insurance decisions is what has led me to my current role. Watershed Insurance Brokers is locally owned and operated and we support our clients from their initial enquiry, though to purchasing the right policies. In the unfortunate event of a claim, we provide comprehensive service to get the right result. Insurance is so important for the community as a whole and it needs to be right.

How does your company set itself apart from its competitors? We have often been told that our excellent service sets us apart from the rest!

With over 30 years’ experience in insurance, knowledge across most industry sectors, and access to more than 150 insurance providers, Watershed Insurance Brokers is the solution for your insurance needs and is a name you can trust.

What is your business’s greatest asset? Giving business owners the confidence to operate their business knowing that their insurance needs are met.

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At Watershed Insurance, we understand each business, provide comprehensive insurance cover options, and assist our clients to understand what they are and are not covered for. This detail (and service) puts our clients’ minds at ease right from the very beginning, giving them more time to focus on running their business!

What does a typical day look like for you? I am a pretty organised type of guy, and my typical day involves lots of checklists, reviewing reports and a constantly evolving to-do list, while regularly reviewing my existing clients’ activities and following up on new enquiries. In a town as beautiful as Port Macquarie, I also try and make time each morning to start the day with some exercise and a coffee by the beach which gives me the perfect opportunity to contemplate the day ahead!

0407 162 413 adam@watershedinsurance.com.au watershedinsurance.com.au WatershedInsurance linkedin.com/in/ adam-button-25733717/

QUANG MAI

P OR T M ACQ UAR IE PRICELINE PHAR M AC Y PHAR M ACIS T IN CHARGE M ANAGING PA R T N E R

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ow does your being a Pharmacist is that the company set itself advice we provide is impactful and apart from its can make life-changing alterations competitors? in the lives and outcomes of our At Priceline we customers. Through this journey are here to assist our customers we build lifelong relationships by giving advice and talking with our customers which is through any health concerns. rewarding.

From our friendly staff to our What does a typical day look trained cosmeticians, we aim like for you? to give you the best advice and For Quang - Sitting on the recommendations, great prices beach sipping pina coladas... and the latest In Pharmacy products. there is no such Here at What is your thing as a typical Priceline Port business’s Macquarie our team day which is greatest one of the best spends the time to asset? aspects of being build meaningful Our people a Pharmacist. relationships with are our most No two days our customers and valuable asset, are the same, our local community, we constantly their abilities, as we serve and knowledge, interact with support them and experience new customers, through their time can’t be different issues, of need. replaced. Here and have to keep at Priceline up to date with Port Macquarie new medicines, our team spends the time to which means we are constantly build meaningful relationships learning ourselves and educating our community. with our customers and our local community, as we serve and support them through their time of need.

36 Horton Street, Port Macquarie What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

6583 1900 The most satisfying aspect of pricelinepharmacyportmacquarie

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escribe how you got started in your role?

Having been employed in the high end commercial construction sector as a Project Manager for 10 years, I was looking for a new challenge. Starting a new business that would give me the opportunity to use all of my skills obtained in the 5 star commercial construction sector, as well as give me more time at home with my family, has always been in the pipeline for our family.

We were looking to build a home on a block of land with G.J. Gardner Homes Batemans Bay when the opportunity presented itself to open the new G.J. Gardner Homes office in Port Macquarie. We were impressed with the whole procedure from a client side perspective. We jumped at the opportunity to be involved with such a well developed and thorough business model. That was early 2020. We relocated the family to Port Macquarie at Christmas 2020 and set about establishing G.J. Gardner Homes as one of the leading builders on the Mid North Coast.

How does your company set itself apart from its competitors?

G.J. Gardner Homes Port Macquarie strive to set ourselves apart from our competition by providing our clients with a quality product that can be tweaked to capture their vision and create their dream home. Our extensive discovery phase allows us to provide accurate feedback to the client in both cost and design to determine the client’s vision of must-haves and wishlist inclusions. We are able to provide a level of detail in the final design and pricing to lock in a fixed price contract ready to start the build. G.J. Gardner Homes has an extensive house plan library with all designs lending themselves to be modified to perfectly suit the client and geographical features of the block. Should the client not be able to find their perfect home in our library, our experienced team will work with them to come up with a custom design to meet their dreams and requirements.

What is your business’s greatest asset?

Our staff are the company’s biggest asset with both the office and site staff making the machine run and providing true and accurate information to our clients. G.J. Gardner Homes Port Macquarie put a lot of time and effort into selecting all our staff and contractors so we can provide quality service and product.

With the ongoing training provided and the unparalleled support from the corporate offices it ensures we are on top of our game and provide the best service to the customer and potential clients.

We have a very tight team who are extremely professional. I am blessed to be able to work so closely with them.

DREWE TIMEWELL

G M AT G J G A R D N E R H O M E S PORT MACQUARIE

portmacquarie@gjgardner.com.au 02 6533 1055 0437590203 www.gjgardner.com.au

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MEN IN BUSINESS

L- R : DAV I D G R AY, G R EG B AT E S , D AV I D P L E W S , A D A M H O L B O R OW, B R E ND A N S T E A D, G EO F F W O O D H A M , D A NI E L S L AT E R A ND T O N Y R AT H B O NE

ow has Elders Port Macquarie people and property. We take the time to evolved in the last 2 years? invest in our team’s mental, physical, and Our main goal has always emotional wellbeing daily along with ensuring been to provide the absolute they always have access to up-to-date best customer experience in real innovative information, tools, and resources estate services on the Mid North Coast. Over involving the real estate industry. the past 2 years we have been committed to It is through our commitment, care, and our own personal growth by creating a unique compassion we see the benefits to each point of difference – the ‘lifestyle’ way. individual team member, and as a group, Our people, clients, and community are which displays a positive ripple effect proven of utmost importance; therefore, it is our by our outstanding sales results, superb client daily focus to actively reviews, ongoing business engage and always stay referrals and excellent We are committed to these 3 key reputation amongst our areas. local communities. constantly With the introduction The sheer size of our evolving; our of Ideal Finance, we can business allows the team leadership team has assist our clients even leaders in all areas, eg an open-door policy, further by providing Head of Sales, Head of and we learn so much competitive finance rates Human Resources, Head from the team. and sound lending advice of Property Management, via our lead finance etc, to constantly focus on expert Jason Sherman. their specific role within Together with our the business. In return experienced Property Management team (Port this allows us to embrace innovative business Property), in the past two years the Elders technology and establish a culture where all Lifestyle Group has created a channel of ideas are encouraged, valued, and considered. specialised services led by the best people in Our latest project has been setting up our very the business to ensure our clients across the own Customer Care Team which is proving to Mid North Coast Region and beyond can reach be extremely successful. their property goals seamlessly and stress free.

What is your business greatest asset?

How does your Elders set itself apart from We are constantly evolving; our leadership its competitors? team has an open-door policy, and we learn Our core focus is centred around supporting so much from the team. We also engage the

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best industry experts in many different fields to coach and mentor the team. Of late we are also collaborating externally and always looking to bring fresh ideas into the mix.

Real estate across Australia has so many amazing business leaders and by outsourcing some of their developmental processes we are able to achieve objectives much more quickly.

What is the most satisfying aspect of working at Elders Real Estate?

Working within the Lifestyle Group is like no other. With over 100 staff spanning across the beautiful Mid North Coast Region, we get to live and breathe the best of a coastal and regional ‘Lifestyle’. Owning a growing business has allowed for so much career progression and the greatest reward for me is watching the team thrive and develop in their careers.

We aim to recruit and grow within and seeing the expansion of the business transform into the “Lifestyle culture” that exists now is very gratifying.

This positive working environment has been created by Dave Gray - CEO and Director of the Elders Lifestyle Group, along with the support of his team of incredible local talent.

62 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 02 6584 1199 elderslifestylegroup.com.au

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TEAM AT

WILSON R E TA I L C O .

ANTHONY WILSON: The man at the helm, steering the Wilson Retail ship. A man of many talents but known around the office as the man that does-not-stop! He’s our fearless leader that navigates the tumultuous waters of the retail industry while always pushing for his team to be the absolute best they can.

MAT COX: Nearing his 13th year with Wilson Retail, Mat is our talented Senior Buyer. He’s the legend behind our epic men’s range that you’ll find across our 15 stores.

Continuously on the hunt for cutting edge brands and threads, Mat’s THE MAN when it comes to men’s fashion.

PAUL “PORKY” WORBOYS: Leading the charge in all aspects of business operations, Porky has witnessed the evolution of Wilson Retail over his 30 years with the company! He’s a man of many hats - one day he’s in the office conducting interviews or organising trades and the next he’s on the road heading out to stores. A true legend amongst the team.

MIKE PORTER: The man behind our “hardgoods” categories. Mike takes the lead in ensuring all stores are stocked up in the latest and greatest surf and skateboards and accessories. Frothing the selection of boards in store? Yeah, that’s Mike’s work!

WILL HENDERSON: The fearless leader of our Stormriders flagship store. This

legend has been around for a hot minute and no doubt you’ve run into him in store and experienced his passion for retail and customer service.

CALE SUTTON: Cale, AKA The Froth Lord, is our champion Saltwater Wine Boardstore Manager. He loves all things surf - looking for that new surfboard, Cale’s your man. YEW! BRENDAN SMITH: Breno, our gentle but determine giant who has worked his way around the business and is now a crucial part of our Warehouse team. He ensures all our stock is shipped out to stores in a timely and efficient manner to arrive in the hands of our customers.

SALTWATER WINE 107 Horton St. portmacquarie@saltwaterwine.com.au 6584 0084 port@stormriders.com.au STORMRIDERS 62 Horton St. 6584 1600 boardcollective.com.au COMING SOON GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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JOSH H U N T E R SOCKGAIM

Josh Hunter’s business Sockgaim came as a contrast from his time in the dull grey monochromatic streets of London.

A wholesome sock revolution was born and now Josh shares his bright and positive designs with Port Macquarie.

F

irstly, tell us a little bit about you and your connection to the region.

Hey Claire! Thanks for having me in Focus.

Well I am actually born and

bred in Port Macquarie, attending both St Joseph’s Primary and Regional High School.

As soon as I turned 18 I moved to Sydney and over a period of 4 years I lived in Dubai, Canada then back to Sydney. When the travel bug hit me again, I relocated to London where I spent the past 10 years of my life and only through COVID have I found myself living back home again. I was visiting Australia for a wedding in March 2020, only to receive a phone call

I grew up surfing and playing every sport

the night before my returning flight from my

possible, mainly rugby for the Port Pirates, as

employer, stating they were no longer able to

well as football (soccer) and basketball at a

honour my full-time contract. So I stayed and

representative level. My mum’s been a teacher

left everything behind in the UK.

in the local area for 44 years and my dad owned

And have been loving it ever since. After living

the first female garment store in Port, Looking

overseas you don’t realise how lucky you are to

Good Fashions, on Short Street.

be able to hit up the beach every day. It’s been

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amazing being back home where I grew up. I never really appreciated it when I was younger but Port is such a beautiful place.

What’s your career background and how did you end up venturing into this creative world?

When I first moved to London I found myself working as a concierge which I absolutely loved!

Organising itineraries for the guests, booking shows and events, parking fancy cars, as well as having to critique London’s top restaurants.

I ended up spending five years at the five star hotel, The Soho Hotel, which I truly believed shaped who I am today. I then became a Personal Assistant (PA) for a Hollywood Actress, Annabelle Wallis full-time for four years then on a part-time basis, which sadly has only just recently ended.

Over that period I was able to freelance for a few big bands as well as being the Director’s Assistant for some major events such as Kevin Spacey’s Farewell Gala at the Old Vic Theatre in London and Tom Hanks’ inauguration to the Hall of Fame at the Kennedy Centre Honours in Washington DC. After finding myself back in Port Macquarie

After living overseas you don’t realise how lucky you are to be able to hit up the beach every day. It’s been amazing being back home where I grew up. I never really appreciated it when I was younger but Port is such a beautiful place.

when COVID hit, I was in the fortunate position to take a step back from life and reflect (like I am sure many people did).

It was actually my uncle who suggested I start looking at e-commerce (e-com) businesses to purchase, he felt my business knowledge, product creativity and experience in customer services was a perfect fit for the industry.

I ended up completely immersing myself into the e-com and content world. I wanted to learn all the different variations on how this industry makes money, the platforms used and finding who the perfect audiences are for a particular product or niche. I was absolutely fascinated and still am at the endless possibilities in the industry.

Why Sockgaim? How did it come about?

As I was delving into the e-com world I reached out to a close childhood friend, another Port local Scott Mullins. He works in the digital content world and I wanted to pick his brain on some of the businesses I was looking to purchase. As we chatted we decided to go into business together and begin a start-up acquiring content and e-com businesses that had potential growth to scale.

We had just purchased a content website, but the final settlement was dragging out and

was starting to get messy with the owner. I decided to look for another business to purchase in case the sale fell through, then boom, a business called Sockgaim was listed.

I couldn’t be more excited because I absolutely love bright socks from my days in the UK. London can be a bit dull and grey. One day I found myself chuckling at an extremely well dressed man with these colourful stripey socks poking out. I went out and bought my own pair and I’ve worn bright coloured socks almost every single day.

So when the opportunity of purchasing my own funky sock company presented itself, I knew I had to take it. After three days of discussions, we had purchased the company and I had my passion project.

Who do you cater for and how does it all work?

Absolutely everyone (within US sizes 5-13).

Obviously perfect for any sock enthusiast, but our sock subscriptions are the perfect gift, because it’s the gift that keeps on giving. If you purchase a 3, 6 or 12 month sock subscription for someone, at the end of every month they get sent a new pair of fun and funky socks – it's brilliant.

So Father’s Day is coming up people!

Hahaha

We are also in the process of creating infant socks. So parents can purchase matching infant and adult socks, which I think is going to be awesome. We’re mucking around with new designs so if anyone has ideas we’d love to hear them.

We are also working with charities providing custom designs for their fundraisers including RUN DIPG, a charity dedicated to improving outcomes for patients and their families impacted by the brainstem cancer, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). We have also started working with local charity, Lemonade Crew on a custom design. Being able to offer our resources to charities for their fundraisers is extremely rewarding and something Sockgaim wants to continue focusing on.

What’s the feedback been like from your customers?

Amazing! Whether they bought them for themselves or as a gift, the response has been really positive. People connect with designs and love how comfy they are, which just gives us so much drive going forward.

All the designs have been created by Australian artists who’ve chosen vivid colours and playful patterns which seem to resonate with our audience.

Where can we buy your product?

We’re purely an online store at the moment, you can find us at www.sockgaim.com and Facebook and Instagram: @Sockgaim. If you want to reach out to us, we are always up for a chat, please use info@sockgaim.com ‘Making the world a brighter place one pair of socks at a time’ GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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SOLAHART P O RT M ACQ UA R I E

OF R?

B L A K E , S I M O N , R O D, A L B E R T, D AV I D, D A NI E L & B R A D

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SWITCH.

ow has your business evolved since it began?

With already a big hot water base, we are continuing to grow year by year. With myself and Tahney taking over the business and adding my electrical specialty along with previous experience in Solar Power installs, we SMART OFFER 2 power have been able to drive our quality solar and battery business, whilst also continuing to grow our awesome Solar Hot Water Systems.

What is your business's greatest asset?

Our Staff are our biggest asset within our local company with: Our plumbers - Simon has been with the on any residential solar product company for 10 years now and he knows the including Solar around.

PowerWorking and hot watersSolahart better than anyone Battery Storage. alongside Simon is our hard working 3rd year appreciate Blake, who is really stepping up and learning from the best.

Our electricians - Albert who has been with us for over 3 years and and has been installing Solar for over 15 years.

Albert has been across R HOT WATER SOLAR POWER all sections of solar, from residential to small and

60 MONTHS INTEREST-FREE*

from your competitors? large commercial. Daniel and Brad are our new The main difference with our locally owned electrical tradesman and apprentice who are company is it’s backed by an Australian icon quickly learning the high quality process of our which has been around for over 65 years. installs.

This ensures that all our Rod is our sales, solar products we sell and install designer and support The main are warranted by this to our trades. Rod is difference with amazing national company continuing to grow his our locally owned who strive in supplying expertise in solar across the company is it’s backed good quality products for board. He loves helping by an Australian icon our customers. people to save money in all What is the most aspects of residential and which has been around satisfying aspect of your commercial. for over 65 years. job?

Vicki has also been with Being able to help us here locally going on 11 customers save money on years this year, knowing the their ever increasing energy bills.

Solahart products better than anyone around.

What creative things do you do to develop a Her knowledge is unbelievable and continues to likeable company culture? keep the office running like clockwork.

Our Boys have a fortnightly morning BBQ Tahney my wife is continuing to grow new toolbox meeting which allow them to have a business through marketing and advertising, bit of a chat and a laugh – bit of bonding. Staff while also supporting Rod with sales and bonus when they least expect it and a flexible growing her product knowledge. SMART SYSTEMS ENERGY STORAGE workplace.

How does your company set itself apart

of 270 litres and above, an Atmos Heat Pump or Solahart PowerStore®. *60 hly repayment amount will not pay out the purchase within the interest free ly 19.9%. A $6 monthly account fee applies. A one-off establishment fee may ty Limited (ABN 58 164 440 993, Australian Credit Licence Number 441878). erms and conditions visit solahart.com.au.

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Call 1300 721 984 or visit solahart.com.au Unit 9/11 Bellbowrie St Port Macquarie

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escribe how you got started...

Since I was young, I’ve always had a passion for fitness.

Growing up I tried my hand at many different sports and as I entered the working stage of my life I perused personal training, nutrition, supplement formation and a few other positions in the industry. When I moved to Port Macquarie I started as a casual at ASN Port and loved the community of people who I was surrounded by.

Eventually I took the Manager’s position and then in 2019 I became the proud owner of the now locally owned and operated ASN Port Macquarie.

How has your business evolved since it began?

When I first became the owner of ASN I put all of my effort into making sure ASN was a place to not only make retail purchases but to provide a place that supported the community in their health, fitness and lifestyle goals. In order to do that we are constantly learning new things about the latest research and trends in our field.

What is your business’s greatest asset?

I’d have to say our ASN team and that doesn’t just encompass my wonderful and motivated staff!

It also includes all of our loyal customers who don’t just shop with us but also have become our friends, biggest supporters and motivation to keep delivering top quality service.

STUART C A M E R O N

ASN PORT MACQUARIE OWNER AND OPERATOR

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

As I said, one of our greatest assets is our customers and therefore its them who really make the job.

I pride myself on being able to help so many of our Mid North Coast locals on improving their health and fitness and being a helping hand for them to improve their quality of life.

Shop 2/124 Horton St, Port Macquarie NSW (02) 6583 4288 @asnport

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JASON HARDES, COREY HARDES AND LUKE WILTON

D

NARELLAN

escribe how you got started in your business?

We have all worked in the pool building and POOL BUILDERS OWNERS / DIREC TORS landscaping business for over 20 years.

We realised there was great potential for a new pool building business on the Mid North Coast who could We have clients meet all our team, bring a high-quality see products and product and service understand the Our business to the market. So we process of building a has literally became a franchise beautiful pool.

4/25 Central Road, been built on client of Narellan Pools We can show them Port Macquarie NSW 2444 referrals and Australia’s leading in person how a pool narellanpools.com.au pool manufacturer. recommendations works and what to 1300 676 657 How has your which we are so expect throughout the narellanpoolsmnc business evolved process. thankful for. since it began?

What is your Our business has business’s greatest literally been built on asset? client referrals and recommendations Our team and our employees are which we are so thankful for. We are all our greatest asset. The success of our locals so our integrity and reputation is business is due to the experience, important to us. integrity and amazing work ethic of all We now have a showroom in Central of our team. Keeping our team happy Road, Port Macquarie which is a great and motivated is important to us, as is asset to the business. the ongoing training for them.

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MEN IN BUSINESS FEATURE

t is more than a little ironic to be writing about the success of our business within the Men In Business forum when that success can largely be attributed to the abilities and excellence of the women who make up our amazing team.

Property Management is a demanding and challenging industry that requires an interesting combination of being strong enough to cope with difficult situations whilst never losing the genuine ability of being understanding and empathetic of the people and situations we deal with on a daily basis. With very few exceptions, including our own outstanding Ricky Owen, women are far better at doing this than us blokes. Percival Property has been providing specialist residential property management services in Port Macquarie since 1995. Our success has always been and will always be built around our team. Michelle and I have always put people before profits and the reason we went into business in the first place all those years ago was not for financial reasons but because we genuinely wanted to undertake the provision of real estate services in Port Macquarie at the highest possible level. 26 years later our desire to give clients the best possible experience in their property transactions is stronger than ever. That longevity in the industry is a very good reason to take advantage of our services. Our level of experience in our industry is unmatched, every single member of our team is a fully licenced real estate agent and we offer the reassuring comfort of stability and high quality to our valued clients. I personally measure my success in many ways however the most satisfying indicator of my business’s accomplishments is the fact that many of my team have been in our “family” for more than ten years. In an era where employment tenure is shrinking and particularly in an industry that regularly presents difficult situations, this loyalty and stability is something that I am very grateful for. Thank you to my team for your excellence and incredible quality!

MICHAEL P E R C I VA L

Michael Percival Licensee/Director Property Management The Purple House 34 Buller Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 (Access from Alva Lane) michael@percival.com.au 02 6583 7499 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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CHRIS

GLENN

IN HOUSE PHOTOGR APHER

S A L E S A S S O C I AT E

SCOTT

ROCKSTROH Tell us about your business? Aside from my small creative business, my main role in life is all things content production and marketing with Percival Property. I create all the photography, videography and 3D tours for all of our properties and work with the creative team on the social media channels. I absolutely love working with the team - incredible, effective and passionate people headed by one of the most driven individuals I have ever met.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021? In an age of ever-increasing digital presence, being able to quickly and effectively market online is only becoming more important.

In 2021 we have doubled down on digital and continue to seek new ways to be effective online.

Within your industry how does your business stand out from others? Between all the portals, the photos, video and 3D tours cumulatively have views in the millions. Percival Property knows giving buyers this opportunity online is crucial in today's market.

What are your future goals? I’m always seeking to improve as a creative - always the student, never the master! One of my favourite things in this business is hearing someone tell me my photos are how they fell in love with their new home. To know I had that impact is so humbling - I strive to provide that emotional connection for every buyer.

How can we connect with you? Reach out to us on social media! Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube.

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Tell us about your business? Working with Michelle Percival’s sales unit I focus on pre-sale preparation and marketing strategy. Preparation is powerful and it positions us perfectly to focus attention on the critical areas of buyer management and negotiation. Blanket all of the above with a bespoke level of customer service and you get an indication of why Percival Property was rated the most recommended agency in Port Macquarie in 2021.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021? With a business background as the previous owner of Lighthouse Cellars Liquor Store, I am undertaking ongoing study. Working with Michelle and her experienced team I have gained an even greater insight into the property services industry and continue to hone the skills and qualities required to provide our clients with the best possible experience and outcome.

What are your future goals? To be widely recognised within my community and by industry colleagues for ethics, knowledge and skill. I look forward to reconnecting with past clients from Lighthouse Cellars in my capacity as a property professional and providing the same quality of client service that I have been known for previously.

How can we connect with you? I would love to speak with you about the Percival difference - you can reach me on 0417 019 756, email me at glenn@percival.com.au or connect through my Facebook and Instagram pages.

MARTIN NEWELL RURAL AND LIFES T YLE AGE NT

Tell us about your business? I operate the rural and lifestyle property division within the Percival Property brand. My main focus is rural and lifestyle properties ranging from one acre through to thousands of acres, however I do also take on commercial real estate sales and other special projects when requested.

Within the Real Estate industry how do you stand out from others? I focus on quality in everything I do, starting with world standard marketing programs through to the customer service that any client experiences. I understand rural as a product and the associated lifestyle, having owned a number of rural properties myself over the years and gained a wealth of knowledge having been in the industry a long time.

How long have you been in the Real Estate Industry? I have been selling real estate in the Hastings and Camden Haven areas since 2004, and in that time have sold over 850 properties.

How do you measure success? Whilst many would think that this would be a financial income question and answer, I measure my success through achieving outstanding results for my clients. My motivation comes from my vendors and making sure that I have done everything possible to achieve the best possible outcome. At the end of the day, I’m humbled and respectful of the fact that my vendors entrust their most valuable asset to me.

How can people connect with you? Any time on 0429 883 488 martin@percival.com.au or join me on social media

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JOYCE J OYC E CO N ST R U C T I O N S OW N E R & D I R E C TO R

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ow does your company set itself apart from its competitors?

Joyce Constructions has grown over the years and is now a prominent local construction company which specialises in custom projects. Our skilled team showcases a wide variety of expertise, allowing us to undertake a range of jobs, from custom residential and shop fitouts to large commercial. We also take honour in using local trades and suppliers.

What is your company’s greatest asset?

At Joyce Constructions, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience with unique builds. By undertaking diverse and complex projects, we’re constantly evolving as a company. Our exposure to new techniques and products allows us to bring visions to life.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role?

No two days are alike. The diversity of each project means that I’m constantly challenging myself and my team to reach the next level. This means I’ve had the opportunity to watch my team grow. Nothing makes me prouder than standing back and admiring the work of my team. From the apprentices through to our office management team, everyone plays an important role to create the bigger picture, Joyce Constructions.

14 Janola Cct, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 02 6581 1643 info@joyceconstructions.com www.joyceconstructions.com.au joyceconstructions joyce_constructions

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MEN IN BUSINESS

JOB ON THE

DANE STOJA NOV I C

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Flooring 2 Perfection is one of Port Macquarie’s best businesses specialising in bringing warmth and character to your home with timber flooring.

Whether it be new constructions or bringing your old timber floors back to life, Dane Stojanovic can help your flooring dreams come true.

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ey Dane. You’re busy running options in the flooring Industry: your business here in Port.

• Hardwood floors, installation, sand and finish.

Firstly, tell us about your We offer many options in finishes, we specialise in connection to the area. non-toxic waterborne finishes, lime washing and I moved to Port Macquarie staining. with my family when I was 10 • Hardwood comes in a variety of species, years old. Born in Orange, our family decided on a colourings and sizes, we like to support our local coastal change and I’m so glad they did. timber mill whenever possible, they provide some Port Macquarie is such a great town, I now have beautiful timber. the privilege of raising my own family here.

• Parquetry.

Flooring 2 Perfection is your business. How • Engineered flooring. long have you been in the • Sanding and finishing of industry? stairs with anti-slip coatings.

I went straight I went straight into the We can provide removal into the flooring industry from high of tiles, carpets and vinyls flooring industry school. After a few career trials, before installation if I was offered an apprenticeship required. from high school. in flooring where I found my What’s your favourite After a few career passion. I have been in this part of the job? trials, I was offered industry for the past 20 years, My favourite part of the an apprenticeship in running Flooring 2 Perfection job is seeing how a home flooring where I for 11 years. can completely transform found my passion. I When and why did you start with a new floor. A timber have been in this the business? floor can bring such industry for the past Flooring 2 Perfection was character to a home.

20 years, running established in 2010. I had I really enjoy the variety Flooring 2 Perfection always wanted to own my own timber flooring can provide, for 11 years. business. each floor comes with its I knew I had the skills and own features and challenges. passion to provide a great What do you enjoy most service to Port Macquarie. about living in the area?

In the past 11 years we have done thousands of I really enjoy living on the coast only a few floors, been in some amazing homes and love the streets from the beach. It is a great place to raise variety flooring provides. our family, with a great community.

During the past 11years I spent some time How can we get in touch? working all around Sydney installing engineered You can reach us by: flooring2perfection@gmail.com flooring to high end high rise apartments and 0431159394 shop fit outs which was a great experience. flooring2perfection.com What services do you provide? @_flooring2perfection We can provide our customers many different

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Thistle Flowers respects the First Peoples – the Birpai – who are the traditional custodians of the lands of the Hastings region.

We also acknowledge and respect other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who call our region home

Thistle F L O W E R S

Two blokes and their blooms: The story of how a cowboy and a school principal decided to expand their passion for floral design across the Mid North Coast.

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att and Chris, tell us a bit about yourselves. Were you born and raised in the country?

Matt: Funnily enough I was born in the back of an ambulance on the way to hospital.

I grew up and spent all of my childhood and young adult life in Marburg, a small country town in south-east Queensland. Before I could walk, my four sisters and I were on the back of a horse. These humble childhood experiences led me into a passion and a successful career in campdrafting and training horses not only in Australia but abroad. Travelling all around the country, competing and judging in campdrafts and training horses for the best in the business, my journey led me to Inverell.

Chris: I wasn’t in as much of a hurry as Matt, I was born in a hospital at Murwillumbah. My brother and I spent our early childhood years in Tumbulgum, a small village on the Tweed River.

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I attended primary school in Gilgandra, a tiny posies out of a friend’s art and creative space. town in central west NSW, and my adolescence Matt & Chris: We have both grown up and young adulthood was spent in Inverell and with a passion for flowers, plants, gardening, the New England region. I foraging and love bringing began my teaching career the outside flora to the Being in Inverell, and after many indoors. Being country years as a school principal men, we understand the country men, I moved to Sydney to work importance of looking we understand in Aboriginal Education after the land, respecting the importance of at the NSW Department traditional owners and looking a­er the of Education state office. celebrating Australia’s vast land, respecting Being a proud Gomeroi beauty. Thistle Flowers is an traditional owners man this corporate position organic progression of both and celebrating allowed me to educate and our lives. Port Macquarie Australia’s vast support NSW Public Schools has always been a special beauty. about Aboriginal culture. place to us, so naturally we So how do a cowboy decided to launch Thistle and a principal move to Flowers PMQ here on Port Macquarie and open beautiful Birpai Country.

Thistle Flowers?

We have felt very welcomed and supported Matt: After many years of contemplating the by the local Port Macquarie community idea of a floral styling business, Thistle Flowers and surrounds. Being from small supportive was born 4 years ago in Inverell, selling small communities ourselves we feel right at home.

Why the name Thistle?

Matt & Chris: A thistle represents devotion, bravery, determination and strength. It is known for its roughness and ability to thrive in harsh conditions. Behind its prickly facade lies countless benefits – just like us.

As country men, we lived many years in harsh drought conditions. The thistle flower was the only beauty that could be seen in a paddock full of dirt. We believe in seeing the awe in the unconventional. To some a thistle is a weed, but to us a thistle is a beautiful flower.

What makes Thistle Flowers unique?

Matt & Chris: Probably a lot, but basically, we just do our own thing. We might put a banksia with a dahlia which conventionally doesn’t belong and wouldn’t be traditional but it works. We believe there are no rules when working with flowers, we love to let flowers do their thing and dance.

You won’t find two bunches the same at Thistle Flowers. Every arrangement is personal and we love this about our small business. We believe an artist works better when they have a subject in mind and can work with seasonal availability which also keeps us on our toes.

We have both travelled and lived overseas.

These experiences have not only given us

knowledge of floral You won’t find design amongst other two bunches cultures but has also the same at Thistle given us an ability and Flowers. Every a deep appreciation arrangement is to respect our personal and we love beautiful Australian landscape. Chris’ this about our small When styling a space, proud Aboriginality business. We believe a holistic approach that has influenced our an artist works be er incorporates not only the connection and when they have a flowers but the overall love of Country and subject in mind and feel of our clients and the to celebrate our can work with space itself is paramount. beautiful, unique seasonal availability Most events require us to native flora. which also keeps us troubleshoot on the spot Since relocating on our toes. to make our installations to Port Macquarie, happen. Our floral art we have been spoilt evolves when on location with a spectacular and everything comes abundance of locally together, incorporating all aesthetic factors. grown flowers. Growing up on farms We have a special passion for installation art. ourselves we understand the importance We are known for our large, extravagant, of supporting local as much as we can. We unique hanging or free standing installations. spend a few days a week discovering and We reduce, reuse and recycle at every supporting local flower farms to bring the opportunity and are always looking to freshest flowers to our warehouse space. improve our environmental footprint.

Floral styling to us is more than a look it’s Chemicals and plastics are avoided and we about a feeling. Whether it’s a small posy or do not use floral foam. We actively support a ‘Kardashian’ event, each client receives the and continually practice sustainable floristry. same personalised experience.

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What happens at Thistle HQ? Matt & Chris: Each day is different. But every day starts with fresh flowers, coffee and an epic playlist up loud! We pick beautiful blooms (often from a local flower farm).

Then back to the warehouse where we give every flower a good drink, carefully prepare each stem and get the little beauties and our ourselves ready to tackle the day’s orders.

When a client arrives, either booked or unannounced, we like to have a yarn first.

Picking flowers from our flower bar to brighten up a space at home or office, talking about an event to be styled, a wedding or a corporate function, or simply just coming to check out the space and talk about the unique flowers we have in buckets. Either way they all leave with a smile on their face.

The day just happens with bunches galore, personal deliveries and more flowers to be restocked and both of us leaving with a smile on our faces too. Then off to the beach with our dogs Winnie and Dolly to soak up the beautiful Port Macquarie coastline.

What are you looking forward to about your new venture here?

Matt & Chris: We are looking forward to bringing our flavour and floral style to Port

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Thistle F L O W E R S

Macquarie, the North Coast and beyond.

Majority of men receive their first bunch of flowers at their funeral. We want to change that with our blooms. There is something special about giving or receiving a bunch of flowers. Thistle Flowers is about breaking down these barriers so that everyone can chase that feeling. Breaking down barriers not only with men receiving flowers (before our funeral) but understanding that it’s ok to show yourself some love with blooms.

Thistle’s wedding and event calendar is nearly booked out for 2021. We are taking bookings for 2022, but are quickly filling. So check us out!

Where can we find you and how can we connect with you?

Thistle Flowers is a progressive floral styling

business which incorporates all aspects of flower design. Whether it be everyday flowers or large-scale events, Thistle Flowers brings a unique personal experience to every customer and every budget.

Success is measured with our happy customers.

We look forward to sharing the Thistle Flowers experience to everyone here in Port Macquarie and the North Coast.

You can find us in our warehouse space at 30 Jambali Rd, Port Macquarie.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook where we share all of our adventures and beautiful blooms.

Online orders can be made at www.thistleflowers.com.au Or call us on 0408 180 655.

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ow has your business changed and grown in 2021? There have been two significant changes. Firstly, we moved to 12 Belah Road at the beginning of the year to provide more space for our growing Registered Training Organisation (RTO). The second is a change in ownership. I am now the majority shareholder of the Men At Work Group. I continue as Managing Director and am a proud custodian of a locally owned family company that provides great opportunities to succeed in life.

Within your industry how does your business stand out from others? Put simply, we want to be the best.

Our mission is at the heart of everything we do, with our customers at the forefront of our priorities. It is this dedication to servicing our clients that enables us to retain our competitive advantage over our competitors and has earnt us repeat business time and time again.

How do you measure success, personally and in business? I like to be happy, healthy, and having fun!

If our team is happy, they will do a good job and our clients and students will be happy. We empower our staff to enjoy the intrinsic value within their role. I enjoy watching Men At Work grow and evolve, and it still gives me a buzz when we start someone new.

What are your future goals? We have some changes planned in the not-too-distant future that we are very excited about!!! It’s a bit of secret, so you’ll have to wait and see.

I like to lead by example so am looking forward to expanding our diverse workforce and see our RTO be the leaders in learning beyond expectation.

ROSS CARGILL

M E N AT W O R K

How can we connect with you?

In person at 12 Belah Road.

Please wear a mask and check in!

02 6581 4600 www.menatwork.net.au

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BUSINESS

VOICE with MICHAEL MOWLE

PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Currently COVID restrictions are affecting almost half of the Australian population and businesses in those areas are severely impacted. Local businesses have been fortunate in that Port Macquarie and surrounding regions have been relatively free of significant restrictions since mid 2020.

T

he pathway to ensuring that our businesses don’t have to suffer from restrictions in the future is for everyone to get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity. All business owners should not only get vaccinated themselves but also encourage and facilitate employees to do the same. This may mean allowing them to attend vaccination appointments during work hours.

At this stage no government agency has confirmed what percentage of vaccination is required to put an end to the ongoing and debilitating restrictions we are seeing in Sydney, Melbourne, South Australia and around Orange in regional NSW. The best way for the private sector to take back some control and gain certainty is to aim for everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity.

This approach must be on the assumption the Hastings area. that Health Authorities will be risk averse Due to the restrictions recently imposed and likely adopt a high percentage of on regional NSW Port Macquarie Chamber vaccination rate Business Awards before restrictions Committee and are ended entirely. sponsor Coastline At this stage no The best source Credit Union have government agency of information agreed to postpone has confirmed what regarding the the 2021 Greater percentage of vaccination vaccination rollout Port Macquarie is required to put an end to including eligibility, Business Awards until the ongoing and and relevant data is: November 2021. This debilitating restrictions www.health.gov.au. is regrettable but we are seeing in Sydney, In Port Macquarie necessary and in the Melbourne, South vaccinations best interests of all Australia and around bookings can be concerned. More Orange in regional NSW. made at Port Base detailed information Hospital, online at on the Business Medical Clinics or Awards Gala event local GP offices. It is anticipated that the will be published in upcoming Chamber current trial of vaccinations in regional newsletters and local media outlets once pharmacies will ultimately include those in the re-scheduled event is confirmed.

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t BLACKBUTT B U S I N E S S

CENTRE

1A BLACKBUTT ROAD LOOK FOR THE BIG SIGN ON BLACKBUTT ROAD

ROMER LOCKS IN PORT MACQUARIE

Romer Locks are a family run locksmith business based in Port Macquarie servicing the whole Mid North Coast area.

They specialise in locks, keys, safes and automotive keys.

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ne of the most popular services they provide is the ‘spare car key’. They are able to cut and program most makes and model car keys while you wait, but can also replace the battery in your car key or remote, as well as replace the casings on broken and damaged car keys.

Many people try and get by with no spare key, running the risk that there is no back up if their only key were damaged or lost. However not many people know that if you are left with

Luke Nicholson, Gavin Romer and Warren Green

no working keys for your car it can not only cost you thousands to have keys made for your car (as it’s quite a different process to make keys to cars rather than just make a spare key), but it can also leave you stranded without a car for days or worse while the process is happening.

Romer Locks provide spare car keys starting at $99 for most make and models, but depending on the type of key you are after it can go up from there. Most car keys can be cut and programmed while you wait, however there are some that require more complex programming

where the car may be needed for a couple of hours so it's definitely recommended to ring ahead to book.

There are a wonderful range of shops in the Blackbutt complex now, one being Group Therapy Café, so as a special offer in August, Romer Locks are sending you over for a free coffee while you wait for your car key to be cut.

Speak to the team in store for more details.

Call them on 6581 4470 to get your free quote over the phone, and they can book your car key in to get cut when it suits you best.

t BLACKBUTT B U S I N E S S

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ell us about your business.

Oxley Signs provides all types of signage for businesses large and small in the Port Macquarie and surrounding areas. We can sort out your shopfront, snazzy street signage, vehicle signage and so much more.

Oxley Signs was established in Port Macquarie in 1981 – 40 years old this year! My wife, Brin and I purchased the business in September 2019 and have thoroughly enjoyed transitioning to the industry. I am pretty hands on and practical, while Brin has a real creative flair, so it really does suit us more than we first imagined.

How has your business changed and grown in 2021?

Given the circumstances we do feel lucky to have experienced steady growth so far this year. We are now really placing careful focus on managing our clients’ needs with a high quality, timely finished product.

We love living in Port Macquarie and it’s great to have so much local support in this town – including from within the industry.

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Within your industry how does your business stand out from others?

There are many great signwriting businesses in Port Macquarie. My focus is just to do the best we can with our business – every day.

Signage is often the first impression a person will have of your business. A great sign sets the tone for your business and tells your clients so much about your business and the way you operate. Why not make it as impactful as possible? If someone remembers the colours, logos, patterns, layout, graphics then you have made an impact on them and that is what we want. At the end of the day, we want happy, satisfied customers who do not hesitate to come back and see us again!

Come visit us at Unit 4/1a Blackbutt Road (Blackbutt Business Centre) in Port Macquarie.

Call us on 02 6581 1966 or email info@oxleysigns.com.au Follow us on Instagram for the occasional update! @oxleysigns

Oxley P O R T

BEN

CLEMENT OXLEY SIGNS OWNER / MANAGER

e s t

1 9 8 1

M A C Q U A R I E

02 6581 1966 | info@oxleysigns.com.au If y

, this is it! n g si a r fo g in ok lo n ’ve bee

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Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

THREE RURAL FIRE SERVICE BRIGADES BENEFIT FROM BUSHFIRE FUNDING The bushfire-impacted communities of Lake Innes, Bonny Hills and Johns River will receive a critical boost to their recovery and future responses with upgrades to their Rural Fire Brigades to be delivered through Stage Two of the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, co-funded by the Australian and NSW Goverments.

•

$463,400 for the Johns River RFS to construct a new station house with vital amenities, including a meeting room, an accessible shower, change rooms, and toilets. The new station house will act as a shared operations centre for the Rural Fire Service and other agencies and as a community hub during crises.

The projects funded include:

•

$400,000 to Bonny Hills RFS to upgrade the existing fire station, improving the brigade’s ability to respond to natural disasters, including fire, floods, and storms. It will expand the station to include space for additional firefighting appliances; a training room; a separate area for maintaining vehicles and equipment; a change room for female members; and safe storage area for flammable or hazardous chemicals.

•

$921,508 to the Lake Innes RFS to upgrade the Fire Station to include a community hub that offers a meeting room, a social area, and a community refuge area. This will involve the construction of a fireresistant structure with a fire-rated and insulated roof.

A new backup power source will support emergency communications.

ARM YOURSELF TODAY AND VISIT COVID-VACCINE.HEALTHDIRECT.GOV.AU

Dr David Gillespie MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LYNE

He Listens. He Cares. He Delivers.

Wauchope Office

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.

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Taree Office

02 6586 4462

david_gillespie_mp davegillespiemp

Gail Whiteford and Elise Jenkins

CAMPUS CONVERSATIONS

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

FROM CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY

Charles Sturt University Strategic Professor and Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) Conjoint Chair Gail Whiteford and Charles Sturt Alumna and Port Macquarie Base Hospital Physiotherapist Elise Jenkins, have combined powers in a collaborative research initiative between the two organisations to win the prestigious Mid North Coast Local Heath District award for Innovation in Research, in examining the impact of the Get Moving Program on patients. Gail and Elise share the importance and power of collaboration between students, the university and the local health district to ensure improved health for local patients and solutions to regional health issues. ongratulations Gail and Elise on your recent MNCLHD Innovation Award for the collaborative research project examining the efficacy of the Get Moving Program. Elise you designed the Get Moving program can you share what the program involves and what it aims to do for patients?

I developed the Get Moving program in 2018 with the aim to prevent hospitalacquired deconditioning – which can be combatted by increasing patient mobility. Get Moving is a unique multicomponent program designed to promote patient mobility by collectively targeting patients, visitors and staff. The program consisted of educational resources including posters and pamphlets; a training and competency package for staff to support safe mobilisation; and staff and patient accolades for efforts in promoting patient mobility were used to reinforce behaviour change.

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Gail you led the award winning multimethod study on the Get Moving Program – how important was it for the university and MNCLHD to collaborate to ensure the accuracy and impact of the research?

Kate, it was crucial really. Charles Sturt brought research knowledge and skills to the study and the MNCLHD brought clinical expertise – and, of course – provided the study site at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital which was an excellent context in which to do the research. The joint research project was awarded one of the MNCLHD’s 2021 Innovation Awards, which recognises the outstanding efforts and achievements of individuals and teams who drive and support health research opportunities.

Charles Sturt University Students were actively engaged in this process – what did this entail and how important is this to a student’s experience in their learning journey?

The students’ efforts were essential to the success of this research as they collected observational data around the clock at Wauchope. They were given training sessions on what to do and we stressed the importance of their involvement. They in turn learnt a great deal about what research entails as well as being in a clinical environment. They were very positive in their feedback, even though it meant giving up free times on weekends and evenings!

How important is this type of collaboration in health, education and community to improve health outcomes for our region?

For a rural Local Health District like the

Mid North Coast, these kind of collaborations are vital in improving health services to ensure they are the best they can be for people living in our region. This is a way to directly address the disparity of health status between rural and urban Australians.

The research demonstrated overwhelmingly that the Get Moving program was a success. What were some of the key findings to support this?

In a nutshell, the study results indicated that, after the introduction of the Get Moving Program, bed rest was reduced by 93%, walking increased by 62%, sitting increased by 32%, falls reduced by 83%, re-admission rates fell by 82% and functional independence scores increased by 78%.

These are outstanding real world results!

What opportunities do you see for future collaboration and further development of the program?

This study has demonstrated how powerful it can be for the university and the MNCLHD working together – and getting great results which will make a difference to people’s health and wellbeing. The Get Moving Program continues at Wauchope and there has been interest in it statewide.

Many thanks Gail and Elise – congrats again on the achievement. news.csu.edu.au/in-brief/award-for-universityresearch-on-mid-north-coast-health-program

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Eric from The Other Chef hosted our 3 food businesses for a tour of his food production facility

Shark TA N K

With over 20 years of education experience, Joyanne Walsh brings a wealth of knowledge to Port Macquarie Adventist School. Maneesha McNabb delves deep in the enrichment of her students here at Port Macquarie Adventist School. From this philosophy project Shark Tank was born and proved successful for the young entrepreneurs.

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i Joyanne, you are the principal at Port Macquarie Adventist School, how long have you been at the school and what is your background in education?

I am the principal at PMAS and have been so for the past 2½ years. Previous to that I worked at Kempsey Adventist School for 14 years in a number of different roles including Deputy Principal in the Primary School.

I have been in education for over 20 years, with my first role in teaching at this school back in the mid 90’s.

What do you enjoy most about your role at this unique school?

Because we are a small school, I love that we have the ability to think, plan and do outside the box. We still meet all the educational requirements, but we do that by thinking, planning and implementing in a different way.

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I love watching the innovative ways our staff deliver learning and the way our young people have a voice and choice around how the content is delivered. This is especially evident in our secondary school with the businesses they are developing.

Since starting at the school what changes have you implemented and how have you seen the school grow?

Our school looks and sounds completely different to when I started at the beginning of 2019. We are a Project-Based Learning School from pre-Kindy through to secondary.

Our early years literacy is based on the development of phonics skills.

Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Creative Thinking are principles we use when planning. As far as growth in our school, we have seen 52% growth in the past 2½ years, which is amazing for our school.

Tell us about the enrolment process, do you need to be Adventist to attend PMAS?

Great question. No, you don’t need to be an Adventist to come to our school. We believe our school best fits young people and families who are seeking a small school environment where the individual is treated as a person and not a number, where the learning is catered to the individual through vertical classes, direct instruction, PBL, and our Christian principles are the bedrock of all we do.

Want to have a look? Just give the office a call, book an interview with me (which is personalised to the needs of your family) and we will walk you through the school.

Where do you see yourself and the school in the next 1-5 years?

In five years’ time, we are aiming to be a K-10 school with aspirations of delivering the HSC in a unique and different way.

We are currently exploring what that will look like.

Our site will have also expanded to cater for the needs of our growing community.

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i Maneesha, you were the lead educator behind the recent project here at the school - Shark Tank. Tell us about the initiative and how it came about.

Yes, I was the lead Guide for this project.

We have begun the building of our Secondary Learning Program this year and were looking for a different form of education that would enrich the future lives of our young people. Many of our young people in the ideas HUB have come through the Primary School, where they began to explore Project-Based Learning. We wanted to take this to the next step in the Secondary School and begin to develop a program that would provide the skills and life learning for after school.

Why did you choose to pursue a concept like this?

Our young people are very involved in forming their own learning styles here, they were hungry to learn real-life skills and have experiences that would set them up for their future career choices. We wanted a project to be real and not a tokenistic type of learning. We wanted to include the community and have our young people be seen as more than ‘kids’ or ‘ratty teenagers’.

How did the children get involved and were you surprised by the level of engagement from the kids?

Our young people were involved in all decisions and processes of this project. It was initially expressed to them that they were not required to continue their businesses after the term, however, all have chosen to build their business after their

presentation to the Sharks. I am surprised every day by their abilities and capabilities. They always exceed my expectations. They are learning to push themselves beyond what they think is their limit - it’s at these times they surprise themselves.

Our young people each achieved a business name, logo and website, in-depth business plan, abbreviated business plan, PowerPoint Presentation and Speech, samples of products, business models, values of their business, pricing of gross profits, loss and ongoing expenses. These are areas that are difficult for HSC students, let alone beginning Secondary Young People.

What experiences were gained, by both staff and students, from running the project?

We were able to connect with a range of experts and businesses from the community.

Young People saw how successful businesses were marketed and tailored to suit their customers’ needs.

Young People learned to think outside of themselves, accept constructive criticism and feedback, interact with people from different stages of life and learn to meet deadlines with high-quality results.

It was amazing to watch and guide these entrepreneurs as they pushed themselves to reach the expectations that were laid before them.

What next for the “winners” of the Shark tank project?

All of our entrepreneurs received some form of investment from our Sharks. This stage of the project was just to launch their businesses.

Now they are running them. We are launching businesses online and face-to-face.

Some are selling through the school grounds and others at market events around the Hastings. Young People are responsible for updating their investors each month, some are working towards returning the loan amount before making a profit, others are still finetuning their launch. This project will continue for as long as our young entrepreneurs are running their businesses.

Are there plans to continue this as an annual event?

The plan is to continue this process each year with the first year of Secondary being guided through the development of a small business. This may look different each year, the process may be longer or shorter, our Sharks may change and young entrepreneurs will have different business ideas.

Our goal is to continue providing a quality real-world education for our young people that equips them with the skills to move into their life after school.

I think it’s important to mention the contribution of our AMAZING Sharks and Experts, who were so willing to be involved in this process. They were so generous with time, knowledge and money.

Simon Bank - Webstudio Jason Knight - Moved by Design Joel Freeman - Stroud Homes Dean Lawler - Physiotherapist Warren Martin - Business Expert Melissa Hogan - Photographer Joyanne Walsh - School Representative GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Illuminate with KATEWOOD-FOYE

Professor Heather Cavanagh is a passionate and purposeful leader with a strong voice for the power of education to transform an individual and a community. STUDYING MICROBIOLOGY AND VIROLOGY IN SCOTLAND, WITH A DISTINGUISHED CAREER AS A RESEARCH SCIENTIST, TO GLOBAL EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS AND ADVANCING THE PORT MACQUARIE CAMPUS AS FORMER DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR RESEARCH AND ENGAGEMENT AT CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY. I sit down for a “wee blather” with this game changing Great Scot who takes a wealth of knowledge, experience and undeniable passion for the success of our regional community into her new board roles with Mid North Coast Local Health District and Regional Development Australia.

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ongratulations Heather on your appointment to Chair of the Board for MNCLHD. This an exciting and unique appointment as you bring a rich research lens to the role, complimenting your extensive background in science, global education and engagement.

What are you most excited about?

It’s a challenging and exciting time to take on this role. Our population is ageing, and we are seeing an unprecedented increase in families moving to this area from the cities. At the same time health is undergoing significant changes in practice and use of digital health initiatives – all while we are still in the midst of a pandemic. This makes it a time of great challenge but also a time of great opportunity.

I am excited about so many aspects of this

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PROFESSOR

HEATHER C AVANAG H

role: the opportunity to use my knowledge and skills and work with such a great team and NSW Health to benefit the region, to ensure that the LHD can continue to deliver and improve on excellence in health initiatives and to assist with community engagement and representation/recognition of our region on a wider scale. The MNCLHD has had some amazing achievements and we are so lucky with the health services we have in this region but there is always room for improvement. I am also keen to help expand the world class research that is already coming out of this region and do what I can to help the LHD improve all services, including First Nations health and engagement. It’s also a great opportunity for me to keep on learning – there is always more to know!

Can you share some of the most exciting projects and achievements on your path

from Glasgow to Port Macquarie?

This is a difficult one as there have been so many memorable events, projects and amazing people that have been part of my journey and influenced my career. Did I ever dream when I graduated with my first degree in Scotland that I would end up living on the amazing mid-north coast of Australia – absolutely not!

I have been so lucky that my career has taken me across the world, with friends, colleagues and students in many countries. I remember attending a career event at the University of Glasgow, determined to become a vet and then seeing an image of an Adenovirus. One look and I was hooked - becoming a virologist became the dream! Being part of the very early attempts to develop vaccines for the newly recognised HIV (AIDS) was exciting.

Even though we did not achieve a functioning vaccine at that time, it is great to see that

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all the early work on using another virus (Adenovirus) to ‘carry’ the HIV for vaccination has been used in developing COVID vaccines.

After having our two boys, I studied a post graduate in education and discovered a deep passion for teaching. My husband Nigel (a fellow scientist and molecular biologist) later secured a role for an international company co-located at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga. Immigrating to the ‘largest inland city in NSW’ certainly came as a cultural shock after Glasgow, London and Tokyo!

I took on an academic position teaching microbiology combining my passions for research and education at the university, opening my eyes to the joys and challenges of regional Australia and to relocating to an entirely new country. Our own experiences shaped a major passion for international education, to see both Australian and international students gain invaluable cultural and education experiences and make lifelong global friends. Other key projects included increasing university student mobility, successful off-shore programs and becoming the largest public-private provider of international education in the world. I was honoured to be awarded a Ministerial appointment to the Federal Governments Council for International Education, providing a breakthrough opportunity to be a voice for regionally-based universities and regional Australia.

The arrival and expansion of the Charles Sturt campus in Port Macquarie was an absolute game changer.

As the Deputy Vice Chancellor Research & Engagement and Head of Port Macquarie Campus over this time, what was the standout moment for you when you realised the impact the university would play in future of the region?

Arriving in 2015 to the region I worked alongside politicians, business and community members as we ‘bedded down’ the university completing the first stage of the new campus.

The predicted economic modelling for the campus became evident, when standing in front of the ‘developing’ Stage 1 campus for the very first time. Seeing the true size and scale of the building and thinking…. this is actually happening! Undoubtedly a game changer for education and economic development in our region as more staff and students move to the region, with student numbers and course offerings growing each year with high demand from prospective students from all over Australia. Establishing the new campus in Port Macquarie. We could not predict that we would start with 22 students in a hotel room in 2012 and have almost two thousand students less than a decade later! I must especially mention the role played by Professor Ross Chambers and the Hon Leslie Williams MP in making the dream of a Port Macquarie Campus a reality.

The vision and passion for this region in those people, our dedicated staff, the community and all those involved in those early plans certainly paid off, despite the risks involved!

The second standout moment was the realisation that it was not really what the

university could do for the region, it was the realisation of what we could do together.

The whole community embraced and supported the university in every area and with every challenge we faced. By working together, the community, council, Rotary, Hastings Education Fund, local Schools, TAFE, university partners and Charles Sturt have established this region as a major higher education destination.

Similarly, I was immensely proud of the way we all came together to support the Fire Services during the bushfires of 2019/2020 with hundreds being accommodated on the Charles Sturt campus in Port – cared for and fed by both the university and this amazing community.

As a passionate global educator, researcher and leader some exciting projects on the horizon what piece of advice can you give to those wanting to get out into the world and have an impact?

I think first and foremost, be determined to follow your heart and your dreams. There is always a way, you just need to persevere and find it! Poet Edgar Guest answers this question very nicely.

"There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done, there are thousands to prophesy failure; There are thousands to point out to you one by one, the dangers that wait to assail you.

But just buckle in with a bit of a grin, just take off your coat and go to it; Just start to sing as you tackle the thing that “cannot be done”, and you’ll do it."

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bcu EXPERT VOICE IN FINANCE

W

RHEANNON CHAPMAN

here more first home buyers into the are you market. originally What is the most rewarding from and part about your role? when did I love being able to call my you first realise you had a customers to congratulate them strong passion for the finance on being approved for their home industry? loan, hearing their excitement is so I’m from Kendall in the rewarding!

Camden Haven Why do you do Area. I have what you do?

Anyone always been an What inspires looking to active member you to do this purchase a home, of my local work? whether it be their community and I have to say it first home, buying have always had again – Passion! an investment a passion for Passion for my property or even helping people. customers and refinancing an In my role as a being a part of existing loan – I’m Home Lending the purchase here to help.

Specialist I get to of their home help members or investment achieve their dream of owning property and sharing in their their first home or investment journey is so rewarding. Growing property. Being a part of that with them and their family from dream is incredibly humbling. first homes, to needing a bigger What type of clients do you home as their family grows or service? helping them into the investment Anyone looking to purchase part of their lives is so rewarding. a home, whether it be their first Knowing they want me as part home, buying an investment of that journey makes me even property or even refinancing an prouder! existing loan – I’m here to help.

How can we contact you? bcu is now a provider of the First You can contact me on Home Loan Deposit Scheme, so 0436 931 010 or email I’m very excited to be able to help Rheannon.Chapman@bcu.com.au 114 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Learning Today Learning Today Inspiring Tomorrow Inspiring Tomorrow ENROLMENTS NOWOPEN OPEN ENROLMENTS NOW FORKINDERGARTEN KINDERGARTEN 2022 FOR 2022 ANDBEYOND BEYOND AND

www.scas.nsw.edu.au

www.scas.nsw.edu.au

G R E AT E R P O RT M AC Q UA R I E

PROPERTY GUIDE

CORAL H O M E S

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The foundation of Coral Homes’ business is built on transparency, trust and outstanding customer service, which sets the team apart from its competitors.

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an you tell us the history behind Coral Homes?

Established in Queensland in 1990, Coral Homes has been building dream homes for Australians for over three decades. CEO Steve Foley is responsible for driving the business throughout Queensland and New South Wales. “Our geographical areas that we service span a huge distance from Hervey Bay right down to Wollongong, Sydney. And the unique thing about Coral Homes is that we build in a lot of regional towns as well all the way down covering areas like Ballina, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie and Newcastle,” says Steve.

Celebrating 31 years in business is a milestone CEO Steve Foley is most proud of. “I think it’s great to mark 30 years in building and I think it’s commendable we had a great year in our 30th year. In terms of quality, our teams, our staff, the awards we’re winning – we’re excelling in these areas. And above all else, we’re all very customer focussed.

We all want to produce great homes for these families. That’s one thing we have in common – our customer journey.”

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I think it’s great to mark 30 years in building and I think it’s commendable we’ve had a great year in our 30th year. In terms of quality, our teams, our staff, the awards we’re winning – we’re excelling in these areas,” Coral Homes CEO, Steve Foley

Please introduce us to your local team here in Port Macquarie.

Meet Tim Milner. Tim is Coral Homes’ New Home Consultant, based at Sovereign Hills – Port Macquarie Estate. Tim has lived on the Mid North Coast for around 12 years and loves everything about the area. “I definitely consider myself a local here at Port Macquarie. I love the lifestyle, being away from the hustle and bustle of the major cities and having the amazing coastline and beaches as our backyard,” Tim says. “The people are a fair bit more laid back up here, and it’s a fantastic place to raise a family.”

What are the standout features and benefits of building your home with Coral?

The trusted Coral Homes brand was cemented by consistently offering customers a wide range of affordable and innovative home designs completed within a timely manner.

Coral Homes offers over 190 home designs in its stable so customers can choose flexible floorplans that suit their lifestyle, and a huge selection of facades to achieve their desired

street appeal. The opportunities are endless.

Also known for upfront pricing, Coral Homes offer customers a fixed-price guarantee.

This means customers are made aware of costs from the beginning so there are no hidden surprises, allowing families to budget accordingly.

Affordability doesn’t mean customers have to compromise on quality – it’s quite the opposite at Coral Homes. We are proud to offer our customers unbeatable value inclusions – known as Designer Deluxe Standard – which are standard by name but designer by nature. We have carefully curated all the best enhancements you see in our displays to provide you with Europeandesigned stainless steel kitchen appliances, Caesarstone benchtops, quality bathroom tapware, baths and frameless mirrors, grand entry door, technology and so much more, all for a competitive price. Of course, those customers wanting an even higher standard of finishes can upgrade their inclusion levels to our Elegance Luxury range.

CORAL H O M E S

Coral Homes has a beautiful new display home in Sovereign Hills, can you tell us about this home?

The Lisbon 31 MKII with Hamptons façade is on display at Sovereign Hills – Port Macquarie Estate.

Designed to suit lot widths of 14m+, the Lisbon 31 MKII within the Lisbon Series brings space in spades! Choose from nine different floorplans and a variety of façades to create curb-side appeal.

Featuring four bedrooms, at least three different living areas including a huge outdoor entertaining area perfect for hosting parties, media room, family room, a kids’ activity room (in some floor plans), dedicated study nook, and a double The stunning car garage – the Lisbon coastalIn addition, 31 MKII is more than just customers receive somewhere to live, it’s a inspired interiors independent quality sanctuary for the entire will bring about a checks and a 50-Year family. Being designed sense of calm as soon Structural Warranty across one as you step inside. on a TRUECORE® level makes the stunning steel frame for eligible Lisbon 31 MKII applicants*. particularly functional In more than three decades of operation, for young families.

Coral Homes has proudly built over 20,000 The stunning coastal-inspired interiors homes and counting! This extensive industry will bring about a sense of calm as soon as experience also brings customers peace of you step inside. Plush carpets underfoot, mind that they’re in good hands with their Hamptons-inspired shaker-style kitchen new-home builds. cabinetry, pendant lighting and a neutral

colour palette of white and cream with grey and blue accents will appeal to a variety of tastes. Soaring raked ceilings add to the spaciousness of the 292.24m2 home.

When is the home open for inspection and what would you say to those who are considering building with Coral Homes?

New Home Consultant, Tim Milner, is waiting to show you through this brand-new single-storey home on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 10am - 5pm.

“When people visit the display home, they’re surprised that the majority of finishes showcased in the home are included in the pricing so there’s no hidden extras,” Tim explains.

Contact Tim for a personal tour to experience firsthand all the Lisbon 31 MKII has to offer.

SOVEREIGN HILLS - PORT MACQUARIE 8 York St, Thrumster NSW 2444 Contact Tim Milner 0413 303 919 t.milner@coralhomes.com.au coralhomes.com.au During uncertain COVID-19 times, Coral Homes is pleased to offer virtual tours of display homes from the comfort of your couch.

Coral Homes’ innovation in design and familyfriendly functionality is only a mouse-click away! *Visit coralhomes.com.au for a list of full Terms & Conditions.

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Built on trust since 1990™

Photography depicts items such as homewares, furniture, landscaping, fencing and may depict items that are upgraded or not supplied by Coral Homes. Speak with your New Home Consultant for more details. QBCC 50792/1014053 & NSW OFT 62084C

For more information and opening times visit coralhomes.com.au Port Macquarie Display 8 York Street, Thrumster NSW

Coffs Harbour Display 2 Angler Court, Bonville NSW

New Home Consultant Tim Milner 0413 303 919

New Home Consultant Karen Ashdown 0418 155 123

Discover

Our Hamptons Homes Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour Displays Now Open

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METRICON

UNVEILS PLANS FOR THEIR FIRST DISPLAY HOME IN PORT MACQUARIE

Metricon Homes, Australia’s leading home builder, has unveiled plans to commence construction of their first two display homes in Port Macquarie. The Santorini 25 will commence construction in June in Sovereign Hills Estate, Thrumster, and the Merricks 42 in Rainbow Beach Estate in Lake Cathie, is scheduled to begin construction in August.

The Santorini 25 and Merricks 42 are both Metricon family favourite home designs and are perfect fits for the burgeoning Mid North Coast growth area.

Metricon Homes NSW General Manager, Patrick Eather said, “We’re excited to begin building our first ever display homes in this vibrant coastal enclave. The Santorini 25 in Sovereign Hills Estate is scheduled to be completed late this year

and the Merricks 42 in Rainbow Beach should be open before the end of Summer 2022. Both homes have been designed with families in mind and will offer exceptional value and space.”

The new display opening comes at a time where, according to CoreLogic's latest quarterly update, Australia's regional housing market is outpacing that of capital cities.

In the past 12 months non-capital city growth has been reported at 13 percent compared with a 6.4 percent gain in cities.

“We can certainly see the opportunity and demand in the Port Macquarie area, the desire for more affordable real estate options in the COVID-inspired work-from-home era, but also increased demand for lifestyle oriented properties and holiday homes,” Patrick said.

BUILD WITH

CONFIDENCE

“In the past, new home builds in Port Macquarie may have targeted more of a retiree market, but we know a younger set, tired of the daily grind, is moving to the area and the Metricon displays about to begin construction, will really appeal to this group.

“At Metricon, we pride ourselves on creating homes for people to love where they live. We achieve this time and time again by offering flexible floorplans and plenty of choices. With multiple design options, numerous facades, and many features to choose from, we expect the Santorini 25 and Merricks 42 will become popular with Port Macquarie residents,” concluded Patrick.

For more information about Metricon, visit www.metricon.com.au.

Love where you live Building your brand new dream home is all about security. Knowing the job will be done right. That’s why we confidently support every Metricon home with a Lifetime Structural Guarantee*.

We can give you this industry-leading peace of mind because after more than 40 years of building homes for Australians, we have a quality control process that we consider to be the best in the business.

1300 METRICON metricon.com.au

Scan here to view more homes

Qualia 33 Contempo

*The Guarantee applies to all new home building contracts signed after 1 January 2019. Terms and conditions apply. Image depicts items not supplied by Metricon namely landscaping, paths and fencing. NSW Builders Licence 174699C. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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HEM Property’s annual SOLD sticker art competition is back for another year. Firstly, for those that may not be aware, tell us about the concept.

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his is the fifth year that whether it be a dream tree house or we have held this fantastic even an underwater mansion! What are competition where we ask you looking for in the winning entry? the school children of Port We are looking for imagination and Macquarie to design our creativity and a design that is going to be SOLD stickers. We have eye catching and exciting. Our artists can a different theme either draw or paint each year and we their creation... we just are super excited to want them to show Every single see what creations us what they would entry gets put come in. There are like their dream home in our office two age categories, to be. Some other window and we get Primary School suggestions could be a and High School, home with a skate park so much enjoyment which means we are on top, a home made from seeing the kids taking entries from out of lollies or even a faces when they see Kindergarten right roller coaster! their entry. through to Year 12. It Where will the is a great competition winners’ design be that has captured seen? the imagination of the community and we The winning entries will be put on our actually have vendors ask that we use one of sign boards, all over Port Macquarie. Once the specially designed stickers to mark that a house has sold, we will be putting the their home has SOLD. sticker up straight away.

What’s the theme for this year?

Will there be prizes involved. If so, what The theme for this year is “The Dream are they?

Home”. We want all of the budding artists There sure will be and WOW... what great out there to design out there images! prizes they are. All prizes are vouchers from The kids’ imagination can go wild, local businesses, who we love to support, to 122 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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the value of a whopping $500 for each age category.

The businesses involved include Centre of Gravity, Pretty Rad Store, Majestic Cinemas, Spring Loaded, Inner Vision, Blue Cow Gelato, Hydro Golf, Settlers Inn and Smiggle.

If that isn’t enough to get the creative juices flowing, the winning entrant’s school will also receive a $500 cash donation to put towards their arts department.

How can we get involved?

It is so easy to get involved. You can either call into our office or an open house to pick up an entry form or email, ash@hemproperty.com.au. You can even download an entry form from our Facebook page, facebook.com/hemproperty.

For the team here at HEM, what do you enjoy most about this annual event?

This is our favourite time of the year and we love the office being turned into an art gallery. Every single entry gets put in our office window and we get so much enjoyment from seeing the kids’ faces when they see their entry.

As we are very community based, this is our way of supporting local schools and giving children the opportunity to express themselves through art.

PORT MACQUARIE

PROPERTY

BOOM

Is Just The Tip Of The Iceberg

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e have all heard the hype, read the news reports and may even have experienced the recent property boom first hand here in Port Macquarie. The 2020/21 Financial year will go down as one of the busiest years in history for our property market, but according to some experts, it could just be the start of a long period of growth, where prices will rise 30% further in the years to come.

If we look at the year that was, it is clear that it was a game of two halves. After lockdown ended, uncertainty led to a rapid growth in confidence and we quickly saw sales restored to pre-Covid conditions. New factors such as the exodus of people out of the city, a return of investors, low stock levels and a new appreciation of just how important the home

is, saw rapidly increased buyer numbers and homes starting to steadily sell faster and for increasing prices.

If we compare the stats for this first 6 months, with the 6 months in 2021, we see an explosion in our market in the latter and it moved to another level altogether. Open house attendees spiked and a fear of missing out resulted in multiple bidders on homes, with record prices and sales above asking price becoming the new norm. Median house price rises were on a monthly, as opposed to a yearly basis and in some cases, a property might actually be valued higher by move in day, than when contracts were signed.

So how long will this last and is it just a bubble? Predicting the future is impossible, but

the consensus is that rising housing prices are here to stay. In comparison to other popular coastal towns such as Byron Bay (median house price $2.7million), our housing is still exceptionally more affordable. Above all, it appears “the secret” is out; Port Macquarie is one of the most searched destinations in Australia and our population is growing faster than any other town in the Mid North Coast. If major cities continue to endure more lockdowns, which pushes more people to leave, and interest rates remain low, this upwards curve will keep going.

WHAT A YEAR OF CHANGE.

THE 2020/21 FINANCIAL YEAR SAW OUR PROPERTY MARKET GROW AT THE FASTEST RATE IN HISTORY. IN 2021, IN PARTICULAR, IT REALLY KICKED UP A GEAR WITH HOUSE PRICES RISING ON A MONTHLY BASIS. CHECK OUT THE STATS WHICH SHOW JUST HOW FAR WE HAVE COME!

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GemLife.com.au/grb

Rainbow Beach.

A whole new life.

GemLife offers luxury resort-style living with premium lifestyle facilities on your doorstep.

No entry fees, exit fees or stamp duty Friendly community Pets welcome Gated neighbourhood Extensive premium facilities Luxury homes Optional caravan and boat storage* Retain your capital gain

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE focus 125 *Conditions apply.

Making History AT

PALM L AKE RESORT

When Jen and Bob Baldwin first heard of Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes, the world-class facilities, luxe new homes and vibrant activities calendar ticked all of their boxes.

Being the very first two people to experience life at this landmark resort is just the icing on the cake, they say.

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here’s a first time for everything, and Jen and Bob Baldwin understand this better than most. The couple became the very first residents to call Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes home this month, making history both for the Palm Lake Group and the seaside town of Forster.

“Everyone is just so excited for us,” smiles Jen, who has been living in Forster with her husband for 35 years.

“We go down to the local supermarket and all the girls who work there are counting down the days with us. It’s remarkable how many people are tuned into the fact that we are moving into the new Palm Lake Resort!”

The couple moved from Newcastle to Forster almost four decades ago when they took over ownership of the beloved food spot, the Yummy Shop. The strong community spirit and beautiful setting has kept them there ever since. Jen says Forster is the kind of place where everyone knows everyone – in fact, before they even stepped foot in their new home, the Baldwins already knew of two people who would be their new neighbours at Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes.

“That’s Forster!” she laughs. “I know that the resort will feel like home from day one,

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and that we’ll make fast friends with our neighbours who move in from out of town.

That’s just the kind of place this is.”

As keen bowlers, the couple is most excited about making use of the resort’s soon-to-be-completed championship undercover lawn bowls green and Country Club, as well as the tenpin bowling alley, tennis courts and swimming pools.

“Forster gets very busy during the school holidays so we are looking forward to being able to go for a swim, play bowls and enjoy our retirement without having to battle crowds or even get in the car,” says Jen. “It is going to be a complete lifestyle change – uninterrupted relaxation for 365 days of the year.”

Bob and Jen had been looking to downsize long before they heard about Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes, though they hadn’t felt that anything in Forster fit their requirements. After working with the Palm Lake Resort Sales Team to make their dream a reality, Jen says she is sure that she and Bob have made the right decision.

“We’ve built homes in the past and know how rare it is to find people who care as much about your home as you do,” says Jen. “With Jen Nichols, Shona, Jo and the team at Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes, it is clear that they are so invested in our happiness.

“For us, being the first ones in was just an added bonus. We have known we wanted to be at Palm Lake Resort from day one and never second guessed our decision. It wouldn’t have mattered when we moved in – as long as we got there in the end, we’d be happy.”

Situated on the edge of Wallis Lake and taking its inspiration from the Florida coast, Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes will be quite the iconic over-50s community lifestyle resort when complete.

What’s better than one luxury resort Country Club, you ask? Two of them!

The Cove Reception Centre is the second exclusive Country Club planned for this resort, situated right on the waterfront.

The Cove will overlook the resort’s very own marina, with berths available for those ‘toys’ that make Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes homeowners’ retirement years the most rewarding. In fact, the resort’s best home sites will share this coveted lakefront position. There will even be an Oyster Bar here, to take advantage of the internationally celebrated oyster-farming area that this resort calls home.

The Palm Lake Resort Forster Lakes Sales Information Centre is open seven days, 9am-4.30pm, for private tours. Phone 1800 577 542 or visit forsterlakes.com.au

VALUED UP TO

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SALES INFORMATION CENTRE SALES INFORMATION CENTRE OPEN 7 DAYS 9am – 4.30pm.

OPEN 7 DAYS 9am – 4.30pm.

FREECALL 1800 577 542 FREECALL 1800 577 542 salesforster@palmlake.com.au salesforster@palmlake.com.au 6 Tea Tree Road, Forster NSW 2428 6 Tea Tree Road, Forster NSW 2428

THE BEST IN OVER-50s LIVING. THE BEST IN OVER-50s LIVING. THIS IS YOUR TIME. THIS IS YOUR TIME. palmlakeresort.com.au palmlakeresort.com.au

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