Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i190

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190 JANUARY 2022

Alex CASSEGRAIN 2021 WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR

the home of the h o t t e s t

brands this Summer

specialising in homewares, craft, party and gift items

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In a hot property market, if you want to find the perfect buyer and achieve the dream sale price, then looks certainly do count!

Unlike some agents, who push to get a home on the market and sold as quick as possible, at HEM, we know that taking the time to perfect the presentation, will add $10,000’s to your sale price. From project managing repairs and fully styling the home, to providing innovative, effective marketing, everything we do focuses on getting your home looking as good as possible, to attract more buyers and ultimately help you get the dream price with the least amount of stress.

2022 is going to be a big year. So, if you want to achieve a dream “happy ever more” sale, rather than just another sold, there really is no place like HEM.

W HAT’S ON EXHIBITION

SOPHIE HOWARTH: BEHIND THE LENS Saturday 11 December to Sunday 6 February 2022

EXHIBITION

CLOTH, CANVAS & GLASS ROSE BURKE, YVONNE KIELY & GLORIA MUDDLE Saturday 18 December to Sunday 30 January 2022

SUMMER IN THE GALLERY: CREATIVE PARENTS & BUBS Fridays 7, 14, 21 & 28 January, 9.30am

Scan this code to login or register, then go to ‘My Details’ and update your ‘News and updates’ preferences to receive updates on Glasshouse events you’re interested in.

FOR BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888

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BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS (JANUARY HOLIDAYS) Thursdays 6, 13 & 20 January, 1pm

glasshouse.org.au

Follow Glasshouse:

@ GLASSHOUSE MONO: A THREE-PERSON ONE-MAN SHOW (Noeline Brown, Max Gillies & John Wood) Saturday 5 February, 2pm and 7.30pm

GLASSHOUSE SELECT THEATRE PROGRAM LAUNCH Thursday 3 February, 6pm

CELTIC ILLUSION REIMAGINED

ELVIS IF I CAN DREAM

Saturday 12 February, 7:30pm

Friday 18 February, 8pm

THE SWEET CAROLINE TOUR A TRIBUTE TO NEIL DIAMOND Wednesday 19 January, 8pm

PRADA CLUTCH’S ALL DRAG REVUE Saturday 19 February, 8pm

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

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Welcome to the January 2022 issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

hey say you learn from the past, well if we have learnt anything in the last two years it would be that supporting each other and the health and safety of loved ones, family and friends is what’s most important. It’s no secret that it’s been a very tough two years but it has been so wonderful to see this community getting behind one another and supporting each other when it matters the most. We definitely have a lot to be thankful for as well, as we are blessed to live in such a beautiful part of not only Australia but the world, so these summer holidays take time for yourself and recharge.

This month in FOCUS we celebrate Alex Cassegrain, who has been awarded the ASVO 2021 Winemaker of the Year.

Congratulations Alex, very well deserved.

Returning in this edition, our look “behind the lens” is a must read. The amazing Now I’m sure you can agree with me that Scott Hawkins has an our region has some wonderful story. Scott pretty awesome bars, It's very exciting has worked for some clubs and pubs, so this to see events, live big name brands in his month we decided to put music, shows and art photography career together our very first Pub and his images are just festivals return and Crawl Feature. Check it beautiful. Read Scott’s there is definitely a lot out on page 60 – with 31 interview on pages 26 going on this January – days in January there will to 29. so make sure you take be somewhere new you can visit every day.

it all in, relax, enjoy, explore and start 2022 the best way you possibly can.

We also must congratulate Peta Pinson on her re-election as our Mayor. We wish her all the best over the next term, and look forward to seeing what she has in store for our region. Our Moment with the Mayor column will return in February.

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It’s very exciting to see events, live music, shows and art festivals return and there is definitely a lot going on this January – so make sure you take it all in, relax, enjoy, explore and start 2022 the best way you possibly can.

contacts.

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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

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OLDEST DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au CUTEST DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR 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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This summer, come Explore, get Excited and Ignite that creative spark at Glasshouse Regional Gallery! Some of the Summer Fun we have planned:

ve CreRaENtiTS

BOOKINGS REQUIRED

PA & BUBS

Check out the full Summer in the Gallery program at

glasshouse.org.au/summer

Explore Excite Ignite Creative Learning Program is funded

by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Create NSW.

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

Issue 190 - January 2022 INTERVIEWS

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ALEX CASSEGRAIN

GOT YA BACK JUNIOR

SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL

Senior Winemaker Alex Cassegrain was named 2021 Winemaker of the Year, for his work in developing solutions for smoke taint that affected Australia’s 2020 grape harvest.

Inspiring the next generation, GOT YA BACK JUNIOR caters for 10-18 year olds. They will perform A Midsummer Night’s Dream under the stars at Cassegrain Winery from 5th January.

January brings a fabulous Arts Festival line up: Light Sculpture Parade, Sketchy Cabaret, Art Music and Movement, The SHED Ex, and art classes for kids and adults. Get into it!

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 50. Lou Perry - Palate Pleasures 53. Alex Cassegrain - Grape Escape 56. Alistair Flower - In the Front Bar 65. Jimmy's Bar & Lounge - From the Shaker 98. Hastings Business Women’s Network CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

105. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice 110. Kate Wood-Foye - Business Illuminate 112. Alan Priest - Legal Light

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. t i ti t Follow us on

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www.facebook.com/PortMacquarieFocus

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SCAN AND WIN

PRESENTED BY

PAY ME AVA NT PL A ILA BLE NS

NRMA PORT MACQUARIE BREAKWALL HOLIDAY PARK 27TH & 28TH MAY 2022

BOOTSANDBEACH.COM.AU

J ANUA RY 2022

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NEW YEARS DAY RACES

Limited Reserved seating inside available, or tables are available in the outside bar or betting ring. Gates open 11.30am. Entry $10 Adult $6 Concession. Tickets can be pre-purchased from the office or on the day. When Saturday 1st January Where Port Macquarie Race Club More Info Phone 6581 9164 or email admin@portmacquarieraceclub.com.au

LIVE AND LOCAL

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Supporting the return of live music in some amazing traditional, and unexpected, venues across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.

Featuring an all-local artists line up, these Micro Festivals are about providing free performances in local businesses.

When Saturday 1st Jan 22 - Wednesday 26th Jan 22 12-4pm Where Various venue locations across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region More Info Phone 6581 8111 or email liveandlocalpmq@gmail.com 16 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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MONSTER TRUCKS UNLEASHED

Together with some of the best Australian & USA Monster Truck Drivers and a barrage of crazy support acts When Sunday 2nd January Where Wauchope Showground More Info Tickets available through monsterevents.com.au

SPLASHFEST

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This event is aimed to bring youth in the local area together after a tough year. This is a FREE event for youth aged 12-17, so gather your friends and enjoy the pool all to yourselves for a swim under the setting sun! When 14th - Laurieton, 21st - Wauchope & 28th Port Macquarie Pool, *Entry from 6:00pm *Event starts 6.30pm * Event finishes 9.00pm Where Laurieton, Wauchope and Port Macquarie Pool More Info pmhc.nsw.gov.au/Places/Events/ SplashFest

COMMUNITY DAY Looking for a fun day out to celebrate the public holiday on January 26th?

Food & General Markets ALL DAY @ Town Beach Port Macquarie. When Wednesday 26th January 9am-9pm! Where Town Beach More Info facebook.com/ HastingsSummerWaves

27 MID NORTH SOCIAL COMEDY CLUB Heading up this quarter's lineup Greg Sullivan Comedian will be headlining the laughs with the support of 4 hilariously funny acts. Plus pre-show entertainment with Phil from Pure Acoustic... a new musical adventure awaits... $30-$75 Show Only / VIP Dinner Show When Thursday 27th January Where Wicked Elf More Info fb.com/midnorthsocial/

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January, a new year, and time to enjoy some great live entertainment or our daily morning and sunset scenic and dolphin spo ing river cruises.

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e have some great bands with all cruises featuring catering and cruising. New Year’s Day is time to Rock the Boat with the Last Stand Chisel tribute show. This great band played in Port Macquarie on New Year’s Eve at a local club, and we have kept them in Port Macquarie to start the New Year with one of the best Australian tribute bands.

dress to the theme.

Australia Day Sunset cruise.

Move forward to the 21st & 22nd with Australia’s number 1 Beatles tribute, the Fab4.

We will be highlighting their highly acclaimed Beatles show with a tribute to a British invasion of live band classics.

To finish off the month, we have booked Eric Grothe and the Gurus. That is right, the same Eric Grothe that terrorised rugby league players while playing on the wing for Parramatta, NSW and Australia. Special guest will be ex NRL referee Bill Harrigan who has joined the Gurus and believe me, can sing a mean tune.

Then for 2 dates on the 7th & 8th January, one of Australia’s top Elvis Tribute artists, John “Elvis” Collins, and the very popular Blues Brothers Rebooted will again rock the boat for their Blues spectacular.

The Saturday cruise will feature a pop-up concert at sunset where our vessel will pull into the Lady Nelson Wharf and the band will perform on the balcony of the vessel to re-enact an iconic publicity stunt when the Beatles performed on the 5th floor rooftop of the Abbey Road studios.

On Friday 14th January, I (Tom “Cruise” Director) will present a Party Megamix DJ Style. Great sound, lighting and everyone is encouraged to

Australia Day, we cannot wait for our sunset entertainment cruise with Pat Drummond. This singer songwriter is the perfect choice for our

All their songs are from the 80’s and everyone on board will love this cruise. Their dates are Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th January.

Don’t be disappointed, we limit numbers on every cruise. So that you can move around and be comfortable! We will definitely be Rolling on the River this January.

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McGrath Estate Agents Succeeding through expertise and teamwork

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success story for the ages; just fourteen years ago, widely acclaimed ‘McGrath Estate Agents’ opened its doors in Port Macquarie to introduce an entirely new, uniquely modern and totally ethical approach to property marketing and management, its brand-exclusive and refreshingly innovative marketing strategies completely reinventing the local industry’s perceptions of customer service and responsible sales’ accomplishments.

Since then, with its track record of industry-leading service and reputation for

consistently achieving benchmark results, McGrath Port Macquarie has continued to grow and to thrive. Over the years local Principal, Todd Bates, has been able to assemble an exceptional team of dedicated specialists and representative units, each member excited to share the highly professional, yet warmly collaborative culture which is and will always be the key to great outcomes.

And great outcomes produce more great outcomes. Early in 2021, McGrath Port Macquarie received an honoured invitation to join the illustrious, highly successful network of McGrath Projects, a

specialised identity solely focussed upon often complex major developments, whilst providing direct access to all appropriate resources and specifically tailored marketing; a welcomed opportunity, a resounding privilege for the local team and further acknowledgement of high esteem and professional expertise, as recognised by national industry experts.

In real estate, strong growth is direct and indisputable evidence of sales success; an incontestable sign that the business is providing exemplary service to its clients, reliably achieving the premium results they seek.

Our sincere thanks to the amazing people at Port Macquarie’s Mercure Centro Hotel, who so generously provided their facilities for this image.

In the past twelve months alone, McGrath Port Macquarie has enjoyed an outstanding 89% increase in selling volume, its massive $212,464,250.00 sales value an annual increase of over 235%; figures which immediately equate to many hundreds of delighted clients.

149 Gordon Street Port Macquarie 2444

Whether for sale of the family home or for marketing of substantial developments, vendors and buyers choose to place their trust in McGrath; perhaps due to the brand’s reputation for absolute integrity, extensive expertise, friendly service and ground-breaking marketing initiatives;

p 6589 3777 e toddbates@mcgrath.com.au

perhaps attracted by the obvious professionalism and enduring team spirit?

A success story for the ages; through expertise, commitment, teamwork and the unwavering support of its clients and friends, McGrath has emerged as a genuine market leader in Port Macquarie.

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Alex CASSEGRAIN 2021 WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR

Family owned and operated Cassegrain Wines has long been renowned as a destination for fine wines. Now, its Senior Winemaker Alex Cassegrain has been named 2021 Winemaker of the Year by the Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO) in recognition of his work in developing solutions for smoke taint on grapes that widely affected Australia’s 2020 grape harvest.

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ongratulations on this incredible accolade. Tell us how you came to be involved in research and development of solutions for smoke taint on grapes.

Thank you. Vineyards all over NSW had been dealing with years of drought which resulted in lower yields and loss of revenue. This in turn had a direct impact on winemakers, including Cassegrain Wines.

When the 2020 bush fires hit, it had a devastating impact on the wine industry. Some vineyards were destroyed completely, while others were greatly affected by smoke from the fires. Exposure to bushfire smoke can taint grapes, making them unpalatable leading to revenue losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

We knew that if something could be done to help our industry, particularly the grape growers, we absolutely had to pursue it. So Cassegrain Wines applied for a grant under the Federal Government’s Cooperative Research 20 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Centres Project to conduct research into the undertaken. problem, and were able to secure a three-year I understand your development of specific grant of $950,000. innovative techniques into the problem Initially, there was no guarantee that we of smoke taint may have the potential would receive the grant, to be applied so all we could do was internationally. This trial things that we felt is an outstanding I strongly could make a difference. achievement for a believe that I am so grateful to all local winemaker. this award is for the growers who went What does this award everyone who has on this journey with us, mean to you? been involved in the knowing that we may To be nominated work we’ve all been or may not be successful and named the ASVO’s doing – in particular, with the outcome.

Winemaker of the the growers who I was highly motivated Year is such a great went through such to work in unison with honour. I strongly an ordeal during the growers, suppliers, believe that this award bushfires. research companies and is for everyone who has agencies to try to get been involved in the an understanding of work we’ve all been ways in which smoke taint could be treated to doing – in particular, the growers who went mitigate or reduce its effect on wine. Receiving through such an ordeal during the bushfires. the grant under the CRCP has provided a Collaborating with suppliers, industry bodies, significant boost to the research now being wine scientists and fellow winemakers to

cross-pollinate ideas, techniques, innovations and knowledge helps us all address the bigger issues that directly impact the future prosperity of our industry.

Receiving this award gives me the confidence to always push the boundaries and to continue to innovate in developing solutions that will benefit the industry as a whole.

I’m confident that further development of some of the techniques we’ve trialled will lead to worldwide availability of these techniques.

Turning what was a disaster for growers into, potentially, internationally recognised innovation has been quite a journey for us all.

Tell us a little about your passion for the winemaking. Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Towards the end of my schooling years, my real passion for winemaking started to take hold. I worked in all areas of wine production, from picking grapes in the vineyards, to learning about oak barrels, working in a cellar door then finally taking on the art of winemaking.

Cassegrain Wines has a heritage in winemaking, so you could say it’s in my blood.

My father, John, has been making wines in the Hastings River region for a long time, and he’s

been my mentor and my inspiration. It has helped a lot to be surrounded I’m confident by like-minded people that further when it comes to development of some creativity and innovation of the techniques continued to produce in winemaking. John we’ve trialled will premium wines has been the biggest lead to worldwide influence in my inspired by French availability of these winemaking career. making traditions. techniques.

One of the things Tell us a little about about the industry that I your journey into find the most satisfying winemaking. is that it is always I really started my winemaking career at evolving; each year presents different obstacles Tamar Ridge Estate in Tasmania.

I think this – some better than others – but either way, is where my real love of the industry began. I having the opportunity to create something special is a great outcome.

Another great advantage is participating in wine shows, talking with other winemakers and sharing ideas. This has been a great benefit to our business and the brand. I always strive to be innovative, constantly exploring new things to bring to our customers.

Cassegrain Wines is steeped in history dating back to its origins in the Hastings River region from 1980. Over the last four decades, the Cassegrain family has

was also fortunate to be able to work in France for a couple of years, which really expanded my knowledge in the whole wine production process.

Wine is in my blood, there’s no doubt about that. I’ve been privileged to have my father teach me not just about winemaking, but the subtleties and nuances that go into producing a really good wine.

Continued over...

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A key ethos of the Cassegrain Wines brand is striving to continually evolve wines produced, while recognising the different characteristics grapes grown in different regions have. Where do you predominantly source grapes for the varieties of wines produced?

Our grapes are sourced from a number of different regions around NSW including New England, Orange, Canberra region, Mudgee, the Hunter Valley, Tumbarumba and of 22 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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that I really enjoy. Being able to make a great wine from grapes from all around NSW means we can produce a wide range of different wines to suit just about every palate.

Each region has its own “terroir”, or micro-climate, that brings its own unique characteristics to the grapes. Each region has its ‘hero’ wines and we try to ensure the integrity of those grapes aren’t lost. Our Edition Noir range encapsulates Of course, the uniqueness of some climate and regional wines which weather conditions are typically produced in have a huge impact smaller volumes, but are very high-quality wines. on the quality and We have six wine course, the Hastings flavour of the ranges which include our River region. grapes. This is the Reserve, Stone Circle, The grapes all part of winemaking Edition Noir, White Label, have different that I really enjoy.

Q Range and Seasons. characteristics We make nine white and every vintage wines, nine red wines, a produced from the rose and three sparkling wines varieties so same grape variety is never the same. Of there’s plenty of wines to try. course, climate and weather conditions have Other consistent award winners include a huge impact on the quality and flavour of the Edition Noir Sangiovese and the the grapes. This is the part of winemaking

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2021 WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR Edition Noir Syrah Pinot Noir; the Edition Coming out of such Noir Riesling made with grapes from the challenging times over Canberra region is another year-on-year the last few years, I am award winner. more motivated than ever to be And we’re really thrilled that our latest focusing on the things we are good at, while 2021 Seasons Spring Rosé has just won continuously improving in areas where there NSW Wines’ trophy for Best Light Red, on may be some challenges. And top of mind top of a bronze and a silver from two other is that I’m always trying to make the perfect wine critics. wine, no matter which grape variety or Cassegrain Wines is blend. also a four-star rated When you’re not And we’re winery with Halliday’s working, where really thrilled Wine Companion, so would we catch you that our latest 2021 we are definitely doing spending your down Seasons Spring Rosé something exceptional time? has just won NSW here. I am very proud The nature of the Wines’ trophy for of all the work we beast has me working a Best Light Red, on do, and of the people lot in the winery as well top of a bronze and around me who help as visiting clients and make Cassegrain vineyards. When I’m a silver from two Wines the success that not working, being with other wine critics. it is. my family is my priority, What is on the enjoying somewhere horizon for the business for the year where it’s quiet and I’m hard to reach! This ahead? is something that I am always trying to I’ve definitely got an eye on new improve in my life; having a family and work innovations, particularly in diversifying into life balance. While winemaking is a lifestyle other forms of grape-based products using occupation, it is very demanding on many grapes that would usually be discarded. aspects of any winemaker’s life, so capturing Although some wastage is inevitable, I’m any time to be with family is my biggest looking to work on that aspect and I would priority! say this… watch this space!

What is it you love the most about

living on the Mid North Coast?

What’s not to love!

We are all very fortunate to live in a region that includes beautiful beaches, majestic rivers, national parks and lush countryside. Where else in the world could you get all that! Being raised here and now raising my own family here is a privilege that I don’t take for granted.

However, the one thing I have seen is how the community all came together during the bush fires and then through the floods.

It was so inspiring to witness all this occur, and I love being part of a community where the locals are the heart of the Hastings River region community.

For people wanting to find out more about your work or to connect with Cassegrain Wines, how can they best get in touch?

It’s always good to join us on Facebook, Instagram, or to visit our website. A visit to our beautiful winery to enjoy a picnic in our grounds, and to sample some of our wines is great way to experience all Cassegrain Wines has to offer. Everyone is always welcome!

Thank you, Alex. Interview: Sarah Baker.

Cassegrain Wines is located at 10 Winery Drive, Port Macquarie.

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SCOTT HAWKINS P H O T O G R A P H Y

We speak with Port Macquarie local Scott Hawkins of his love of being behind the camera capturing moments in time.

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i Scott. Thanks so much for speaking with FOCUS. You are an esteemed photographer with a love of shooting across different genres; people and lifestyle, homes and living, food and still life. Where do you draw your inspiration?

Hi Sarah, it’s great to chat. I have been very fortunate to have had such a wonderful journey in my career. Every time I get “the shot”, I still get that feeling of satisfaction I got from my earliest days in photography.

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My early influences were photographers such as Irving Penn, Richard Avedon and Ansel Adams. They seemed to have a unique view of their subjects and a connection that took me along with them for the ride. As a photographer that’s what I want the viewer to do – come along with me – get to know this person, be a part of this location, love this house or taste this food.

Working with great people can turn something ordinary into something special, so surrounding yourself with talented people, creates fantastic results.

When did you first pick up a camera and

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friends’ portfolios. It was then that I decided (much to my parents’ dismay), to quit uni and I got a job as a photographic assistant in an advertising studio in Surry Hills in Sydney.

From there it was a long and hard but very satisfying journey.

What have been some of your highlights looking back?

My days shooting editorial work in Sydney in the 80’s for magazines such as Vogue, Vogue Living, Belle, Elle, Working with Follow Me and Studio great people Collections were an what is it you love can turn something incredibly creative time. about the craft? ordinary into We were given freedom Back in my teens, I something special, so to shoot however we had a Praktica 35mm wanted and produced surrounding yourself film camera with a tele some wonderful images. with talented people, lens that I was using I loved my Vogue creates fantastic to shoot my mates portraits, which included results. surfing and then later Nicole Kidman, Jerry to document my trip Hall, Linda Jackson and around Australia in a Tara Morice. Moving to campervan. I was at uni in my early 20’s and London was a big move and things took off my girlfriend was trying to get into modelling quickly, as Australian magazines were the at the time. I upgraded to a Nikon F2A kit envy of the world then and my portfolio was and started do shoots for her and later her

full of that work. I ended up living in Holland Park and had my own studio in Notting Hill, where I had clients such as Harrods, Marks & Spencer, L’Oreal and then a huge variety of magazines such as Tatler, Harpers Bazaar and Elle. I also was lucky enough to do regular work for the weekend newspaper supplements for The London Times, Express and Mail. In that time I travelled extensively throughout Europe and the States working with people such as the beautiful French actress Leslie Caron, the Krug champagne dynasty and the wine glass Reidel family in Austria. I also got to work with chefs Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay.

On returning to Sydney, I was hired to do all the photography for a great magazine called Notebook. That involved shooting food, interiors, portraits, features, fashion and still life, so drawing on everything I’d ever done – good times! I then started with Kerry Packer’s ACP (to become Bauer Media) where I worked across all titles including Women’s Weekly, House and Garden, Gourmet Traveller, Belle, Harpers Bazaar, Elle and Inside Out. Continued Over.

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Can you describe a little about yourself behind the lens?

In the studio, it can be very busy, with many people and lots of gear to deal with, so being connected to what is happening is very important, as well as listening to a client’s needs. Time is precious on shoots, so sometimes you have to keep that ball rolling.

Having so much experience in so many genres means I can feel confident in getting results, no matter what the situation. Every shoot is important, whether it is a famous celebrity 28 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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a picturesque landscape to photograph.

What is it you love most about spending time in Port Macquarie?

I’ve been coming to the Mid North Coast since my parents would pack 4 kids and a dog into the car, an overloaded boat on the trailer, and drive up to South West Rocks for our annual summer holidays each year. It was there I learned to surf, fish and to love the beach and ocean. Once I got my licence, Crescent Head, Point Plomer Coming from film and Big Hill became my days, every time getaway destination and you pressed that then, about 30 years shutter cost money, so ago, my parents built even in the digital days, their “forever” home at I try to be economical Lighthouse Beach in Port or a food shoot for a with my shooting – Macquarie, which became small restaurant, so the after all, they still have my second home. I never approach is always the to be edited. cease to be amazed at same. the wonderful beaches When I’m out and headlands, along shooting for myself, I with the nearby mountains and waterfalls in tend to travel solo and only shoot when I see the region. We are so lucky to have so many “the shot”. Coming from film days, every time beautiful National Parks with their walks and you pressed that shutter cost money, so even in campgrounds. There is a wonderful sense of the digital days, I try to be economical with my community here and a great combination of all shooting – after all, they still have to be edited. the amenities you could want, along with a laid The Mid North Coast region offers such

find you spending your own time?

The ocean has always been special to me back lifestyle. and I have always had boats of some sort. I Are there any world destinations on your currently have a 43’ cruising yacht in Pittwater bucket list you’d love to get to one day in Sydney which is my base when down there. with a lens?

When I left London, my ex and 2-year-old The top of the list would be Antarctica – daughter bought a 52’ yacht in Malta and probably the top of most photographers’ list. spent 2 years sailing in the Mediterranean, I’ve been lucky enough to travel extensively travelling to Greece, with my work – I’d love Turkey, Italy, France & to return to Russia. I Spain – some amazing was there for a couple Having so much times and places.

Right of weeks one winter in experience in so now I’m restoring my the 90’s where my brief

many genres means I

1973 Alfa Spider up here in Port, so hope to have that on the road early next year. Other than that, live music, camping and fishing with my brother up in Mission Beach in North Queensland are all part of my life.

For people wanting to find out more about your work or engage your services, how can they best connect with you?

My website www.scotthawkinsphotography. com is where you can check out my work and prints available for sale. My email is scotthawkinsphotography@gmail.com Thanks Scott. Interview: Sarah Baker.

from a big London law can feel confident in firm was to bring back getting results, no beautiful images to matter what the frame for their offices. situation.

They gave me an apartment in Moscow and a driver to take me wherever I wanted to go.

I’d love to see bit of Africa too – the closest I’ve been to it was the Canary Islands. I guess I’ll have to be patient for that one at the moment. I am planning to get back to the outback for now and have a great setup with my ’93 Landcruiser, so plan to do a bit of that in 2022.

Away from the camera where would we

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Night’s Dream INDIANA JONES

This month A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be brought to you live and proud by the very talented junior team from Got Ya Back Productions. We speak with one of the stars, Indiana Jones.

C

an you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi I’m Indiana! I’m 14 and have lived in Port Macquarie my entire life. I’m in the ‘Flute Cast’ for A Midsummer Night’s Dream and play the role of Puck, the Fairy King’s servant.

When did you start at Got Ya Back Productions and what do you love the most about being a student there?

I started GYBP this year, this being my second show with them. I think the thing that I really love about being here is the community they’ve built. I’ve had the chance to experience firsthand all the incredibly talented and kindhearted people. You instantly feel accepted and it feels like a family. I think the bonds you form with the cast are what makes the shows so fun.

Did you enjoy acting and drama or is this something that has grown on you since starting at Got Ya Back?

I’ve loved drama for as long as I can remember. I’ve always wanted to be a part of Got Ya Back Productions since watching their production of Disney’s Aladdin Jr. After being in a GYBP show myself, I’ve grown to appreciate all aspects of drama.

You have a role in the upcoming

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production of A Can you give us an Midsummer Night’s insight into what a day Somehow Tim Dream. Can you in rehearsals looks like? can always tie it give our readers a We usually gather back to what we’re little insight into this together and talk about doing and give us production and your anything. Somehow Tim something to take role? can always tie it back to away from it. We’ll A Midsummer Night’s what we’re doing and give spend time having Dream is a magical us something to take away fun and just being a story, albeit multiple from it. We’ll spend time group of friends. stories intertwined with having fun and just being each other. I, as Puck, a group of friends. We’ll servant to Oberon the work through a few pages Fairy King, bring mischief and chaos into the of the script in groups and then all rejoin for a woods." show and tell, where we can watch each other What are you looking forward to the most and give feedback. I really enjoy this part as not with this show? only do we get more familiar with the story, it Having fun and being part of this magical feels like we’re all one connected group. experience with everyone.

What are your goals for 2022 when it What have you learnt about yourself from comes to Got Ya Back? being a student of Tim and Steph’s?

To be as involved as possible, do what I can It’s all about what you give in. This can apply to get the most out of it, even if not onstage. to most scenarios but I really see it whenever Is there anything else you wish to add? we’re rehearsing. I feel encouraged to take risks Come watch the show! :-) and give it my all.

Thanks Indiana.

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Ya Back -JUNIOR-

Inspiring the next generation into the world of theatre, GOT YA BACK JUNIOR productions are for any child aged 10-18yrs.

We catch up with directors Tim and Steph to talk about the year that was and how anyone can get involved with Got Ya Back.

T

ell us how you survived the craziness that was 2021.

It was a year of great highs and abrupt lows.

The first half of the year was fantastic. We completed Shrek Jr, a production performed by local children aged 9-12 years; it was a riot. It was great to give the children a performance opportunity inside a theatre again and the kids reveled in it.

Following this, thanks to funding received from Regional Arts NSW, Create NSW, and the ever supportive Arts Mid North Coast, we developed our third full-scale touring production, Carnival of the Animals.

In June we proudly premiered Carnival of the Animals at The Basement (Panthers Port Macquarie). It is such a joyous production and, with the exception of the production’s director, was built entirely by local artists.

We planned to do a 28-show season at The Basement. Our awesome community came out in big numbers to support the show, some even came twice or three times. We

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whether these pivots were successful, or completed our 17th performance, then it all completely destroyed by a freak storm, we changed. managed to keep our company morale high.

At 3pm on 26th June, due to COVID Carnival of the restriction changes, Animals is joy, laughter, we discovered we had colour, music, dance, just enough time to Our awesome glow bubbles and complete one final community confetti storms. When show; so we finished came out in big it all vanished so that performance at numbers to support suddenly it was very 5:55pm and by 6pm disorientating. It hit us we were packing up the show, some even both really hard. The fun the theatre. came twice or three was snuffed and we had Since the pandemic times. We completed no idea where to ‘pivot’ began, we have made 17th performance, to next. pivot after pivot as a then it all changed.

Until the full lockdown business. Each new hit, we were still able idea, from online to keep rehearsing our classes, through to Junior Production (performers aged 10drive-in cinemas, films, music videos or 18yrs) of Beauty & the Beast Jr. Building this theatre productions under the stars, all production got us out of our funk. Many seemed to carry an air of adventure – and

Each may not expect that production is working alongside 40filled on a first come odd teenagers would greatly contribute first served basis. We greatly to one’s sense send an email out to of optimism. We are our database saying so blessed to have that on a certain our own industry. We such a fantastic crew started producing date/time enrolments of teenagers to build ‘junior’ productions in will open. our junior productions 2017, in the hope of with. As many in our encouraging young community know, people into the world of performance. A Beauty & the Beast Jr definitely had its own Midsummer Night’s Dream is now our 15th problems with postponements and changes junior production in four years. due to COVID. However, we ended up raising We consistently produce junior productions the metaphorical curtain on the production and professional productions now. four months after it was first scheduled, and How does someone get involved in the we had a ball. Completing this production JUNIOR program? carried with it a huge sense of achievement We don’t care about previous performance for all involved – ticket holders included. experience or your level of talent, we only Can you tell us more about your Got Ya care that you’re keen to get involved.

Back JUNIOR productions?

Despite the fact we never audition, it’s pretty When we formed Got Ya Back, we only competitive to get in. Each production is filled produced professional productions and on a first come first served basis. We send an events. However, after a few months of email out to our database saying that on a living here, we realised if we’re to be based certain date/time enrolments will open. When they open on that date and time, the first in this region long-term we have to grow

cast usually fills in 3-5 minutes.

So if you do want your child to get involved pop your name down on our mailing list (via our website).

You have A Midsummer Night’s Dream happening under the stars with your youth performers in January. What else is on the cards when it comes to your productions in 2022?

Yes, A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed in the Formal Garden area of Cassegrain Wines from 5th January. The sculpted hedges will be covered in fairy lights and the night will be stunning. It’s on at the same time as Oysters in the Vines.

Then our 2022 tour of Carnival of the Animals will kick off at The Jetty Theatre in Coffs (February 26th & 27th) and we return to complete our season at The Basement in April. It’s off to other parts of the state after that.

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www.hellokoalas.com www.hellokoalas.com

1 - 11 June 2017 1 - 11 June 2017

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PLUS: Tea towels, notebooks, art books, t -shirts, magnets, badges, tote bags, postcards, stickers and a BRAND NEWart RANGE oftkoala-themed toys, backpack souvenirs.

PLUS: Tea towels, notebooks, books, -shirts, magnets, badges, toteand bags, postcards, stickers and a BRAND NEW RANGE of koala-themed toys, backpack and souvenirs.

Say “Hi” to 18 Hello Say “Hi” to 18 Hello Koalas Sculptures all Koalas Sculptures in the one place! all in the one place!

Bellbowrie Park Business Centre Bellbowrie Park Business Unit 16, 10 Bellbowrie Street,Centre Port Macquarie Unit 16, 10 Bellbowrie Street, Port Macquarie (just 5 minutes walk from Settlement City) (just 5 minutes walk from Settlement City)

Contact Us: Online at www.hellokoalas.com Phone 482, Contact0416 Us: 641 Online at www.hellokoalas.com Email info@hellokoalas.com Phone 0416 641 482, Email info@hellokoalas.com

JANUARY 2022 OPENING HOURS JANUARY Monday to2022 FridayOPENING 9am - 3pm,HOURS Monday to Friday 9am - 3pm, Saturday 9am - 1pm Saturday 9am - 1pm

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ONLINE www.hellokoalas.com ONLINE and click on the www.hellokoalas.com “Shop” tabthe and click on “Shop” tab

Koalas GOES WILD FOR

HONEY

THIS SUMMER

Summer holidays are all about relaxation, fun, and lots of fresh, delicious food – the perfect time for “Wild Honey”, Hello Koalas' newest addition to the Sculpture Trail, to make her debut.

W

ild Honey is by artist Leanne Prussing, of Prussing Art (www. facebook.com/ prussingart/), who also painted “Garage Girl” which has recently taken up residence at Wiseberry Port Macquarie, 128 William St. Sponsored by Wild Culture Organics, Wild Honey is at the health and wellness superstore at 125 Gordon St, Port Macquarie (@wildcultureorganics on Facebook).

Their logo, the bee, is on Wild Honey’s nose, ear and tummy. Wildflowers and butterflies abound. Wild Honey’s back features organic fruit and vegetables – apples, grapes, cherries and oranges, leafy celery and ripe avocadoes.

Check out the products at Wild Culture Organics, grab a selfie with Wild Honey 7 days a week, and share your photo of any Hello Koalas sculpture by tagging @hellokoalas #hellokoalas. *See more of Leanne’s work at the January Summer Art Festival at Shed Ex; join her Paint & Sip Friday art class at The Makerspace, to create your own interpretation of a popular 20th century art work. 4 Albert Cct, Port Macquarie.

2022 ON THE SCULPTURE TRAIL Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is constantly changing and growing, thanks to the eversupportive Port Macquarie community.

The new Trail Guide is available online at www.hellokoalas.com, or in print at the Hello Koalas Gift Shop, Glasshouse Information Centre, Sea Acres Rainforest Centre and tourism brochure racks.

Hello Koalas founder Margret Meagher and artist Leanne Prussing unveil Wild Honey, the newest character on the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. (Photo: Lindsay Moller)

The Trail Guide front cover features “Kirralee” (Regional Australia Bank, 41 Horton St), “Australiana Down Under” (Timbertown Motel, 226 High St, Wauchope) and “Buzzy Bee” and “Winnie the Unicorn” (Hello Koalas Gift Shop, Unit 16, 10 Bellbowrie St).

Joining the family is Udder Cow Café in Comboyne, with Mary and Chris Holstein welcoming Cowala, by Kim Staples. And Hastings Valley Vikings Rugby Club has their very own “Vik the Viking” by Pauline Roods.

Some Hello Koalas on the move are “Koala Z”, at Greenbourne Nursery, "Dr Stu Dent" at Wauchope District Hospital, and “Sunshine”, designed by music legend John Williamson, is back at the Koala Hospital. John is a longtime hospital patron and Sunshine acknowledges its founders Jean and Max Starr.

“Gum Blossom” has taken up residence at the Glenfern Thrumster sales office at 41 Short St (10am-4pm Tues-Sat), while “Komorebi” has taken her place at Taree Train Station. “Chief”, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Pilot, is spending summer at IGA Sovereign Place (Shop 1, 15 Chancellors Drive, Thrumster).

Check out the new Hello Koalas Sculpture

Trail Guide and keep updated on the Hello Koalas website www.hellokoalas.com.

WHAT’S NEW IN THE GIFT SHOP? It has certainly been an exciting time for new Hello Koalas Gift Shop store manager Vicki Eslick. “There has been such a great response to the special edition Port Macquarie Monopoly, and it has really let people know where we are and opened people’s eyes to all the great gifts we have at the shop,” Vicki said.

The new 2022 calendar features all the latest Hello Koalas, as does the brand new Colouring Book – hot off the press. As well as a redesigned lined notebook, Hello Koalas now offers an unlined A4 art book.

There are also stickers, bookmarks, magnets and badges for Hello Koalas characters, tea towels, lens cleaners and new soft toys, as well as the Port Macquarie version of Top Trumps card game. “What better to put it all in than a koala backpack from our Gift Shop?” laughed Margret Meagher, Hello Koalas founder.

In January, Hello Koalas Gift Shop is open 9am-3pm Monday-Friday and 9am-1pm Saturday at 16/10 Bellbowrie St, Port Macquarie, near Settlement City. Phone 0416 641 482.

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MONO

NOELINE BROWN ‘Mono’ will be coming to the Glasshouse here in Port Macquarie in February. IT CONSISTS OF NINE HILARIOUS MONOLOGUES, PERFORMED BY THREE ICONIC STARS – NOELINE BROWN, MAX GILLIES AND JOHN WOOD. We were lucky enough to have a chat with both Noeline and Max to get a sneak peek of what to expect from the show, and we were having a good old laugh right from the start!

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H

i Noeline. Could you tell us a bit about the concept for Mono?

I could and I will. “Mono” is a three-person one-man show, it’s nine characters played by three actors; it’s a series of comic monologues in the style of Joyce Grenfell, Bob Newhart and Alan Bennett. It’s me, John Wood and Max Gillies performing separately together. It’s a revue meets a play; it’s very, very funny and if you are reading this you should come to the show. If you are not reading this you should go anyway.

How did you come to be involved with the show?

The producer offered me a large sum of money. Apart from blackmail, this is the reason I get involved with most shows. No, I was sent the script and I loved it. It’s very rare that you get offered something so good you can’t say no, but this was one of those lovely times. Plus, I get the chance to be in a play with Max Gillies and John Wood which is good for my resume.

Had you ever worked with John Wood or Max Gillies before Mono?

Not in the theatre, but Max and I worked together in a series of elaborate cat burglaries in the late 1970’s. We stole over 22 cats before we were caught. No, remarkably I haven’t worked with either John or Max and I think it’s about time. We’ve been criss-crossing past each other for over half a century; I love both of them and I’m delighted we finally get to do something together in front of an audience.

Can you tell us about the characters that you play?

It’s me, John I play a harridan Wood and Max headmistress of a St Gillies performing Trinian’s-style girls separately together. school who is trying to in, especially Port It’s a revue meets a conduct an assembly; a Macquarie. (And I’m play; it’s very, very “Mindfulness” expert not just saying that funny and if you are whose mind is not because this magazine exactly full; and lastly is published in Port reading this you a Mother of the Bride Macquarie, although it should come to the who may have had is a factor.) No, anyone show. If you are not about twelve tipples who retired in Port reading this you too many and is giving Macquarie is a genius, should go anyway. a speech to remember it is gorgeous from at the wedding. top to tail and more What are you most looking forward to importantly you can get good coffee there. about touring in this live show?

What do you hope people will get out of Everything. It’s been a difficult couple coming to see the show? of years for everyone, so it’s going to be A laugh! And they will. I hope they get 90 wonderful to be in front of an audience minutes of fun, with Max and John and me again who gets to be part of an audience! (or John and I, if they are grammar sticklers).

Being in a theatre full of people laughing It’s a hoot and I think we all deserve one. is a joy, literally, and I’m really looking What advice would you give your forward to that. I’m also looking forward to younger self? all the beautiful places we get to perform When Cary Grant asks you out for dinner,

say yes. Oh and buy Bitcoin in 2015. Cary Grant never did ask me out to dinner, but it remains excellent advice. Even if he asked now I’d say yes.

What makes you laugh?

Max Gillies, John Wood and Treasury Forecasts.

Have you ever been star struck by somebody you worked with?

Skippy the Kangaroo, although that may have been an accident, he had poor paw control.

What advice would you give somebody who wanted to be an actor?

Be an actor. (It’s obvious really). Oh and get a good agent. A show business agent. James Bond is an excellent agent but he’s not going to get you any good recurring parts, except for Moneypenny.

Describe yourself in five words?

A born rule breaker.

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MONO MAX GILLIES

H

i Max. How did you end up becoming part of Mono?

I was a stowaway; I was onboard for “Senior Moments” and I drifted into port with “Mono” before anyone noticed. And speaking of ports, I’m very happy to be back in Port Macquarie, you can’t beat it for sunsets and sand. I’m from Melbourne, where beaches are for looking at from a safe distance while you wear a jumper, but even we can’t resist Port Macquarie.

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What was your first a chance to sink your Comic impression of the teeth into them; you monologues idea for the show? get to be a character were a staple of My first impression and a world, and tell comedy in the 1950’s is usually Bob Hawke, an entire little story by and 60’s, they are a but in this case I yourself in about nine bit of a lost art and thought I’d do more minutes. When you I’m delighted to find of an Alec Guinness watched Joyce Grenfell them again. thing. No, I loved you would swear you the idea. Comic were in a classroom monologues were a or at a very awkward staple of comedy in the 1950’s and 60’s, tea party, monologues are like a little magic they are a bit of a lost art and I’m delighted trick of imagination. It’s a challenge and a to find them again. It’s wonderful to have delight when you get it right.

Plus I get to be a bunch of different people, which I’ve always preferred to being myself!

Can you tell us about the characters that you play?

I play an orchestra conductor who can barely conduct himself (think Bugs Bunny meets Victor Borge); a meandering Minister trying to get through a sermon without getting divorced (think Alan Bennett meets Bob Newhart); and a fellow attending a Modern Art Exhibition against his will (think Tony Hancock meet Gerard Hoffnung). I know I’ve set a high thought standard here, but I’m confident your readers are up to it (think Buy a Ticket to Mono).

What can people expect from the show?

They can expect 90 minutes of pure fun. A lot of theatre can be a bit ‘eat your vegetables’, “Mono” is definitely a dessert show, or perhaps a big box of Jaffas.

What is it like working with two other actors in a show of monologues? Is there any on stage interaction between you?

I’m very It’s very interesting, happy to be because apart from back in Port getting changed into Macquarie, you your next costume can’t beat it for you can actually It’s felt wonderful. sunsets and sand. watch them from the There’s nothing like I’m from Melbourne, wings and watch the it, comedy needs an where beaches are audience laughing, audience, it thrives which gets your for looking at from on that live reaction, competitive juices the wave of laughter a safe distance flowing. I can’t let that crashes over you while you wear a that John Wood be and makes you lift. It’s jumper. funnier than me! Who unbeatable and I’m does he think he is? thrilled to be back on Noeline is funnier than the boards, instead of me, but she’s been funnier than everyone being board because I’ve run out of good for 50 years and she’s a woman, so I shows on Netflix. have an excuse! We do all share the final What advice would you give your sketch of the show, it’s not technically a younger self? monologue, because nobody says anything, Don’t get on the Titanic. (This is a joke, I it’s performed to music, but it is a smasher am not that old. Although I was a cabin boy of an ending, like a little silent movie. So we on the Marie Celeste.) act together, we just don’t speak!

What makes you laugh?

How has it felt getting back into The Marx Brothers. Except Karl, he was performing for a live audience? very dull. Ealing Comedies are my favourites;

“The Lavender Hill Mob”, “The Ladykillers”.

Anything with Peter Sellers really, from “The Goons” to “Being There.” And Victoria Wood.

Have you ever been star struck by anyone you’ve worked with?

Every time I look in the mirror. No, to be honest I’m still a little star struck by Noeline Brown. She was in The Mavis Bramston Show! I’ve got to hold myself back from asking her questions about it especially during a show.

What advice would you give somebody who wanted to be an actor?

If you ever work with Tom Stoppard, don’t say: “I’m presuming this is just a first draft?”

He can run surprisingly quickly for a Pulitzer Prize winner. Mean left hook too.

Describe yourself in five words.

Not guilty. (Subject to appeal.)

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Season 2022

The team at Port Macquarie Performing Arts are gearing up for a big year of dance experiences for their families. We sat down with Principal Stacey Morgan to talk about the exciting events they have planned.

H

i Stacey, you must be with dancers and choreographers working so keen to get into an in Broadway shows. Our dancers will not exciting 2022. only have the chance to dance and perform, Yes, I can’t wait! 2021 they will also join in Q&A’s with associate was challenging and we are choreographers and directors and share an looking forward to sharing unforgettable experience. I love New York and some incredible experiences with our dancers. can’t wait to show my students around my What’s going to be your highlight for favourite city in the world.

2022, what are you looking forward to And in August we are staging our very most? first Dinner Theatre, at the Basement at Port We have so many things planned, I guess Panthers, in Chicago the Musical. This well the most exciting event is a toss up between known show features all the big hits you three... Gala Night of know and love, with show Dance where our ballet stopping choreography and contemporary and big dance numbers.

I have such an dancers will perform Our dancers are now in incredible team alongside dancers rehearsals after an exciting of professional from The Australian audition process and we dancers, qualified Ballet, Australasian cannot wait to see them teachers and Dance Collective and shine on stage in August. choreographers who Queensland Ballet. This These are just my Top 3 have all had is a follow on from our of exciting events we have experience in the Gala Night of Ballet planned for next year. industry. event back in 2019, Sounds amazing, how such a wonderful do you come up with celebration of dance. these opportunities?

These experiences, working alongside The kids must be so lucky to get to professionals are creating magical memories experience all of this at their young ages!

The filter my team and I run our ideas for our dancers that they will remember for a through is basically the question “would we lifetime. have loved this when we were their age?” and Like so many, I cannot wait to get on a if the answer is yes, we try our best to make plane and travel and in 2022 we are taking it happen. I have such an incredible team of some of our senior dancers to New York professional dancers, qualified teachers and City to dance on Broadway and take class

choreographers who have all had experience in the industry. They bring those connections, that networking and that experience into our classrooms every day. We are so lucky to have this calibre of professionals here in Port Macquarie, they truly are the best.

And in addition to these big events, you also have classes for dancers of all ages?

Yes, our 2022 Timetable is out now, so dance families can enrol and plan their year.

We know how important it is for our families to plan their after school activities and daycare days etc, so we make sure we give our families plenty of planning time. Even our Yearly Planner with all of our rehearsal dates has been published so that families can plan holidays and special events for 2022.

So what else can your students expect for 2022?

Well in addition to our big events, we have our Gold Coast Tour, our Eisteddfod competitions, our Summer Dance Intensive and our celebratory 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner, where we will celebrate our 10 years (now 12, it’s been put off a few times because of COVID) in business with special appearances by our Alumni and past students.

Where can we follow you on social media?

On Instagram we are @pmpadancers and on Facebook we are at Port Macquarie Performing Arts. Call the office any time on 02 6583 3753 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Arts F E S T I V A L

MakerSpace Sue English from MakerSpace hopes that 1st January will mark a new beginning for our community; ushering out the strange anti-social world we have been living in, taking our first steps back towards each other.

The Summer Arts Festival provides an opportunity for local Artists to reach out and say very clearly that they are back and open for business!

Sue said “We are also excited to welcome visitors to check out our newly refurbished and renamed ‘Wilderness Activity Centre & Café’, home to the beautiful endangered species murals recently completed by Artist in Residence, Leanne Prussing.”

A

Fabulous Arts Festival line up: The Light Sculpture Parade, Sketchy Cabaret, Matisse Collage, Go with the Flow Abstraction, Art Music and Movement, Creative Soul Collage, Paint & Sip, Kids Paint & Slurp, The SHED Ex. Lantern Sculptures created

by Claude Teyssier and Margrit Richenbach are huge magical creatures floating around the Festival with Circus artists.

Prussingart Sketchy Cabaret is life drawing meets cabaret with out of this world circus artists Shaunah_ aerialist and Kammckinnoncircus performing death defying skills and then posing for life drawing under instruction from our Resident Artists Leanne Prussing and Vivianne Hazenveld. You can participate or just enjoy the performers and the artists drawing them. Food and alcohol served for the evening.

Art Classes include: Prussingart Paint & Sip, Sue English Kids Paint & Slurp, Vivianne Hazenveld Matisse Style Collage, Go with the Flow Abstraction, Expressive Art through 42 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Music and Movement, The Power Of Colour, Creative Soul Collage.

Exhibitions include: The Shed Ex: Vivianne Hazenveld, Lucy Pascale, Fiona Solley, and Leanne Prussing. Endangered Species Mural Exhibition in the Wilderness Activity Centre, Prussingart Portrait Exhibition and much more During the day we have artist's workshops running Prussingart Paint & Sip, Vivian Hazenveld Art for Well-being, Fiona Solly Print Making, Sue English Paint & Slurp for kids.

Saturday 8th January 7pm: Prussingart Sketchy Cabaret is performed in THE SHED surrounded by our SHED Ex Underground Art Exhibition, and the Lantern Sculptures.

You can participate or just enjoy the performers and the artists drawing them. Dinner served at interval by the famous Port's Sacred Pizza included in ticket price $55.

BEST DEAL IN TOWN Saturday 8th January 7pm - book online now: prussingart.com

“The café and Playcentre will open during the whole of January

so pop on down for a coffee and let the kids play as well.”

So come back! We acknowledge that for some, those first steps back into community life can be difficult, even scary. We see you! MakerSpace is an inclusive, supportive and safe community space for all.

Join in the festival fun and talk to us about MakerSpace Membership options and support this valuable service.

S U M M E R

A R T S

F E S T I VA L

2 0 2 2

PRUSSING ART'S EVERY FRIDAY AT MAKERSPACE

Available Light Images

VIVIANNE HAZENVELD Vivianne Hazenveld is an awardwinning artist and tutor who is deeply curious and loves to explore a range of mediums and styles. Alongside Leanne Prussing, Vivianne will be facilitating the extraordinary Sketchy Cabaret.

In a range of workshops held at MakerSpace during the festival, Vivianne will guide you to

In her gentle uplifting way, she helps bring out the individual talent and potential of each student. Classes are kept small for a fun relaxed atmosphere and to ensure you get all the help you need! All are suitable for absolute beginners to more advanced artists wishing to revel in the process and further their skills.

revel in the creative process while finding, nurturing and expressing your own creative style.

For more information on art events and to book, viviannehazenveld.com

A step by step paint and sip class covering: drawing construction, and brush, finger, and secret palette knife techniques. Including an art history talk about the period, genre, and the artist from the Internationally renowned artist in residence Leanne Prussing.

interpretation of popular culture twentieth-century art.

Creating your very own

prussingart.com/classes-list/

All art materials and aprons included in the ticket price $50.

BYO 1pm, Bar service only 6pm Located at The MakerSpace 4 Albert Circuit Port Macquarie

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The DunghuttiNgaku Aboriginal Art Gallery - a Cultural Gem on the Mid North Coast.

The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery (DNAAG) is a small not for profit gallery space which was established in 2008 to showcase artworks by Indigenous artists from the Macleay River valley and the broader Mid North Coast region of NSW. Situated in the Val Melville Centre in South Kempsey Park - the gallery is next door to the museum in the heritage listed building by architect Glenn Murcutt.

There are always beautiful paintings and prints by established and emerging artists on show and for sale, demonstrating a wide range of traditional and contemporary styles.

There is a permanent collection and regular themed exhibitions by both groups and individual artists.

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The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery is always receiving new works and our website (dnaag. com.au) has regular updates about exciting initiatives and coming events.

DNAAG also stocks a wide variety of giftware including scarves, caps, table linen, coffee mugs, and tableware.

We are open 7 days a week from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Entry is free and visitors are always welcome.

Come in and chat with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Seed A T

T H E

I

f you’re looking for a creative outlet for your kids this January, look no further! The girls at The Seed are busy setting up the studio for a creative January and they can’t wait to share it with you.

Tell us more about your unique program?

Painting, sculpting, tie-dying and more. We’re just as excited prepping it all as the students are creating the projects!

Who is the program for? Kids ages 6-12 who are looking to channel their creativity with quality projects and instruction. It’s great for kids who have that creative flair but need the direction and resources to make something worthy of the walls.

What kinds of projects are included? We have 10 themed days so the kids can attend the days that interest them including: Tie-dye day,

Chocolate day, Magic day and more!Each day the kids create 3 main art projects, plus have fun playing games and meeting new friends.

When does it kick off? Our Summer Holiday Program starts Monday 10th January and runs for 2 weeks until 21st January. Kids are welcome to join for one, a few or all days! Our sessions run from 9-3pm daily. 1 day is $70, 3 days for $190 or 5 days for $325.

How can kids book and what do they bring?

Lunch and a drink bottle - we have everything else including aprons and all supplies. You can

Summer m m e r Su Su Sum umm um mm mer me er Monday to Friday 9am-3pm Single Day - $70 ANY 3 Days - $190 (save $20)

10th 21s t Ja n

find the full list of projects, and book on our website at theseedcreativeworkshops.com After the holidays, do you have anything new happening in 2022? We sure do! Our term classes are getting a face lift. We have an incredible lineup of new courses for toddlers, kids, teens and adults! These will run during school term and include painting, pottery, watercolour, flow art (resin and acrylic pour), anime drawing and our mixed media craft club.

All courses will be released in January and can be used with your creative kids voucher!

Art Art Ar rt Classes Clla Cl as sses es term 1 2022

Seedlings 1-4 Buds 8-10

ANY 5 Days - $325 (save $25) Use the Creative Kids Voucher to save $100 on 3+ day bookings

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Sprouts 5-7

Blossoms 11-15+

Textile Art 8+

All Abilities NDIS 18+ & Online Classes!

info@theseedcreativeworkshops.com

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Brian Barker and Rita Carosi are both well-known local artists, and are the force behind the new Bonny Hills Art Prize. They came up with the concept for the event and together with the Bonny Hills Progress Association have brought the idea to life. The inaugural show will be held in January and includes works from 100 local artists.

H

i Brian. Can you tell us a bit of the back story about yourself as an artist?

I have been an artist for most of my adult life. I was apprenticed into the printing industry as a 15-year-old as a Retoucher Dot Etcher, later to become known as a Graphic Reproducer. The process no longer exists and is now known as Graphic Design and is computer generated.

I did a five-year arts degree at East Sydney Art College as the skills in graphic design were by hand, tonal values and colour for the final result in printing and further study in printing at TAFE College. Most of the tradesmen I worked with were artists originally, a few learnt their trade as hand lithographers on stone and metal plates.

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come from?

My favorite medium is watercolour, most of my work is painted in that medium, although I started with oils and acrylics. I love the spontaneous transparency and vibrant effects you can achieve with watercolour.

My inspiration comes from observation of nature and surroundings, plus Rita and I have travelled a lot around the country, painting and photographing. One of our favorites is the Flinders Ranges, but there is great scenery around the Mid North Coast for art. I hold many awards from art exhibitions on the Mid North Coast.

Your wife Rita is also an artist, can you tell us about her work and style of art?

Rita has received a number of awards for her paintings in exhibitions. Rita is known for her miniatures mainly of family scenes on Rainbow Beach but she also paints in oils, acrylics and pastels. We both paint together on our trips

and locally. Rita started painting when we first met, she had not painted before and she studied with an art teacher at Caringbah in Sydney.

You are both very involved with the community here, particularly when it comes to the arts, what are some of the things you get involved with?

We are both life members of the Hastings Valley Fine Art Association and have been involved with them for 20 years, both committee members for 13 years, 12 of which I was president. We organised most of the HVFAA art exhibitions mainly at the Laurieton Services Club, and established a strong relationship with the Glasshouse Regional Gallery and we organised the HFVFAA to have members’ exhibitions which now happen biannually at the Glasshouse. Rita and I have been selected to exhibit in the Northern Exposure at the Glasshouse many times. I was a

The Bonny Hills

member of the Council’s Art Prize is Culture Consultative open to artists on the Steering Committee for Mid North Coast 4 years. from Port Stephens Together you came up Retreat has donated the to Coffs Harbour, and with the concept for venue, local businesses entry closed 6th the Bonny Hills Art Bonny Hills Medical December. 100 artists Prize, can you tell us Centre, GemLife Bonny have entered and we about the idea behind Hills, Ocean Club Resort, will have 300 works the event?

The Mansfield Estate, on display.

We came up with the Hy-Tec, Bonny Hills idea of the Bonny Hills Garden Centre and Art Prize following a Bonny Hills Pharmacy successful design competition for a mural on have provided the prize money for 7 Sections. the back of the new shower block at Rainbow Bridget Purtill, Glasshouse Gallery Curator, has Beach, which was $1000 prize money to the donated her time to be our judge. Bonny Hills winner as part of Council’s public art exposure.

Progress Association members and community The Bonny Hills Progress Association supported volunteers will be setting up and running the the idea of the mural arising from their Back exhibition. to Bonny’s Historic Festival. From that, I Who can enter the Art Prize? approached them about creating an Art Hub The Bonny Hills Art Prize is open to artists at Bonny Hills, as already 14 local artists were on the Mid North Coast from Port Stephens to organising an art exhibition at the Wauchope Coffs Harbour, and entry closed 6th December.

Bonny Hills Surf Club each Easter which raised 100 artists have entered and we will have 300 $5500 over 4 years for the club. We decided works on display. to expand the idea of an Exhibition into what’s There are also things like a piece of art now been achieved, the Bonny Hills Art Prize. being raffled off as a fundraiser, can you Who else has gotten on board with the Art tell us about that?

Prize and how will it be run?

I have donated a watercolour painting as A special committee of the Bonny Hills a fundraiser for a community Defibrillator, Progress Association has been formed and is it is titled Tidal Movements Rainbow Beach, meeting on a regular basis, and has successfully 80cm by 70cm framed. Raffle tickets can be obtained a community startup grant from purchased at most Bonny Hills and Lake Cathie Port Macquarie Hastings Council. The Francis cafés, Bonny Hills Beach Hotel and Bonny Hills

Garden Centre and at the exhibition. It is on display at the Bonny’s Beach Café located in the Surf Club building and will be available at the exhibition. The raffle is to be drawn on 10th January, and is $5 a ticket.

This is its inaugural year, what are your hopes for the Bonny Hills Art Prize moving forward?

Hopefully arising from the success of the inaugural art prize we are planning to have the event annually at the Francis Retreat Hall and be part of a wider Arts Festivals event that will cover Bonny Hills public areas, showcasing a sculpture trail, street art, children’s art competition, photography and live music (all yet to be organised) supported by the council’s public art plan.

The event will take place from 4th-10th January 2022. Where can people find out more about the Bonny Hills Art Prize?

You can find out about the Bonny Hills Art Prize through our Facebook page, Bonny Hills Progress Association website or contact Rita and I on 0418 284 583 or 6586 3236. We will have posters and flyers in cafes and businesses in Port Macquarie, Bonny Hills, North Haven and Laurieton and roadside signage during the exhibition 4th-10th January. The Exhibition opening is by invitation only due to Covid restrictions.

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DINING GUIDE

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Your local Club

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Palate PLEASURES with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

HOLIDAY VIBES

L

ong awaited summer days are finally here – hooray! The holiday vibe is strong, as I write many of us are geared up finally for a trip away from our usual place of residence.

It’s a thrilling prospect, packing suitcases, anticipating reunions with friends and family that have been delayed, cancelled and delayed again for so long…

Planning itineraries, getting on the highway, or even in an aircraft – we’re rusty as can be at all this travel stuff.

Hopefully it will be just like riding a bike, and our holiday modes will just kick in automatically. Once again, we’ll be fancy free, without a care in the world.

Spontaneity will be the buzzword of our vacay – good times, adventures, pool time and, most of all, the kind of memories one can only create whilst in holiday mode will abound and we’ll arrive back home relaxed, refreshed and with a fresh new appreciation of our regular daily routine.

Best case scenario – yes. A healthy dose of pre-holiday optimism aka the grass is always greener is our default state when

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we plan and book a holiday in general. goes a long way and helps businesses get Expectations are high and of course – back on their feet. It’s been a long road to why wouldn’t they be? After all that is get back to doing what we do best in its precisely why we dream about cocktails natural format and we’re gearing up to by the pool on our next holiday whilst we hit our stride and get back in the ‘zone’. navigate a particularly stressful week at We are so very excited and full of joy at work. the prospect of welcoming long awaited We can almost new and returning taste it, and by the guests. Dining out time the suitcases are never felt so good and The holidays of packed and the car is we, just as much as 2021-22 can and loaded the excitement you, become energised and anticipation will be full of by a buzzing, full is almost at fever amazing memories pitch…This sojourn restaurant and vibe of and precious times, is going to be equal celebration. but it might be parts R&R, adventure, Certainly if there’s somewhat prudent sun, sea, sand, to make a suggestion one thing the past delicious morsels and to go somewhat couple of years has pina coladas poolside. gently into this brave taught us, it’s to take Isn’t it? new world. every opportunity to The holidays of enjoy the things we 2021-22 can and will love, whenever we be full of amazing can.

Cheers to that! memories and precious times, but it Wishing you a beautiful and relaxing might be somewhat prudent to make a summer holiday. May it be one with pina suggestion to go somewhat gently into this brave new world.

A bit of patience and a reassuring smile

coladas (or whatever’s your tipple) by the pool in abundance.

TUESDAY - SATURDAY 5.30PM TIL LATE 2/18 CLARENCE STREET, PORT MACQUARIE 02 6584 7228 | billsfishhouse.com.au

GOOD FOOD . GOOD WINE . GOOD TIMES

@billsfishhouse |

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GRAPE ESCAPE

NEWS FROM THE VINES

with ALEX CASSEGRAIN From Cassegrain Wines

R E FR E S H I NG RO S É R E NA I S SA NC E Over the last couple of years, Rosé has been increasing in popularity and is one of the fastest growing light red categories.

T

simple to complex. he typical Australian festivities are during If Rosé wines once a little onethe warmer months dimensional or frivolous, now for Australia, which is they are fun and very refreshing. why a chilled wine and a bright It is something of a renaissance pink hue will definitely bring a for this pretty looking pink wine. refreshing accompaniment to Cassegrain Wines has been your barbecued prawns, light making its Seasons Spring Rosé salads and ice cream desserts this Christmas. since 2014. Our What could be 2021 vintage Rosé is now a better? has already won varied sector Rosé wines three awards, that spans from have a including the the highly delicate reputation for NSW Wine to hardy flavoured, being a semiTrophy for dry to semi sweet, sweet wine, Best Light Red. inexpensive to top but Australian With every shelf, simple to winemakers are vintage, the complex. now producing characteristics some of the of this wine best Rosé wines that are dryer produce a Rosé that varies, with and slightly more savoury: a very summer wine that can also be enjoyed as an aperitif.

the past several years being

Rosé is now a varied sector that spans from the highly delicate to hardy flavoured, dry to semi sweet, inexpensive to top shelf,

showcasing that wonderful spice

made from Sangiovese fruit and characters with a crisp acid finish.

Just the thing for your summer wine cellar.

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the Best Burgers in Town

PORT MACQUARIE

EaTs THE APP Port Macquarie EaTs THE APP Port Macquarie EaTs fans we have got an APP!!!

Welcome to Port Macquarie Eats, the destination for foodies in our local town.

Get ready to experience all that this unique town has to offer with its rich history and vibrant community. As you browse through our APP and Website,

be sure not to miss out on some of the best restaurants in town.

Whether you are looking for fine dining or a quick bite, a great place to have a drink or an amazing place to explore, we have it all right here.

Download our brand new APP now or check out our Website.

You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

BBQ BEEF + BACON GF Chargrilled beef with cheese, caramelised onion, bacon, fried egg, smokey BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato & mayo

Try One Of Our House Specials For That Extreme Taste Sensation Or Check The Menu For Plenty Of Gluten-Free, Vegetarian And Healthy Options Available.

14/6 Clarence Street Port Macquarie

(02) 6584 1403

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i t F RO NT

BAR with

ALISTAIR F L O W E R

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FLOWER HOTELS

I

am glad to have made it through 2021. It hasn’t been easy; vaccinations, a lock down, homeschooling, masks, lock down again, extra restrictions, double vax only in venues, restrictions easing, cases soaring…

And did I mention the floods? I think I’ll leave out the house prices… and the staff shortages… and the lake!

Congratulations to everyone for getting through 2021, especially my staff and everyone who has been on the front line, a huge THANK YOU to you guys! Eight hour shifts on your feet, needing to wear masks and having to let the patrons know what they can or can’t do as part of the latest health order. Everyone should take a bow.

It’s been a year to forget but what will be in store for 2022?

Your guess is as good as mine. Booster shots take us back to memories of 2021 but as cases soar and hospitalisations seem to be much lower, will it be a year of just getting on with it? We can only hope but don’t think it will be that straight forward.

Locally, 2022 will see the new PMHC Councilors hopefully “get on with it” as we welcome what seems to be a completely new team formed to join Mayor Peta Pinson.

I think change will revitalise the council

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and with the new CEO providing clear Playground will also be getting a revamp strategic direction, I think we will see some and we have renos planned for all our other positive traction. I am looking forward to venues. the Rainbow Beach sports fields and the We took over the Long Flat Pub in early Bicentennial walkway December and we look around the water on forward to bringing Town Green. this old girl back to life.

Good luck to 2022 is a federal We look to relaunch everyone in 2022, election year which can the river campground I hope it’s filled with often be a disruption and revitalise the food and the possibility of with a new pizza love, prosperity and a a hung parliament will oven, revised menu, few cheeky margaritas. see some powerful and extended trading PS, no Eddie Obeid independents. times. We’re now the isn’t my father in law, I can’t see the town proud sponsor of half but thanks for your slowing down in of the Hastings League interest.

2022, with tourism footy teams, with the set to maintain the inclusion of the Long rage. There will always Flat Dragons! be an element of fear surrounding future Along with being the Hastings Liquor outbreaks, but local businesses do a great Accord president, I’ve also joined on as Vice job in keeping everyone safe and the support President of the Wauchope Chamber of tourism brings to small businesses is really Commerce and look forward to contributing welcome. to supporting the local businesses and For Flower Hotels in 2022, we will see two promoting the beautiful Hastings Hinterland of our venues get complete overhauls. The region.

Lake Cathie Tavern will launch mid-year and Good luck to everyone in 2022, I hope it’s Hastings Hotel Wauchope by the end of the filled with love, prosperity and a few cheeky year. Both super exciting projects that the margaritas. PS, no Eddie Obeid isn’t my local communities will be proud of. Settlers father in law, but thanks for your interest.

STONE FRUI T Summer means stone fruit season. This year’s fruit has been delicious and quality is superb. Whether you’re on team Peach or love the Nectarines, enjoy the Australian fruit season while it lasts.

We have yellow and white peaches - with that beautiful crunch on the fresh and firm, then turning juicy as they ripen. Nectarines - renowned for yellow being both sweet and tart and white slightly firmed both develop into juicier fruits as they ripen. Both fruits make an excellent snack, or addition to a fruit salad or dessert and will be well enjoyed in the coming summer months.

Don’t forget every Tuesday, we have fresh organic produce, straight off the truck. Plus you can shop online for our premade fruit, veg, combination and special packs that can be delivered to your door.

Christmas was a hit and we wish to thank all of our regular, new and wholesale customers for supporting us. We look forward to a great new year.

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JOEY DABLE THE BOOK OF GIN

A chance stop at a distillery sparked Joey's interest in Australia's growing boutique gin scene. His new book educates us about gin, and features the stories (and recipes!) of 43 award-winning distilleries.

H

ow did the idea come about to showcase Australian gin, makers and distilleries?

On the way home from a weekend in the Hunter Valley, tasting wines and doing a little fine dining, we decided to pop into a small distillery in Allworth called “The Farmer’s Wife”. It was just a stop over for me, as one of my close friends was crazy about gin and I wasn’t ready to let go of our great weekend away.

There we met Kylie Sepos, owner and distiller.

What started off purely as a hobby for her, somehow turned into a shed set up on the family property and taking in gin enthusiasts from around the country to try her gin! I loved it. And I wanted to know more. A few months had passed, a few more occasions to celebrate and our liquor cabinet started to grow. We had some friends over for a couple of drinks of an 58 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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afternoon, poured a few G&T’s and started tonics to mix it with and so forth. Each distillery to discuss our distillery visit, flavour profiles, tells us the story of how they began, their own mixers and garnishing. The list goes on. I began personal experiences, triumphs, and downfalls doing some serious they had to overcome research and quickly to get to where they I began doing realised there wasn’t are, producing some anyone really showcasing some serious of Australia’s awardthese distilleries and just winning gins. We are also research and quickly how unique, diverse lucky enough to get a realised there wasn’t and skilled Australia is sneak peek of their own anyone really at making gin! One hell recommended gin and showcasing these of a story to tell, and I a cheeky cocktail recipe. distilleries and just wanted to be a part of it.

If that’s not enough, we how unique, diverse Please tell us about also explore the use of and skilled Australia ‘The Australian Book gin in food, with thanks is at making gin! of Gin’. to some of our local The book showcases producers and chefs.

43 award-winning Why are you focusing on this particular distilleries from across Australia, their owners type of alcohol and what sets it apart from and makers, as well as some informative pieces the others? about gin, the different styles, botanicals, Australian gin distillers now number more

than 200. We make, right now, the best gins in the world as told by judges, bartenders and consumers across the globe. We have only just scratched the surface of our bounty of indigenous botanicals that can’t be sourced anywhere else in the world – giving us a very unique standpoint.

It is an undoubtedly exciting time. As our gins get better, bartenders are discovering local gins, and more distillers are experimenting with unique ingredients. Fire ants as a key botanical?

Yes please. Davidson plums for a liqueur-style gin? We’re in. Shiraz Gin for anyone? Where do we sign up?

This is the first ever volume of ‘The Australian Book of Gin’. What are your plans for future issues and what has been the response from people so far?

Being such an evolving scene with new distilleries, new technology, flavours, trends and personalities, there will always be something new to talk about. Our goal is to eventually explore more and more distilleries across the country. Further to the book, we plan on undertaking some movements through other

Fire ants as a key botanical?

Yes please. Davidson plums for a liqueurstyle gin? We’re in.

Shiraz Gin for anyone? Where do we sign up?

avenues to showcase these producers such as gin tastings and degustation nights with local providers (watch this space Port Macquarie) and then form it all into a bit of a travelling road show. There is still a lot of education and ground to be broken in the hospitality scene to get these gins to the consumer and eventually I guess, it would be rewarding to walk into any bar in the country and see a selection of Australian gins.

Can you please explain the use of Juniper berries and botanicals?

At its core, gin is a predominantly Juniper berry flavoured neutral spirit. Very simply put, gin is a very special category of flavoured vodka. All gin starts out as high-proof neutral spirit of around 96.1% alcohol by volume (ABV). If this neutral spirit was diluted to 40% ABV, we would call it vodka in Australia. The high-strength neutral spirit is infused with the flavours and mouth feel of various botanical molecules and essential oils, predominantly

those of the juniper berry, Juniperus communis.

What really gets us with the Juniper berry is the complexity of the flavour.

The skin is tannic and dry, the flesh bright and citrusy, and the seed is piney and earthy, creating a unique base flavour.

Beyond having predominantly juniper flavours and aromas, we largely have free rein on what other botanicals can be included in gin in Australia such as lemon myrtle, pepper berry, finger limes, Kakadu plum and strawberry gum to name a few – all of which you can read about in the book.

How do people get in contact with you and get their hands on a copy?

You can pick up a copy of the book online at theaustraliangincollective.com.au or if you would like to know more or just want to have a chat, you can flick us an email at info@theaustraliangincollective.com.au GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Sailor LEE AND SCOTT

If you haven’t been to Hello Sailor the question is why?

We ask Lee and Sco how their first year in business was and what’s up their sleeves for 2022...

H

ey Lee and Scott. Firstly congratulations on hitting the 1 year milestone with Hello Sailor. Take us back to the beginning, where did the idea come from?

A-HOY!! Thanks very much. “The beginning”... Scott and I have always had a passion for organising events and bringing new vibrant and engaging ideas to our community and further afield.

We have been friends for years and worked together on several festivals in Port Mac including Port Macquarie Beer & Cider Festival, Live Lane and The Marina Street Food Markets, which really was the catalyst for Hello Sailor. The space we occupy now sat untouched for a number of years. Scott happened to walk by when the doors were up and had a little light bulb moment. Over several months we discussed ideas, but it wasn’t until December 2019 that we pushed the button on what was to become Hello Sailor.

We wanted to create something that was an extension of us, something that spoke of all the places we’ve been and loved during our travels, and to fill what we saw as a real gap in the market.

There have been a few lows this year for the hospitality industry, but as a business you had so many highs – what have you enjoyed the most about your first year at Hello Sailor?

You’re so right, what a year to start a business and what a year to be in business. But with the lows – like floods, rain and multiple lockdowns 62 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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– there have been some real highs, and none higher than the support Hello Sailor has received from our community (our extended crew).

It has been overwhelming to say the least and we’ve naturally developed a great support network from other local hospitality businesses – to these guys and more we tip our hat, Bill’s Fishhouse and Two Triple Four, Moorebeer Brewing, Coast, Banks and Stick Bar. Having never owned a hospitality venue, these businesses have genuinely been there for us, offering a mountain of advice. Every step has been a learning adventure that we often look back on and laugh about, maybe not so much at the time!

We really can’t believe it’s only been a year considering all the great events that have happened.

Can you introduce us to you epic team?

So obviously Scott and I are the Captains of the ship with myself running the day to day operations. Then we have Mr Toby Barnes (AKA Big Dog) who heads up the Kitchen Crew.

We have Hollie (AKA Momma Bear) who leads the ladies on the floor and Andy (AKA The Hawk) our Leader of the bar and my number two and cocktail collaborator. The whole team, past and present, have really taken ownership of their role and just about every review we get mentions just how good they are!

For those who haven’t had the chance to drop in, tell us a bit about what our readers can expect?

Hello Sailor is all about that laid back waterfront festival vibe that backs on the

beautiful Hasting River, tucked away in the Port Marina. We pride ourselves in doing it a little different. A Street Food inspired Kitchen & Bar with clever, considered cocktails, thoughtful wines, tasty craft brews.

For those that haven’t joined us yet.. What have you been doing?

Can you tell us about the food options you have available, where do the menu ideas come from?

Our menu is brought together under the umbrella of Street Food inspired, a story told from all the places we have travelled and the foods we love. Both Scott and I knew it had to be different, great quality and constantly tasty. We are all about the Po’boy, a traditional sandwich hailing originally from Louisiana, usually consisting of meats and seafoods on French stick style roll, crisp crust with a fluffy centre.

We also have a good range of tapas items, because sharing is caring! Food ideas from all over the world and we’re equally as big on seafood, well it wouldn’t be right to be on the river and not offer top quality local seafood.

Moving into 2022 what ideas do you have, what’s your plan for Hello Sailor?

That would be telling. But rest assured more of the same but better!

How can our readers make a booking or find out more information about Hello Sailor?

Jump onto our socials and website: @HelloSailorPMQ hellosailor2444 hellosailor2444.com.au info@hellosailor2444.com.au

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Great Food. Live Music.

Welcome to Your Local.

- PA S S I O N F L O W E R -

Shaker t

JIMMY'S BAR & LOUNGE

INGREDIENTS

45ml Stolichnaya Red Vodka 15ml Fiorente elderflower 30ml passionfruit pulp 15ml lime juice

METHOD

Fiorente elderflower, Stolichnaya Vodka, passionfruit, lime & lemonade.

Build over small amount of ice in hurricane and stir. Top with ice, then top with lemonade.

OPEN 11AM TIL LATE EVERY DAY 02 6583 4646 97 GORDON ST, PORT MACQUARIE FINNIANS.COM.AU GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Finnians ANDREW CHANDLER

P

lease introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Andrew, I have been the Head Chef at Finnians for close to 18 months now.

My family and I have been in Port Macquarie since 2009, where I have had the opportunity to work in a lot of varied establishments, from Cafes and Wineries to Restaurants and Hotels.

Finnians has been “the local” for so many for such a long time, describe Finnians in one sentence?

Energetic, Fun and never Dull.

Tell us about your menu, what do you find is the most popular dish for customers?

Our summer menu has been focused on producing fresh and lighter food.

We have great suppliers, that make our job easier as chefs by providing outstanding produce to us, whether that be meat, whole fish or our bakery items.

The most popular dish is our Schnitzel, we take a lot of time, and a lot of care goes into making our schnitzels, which we do daily in the kitchen.

Tell us about your role in the kitchen, what does a typical day look like for you?

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The most popular dish is our Schnitzel, we take a lot of time, and a lot of care goes into making our schnitzels, which we do daily in the kitchen.

the kitchen and go over the previous day.

I make sure all deliveries have arrived and are all in order so we can hit the day running when the rest of the staff come in at 10am.

Before lunch service starts at 11.30, everyone is busy prepping for the day ahead.

Lunch finishes at 2pm and by 2.30pm everyone is heading for a break before Dinner service at 5.30pm. At 8.30pm, once service has finished, it’s time for me to check in with the staff, to see how their sections are set for the next day, any ordering they need, and prep lists are done, just to make sure that nothing is forgotten. Out the door most nights by 9pm.

Where did your passion for cooking start, take us back to the beginning of your career?

I knew in high school that I wanted to be a chef. I caught the bug doing work placement, at a tiny pub where I grew up.

I started my apprenticeship in a small hotel just north of Newcastle. From there and once qualified, I worked in small restaurants up and down the coast before deciding to try my hand

in London.

When coming up with a new menu or specials where do you get your inspiration from and what helps in finalising your decision?

Inspiration comes from a variety of places.

Previous menus and staff input is invaluable, what is in season, product availability. Knowing what our customers love and what they don’t will also play a huge part of what dishes eventually make it onto the menu. If a dish looks like it might make it onto the menu, we generally put it on the daily specials board, just to get an insight of to how it might sell.

What is the most fun to create and cook on the current menu, what is a must try for our readers?

All the new dishes we put on the menu are great. They keep all the team engaged, whether it is making the corn and Jalapeno flatbread, or breaking down a whole salmon and curing the fillets.

A must try for readers is the flat iron steak.

Not a hugely recognised cut of meat, but very flavourful.

Flat Iron Steak

GRATIN POTATO PEA PUREE, MUSHROOMS & BACON

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

1 x 250g portion of Flat Iron Steak

You will need to start the Gratin Potato the night before as it will need to set.

For the Gratin

Slice potatoes as thinly as you can. The goal is to have lots of thin layers of potato.

1kg large Desiree potatoes

Line a rectangle slice or cake tin with baking paper.

50ml cream 5g salt

Cover the bottom of the tin with potato, making sure they overlap slightly. Brush with cream. And sprinkle with salt. Repeat this process until all of the potato is gone.

For the Pea Puree

Cover with foil and bake in a 160 oven for 45-60 min.

250g Peas (frozen is perfectly fine)

Remove from the oven, take the foil off and tear off a new piece of baking paper and place on top of the potato. You need to find a similar sized tin as the one you have just cooked the potato, place it on top and then find something heavy to put on top (a brick will do the trick.

50ml cream 50g butter Pinch of salt

The idea is to have a weight press down on the layers of potato as they cool down and set together.

Pinch of white pepper

Once cold, you can cut into what ever size you like.

For the Mushrooms & Bacon

For the pea puree, bring a saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the peas for 2-3 minutes. Drain really well and put back into the same saucepan with the cream, butter and seasoning. Warm through but don’t boil. Blend in a food processor until smooth. Keep warm

50g streaky bacon 100g button mushrooms 50g peas

Season your steak with salt and pepper & cook however you like your steak. However with a cut such as flat iron, medium would be preferable. And remember to let your steak rest after you have cooked it! To allow the muscles to relax and the juices to redisperse back into you piece of meat.

In the same pan as you cooked your steak, sauté the bacon and mushrooms, just until both start to caramelise, toss in the peas, a small knob of butter and some mint.

Warm your gratin in the oven, until golden brown & enjoy your meal.

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GRE AT E

GIG GUIDE

NUARY

RUBYBLUNT

SATURDAY, 1 JANUARY

SATURDAY, 8 JANUARY

FRIDAY, 14 JANUARY

Laurieton Hotel - Jason Ray

Beechwood Café - Open Mic

Club Lake Cathie - Jim Dalton

Port City Bowling Club - Dusty Soul

Brew Haven - Brody Ireland

Club North Haven - Jordan Jive

Tacking Point Tavern - Keanu Jai & Leigh I'Anson

Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Ben Black

Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Leigh I'Anson

Foreshore Markets - Ruby Blunt

Laurieton Hotel - Nikki Rudge

Laurieton Hotel - Gotcha Covered

Port Macquarie Golf Club - Damon Winter

Port City Bowling Club - Soundscape

Wicked Elf Brewery - Jasmine O'Brien

SUNDAY, 2 JANUARY Club North Haven - Brody Ireland Laurieton Hotel - Goody 2 Shoes Royal Hotel Kew - Ruby Blunt Tacking Point Tavern - Brock Colley The Beach House - Subvertigo Wauchope Country Club - Nikki Rudge

WEDNESDAY, 5 JANUARY Botanic Wine Garden - Sahar Muzique

THURSDAY, 6 JANUARY Club North Haven - Jason Ray

FRIDAY, 7 JANUARY Club Lake Cathie - Stevie B Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Bill Roberts Laurieton Hotel - Steve Bennett Port City Bowling Club - Hudson Rose Port Macquarie Golf Club - Damon Winter Wicked Elf Brewery - Sahar Muzique

Tacking Point Tavern - Bill Roberts Wicked Elf Brewery - Pure Acoustic

SUNDAY, 9 JANUARY

SATURDAY, 15 JANUARY Beechwood Café - Open Mic Brew Haven - Jessica Flanagan

Club North Haven - Finn Hoy

Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Cranky Duck

Davis Farm - Open Mic

Laurieton Hotel - Soundscape

Laurieton Hotel - Mat Brooker

Port City Bowling Club - Lighthouse Music

Royal Hotel Kew - Brock Colley

Tacking Point Tavern - Reggie D

Tacking Point Tavern - Andrew Best

Wicked Elf Brewery - Tanisha Palmer

The Beach House - The Coppertones Wauchope Country Club - Pure Acoustic

WEDNESDAY, 12 JANUARY Botanic Wine Garden - Leigh I'Anson

THURSDAY, 13 JANUARY Club North Haven - Leigh I'Anson

SUNDAY, 16 JANUARY Club North Haven - Jessica Flanagan Davis Farm - Open Mic Laurieton Hotel - Besty Royal Hotel Kew - Reggie D & The Bloozers Tacking Point Tavern - Tanisha Palmer The Beach House - Kailey Pallas Wauchope Country Club - Pure Acoustic Botanic Wine Garden - Mike Miller

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FINN HOY

TANISHA PALMER

PAM HATA

SUNDAY, 23 JANUARY Davis Farm - Open Mic

THURSDAY, 20 JANUARY Club North Haven - Mike Miller

FRIDAY, 21 JANUARY Club Lake Cathie - Shane Peters Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Supercell

Laurieton Hotel - Richie Gudgeon Royal Hotel Kew - Dan Southward Tacking Point Tavern - Andrew Best The Beach House - Finn Hoy Wauchope Country Club - Nikki Rudge

WEDNESDAY, 26 JANUARY

Laurieton Hotel - The Barfly’s

Botanic Wine Garden - Brock Colley

Port City Bowling Club - Reggie D & The Bloozers

Laurieton Hotel - Steve Bennett

Port Macquarie Golf Club - Damon Winter Wicked Elf Brewery - Mike Miller

SATURDAY, 22 JANUARY Beechwood Café - Open Mic Brew Haven - Anna V

THURSDAY, 27 JANUARY Club North Haven - PepperJack

FRIDAY, 28 JANUARY Club Lake Cathie - Rockabilly’s

SATURDAY, 29 JANUARY Beechwood Café - Open Mic Brew Haven - Troy White Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Smooth Moves Laurieton Hotel - Matty Devitt Band Port City Bowling Club - Andrew Best Tacking Point Tavern - Brock Colley Wicked Elf Brewery - Finn Hoy

SUNDAY, 30 JANUARY

Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Palomino

Davis Farm - Open Mic

Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Hottest 100

Finnian’s Irish Tavern - Stale Cakes

Laurieton Hotel - Brody Ireland

Laurieton Hotel - Jason Ray

Laurieton Hotel - Mat Brooker

Royal Hotel Kew - Andrew Cousins

Port City Bowling Club - Pam Hata

Port City Bowling Club - Craig Stewart

Tacking Point Tavern - Geoff Jones

Tacking Point Tavern - Finn Hoy

Port Macquarie Golf Club - Damon Winter

The Beach House - Simon Gudgeon

Wicked Elf Brewery - Coppertones Unplugged

Wicked Elf Brewery - Chris Rose

Wauchope Country Club - Nikki & Besty GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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FINN HOY

Finn Hoy is a young musician whose tunes you can soak up at many local venues these days. He started busking at the age of twelve and has grown from there. His relaxed

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surf vibe is so easy to enjoy. We think he is one to watch!

i Finn. Is music something that’s always been part of your life?

I’ve always enjoyed listening to music since I was really little but I never had a connection with the live music industry.

Neither of my parents were involved in the music industry so it didn’t kick off for me until year 5 at school, when I was 11 years old.

When did you first start singing and playing guitar?

When I was in year 5 at school every kid got given a note to take home asking if they were interested in learning an instrument.

I got home and spoke to Dad about it, he said he wished he learnt guitar when he was young because it’s such a cool thing to be able to do around the campfire with your friends. The end goal was to just have a cool hobby that I can use by myself or with a

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couple of mates. playing about 4 songs on repeat while people Do you have any formal training or are were walking past. I was never very confident you self taught? and hated the thought of people I knew I was doing the school-based lessons and walking past, so I would only stay down for I started progressing about 45 minutes each more and more so I left time, although in those the school classes and 45 minutes I would I got home and got private lessons with make nearly $100 every spoke to Dad Andrew Best. He was time! about it, he said he great, he would help me Can you tell us wished he learnt guitar find songs that would about your journey when he was young suit my voice and style from busking on the because it’s such a cool and he was always able streets to getting thing to be able to do to teach me anything professional gigs all around the campfire I wanted to learn. As I over Port? with your friends. was going into town on I was busking every the weekends I started few weeks for about a seeing people busking year and then I pretty outside Port Central. I decided this would give much gave it up. I stopped the lessons and me more experience, I was still only about I didn’t touch my guitar because I was just 12 and I started going down on Saturdays, too busy with other hobbies and didn’t

have the motivation to keep playing for over a year. Until one week I got invited to an open mic night and Dad suggested I get back on the guitar and give it a go. So in 1 week I got together 5 songs to play at this open mic night down at Kew Hotel. I was so nervous you could hear me shaking while I was singing my first song. From that night, performing in front of a live audience, I got the passion back and was keen to keep playing and progressing to then eventually get enough songs to play gigs at pubs like some older guys I knew. One of them being Jackson James, another local artist from Port. I got to know him really well and started working with him to learn more of the technical side of guitar and also some vocal skills to help me improve. Once I was good enough, he let me come along to his gigs and play inbetween his sets. I would get up and play a few songs in his breaks to have practice in front of a crowd and get my name The cruisy out there a bit. It took a few years but finally I Saturday, had progressed enough Sunday a ernoon and built up a song bank scene matches me big enough to only just perfectly for some make a 3 hour gig. At this easy listening point we had just met the acoustic guitar events manager at The and vocals.

Beach House and she had on the gigs list, and agreed to give me my that’s brought us first ever 3 hour gig. As to the same time 1 this was booked in for March 2020, Covid-19 year later where I’m playing pub gigs every hit and everything got shut down. My first weekend and am pretty much fully booked gig had to get cancelled and I wasn’t sure from November till February. how I would go getting back in anywhere What’s your musical style like and where after Covid settled down. This was a really does a lot of your inspiration come from? hard time for all musicians. With no venues All the music I play has been inspired by open there were no gigs to be played. Lots the surf music idols like Jack Johnson and of people were struggling at this time, just Pete Murray and in the later generation Ziggy hoping things would open up again so when Alberts, Jack Botts and Ed Sheeran. I find it’s they finally did, it was chaos trying to get the most fun genre of music for all my local gigs anywhere, let alone being a 15-year-old venues like The Beach House, Chop ‘n Chill, boy who has never played a proper gig. The Tacking Point Tavern etc. The cruisy Saturday, Beach House was kind enough to give me a Sunday afternoon scene matches me perfectly spot on Melbourne Cup Day, 2020. The gig for some easy listening acoustic guitar and went great, so from there I kept progressing vocals. I’m working on a whole other setlist to and approaching more venues trying to get

be played on electric guitar with a few friends in a band for the later gigs like Finnian’s on a Saturday night. This song list is inspired by all the Indie Rock bands like Sticky Fingers, Ocean Alley, Mako Road and many more.

What are some of your goals with your music heading into the future?

Over the Christmas holidays I’m looking forward to playing as many gigs as I can while also working on some original music to be released next year.

Where can people have a listen or find out about upcoming gigs?

All information on upcoming gigs and any other updates about my music can be found on my Instagram @finn_hoy or on my Facebook page @Finn Hoy Music.

Thanks Finn.

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PANTHERS GUIDE TO

E NTE R TA INME NT KALLIDAD FREE SHOW

THE TAPP THUR 6 JAN

NEVER ENDING 80’S BATTLE OF THE DECADES 80S V 90S SAT 15 JAN

BLISS N ESO FRI 4 FEB

JIMEOIN WED 12 JAN

RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS

FLEETWOOD MAC FRI 21 JAN

THE KINGS VOICE GORDON HENDRICKS SUN 20 FEB

TICKETS AVAIL ABLE AT PORTMACQUARIE.PANTHERS.COM.AU OR AT CLUB RECEPTION USE YOUR NSW DISCOVER VOUCHER TO PURCHASE YOUR SHOW TICKET FROM CLUB RECEPTION

Entertainment subject to change

1 BAY STREET, PORT MACQUARIE NSW 2444 | 1300 PANTHERS

panthersportmacquarie@panthers.com.au 78 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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JIMEOIN If you’re ready for a good laugh this summer, Jimeoin is coming to Port Macquarie on 12th January! We caught up with him ahead of his latest tour, here is what he had to say.

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i Jimeoin. You’re about to start a tour of Australia and the UK, it must be nice to be hitting the road and touring again. How long has it been since you were able to tour overseas?

Yes I’ve actually been overseas for the last two months. I’ve been in the UK, I did 36 shows in 6 weeks. That was the first tour I’ve been able to do in a long time, it was nice to get back to the UK, it was autumn, I had a good time. I’m looking forward to getting back out touring here in Australia too.

You’ve been doing this comedy thing for a while now, how do you still manage to come up with new material?

I’m almost always writing new material, between shows. You have to just continually try things out, see what works. I get bored of doing the same material over and over again, so I’m always looking for new ideas in the everyday. Sometimes things work and sometimes they don’t! I don’t write much when I’m on a tour though, you need to stay in the rhythm of the current act. It’s a bit like learning a dance; if you’ve got all the moves in your mind and then you have to learn a new dance, you forget the first routine!

Stand up comedy must be pretty tough sometimes, and we’ve only ever seen

you getting a good laugh out of the Can you tell us a bit about what life crowd, but have you ever done a show on the road is like for you when you’re that didn’t go down well or that felt visiting lots of very different areas? really awkward?

The east coast of Australia is always a lot Yes! I did a corporate show just the other of fun for me, it will be summertime and night that was pretty awkward. They were all people seem to be in holiday mode and it’s standing and it wasn’t really set up well for easy to have a bit of fun. Then after Australia people to relax and have a I’ll be going back laugh. You’re only as good to the UK, it will as your next gig really... be winter there so You’ve performed at it tends to be quite It’s a bit like some huge comedy solitary. Which I learning a festivals, you’ve don’t mind really dance; if you’ve got worked on TV, and either! You just get all the moves in your then obviously done really into your act mind and then you tours like this. What and what you’re have to learn a new kind of gigs do you working on. dance, you forget the prefer; big crowds or a What can people first routine! more intimate solo tour expect from this show? tour?

I like earning money A good laugh again after having a year really! That’s the and a half off! That’s really the key isn’t it? ultimate thing. I don’t really make strong No, I like to do as much as possible, keep opinions on anything, I just talk about my the variety going as much as I can. I think own shortcomings really, my own frailties if you did nothing but really big shows and and then hopefully people can associate then you had to perform in a little pub you’d with that and see the humour in our own find it really hard. So doing them all is the humanity. way to go! I do enjoy the big rooms though, Where can people find out more info or it’s easier to get 500 people laughing than get tickets to Jimeoin Live? it is to get 30 people laughing. Laughter Go to jimeoin.com for info, tour dates and generates laughter. It’s infectious. tickets.

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D O O F G N I N N I W D R A W A Y O R J A B EN D L O B U L C AT

T S A O C H T R O N R A F – R E B N U N I L C W L L L A A N M S – REGIO R E N N I W E D I W E STAT 1 BEDFORD STREET, OLD BAR wwww.cluboldbar.com.au 80 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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GLEN FERN Experience the ultimate over 50s lifestyle living at Glenfern, Thrumster

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esigned to elevate the over 55s living experience Glenfern offers state-of-the-art amenities and quality homes.

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Relaxing is easy with a day spa, cinema, and a café at your fingertips.

There are six new home designs to choose from each boasting quality fittings. Feel at home in a spacious master bedroom featuring large built-in robes and ensuite bathroom. Enjoy open plan living and a large private deck – perfect for entertaining.

With many benefits of Land Lease Living, now is the time to explore your future at Glenfern.

New homes from $535,000 visit our sales office at 1/23-41 Short Street, Port Macquarie to find out more. www.hometownaustralia.com.au

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Jim Bignell Jim Bignell has been an active member of the community in Port Macquarie since he and his family moved here nearly thirty years ago.

He is a passionate sailor and Commodore of the Port Macquarie Yacht Club and is heavily involved with Sailability here in Port.

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i Jim. Can you tell us about your connection to Port Macquarie and how long you’ve called it home?

We’ve been here on the North Shore for approximately 27 years. Our family moved from Grafton to Port Macquarie in 1994 when my wife got a transfer to Port Macquarie in her role as a school principal.

In our earlier days we would pass through Port Macquarie attending the Easter Sailing Regatta on the Hastings River. This was our initial introduction to Port Macquarie.

You live on the North Shore and have a strong connection to the water, have you always loved the ocean and boating?

Yes, I have. In my early working days I was invited along by a famous Sydney sailor Dick Hammond, to join the crew on his boat out of the Middle Harbour Yacht Club, and from that my passion for sailing has grown stronger.

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Clarence River Sailing Club and sailed in High inundation and the volume of water that School Regattas. From there the whole family spread out in such a short period of time. We came along and developed a real passion ourselves had a metre of water through our for sailing. That was bottom level. Many on during our Grafton the North Shore were days with the Clarence worse off than us.

Our two eldest River Sailing Club.

Everyone pulled sons were Sailing allows you to together to help each members of the develop a specific set other in meeting Clarence River Sailing of skills in self reliance, immediate needs with Club and sailed in resilience, confidence delivering, buying and High School Rega as. and friendships. sharing food, with From there the whole You were one of washing clothes and in family came along the many locals that the following clean up and developed a real were hit hard by which was massive. The passion for sailing. the recent floods, Council, SES and RFS what was it like were outstanding in their for you seeing the assistance to help restore community coming together in the services and access. We were very grateful to recovery from the floods? all those who assisted and supported us at a This shared experience certainly helped to very difficult time. strengthen the strong bond of community When did you first learn to sail? And spirit that exists on the North Shore. what do you love about it?

Everyone was caught out with the My passion for sailing grew with the

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opportunities that Port Macquarie offered.

I joined the Port Macquarie Yacht Club in 1996.

I honed my skills and strengthened my passion for sailing when I crewed with Peter Rigby and Larry Pullen. Sailing on Royal Sovereign I experienced the importance of team building and developed strong relationships. There is nothing like sailing in a full moon with the rays of the moon forming a silver highway across the water or coming face to face with the many challenges that weather, sea and craft can present.

Can you tell us about The Commodore’s the Port Macquarie job is to oversee Yacht Club? the operations and The Port Macquarie process out during the functions of the club.

Yacht Club was last year. The PMYC Having such a good and established in 1982 has also strengthened competent Committee from the then-existing its social life – the makes the job easy and Catamaran Club. The recent presentation PMYC is affiliated with enjoyable. night was a very Australian Sailing. enjoyable evening and The majority of boats post-race barbeques are keel boats. The Club sails all year round, have been well attended and lots of fun. It’s a alternating between river and ocean racing, great community to be a part of. giving the opportunity to experience the full You’re the Commodore of the Port gamut of sailing.

Macquarie Yacht Club, for those of us Currently there are 75 members. We have that don’t know can you tell us about 10 female members who sail on a regular that role? basis. We are always on the lookout for new I have been the Commodore of the club boats and new members. The Yacht Club for three years following in the footsteps would welcome any new off-shore boats of of excellent past Commodores such as Category 4 status for off-shore sailing and Peter Finnigan and Richard Symonds. The Category 7 for river sailing into the fleet and Commodore’s job is to oversee the operations into their sailing schedule. and functions of the club. Having such a PMYC Membership gives you the good and competent Committee makes the opportunity to sail in other affiliated yacht job easy and enjoyable. clubs. Australian Sailing has developed a Sail You have also been involved with Pass for those wishing to try their hand at Sailability for many years, can you tell us crewing on a yacht as a trial. That’s accessible a bit about it and how you came to be through the Port Macquarie Yacht Club involved there? website www.pmyc.com.au Sailability is an amazing and uplifting We have had 15-20 people trying this

program that provides a safe sailing experience for those with any form of disability. Port Macquarie West Rotary Club developed Sailability in Port Macquarie.

Since its inception here, the PMYC has been heavily involved and deeply supportive of Sailability with many PMYC members using their sailing skills to provide sailing experiences for the elderly, the disabled and various community groups.

This has been a worthwhile partnership that has provided a great deal of community building and pleasure for both the providers and the participants.

What would you say to anyone thinking of giving sailing a try?

The PMYC has a very diverse group of members and encourages anyone to get out there and give it a go. It can be a very satisfying and fulfilling pastime.

The club is looking at pursuing avenues like the She Sails program to encourage female sailors to get involved. We are a very inclusive group, we have members of all ages and welcome anyone to get in touch and give it a go!

Thanks Jim. GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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FOOD | FASHION HOMEWARES | HEALTH BEAUTY | HOME

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84 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Dental Team?

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ince 2006, Dr Peter Elfar and the caring team at Sundial Dental have been providing general dentistry to families in the Hastings and Manning, using the latest technology to push the boundaries of modern dentistry and change the way patients experience dentistry.

While Dr Elfar’s list of achievements is long, one of his greatest accomplishments has been assembling a like-minded team working closely together to provide oral health services across four communities while upholding patient care to the highest standard.

We interview Dr Peter Elfar to find out more about his unique approach to dentistry.

What inspired you to be the principal dentist of a multi-practitioner dental practice?

Initially when I purchased the practice from Dr Vispi Davar, there were two locations and multiple practitioners and so it was in the DNA of the practice from the beginning.

By developing the practice and adding services and technologies, such as Hygiene appointments, 3D Xray technology, CEREC, Invisalign and LANAP, patient satisfaction improved and so did the job satisfaction of the dentists. Happy patients = happy dentists.

The use of the advanced diagnostic technology such as 3D Xrays allowed us to diagnose and design better dental solutions.

Using state of the art technology to improve patient experience and outcomes allowed us to attract some of the brightest minds in the industry.

How did you come to be a dental mentor?

In 2009, we hired our first new graduate dentist, Dr Simon Deall. Truthfully, I had no intention of hiring a new graduate but his resume seemed to be everywhere, at the office, 88 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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at my home and eventually I took it as an omen and reached out and rang him.

My time working with Dr Simon provided me with a great introduction to mentoring. Over the next three years we spent time together (or across the hall from each other) refining the skills he learned in dental school and I discovered that teaching something you know is a really good way of learning things on a deeper level.

Since then how have you developed into the multi disciplinary practice with four locations?

To be honest the growth was organic. Likeminded clinicians were attracted to working with our team and that seemed to be a selffulfilling loop.

We started out with practices in Port Macquarie and Wauchope. It was by accident that we started our third practice in Taree and in the same month Dr Huxley Pohlman approached us about his retirement from his practice in Laurieton. We went from two to four practices in just a few months.

It was a stressful year, but we emerged with a dynamic team of dentists working across four successful practices. Now we couldn’t even imagine working without a weekly trip to the Taree and Laurieton communities to catch up with our patients and our team.

Also working as a team means we can all study and practice our areas of special interest.

Dr Karin Welsh has studied and treats patients for sleep apnoea and the airway and I have a passion for dental implants, LANAP and advanced restorative cases that require the use of multi-disciplinary techniques.

What would you consider the most important aspects of creating a dental team?

Shared values are the basis of a great team

and a strong work ethic, along with a growth mindset.

Dentistry has changed a lot and stagnation is not an option. We must all keep learning, developing and training with new treatments and technology to provide the best results.

After 16 years we have developed a team that considers embracing new technology and working across our four locations part of our culture.

We all enjoy being a part of these communities we work in and have built long term relationships with our clients. Each community is unique and each patient brings to the practice their own different experiences and needs.

What would you say to anyone who is considering a career in dentistry?

Dentistry is a beautiful mix of being artistic (you have to be good with your hands), medical (because providing quality health care is key), and practical (because everything you make needs to be functional). Most of all you need to be able to communicate and enjoy working with people. As a Dentist, you have the benefit of feeling you are doing something useful, changing people’s smiles and self-confidence and creating long lasting relationships.

If you are genuine and enjoy your job, patients pick up on this and it improves both the patient experience and your job satisfaction. It’s a great career choice if you are passionate about patient care and want to give back to your community.

Thank you Dr Peter Elfar. If we wanted to learn more about the team at Sundial Dental where would we turn to?

The website is a good place to start, but why not consider stopping by our Port Macquarie or Wauchope practices to say hello? Or ring us on 6583 3533 or 6585 2015. sundialdental.com.au

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We are Port Macquarie’s only Doctor led medical grade cosmetics clinic

At Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic (PMAC) our ethos is “Everyday people.

Extraordinary results” - something our experienced team strives for every time a patient walks into our clinic At PMAC we believe that aesthetic anti-ageing work should be subtle and supportive of the At Port natural Medical Aesthetics Clinic patients face.

(PMAC) our ethos is “Everyday people.

Extraordinary results” - something ourthe We specialise in skin rejuvenation,reversing experienced team strives for every time a signs of sun damage and understated injectables. patient walks into our clinic

All of our cosmetic work is performed by At PMAC we believe that aesthetic anti-ageing work should and in supportive thehave Doctors.

For be thesubtle first time 18 monthsofwe patients natural face. opened our books to new patients!

We specialise in skin rejuvenation,reversing the signs of sun damage and understated injectables.

All of our cosmetic work is performed by Doctors. For the first time in 18 months we have opened our books to new patients!

LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST IN 2022 LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST IN 2022

Treatments Medical Grade Skin Treatments

ic tattooing involves inserting safe colour pigments into the dermis layer of the skin to give facial areas more definition but still looking natural.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

MEDICAL Permanent Fat Dissolving Injections AESTHETICS CLINIC

Whether you suffer from acne or acne scarring, are unhappy with pigmentation, or are dealing with redness or irritated skin, our treatments will ensure you walk out of the clinic looking and feeling revitalised. Clear complexions are our specialty.

Conscious ofand your double chin but couldn’t imagine the thought Dermal Lip Fillers of plasticloss surgery?

Consider ourof permanent, non-surgical Volume is a natural part the ageing process.

Der-fat mal fillers replace areas of lost volume in key areas such as dissolving treatment. A substance is injected into the subcutacheeks, jaw, under eyes and lips. At PMAC we specialise in natural volume replacement, slowing neous layer of the tissues where the fatand cellsreversing reside. the aging

Depending on your areas of concern, we use a variety of treatments and techniques to combat wrinkles, acne, scarring, dryness and redness. Our professional team will design a specialised treatment plan based on your overall skin goals and objectives.

This substance then destroys the cell membrane with the immune system then clearing away the fat debris. The benefit of Cosmetic Tattooing fat dissolving injections theyup areevery considered non-invasive Would you love the ideaisofthat waking morning with your makeup already done? Then cosmetic tattooing might be the and the slow gradual destruction and removal of the fat cells treatment for you. Also known as ‘micropigmentation’, cosmetic tattooing involves inserting colour in pigments the allows the skin to retract slowlysafe resulting less riskinto of loose dermis layer of the skin to give facial areas more definition but skin.looking Severalnatural. treatments may be required depending on the still area being treated.

Our Treatments

Anti Wrinkle Treatments

process without enhancement.

Medical Grade Skin Treatments

Permanent Fat Dissolving Injections

Wrinkles and fine lines are a natural part of the ageing process.

Sometimes these lines leave an appearance of looking tired, cranky or even sad (even when we are none of those things).

Depending on your areas of concern, we use a variety of Our anti-wrinkle injections are a fast, non-invasive and effective treatments and techniques to combat wrinkles, acne, scarring, professional team willacross designvara way todryness reduceand andredness. prevent Our wrinkles from appearing specialised treatment plan based on your overall skin goals and ious areas of the face. The aim of good anti-wrinkle injections is objectives. a natural, smoother appearance. At Port Macquarie Aesthetic Anti Wrinkle Treatments Clinic, we don’t believe in the frozen face look. Our patients Wrinkles and fine lines are a natural part of the ageing process. receive personalized injectable by theiroftreating Sometimes these lines leave anplans appearance lookingdoctor. tired,

Conscious of your double chin but couldn’t imagine the thought of plastic surgery? Consider our permanent, non-surgical fat dissolving treatment. A substance is injected into the subcutaneous layer of the tissues where the fat cells reside.

Whether you suffer from acne or acne scarring, are unhappy with pigmentation, or are dealing with redness or irritated skin, our treatments will ensure you walk out of the clinic looking and feeling revitalised. Clear complexions are our specialty.

cranky or even sad (even when we are none of those things).

Our anti-wrinkle injections are a fast, non-invasive and effective way to reduce and prevent wrinkles from appearing across various areas of the face. The aim of good anti-wrinkle injections is a natural, smoother appearance. At Port Macquarie Aesthetic Clinic, we don’t believe in the frozen face look. Our patients receive personalized injectable plans by their treating doctor.

Tattoo removal

PMAC performs medical grade laser removal of unwanted tattoos in any body area.

Tattoo removal PMAC performs medical grade laser removal of unwanted tattoos in any body area.

IPL

This substance then destroys the cell membrane with the imOur trained dermal therapists perform a variety of IPL to mune system then clearing away the fat debris. The benefit of fat dissolving injections that they considered non-invasive reduce redness, vascularis lesions andarepigmentation.

IPL has and the slow gradual destruction and removal of the fat cells minimal downtime and is safe for all skin types. allows the skin to retract slowly resulting in less risk of loose skin. Several treatments may be required depending on the area being treated.

IPL threads PDO Our trained dermal therapists perform a variety of IPL to reduce redness, vascular lesions and pigmentation. IPL has minimal downtime and is safe for all skin types.

PDO threads are a method of tightening and thickening skin.

They are a smooth thread made from polydioxanone and are inserted under the skin, resulting in collagen creation. They are PDO threads minimally invasive.

PDO threads are a method of tightening and thickening skin.

They are a smooth thread made from polydioxanone and are inserted under the skin, resulting in collagen creation. They are minimally invasive.

5/12 Highfields Cct, Port Macquarie | 0421 253 025 | portmedicalaestheticsclinic@gmail.com 5/12 Highfields Cct, Port Macquarie | 0421 253 025 | portmedicalaestheticsclinic@gmail.com

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Chantelle Cemal has an incredible story to tell. A Port Macquarie local, a passionate beauty therapist for over a decade and now an accredited organic skincare formulator and business owner.

e e Cemal BARE + ROSE SKINCARE

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i Chantelle.

Congratulations on your business. What led you to the creation of Bare + Rose skincare?

Being a beauty therapist for many years taught me so many positive things. It also made me be curious and question many things about the industry.

This curiosity and questioning led me to look deeper into the things we use on our face and body every day. Did we really know what was inside each product? Where did these ingredients come from? How has it been manufactured? I wondered why weren’t these facts common knowledge that brands were sharing with their customers – just like I want to know exactly what I’m eating when having a meal, I wanted to know exactly what I was using on my skin too. These questions were the foundation that started the journey to create Bare + Rose skincare.

What differentiates the brand from other skincare lines on the market?

I’d have to say “purity” and “transparency”.

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organic, unrefined and pure versions of and omegas. All ages and all skin types will themselves. I avoid using any synthetic or see and feel an improvement in their skin’s man-made ingredients and focus on sourcing appearance from using this facial oil. How is the highest quality Australian ingredients that possible many wonder? Well, just like a so you can experience their full potential. healthy diet will benefit people of all ages this Transparency in the facial oil will work like sense that how things a healthy diet for your are made and where skin cells, delivering All ages and ingredients are grown them brightening all skin types and harvested is openly vitamin C, calming and will see and feel an talked about and repairing omega 3 and improvement in available to see. This energising coenzyme their skin’s knowledge is not only Q10. appearance from shared but celebrated I feel the term using this facial too. ‘organic’ gets oil.

Your core product splashed around at present is the beauty products on ‘Golden Face Nectar,’ the market. Can you a nourishing face oil explain the difference to revitalise and nourish the skin. Tell us between terms ‘organic’ and ‘natural’ in a little about its ingredients and benefits cosmetics? for all skin types.

This is definitely a confusing thing to This product has been my first release and navigate as a consumer. There are many terms a definite favourite! The Golden Face Nectar in the world of cosmetics that can be very is a powerhouse of nourishment for your deceiving. The fact is the word “natural” can skin cells. It’s loaded with vitamins, minerals be put on almost anything and regulations

vary from country to country, but Australia and New Zealand are two of the most un-regulated countries in the world when it comes to cosmetics. The term “organic” on the other hand has more meaning behind it and needs to meet some higher standards. It refers to how the ingredient has been prepared, grown free of pesticides or chemicals and then harvested in the same manner.

What does “Bare + Rose” mean? And what do you hope to achieve with your brand?

My passion is to not only create beautiful products but to also break down the barriers or expectations we have attached to the word “beauty”. In the years I worked as a beauty therapist, I would meet many different people from all walks of life.

One thing most of us ROSE” is a name had in common was that has been in some kind of insecurity, my family for even from the youngest generations so it’s most perfect looking there to represent person I would hear YOU and I as her share something ingredients formulated individuals, she didn’t like about to create real products connecting this issue herself. This really broke so we can celebrate and of Bare natural beauty my heart in a way enjoy our real selves. with us as people. because I realised we Beautifully said! You waste so much of our are soon to be taking energy in life striving the online platform to for perfection, even if we think someone else a physical store in a space along Gordon has it, here they are with the same struggles Street. What new things do you hope this that we have. I wondered if we never opened shop front will bring? a magazine, never watched a movie or never Yes, this is scheduled to happen in the scrolled social media would our idea of beauty early months of next year, 2022. This exciting be different to what it is now? new chapter will hopefully allow people to So the very meaning in this brand is touch, smell and experience some locally connected to the word “BARE”. What do you formulated skincare products first hand. think of when you hear the word Bare? …

Beauty treatments will be available to book words like vulnerable, uncovered or exposed as well. This space will be a hub of wellness come to my mind. And that’s exactly the kind and holistic beauty, all thanks to a dear friend of beauty we need to celebrate, real Bare Natalie Deeks that will be creating “The beauty. “ROSE” is a name that has been in my Wellness Collective – Health + Beauty” so family for generations so it’s there to represent keep your eyes out for some big things to YOU and I as individuals, connecting this issue come!

Away from the business, where would we of Bare natural beauty with us as people. Real

catch you spending your down time?

That’s an easy one, we live in the beautiful coastal town of Port Macquarie so of course anywhere outside, near the ocean. I’ve moved away and gone overseas many times but I always find myself coming home to Port Macquarie. I definitely think we can forget how fortunate we are living here and it’s healthy to regularly step away from work and the stresses of life to enjoy the simple things.

For people wanting to connect with you or purchase products, how can they best get in touch?

Both social media platforms are always active and open for questions if you’d like to follow the “Bareandrose” Instagram page or “Bare + Rose” Facebook page. You can find much more information at www.bareandrose. com as well and where you can find the latest products available too in the online store.

Thank you Chantelle. Interview: Sarah Baker.

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G L A M O U R P O O C H E S

Natalie Neumann has been grooming animals for many years with her own grooming business Glamour Pooches, she loves her job and is passionate about her furry friends. Life threw her a curve ball recently when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, so she found herself unable to groom and facing a tough period of treatment and recovery.

NATALIE N EU M A N N

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i Natalie. You have been a dog groomer for many years, how did you get into it and what do you love about it?

Well my daughter is 30 now and I started grooming before she was born. I was one of the first ones to have a Hydrobath in Port Macquarie. I showed Collie Roughs (Lassie dogs) with my cousins and loved the grooming aspect of it so I started to focus on that. I also became a fully qualified vet nurse and showed western bred horses for so many years, so I guess animals are my life. I’ve clipped everything from horses, to a 94 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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goat once, to cats and dogs. I love clipping and grooming all my furry friends. My whole working life has pretty much been in the animal industry and grooming is my thing.

You have had to take a break from grooming due to your health, can you tell us about that?

In November 2020 I had a mammogram and they discovered a mass. I was sent to Dr Sanjay at Chris O'Brien LifeHouse and had the tumour removed with a nipple sparing mastectomy. The surgeon told me it is a process and I just have to walk it and it was very scary, strange, lonely and just complete numbness sometimes. My three children and

their partners have been absolutely amazing and of course my four grandchildren that are the light of my life. I had to put my grooming business on hold which was just so hard, because you worry about your work when you have put so much into those dogs and puppies.

As a busy woman with a business and a family, it’s easy to put off taking measures to take care of yourself. What advice would you like to get out there to busy working mums about taking the time out to look after themselves?

As women (and men) we have so many people in our lives and commitments and we put ourselves on the back burner. I did.

I had a sore armpit from April and didn’t go and see about it until November, turns out that armpit was a different injury, but praise God it led them to find what they found in my breast and I am still here with my kids and grandkids. My message is to get checked for anything that’s not normal! Lucky for me my GP Dr Prem Kumer sent me straight for a mammogram and we caught it in time, so thankful. Don’t put things off...

What was it like for you to step away

It’s hard when you have an idea and don’t know how to get it up and running, but you just keep pushing and doors will open, some close, but just keep going and pursuing your dream, it will happen

from the business you had built and loved?

Stepping away from my business at the time was very difficult, especially when you have bills to pay and I don’t have a partner, so money was tight and I had never done Centrelink, so it was a whole new world for me. I have had wonderful people in my life who have helped just when I needed it... but yeah life was great and then you get thrown for a loop, it was very hard. It has been nearly 12 months recovery now, three surgeries later. One more to go in January (final reconstruction) and hopefully that’s it.

Whilst recovering from breast cancer and being unable to groom you decided to focus on other areas, and so Glamour Pooches Dog Shampoo was born! Tell us all about it and why you decided to develop these products?

While recovering I went on a discovery about being all natural and thinking hard about what we put into our bodies and on them. Then I started thinking ‘what if I can’t groom again?’ as I had lymph glands removed from my right arm and you can get lymphedema, which I did get a little. That’s when I thought of the shampoo and what we put on our dogs and our hands. I researched and talked to a lot of different companies and

found this one that’s all natural and better still actually has an amazing result and is fantastic to groom with as clippers just glide right through.

I loved it so much I put Glamour Pooches name to it. I started washing all my friends’ and family’s dogs and getting their reports. It's amazing. Clients have purchased it now and all love it. I was sold out of the first shipment in 3 days! More is available again now though.

What has the process been like of getting these from an idea to a finished product?

It’s hard when you have an idea and don’t know how to get it up and running, but you just keep pushing and doors will open, some close, but just keep going and pursuing your dream, it will happen. Believe in yourself and trust your gut.

What sort of feedback have you had so far?

The feedback has been fantastic. The shampoo cleans beautifully and the mitts are wonderful. It’s a deep clean and not overly powerful smell, it just leaves you with fresh clean smelling dogs.

You have been donating a percentage of profit to the Breast Cancer Foundation,

can you tell us about that decision and how it has felt to get involved with the foundation?

Five dollars from every pack goes to the Breast Cancer Foundation for research, as it grows I plan on donating to other areas that have been a part of my journey. I was thrown into a world I knew nothing about with my tumour in my breast. From the research side of things and the work that they do to the mental toll it takes on you and your body, there are so many services and fantastic people that care and do amazing work, and I want to raise awareness and money to help people that are put into a situation like me.

I’m lucky and have been completely cured by surgery, so now if I can contribute to the cause and help others to have a good result as well, why wouldn’t I! What’s next for yourself and for Glamour Pooches?

Glamour Pooches is my love, making animals glamorous is my thing. I’m grooming again and getting stronger all the time. One step at a time. One day I want a new Salon with a whole side of products, but one step at a time. I’ll get there... Never give up on your dreams and take your health seriously and you can start again.

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INTEREST FREE PAY M E N T S F R O M

$36/WEEK

Designed for little smiles, Invisalign First clear aligners provide a predictable comfortable way to straighten your growing child’s teeth. Even with baby teeth, treatment aligns teeth while expanding arches making room for existing teeth and incoming permanent teeth.

Visit the experienced team at Port Macquarie Orthodontics for your child’s free orthodontic assessment.

SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS

143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8425 info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au 96 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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HBWN COLUMN

Back Row: (L-R) Nicole Liddle, Gerry Buckland, Kelly King, Jill Bell, Deb Saunders, Kayley Riddle Front Row: (L-R) Jen Edmunds, Vanessa Lawrence

RELAUNCH YOUR SOCIAL LIFE WITH HBWN

T

he Hastings Business Women’s Network (HBWN) is a group of ‘busy’ women who are committed to the Hastings community. They love getting involved in local initiatives and connecting with like-minded women.

With a focus on encouraging, educating and empowering women, HBWN events are an excellent way to reconnect both socially and professionally in 2022.

We know that a couple of years of working from home, limited socialising and lots of lockdowns means we’re all in need of some fun social connection.

Whether you’re self-employed, work for a SME or large organisation, you’re on a hiatus or even retired, HBWN is a great way to connect.

Keep your 2022 calendar free on the last Thursday of every month! And join us on 28 January for some fantastic networking as we launch our calendar of events for the first half of 2022. Come along and catch up with old 98 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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friends or make some new ones. involved as much or as little as you like to suit Looking for more community your busy schedule and still make a difference. involvement?

Want to be more involved?

Your membership and attendance at Through COVID we have continued to offer our events make a great events, connection significant difference and involvement in our to a number of local community. Now that Whether you’re charities.

2022 is here, we’re feeling self-employed, By kickstarting your positive and revitalised work for a SME or 2022 social calendar to build on last year large organisation; with HBWN you will and make this year even you’re on a hiatus or be supporting local better. And, we want your even retired, HBWN students pursuing ideas! is a great way to their higher education We currently have connect. goals through our committee positions Hastings Education available and throughout Fund sponsorship, the year there will be and directly assisting opportunities to join our women and children in crisis as part of the sub-committees. If you love your community many fundraising initiatives held for Liberty and you’d love an opportunity to connect Domestic and Family Violence Specialist with like-minded women, get in touch and Services. let us know you want to be involved. You can Being part of the HBWN enables you to contact HBWN President Kelly King at support your local community. You can be president@hbwn.com.au

from The Elders Lifestyle Group!

As the new year starts David Gray (CEO and Director of the Elders Lifestyle Group) and the entire team would like to extend a warm thank you to the Port Macquarie / Hastings Community for all their generous support throughout 2021.

We love where we live! and love to support local so if you are looking join the long list of happy and satisfied Lifestyle Group clients, we invite you to contact us today!

Whether you are looking to buy, sell or rent one of our well respected and trusted local agents have got you covered.

We are extremely proud of our wonderful and professional team of real estate experts and with offices spanning from the Mid North Coast up to the Northern Rivers providing you our much-loved community with a fresh approach to real estate up along the coast!

With the increased demand for homes and the strongest local property market we’ve seen in many years, now is the time to request an appraisal and find out just how much your property is worth.

This is a great time to use the hot property market and potentially cash in on some of the equity to help you invest further and grow your wealth!

62 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 PHONE 02 6584 1199 | elderslifestylegroup.com.au PORT MACQUARIE | WAUCHOPE | LAKE CATHIE | NORTH HAVEN LAURIETON | CRESCENT HEAD | SOUTH WEST ROCKS | KEMPSEY EVANS HEAD | CASINO | LISMORE

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Celebrating THE CLASS OF 2021

St Joseph’s Regional College | pmreglism.catholic.edu.au Two hundred and thirty-three HSC students across MacKillop College and St Joseph’s Regional College will receive their ATAR scores on January 20 and HSC marks on January 24, 2022. Year 12 students in our community have really had a challenging and ever-changing environment to deal with over their final two years of school education. The COVID pandemic has built remarkable resilience in our students. This cohort has been tested repeatedly, switching between online learning, face-to-face learning, and uncertainty on exam formats and dates.

Joseph Lewis Well-deserved winner of of the Year 2021.

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Phoebe Bentley

Tim Kobelke

NSWCCC 17+ Swimming Age Champion 2021, record-breaker & CCCNSW Blue Award Winner

The very talented Year 12 student performs one of his HSC Music pieces.

Your achievements have been exceptional

MacKillop College | pmaclism.catholic.edu.au Everyone has shown tremendous commitment to their learning and studies. Thankfully, they have had so much fantastic support from their parents, families, and school staff. Congratulations!

“Congratulations students on completing your schooling with a strong sense of purpose and the skills to navigate a path for the future.” - Stephen Pares (St Agnes’ Parish Education)

Ella Page

Jared Humphries

Cian Murtagh

Textiles work depicting the life of Henryka Shaw selected for TexStyle Exhibition.

Selected to represent NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Open Men’s Cricket Team.

Industrial Technology Major Work, Rose Gum Timber Display Cabinet

Image: Destination NSW RTO 90003 | CRICOS 00591E | HEP PRV12049

Learn something new. Share it with the world.

Enrol at TAFE NSW. At TAFE NSW, we’re excited about the future. Whether you want to care for our elders or help shape young minds, TAFE NSW has a course to help you realise your goals. Taught by industry-expert teachers, our nationally recognised courses will give you the hands-on skills you need to launch a successful career.

Semester 1, 2022 courses are now open for enrolment but they are filling fast, so don’t miss out.

tafensw.edu.au 131 601

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+ + + + + + +

Aged Care Community Services Fitness & Massage Therapy Early Childhood Education & Care Hospitality Travel & Tourism Tertiary Preparation (HSC equivalent)

JUMPSTART YOUR CAREER IN HOSPITALITY AT TAFE NSW

Local Port Macquarie residents can upskill to take advantage of the booming hospitality and tourism industry, thanks to a range of courses on offer at TAFE NSW.

H

ead of Tourism and as part of the NSW Government-funded Experience Services, Cheryl Summer Skills program.

Ballinger, said with a 76% "Over two days, students learn how to jump in hospitality job extract espresso and texture milk according vacancies, now is the time for to beverage type, serve a variety of students espresso beverages, to take their skills to the hygiene procedures, next level. and transferrable Students can "Students can study skills such as how to study a variety a variety of travel and multi-task and time of travel and hospitality courses management," said Ms hospitality courses from a Certificate III in Ballinger.

Hospitality, Travel or "The fee-free* from a Certificate III Commercial Cookery to course offers the in Hospitality, Travel a Diploma in Hospitality first step to launch a or Commercial locally at TAFE NSW new career, opening Cookery to a Diploma Port Macquarie to opportunities to in Hospitality. launch the next step of explore a range of job their career," said Ms roles in a growing and Ballinger. fast-paced industry."

For school leavers looking to boost their To find out more about studying employability and gain new skills, TAFE NSW Hospitality or Tourism courses at TAFE NSW, Port Macquarie is also offering a fee-free* call 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au Statement of Attainment in Espresso Coffee *Eligibility criteria apply GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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focus_contributor.

BUSINESS

VOICE with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

PRESIDENT PORT MACQUARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P

ort Macquarie Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce our new President Alex Glen-Holmes. After a four year stint at the helm, Michael Mowle has stepped down and Alex was elected as the new President by the Executive following the 2021 AGM. Alex has been a Chamber Board member for the past 10 years. During this time she has held the roles of Vice President and Treasurer. Alex has a wide range of business experience with a background in Hospitality and Medical prior to going into Real Estate 15 years ago.

During the past four years she has ventured out on her own as a contractor to an RTO Unique Training Providers, providing Real Estate Licensing training as well as her own boutique Real Estate Agency Holmes 4 U. Alex has also been in business with her husband Tim for the past 33 years with Port Macquarie Tilt Tray Towing.

A strong advocate for community and bringing people together, Alex, supported

by Janette Hyde, has worked in conjunction with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council for the past eight years to bring the annual Countdown to Christmas celebrations to the community and also New Year’s Eve

Fireworks. She has been involved for many years with the Business Awards and other events. Community is very important, so Alex has also served on various other boards in the past including President of Telegraph Point Community Association (2 years), Willing and Able (6 years) as well as for sporting groups and preschools.

Alex looks forward to working with the Chamber Board to provide a service to the Business Community to ensure that their voices and needs are heard at all levels of government. To work towards this, Chamber will be conducting a Planning & Strategy Session on 26th February to determine the vision for 2022 and beyond.

Chamber members are encouraged to bring forward any issues, policy matters or concerns by calling Alex on 0414 772 771 or Mark Wilson, EO at the Chamber office on 65.

A hot topic in recent times has been housing affordability, land supply and infrastructure for our growing region. NSW Planning Minister, Rob Stokes, has recently announced that newly-elected councils will have clear performance benchmarks to meet in delivering planning decisions under reforms released today to create jobs, boost housing supply and attract investment.

Minister Stokes said councils would be required to adhere to clear maximum timeframes for assessments and determinations. “The NSW Government sets its own strict benchmarks for assessing rezonings and development applications to ensure timeliness and certainty, and we are now asking councils to do the same,” Mr Stokes said.

A new planning Order and a new discussion paper released recently include the following reforms: • Consistent timelines for planning decisions across the planning system; • Powers for the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces to intervene where councils are not upholding their responsibilities; • Proposed improvements to the rezoning process to support prompt decision-making, more informed community consultation, and risk-based approaches to assessments, timeframes and fees; and • A new planning guarantee requires councils to make timely decisions or face having to refund planning application fees.

This is welcome news for our local housing and construction industry who have been advocating for more zoned land and infrastructure to be provided in the short term to support our growing region.

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PHOTOCOPIER

SERVICE AGREEMENTS

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

I

f your office has a copier, chances are you have a maintenance agreement of some kind, however not all maintenance agreements are created equal.

Service contracts are designed to be hassle free to allow you to focus on your business, however it’s so important to read and understand the fine print to ensure your agreement works best for your business. Typically included in your service contract should be toners, drums, parts

and maintenance. Typically, not included are products like paper and staples as well as network issues. Important aspects to understand are the base charges, or minimum volumes, where a supplier can charge a flat fee or where you agree to a minimum volume to pay per month, even if you haven’t used this amount. In this case, if you decide to leave, you are contracted to pay out not only the device cost but the unused volume also.

Understanding your per print costs is also vital including A3 costs per page. Ensure you know

if you will be charged a different rate for A3 printing so you can print accordingly. Increases are another contract feature to look out for.

Copy costs do generally go up over time because maintaining aging devices increases, however you need to ensure you are aware of how much it will go up by over the life of your contract.

If you would like to learn more about your current contract or find out the best contract for your business needs, contact Dayne at FXBC Mid North Coast.

Dayne prides himself on his integrity and offers an honest approach with reliable communication. Plus, he enjoys meeting people and is first and foremost a people person.

Dayne is not surprisingly known to receive numerous referrals from satisfied customers.

So for expert advice, stress free, contact Dayne on 0400 702 866 or dayne@fxbc.com.au

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A NEW CAREER DOESN’T MEAN STARTING FROM SCRATCH After studying at TAFE and cycling through various jobs, Elizabeth was yet to find the right fit for her – a career where she would look forward to going to work each day.

W

ith the help of a career aptitude test, she decided to leverage her love of the outdoors and study surveying. Elizabeth has just completed her Bachelor of Surveying (Honours) at the University of Newcastle – a top 200 University in the world*.

“One of the main reasons why I chose the University of Newcastle was that I could obtain credit within the degree for some of the subjects I had already studied at TAFE,” Elizabeth said.

TAFE Guaranteed Entry is just one of the many pathway options available to help people get into Uni. If you don’t have an ATAR, are seeking a career change, or are contemplating study for the first time, you don’t need to start from scratch – the University of Newcastle considers all kinds of prior learning including industry certificates and life experience to help you gain entry or credit.

The University also has a range of new diploma programs on offer, so whether you’re interested in environmental science, business, IT, education or arts and social science, these are another great pathway into a number of degrees.

The University’s NUPrep program also makes starting uni a breeze. It offers free academic support that will help you start your studies with confidence.

The industry connections and valuable practical experience the University offers has also enabled Elizabeth to further enhance her skills and network, preparing her for a graduate surveyor position she is due to start at the end of this year.

Like Elizabeth, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling lifelong career with greater employment prospects and higher salaries. *2022 QS World University Rankings Visit the University of Newcastle’s website

newcastle.edu.au/undergrad and find a program that suits you.

Elizabeth Evans Drawn to Newcastle for its relaxed coastal atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Elizabeth decided that the University of Newcastle was the place to make her dream of studying a Bachelor of Surveying a reality.

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PeopleEngine

EMPOWERS YOUR EMPLOYEES TO D R I V E P E R F O R M A N C E A N D P R O F I T. Have you ever noticed that businesses with engaged and healthy teams seem to have happy and loyal customers? FOCUS speaks with Port Macquarie local Kayley Riddle on the popular and effective ‘Science of Wellbeing’ program.

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i Kayley. People Engine has become a powerful support for local businesses in Port Macquarie. Tell us a little about the services you provide to leaders and businesses to help them become more successful?

Thank you for the opportunity to speak about something so close to my heart. I think, in general, our local businesses know that their people are their greatest strength and that retaining good people and making good recruitment decisions is critical. The work we do with leaders and owners puts plans and coaching in place and supports them in achieving great outcomes in this area.

As an HR professional yourself, what are some of the most common mistakes you believe businesses make in their first 1-2 years in operation?

Wow, great question. It is important to know when a business is in startup phase that getting the foundations in place for a great culture with people sharing values and common goals is critical. We need to be courageous and thorough, making good decisions to employ people who genuinely want to be part of this

early stage. It takes resilience and adaptability.

It’s exciting, but it’s hard work.

People Engine will be offering their ‘Science of Wellbeing’ program in 2022 for business and community members. Can you outline the framework of this one for us and who will most benefit from this opportunity?

This program has been so popular in 2021! I am so very passionate about helping others to improve wellbeing – and this program is simple and effective. We work through physical, mental, social and emotional strategies that really make a difference. The sessions are really accessible, via Zoom links, with interactive conversations, practical activities and meaningful learning.

I love that it’s affordable for everyone and in just 4 short sessions we implement improvements that make a big difference.

It’s just so rewarding to share time with people who feel healthier and work more effectively after completing the program.

Why is our wellbeing so important in our workplace and how can business leaders take the initiative to ensure that the wellbeing of their employees is paramount to their business?

Wellbeing is more critical than ever before as businesses who have healthy staff are seeing huge advantages over their competitors.

Not only are they retaining their people for longer, but attendance at work is higher. In addition, research definitely shows us that those who have higher levels of wellbeing are more social, more productive, more creative, have more energy and overall feel happier in their jobs. Employers also notice less sick days, unproductive conflict, errors and many other benefits.

Apart from being personally passionate about wellness, I just love seeing employers gain so much from having their teams attend this program. It shows that they are valued and everyone wins!

For people wanting to find out more about you Kayley, or to engage with People Engine, how can they best reach you?

Anyone can call me directly on 0409 145 898, via Facebook or kayley@peopleengine.com.au This is a national (and soon to be international!) program that we offer, so make sure you let us know that you are a Port Macquarie/Hastings business or resident so I can offer you a local discount!

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Illuminate with KATE WOOD-FOYE

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

The Burger Rebellion burst onto the scene six years ago, completely changing the restaurant game serving up a radically delicious wave of gourmet burgers in a world filled with fine dining and fancy eats.

Founders Matt and Bec Conway have led this family business from the front, creating a hugely successful eatery built on hard work, guts, collaboration, creativity and fun. As they pass the baton on the beloved business that will continue to thrive under the TBR crew, they reflect on what they have built and the happiness they have served up as a side dish to the 687,600 burgers sent across.

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hat was the inspiration behind its creation?

We have both travelled extensively and took note of a lot of cool little places to eat. Port Macquarie, at the time, didn’t have a gourmet burger restaurant and we saw a window of opportunity. Our concept started off as an “I wish Port had a great burger restaurant.” Then, the idea kept

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MATT & BEC evolving into theme ideas and menu items and then into what we could call our own.

Why was it so important to cut through the trend and bring something fresh to the market?

Matt’s background in chefing over the years has been a lot of fine dining experience. We really wanted to marry some ideas together.

High quality product, gourmet flavours, quality service in a relaxed, funky atmosphere.

Our idea right from the start has always been to support local businesses and produce wherever we could. In doing this it meant we also ticked off another prerequisite for our business in providing the freshest and highest quality local ingredients.

Matt & Bec – you have gathered an amazing crew of staff across the years that helped bring The Burger Rebellion to life. How important has the early creation and retention of this tight team been in the success of the business?

Hospitality generally attracts a younger transient team. We have been lucky enough to retain several of our original crew. They have been an integral part of keeping our business running and we will miss them dearly. We have employed many staff and

a number of apprentices whom we have brought up through the ranks. We have loved working with a fun, reliable team! We had the approach of, treat them how you would like to be treated, and it has served us well.

People don’t work for companies, they work for people. So building relationships and supporting them is essential.

Matt, you are a man of many hats starting your career as a chef at Sails Resort then becoming a qualified electrician and now a teacher. How has this flexibility, focus and agility helped you in your business and leadership journey?

To be honest, the diversity in my career has helped immeasurably. Chefs are extremely organised and can work well under pressure, whereas electricians are methodical and are great problem solvers. Along with the ever-abundant willingness to learn, I have been very fortunate to adopt the skills required to undertake the challenges of business. During the six years, we have had to think quickly and be ready for whatever is thrown at us. We have come up against drought, fires, floods and then Covid, and having agility in small business is paramount.

You need to try things left of centre and take a few risks. It’s important to be across current trends in the industry although you don’t always need to follow them.

A strong community support network built over time through our local marketing engagement, has been overwhelming and humbling.

Matt, you have a healthy appetite for risk – what drives you to push the boundaries in business?

I have always loved to push the boundaries a little and the same goes in business. You need to try things left of centre and take a few risks. It’s important to be across current trends in the industry although you don’t always need to follow them. Like all new ventures, self-doubt can be very real.

But I have always had faith in myself and Bec’s ability to work hard and get things done. Beginning something from scratch, completely out of your comfort zone is really experiencing the challenges of life.

The Burger Rebellion has been a family affair – how have you both juggled the challenges of working together, running a family and a successful business?

It’s been interesting, ha-ha! Both Bec and I work very differently. Bec is all backend organisation, administration, tech,

bookkeeping and of course kids (Evie, Oscar and George). While I was all concept, creation, operations, HR and systems. We have both poured a lot of time and energy into our little shop and we are immensely proud of what we have created. We could not have done it without

each other.

Connecting communities has been a key part of the TBR journey – can you share some of the key projects you are most proud of?

The most fun and our favourite project would be our celebrity chef takeovers during the first Covid period. We were lucky enough to work with our fellow hospitality people including Whalebone Wharf, Seed Catering, Drury Lane, Lindsay from Fusion 7, and Bill’s Fishhouse/ Two Triple Four. Getting those chefs to sling burgers, have a drink and a laugh, made that period great fun to come to work. Also watching them get pumped doing 300 plus a night was SO good!

Another outstanding project was supporting the Lemonade Crew. Matty and Bianca Adkins’ resilience to fight against Matty’s diagnosis of MND inspired us enormously.

They are true legends and we loved helping them fundraise, to create awareness for MND and support their family.

What is the hardest lesson you have learned in business?

Easily the hardest lesson in business is that the curve balls will keep on coming, you just have to get better at hitting them back. It’s never smooth sailing and there is always something that needs your attention. Learning how to not let that affect other aspects of your life is key. I think the separation of the two was a long lesson learned.

Team culture is vital to any company’s success particularly in hospitality where your team become like a family. What is the key to building a cohesive and dynamic team?

FUN and lots of it!!! The best thing about hospitality is the fun you can have while working. To work with a great crew, and pull together whilst getting pumped, is what it’s all about. Working in hospitality is hard on you mentally and physically. It builds character, and your crew really are the face of your business. So, get in there with them and lead from the front.

Now you are at the end of the TBR journey – what is your favourite memory?

I think my favourite memory is our community contribution. We love the Port Macquarie community and have enjoyed supporting the sporting teams, the community and helping out the other hospitality businesses when things got tough.

And... our Christmas parties were pretty epic!

What are you most excited about for the next chapter of your journey?

We are both looking forward to the next chapter, spending more time with the kids and just generally slowing down the pace of life for a while. Only for a little while...

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LEGAL LIGHT with ALAN PRIEST FROM PRIEST LEGAL

O N YA B I K E

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id you know that last year about 1,750,000 new bicycles were sold in Australia? Double the number of new motor vehicles sold in the same period. Clearly, we can expect a lot more cyclists on our road systems. Unfortunately, the road systems are notoriously poorly equipped to accommodate cyclists. In the Port Macquarie-Hastings area, many local roads were designed solely for the benefit of car drivers.

Whilst the late US President John F Kennedy is reported to have stated that “Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride” he was spared the riding conditions we experience in our local streets.

So, it is helpful to remind ourselves of the road rules which specifically apply to cyclists in NSW. A bicycle is considered a vehicle and has the same road rules as other vehicles but there are also special road rules that only apply to bicycle riders. Check out the Bicycle Rider Handbook at nsw.gov.au/sites/default/ files/2021-05/bicycle-riders-handbook.pdf Bicycle riders have some special rights and responsibilities.

Rights of bicycle riders include the following: • Do not need to give a left or stop signal, or signal when making a hook turn • May ride two abreast but not more than 1.5 metres apart • May overtake two other bicycle riders who are riding side-by-side • May ride to the left of a continuous white edge line • May overtake on the left of stopped and 112 GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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slow moving vehicles.

Although the sale of 1,750,000 bicycles is Responsibilities of bicycle riders include clearly good for the economy, the CEO at the following: Euro Exim Bank Ltd is reported to have said • Must not ride a bicycle at night or in the following: hazardous weather conditions unless the bike “A cyclist is a disaster for a country’s displays a flashing or steady white light from economy. He does not buy a car and does not the front, and a flashing or steady red light take a car loan. Does not buy car insurance. from the rear. The bike also requires a red Does not buy fuel. Does not send his car reflector which is visible from the rear for servicing and repairs. Does not use paid • When in the left lane of a multi-lane parking. Does not become obese. roundabout and “Yes – and he stays wanting to turn right, well, damn it!! bicycle riders must give “Healthy people Whilst obeying way to any vehicle are not needed for the law is leaving the roundabout an economy. They do mandatory for all • Must not ride your not buy drugs. They road users, it doesn’t bike when using a do not go to hospitals protect a cyclist pedestrian crossing and doctors. They add • Must not carry a from damage caused nothing to a country’s passenger who is not by an inattentive car GDP. On the contrary, wearing a securely driver or poor road every new McDonalds fitted and fastened conditions. outlet creates at least 30 helmet jobs: 10 cardiologists, • Must keep to the 10 dentists, 10 weightleft of any oncoming loss experts apart from people working in bicycle rider or pedestrian on a footpath, McDonalds outlets. shared path or separated path “Choose wisely: A cycle or a McDonalds?

• Where there is a marked bicycle lane in Worth thinking about. their direction, bicycle riders must use the “Walking is even worse. Those people do lane – unless it is impracticable to do so not even buy a bicycle.”

Whilst obeying the law is mandatory for all So, get on ya bike, find some safe places to road users, it doesn’t protect a cyclist from ride like the Googik track, get healthy, don’t damage caused by an inattentive car driver worry about the economy and have a great or poor road conditions. So, whatever a summer holiday. cyclist’s rights are, cyclists should always ride With best wishes from me and the team at defensively because you don’t have much Priest Legal for a healthy and robust year in protection in the event of a collision.

2022! Priest Legal will reopen from 9 am on Notwithstanding the risks, cycling is great for your health and mental well-being.

10 January 2022

G R E AT E R P O RT M AC Q UA R I E

PROPERTY GUIDE

HOTONDO HOMES

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HOTONDO HOMES

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ho are Hotondo Homes?

Andrew and Fiona Petterson are brother and sister who grew up in Crescent Head on the Mid North Coast. Their parents were always building and renovating homes during their childhood, so the building process and how to build a quality home was instilled into them from an early age. Their partners Julianne and Dean both work in the business too, and all work together to build new dream homes for families on the Mid North Coast, from Forster up to Coffs Harbour.

With over 15 years’ experience in the building industry, originally starting out as private home builders and constructing Ranbuild Sheds, they set up their own franchise of Hotondo Homes 6 years ago. Since then they have increased the business, from working out of a small office space to owning two display homes and a colour

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The building process is very easy when you know you have a team of reliable and trustworthy suppliers and contractors to help you achieve a quality finish!

selections centre.

Their attention to detail and customer service has made the experience for their clients a stress-free process. You will also be dealing directly with the family builders who put pride in their workmanship to efficiently deliver a quality home for clients on the Mid North Coast.

Can you introduce us to the Hotondo Homes team?

Andrew is our builder, his sister Fiona looks after all our ordering, while Kathleen is our accounts lady. All our marketing is under the creative eye of Julianne, Zach is the friendly face who you will find in our office. Our sales team is made up of Dean and Steve, with our colour consultant Trish and Belinda who will look after all your contract and paperwork. Last but not least is our maintenance man Shane. We are so grateful to have such an awesome team who are

their for our clients every step of the way What is the process when a client approaches you about a build?

We take the time to discuss floorplans, aspects, lifestyle requirements, long term goals, choice of blocks, environmental aspects to build a home, placement on the block to maximise usage and resale values, the process and tips for dealing with council, finance and government regulations, anything they are unsure of. We can offer them over 120 flexible floorplans to select from and suit the land they are interested in. We then help them decide which is best for their needs and then give them a quote. We keep clients involved in the planning and construction of their home, offering many onsite visits during the construction stage where the client can view their home and ask questions about the build process. Everyone has their role

to assist our clients feel comfortable with the process and make it easy for them to enjoy the building process.

Talk us through the design of your brand new display home?

The Icelyn 243 is a market leading design and offers many innovative, environmental, energy and water saving products throughout the home. With a strong focus on sustainability we have achieved an 8.6 NatHER rating. We made extensive design choices to improve energy efficiency and incorporated ecofriendly products and finishes throughout the home. The team were motivated to be able to demonstrate to clients how they can make

more environmentally-conscious and affordable choices for their home.

The floorplan has been designed by Fiona and is now incorporated into the National list of floorplans by Hotondo Homes. It has been designed to suit a corner block with the direction of the sun a big part of the overall layout. The interior has been designed by us all and all products purchased for the home come from local businesses.

What are some of the key features?

When you approach the home, there is a sign out the front to educate clients on energy and water saving products used in the home. You are then led up either a path or driveway made from our permeable grass and stones, which both work together to reduce concrete around homes and allow for better drainage. You then look up to a unique façade in which we have used blackbutt timber over other hardwoods because it is naturally termite resistant, and fire resistant. As you then enter the home via a large keyless entry door into the living and kitchen area with a beautiful timber look laminex wall of cupboards to hide away all your storage needs. The main bedroom is at the back with a modern ensuite, which has its own private garden area. The internal brick wall on the north side of the home naturally

heats up the home and works together with the polished concrete floor throughout the main areas. This allows it to absorb the sun which heats the floor throughout the day and returns the heat to the room during the evening. The other bedrooms and media room are located on the south side and have naturally harvested Cork Flooring. Laminex Recycled Denim Fibre is used on benchtops in the kitchen. Laminex Tinted Terrazzo Recycled Paper benchtops are used on the study desk. Recycled timber is attached to the stone benchtop in the kitchen. The alfresco is positioned on the North side which has an opening Pergola roof which allows sunlight in and can be closed for rainy days. The outdoor area has a sustainable vegie garden, native bee hive and chook house. The pool shell is a recycled water tank. Reclaimed recycled wood has been used for the seats around the firepit. All these elements work together to save clients $$$ on their energy.

Our display home located on 2 York St, Sovereign Hills display village in Thrumster, is open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm.

Phone Dean on 0414 681 879 Design Studio and Colour Selection Office, located at 79 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Phone us on 02 6583 1034 www.hotondohomes.com.au or visit our Instagram and Facebook pages.

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KITCHENS TAILORED TO YOUR TASTE A kitchen isn’t just a kitchen. It’s a centrepiece, a sentimental and personal addition to your home’s interior.

Your kitchen is what makes your house a home and at Timbertown Kitchens and Glass we strive to tailor your kitchen to your taste and desire. Creating the environment that helps bring happiness and joy to all that enter it and entertain within it.

Adding quality and value to your home. When building or

renovating, a well designed high quality kitchen can provide a great return on investment for your home. With the many uses of the kitchen, it is imperative to design a kitchen that is both practical and appealing.

For potential buyers the kitchen is always of great interest. A beautifully designed kitchen is a great investment for your home, since many home owners improve their chances of selling with a superior kitchen.

LOOKING FOR FLOORING OPTIONS? Port Macquarie Floorworld has a flooring product to suit your needs, whether it be contemporary or traditional, for a home or a commercial complex.

At Port Floorworld we offer a wide range of timber, carpets, laminate, hybrid, vinyl and floating cork flooring.

In each of these categories, there is a wide variety of styles, patterns, textures, designs and

colour, ranging from traditional to modern. Let Steve, Lexie and Janine help you select the perfect style to suit your home with their years of flooring experience behind them. Servicing Port Macquarie and the surrounding areas, our highly qualified and experienced installers can make the job easy for you, or give you the right advise for that supply only D.I.Y job for the handy man.

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YOU DON’T NEED THE BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT. UNLESS YOU NEED THE BEST RESULT. It’s true, anyone can “sell” a home in a hot market. But when selling, there are countless variables that affect your result.

There is no set price for a home. So, the agent you choose and their approach will have a huge impact on the price and overall success of your move.

Attuned to the market of today, but always with an eye on the future, Sarah’s drive to secure the best result and her hands on approach, will ensure every campaign runs smoothly and successfully. Together with HEM’s innovative marketing and extensive buyer database, Sarah will get more people through your door and negotiate the best sale price, to ultimately achieve the best outcome for you and your future.

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Sarah WRIGHT In the competitive world of real estate, Sarah Wright has done it all. From learning her trade in the competitive Sydney market, to running her own successful office and now as an established part of HEM, she has earnt a reputation for incredible record-breaking sales and above all her personal, sincere approach.

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e catch up with Sarah to find out what’s been going on in this ever evolving fast paced property market and what makes her unique approach work for clients.

Firstly, how long have you been working in Real Estate?

I first started in an admin role at a conveyancing firm in Sydney, before making the switch to Real Estate. Seeing the agents racing in to the conveyancing office with a signed contract, ready to exchange was exactly the style of job I wanted. The fast pace and sometimes roller coaster ride that is selling property really appealed to me. Ever since then, I have always worked in real estate. In Sydney, I was lucky enough to learn from incredible operators and gained a wealth of knowledge.

Coming home to Port Macquarie was the best choice after 10 years of city living. My home will always be Port Macquarie and I watch my son Jacob thrive in our amazing community.

Why do you love real estate?

Loving real estate comes really easily. As no two homes or clients are the same, it keeps you on your toes and constantly having to evolve to do the best job. I honestly don’t know what I would do without this industry, it feels really natural. I thrive on the adrenaline that is selling property, taking calculated risks (believe me, you want an agent who is prepared to do this, rather than always taking the safest bet/ cheapest sale price on your behalf!), solving people’s needs and helping them move from one chapter to the next comfortably and stress

Giving the best advice as to how to prepare free is really rewarding.

Almost 3 years with HEM now. How has a home, including furniture placement and the journey been? styling (which I love!), but also arranging things Working every day in a successful office, with from gardening to fixing small jobs, is what a sales team who all have unique approaches helps some clients more than anything. I can and skill sets helps in my easily recognise factors growth. Without having that a buyer might ‘pick to run the day-to-day The fast pace on’, solve the problem running of company, and provide a smoother and sometimes I am focusing purely more efficient ride to the roller coaster ride on helping sellers and Sold sticker. Depending that is selling buyers. This gives me a on the property/client’s property really lot of time to dedicate situation, I have even appealed to me. Ever to each client and offer project managed up to since then, I have a high level of service to a $100,000 spend to always worked in both sellers and buyers. prepare a home for sale, real estate.

I truly feel I can throw in order to maximise myself in 100% and do! their return. So, no In this booming pressure to get it right! market, how are you able to get your The result was a profit of more than double the clients the cutting-edge result? investment, which was a life changing result In a climate where people say “the homes for my client. sell themselves” or “agents are all the same”, What do you see 2022 will bring?

I truly believe the opposite is true. Put two It is going to be a very interesting year people in a race car around Bathurst and the ahead.

2021 saw house prices rise on a result will be very different. Our industry is no monthly, rather than yearly basis. As an agent, different. Unlike some agents, I am on the go staying connected to the current buyers, 24/7 for my clients and every day I ensure each market trends and having a forward-thinking client has my full attention and focus. It is hard attitude has been and will be key to making work, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! sure clients are getting the best advice and I love to get involved with my clients early prices possible. I see further growth in our on in the process. Being able to assist a seller town, as we are one of the fastest growing right from the beginning and being there long towns in Australia. But whatever the future after the SOLD is definitely my thing! It is not holds, I look forward to helping more people enough to just offer fancy marketing and turn up at open homes if you want to get the dream and working for them, rather than the price. The process starts well before marketing. commission cheque.

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Not your typical Real Estate Agents

McGrath Estate Agents, Port Macquarie Damian King 0402 149 844 | Holly King 0411 138 332

damianking2444 damianking

Owners reap the rewards from Team King “Damian and Holly are agents that will extract all money possible for your property. That’s what every vendor is after so give him and Holly your property and you won’t be disappointed.”

“Dealing with Damian is a completely refreshing experience.

He is professional, honest and dedicated and has a unique ability but also maintains a completely genuine down to earth approach.

Owner, 4 Wesley Avenue

He has so much integrity, being upfront and open. He really challenges that old idea of the typical “real “estate agent”.

“Damian and Holly were true to their word. They kept us informed and they got us a great price for our property, certainly above our expectations. We would recommend them for their enthusiasm, personable approach and can do attitude.“

I have bought and now sold houses with Damian. He really invests himself and works really hard for his client. I honestly couldn’t recommend him highly enough.”

Owner, 8 Jasmine Street

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Street records

Owner, 100 Kennedy Drive

2021 Team King Stats

$1,766,000

Negotiated above our price estimates for our owners

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Complex Records

$3.34 million

The highest coastal sale price in Port Macquarie - 62 Watonga Street

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

Over-50s living on the Mid North Coast.

New homes now selling.

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Ageing-in-place solutions

Call 1800 718 413

*Conditions apply.

Keeping fit&

FA B U L O U S GEMLIFE RAINBOW BEACH FACILITIES MAKE WORKING OUT EASY Ann Tremblay, a former personal trainer, is looking forward to keeping fit and healthy using the many fabulous facilities at GemLife Rainbow Beach.

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beautiful pool and fully outfitted gym are just two of the premium facilities future GemLife Rainbow Beach homeowners Ann Tremblay and husband Richard McGann are looking forward to enjoying at the over-50s lifestyle resort currently under construction at Lake Cathie.

The former personal trainer, who gained her qualifications at the Australian Institute of Fitness in Brisbane in 2004, has been committed to good health and fitness for 23 years after deciding it was time to get fit and stay that way.

"Initially I did what everyone would do such as going to the gym and reappraising what I was eating and then, at age 40 I decided to take it more seriously, gain my qualifications and not only take care of myself but also train others to do it as well," said Ann, a French Canadian originally from Montreal before moving to Australia in 1987.

A healthy size 10, Ann is now 63, and although she no longer coaches others, she continues to prioritise staying fit and healthy herself.

"I exercise in the morning, five days a week and alternate between various fitness routines which can include weight training, Pilates, yoga, kettle bell training, hand weights, band

resistance, walking, swimming, and cycling. I also do a bit of boxing."

Ann stresses she has been doing some form of exercise every day for the past 23 years and has worked on strength training, particularly in more recent times.

"People can't just start training and expect to do an hour in the gym, for example, and get immediate results. It doesn't work that way.

You must start off slow, say with one-to-twokilogram weights or by taking a walk around the block, and build from there. Consistency is certainly the key to success."

She also doesn't believe body image is the be all and end all of having a healthy body and soul.

"I don't believe a certain body shape can dictate how fit you are because good health is both on the inside and outside. In fact, the inside - what you eat - can be more important than how you look on the outside," she said.

Following exhaustive research on nutrition, Ann has stuck to a low carbohydrate diet since 2006 and couldn't be happier with the results.

"I've kept my weight at a good level, my skin, hair and nails are all healthy, I don't need any tablets whatsoever and I'm feeling great and happy within myself. Occasionally, I have an `eat what I like day' but to be honest, I'm very happy with the food I eat daily."

Ann says that in general people who

want to lose weight can do so by eating in moderation, cutting down on servings, increasing protein intake especially as you get older because it helps reduce hunger, and when looking for a snack, consider options such as nuts, boiled eggs, cheese, pork crackling or even a meat patty.

It is fair to say that Ann has no plans to slow down. In fact, she can't wait to move into GemLife Rainbow Beach in 2022, when all the activities and facilities to help everyone keep fit will be available at her doorstep.

"I do all my exercises at home currently in a tiny bedroom. My trampoline is downstairs.

GemLife will be fabulous and just the right fit for me and my regular exercise routine. I just can't wait!"

When complete, GemLife Rainbow Beach will include a luxury two-storey country club with an indoor swimming pool and spa, sundeck, sauna, ten-pin bowling, golf simulator, cinema, wine room, rooftop terrace and lounge, bar and cafe, in addition to an outdoor pool, barbecue areas, tennis courts, community garden and, being a pet-friendly environment, an off-leash dog run.

The GemLife Rainbow Beach Sales Office is located at 20 Forest Parkway, Lake Cathie.

Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

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Welcome to G.J. Gardner Homes Australia new Samsara 280 display home on York Street!

This stunning light-filled four bedroom home features a Coastal facade with Hamptons interior design inspiration. It’s now open 7 days from 10am - 4pm.

D I S P L AY H O M E

York Street Port Macquarie

S E L E C T I O N ST U D I O

4 Bay Street Port Macquarie

S A M S A R A

e portmacquarie@gjgardner.com.au | ph (02) 6533 1055

2 8 0

D I S P L AY

H O M E

EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE THE FEELING THE FEELING OF CONTROL OF CONTROL WITH LEXUS OWNERSHIP WITH LEXUS AND OWNERSHIP SOLUTIONS A SOLUTIONS AND A GUARANTEED FUTURE VALUE * GUARANTEED FUTURE VALUE *

THERE’S A FEELING YOU GET — when you’re first behind the wheel — when A FEELING YOU you’reoffirst behindyour the wheel ofTHERE’S your brand new Lexus.

It’sGET the same feeling financing vehicle of your brand Lexus. It’s the samewith feeling financingofyour through Lexus new Ownership Solutions, theofcertainty a setvehicle Guaranteed through Lexus Control.

Ownership the certainty of a you set Guaranteed Future Value*.

YouSolutions, pick the with deposit amount, and pick the Future Value*. Control. You pick the deposit amount, and you pick the

length of your loan term. That way, you’ll know the minimum value we set for length of your loan term. That way, you’ll know the minimum value we set for

your Lexus if you’d like to keep it, return it, or swap it for a new one at the your Lexus if you’d like to keep it, return it, or swap it for a new one at the

end of your loan term. Contact your Lexus dealer to find out more. end of your loan term. Contact your Lexus dealer to find out more.

L E XU S G UA R A N T E E D FU T U R E VA LU E L E XU S G UA R A N T E E D FU T U R E VA LU E

LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE | 10 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie | PH 02 6583 9122 | www.lexusofportmacquarie.com.au | 10691 LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE | 10 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie | PH 02 6583 9122 | www.lexusofportmacquarie.com.au | 10691

*The Guaranteed valueofofyour yournew newororapproved approved demonstrator Lexus at the of your finance contract, as determined

by Lexus Financial Services If you to decide return *The GuaranteedFuture FutureValue Value(GFV) (GFV) isis the the minimum minimum value demonstrator Lexus at the endend of your finance contract, as determined

by Lexus Financial Services (LFS). If(LFS). you decide returntoyour car your car to to Lexus at at the the agreed agreedGFV, GFV,which whichwill willbebeput putagainst against your final payment subject to wear fair wear and conditions tear conditions and agreed kilometres being met.

The information Lexus theend endofofyour yourterm, term,LFS LFSwill will pay pay you you the your final payment subject to fair and tear and agreed kilometres being met.

The information providedprovided is generalis ingeneral in nature.

You should to determine determinewhether whetherLexus LexusOwnership Ownership Solutions is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply.Ownership Lexus Ownership GFV Solutions is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Lexus SolutionsSolutions GFV nature.

You shouldseek seekyour yourown ownfinancial financial advice advice to products are available Lexus Financial FinancialServices, Services,a adivision division Toyota Finance Australia Limited 48 002 181, AFSL and Australian Licence 392536 products are availabletotoapproved approvedcustomers customers of of Lexus of of Toyota Finance Australia Limited ABNABN 48 002 435 435 181, AFSL and Australian CreditCredit Licence 392536 Images indicative only.

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